Hongcun Village (宏村), often referred to as “the village in a Chinese painting,” is a picturesque and well-preserved ancient settlement located in the Anhui province of China. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hongcun is famous for its traditional Anhui-style architecture, stunning natural surroundings, and historical significance. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, history lover, or simply looking to explore a beautiful rural setting, Hongcun is the perfect destination. This guide provides essential tips to help you make the most of your visit, ensuring an unforgettable experience.
1. Best Time to Visit: Morning and Evening
Hongcun’s true beauty comes alive at dawn and dusk. If you want to capture the most scenic views, make sure to visit during the early morning or the late afternoon. During these times, the light is soft, and the reflections of the surrounding architecture on the water in South Lake (南湖) and Moon Pond (月沼) are absolutely mesmerizing. You can explore the village in about 2 hours, but be sure to take your time enjoying these two iconic spots.
2. How to Get There: Transportation Options
If you’re not driving, the best way to get to Hongcun is by high-speed train to Yi County East Station (黟县东). From there, you can take a tourist bus (Line 10), which directly connects to Hongcun. The bus fare is around ¥8, and the ride will take you straight to the village entrance.
3. Ideal Time for Photography
For photography enthusiasts, arriving between 5:00 AM and 6:00 AM is highly recommended. The light during this time is perfect for capturing the breathtaking views of South Lake (南湖) and Moon Pond (月沼). These spots are incredibly beautiful in the early morning, when the water is still and reflects the surrounding mountains and traditional houses.
4. Accommodation Tips: Stay Outside the Scenic Area
While it may seem convenient to stay within Hongcun’s scenic area, it’s not the best choice for accommodations. The houses here are traditional buildings from the Ming and Qing dynasties and can be quite basic. Instead, opt for a higher-quality hotel located outside the village.
5. Recommended Tour Route: Explore the Highlights
A great way to explore Hongcun is to follow this suggested route:
- South Lake (南湖) → South Lake Academy (南湖书院) → Jingde Hall (敬德堂) → Moon Pond (月沼) → Lexu Hall (乐叙堂) → Jingxiu Hall (敬修堂) → Chengzhi Hall (承志堂) → Deyi Hall (得义堂) → Taoyuan Residence (桃源居)
This route will guide you through the most scenic and culturally significant parts of the village, allowing you to fully appreciate its beauty and heritage.
6. Ticket Prices
The entrance ticket for Hongcun is ¥94 per person. This ticket allows you unlimited entry for three days, and you can use your ID card to enter multiple times during this period. You can purchase tickets directly from the official Huangshan tourism platform (黄山旅游官方平台) or Trip.com.
7. Nearby Villages: West Village vs. Hongcun
While Xidi Village (西递村) is not far from Hongcun, it lacks the charm and commercialization of Hongcun. Unlike Hongcun, Xidi does not have the iconic Moon Pond (月沼) or South Lake (南湖). If you’re short on time, I recommend choosing Hongcun (宏村) as your primary destination and visiting one or two nearby villages as additional stops.
8. Popular Photo Spot: The “Old Time” Café
If you’re into photography, don’t miss the Old Time Café (宏村旧时光咖啡店), which has a famous second-floor photo spot. This place has become a popular spot for tourists looking for an Instagram-worthy photo. However, be prepared to wait in line and buy a drink before you can enter. It’s not a free attraction, so keep that in mind when planning your visit.
9. Moon Pond: A Must-See Scenic Spot
The Moon Pond (月沼) is one of Hongcun’s most famous landmarks. From Chengzhi Hall (承志堂), you can reach Moon Pond within a 10-minute walk. The pond offers a truly peaceful setting, and its beauty was even captured on a famous Chinese scenic postage stamp released in 1982. The reflections of the buildings and trees in the pond create an atmosphere of serene elegance, making it an excellent location for photography.
10. Explore Hongcun’s Surrounding Villages
Although there are other ancient villages in the area that look quite similar to Hongcun, Hongcun (宏村) stands out for its unique layout and the beauty of its South Lake (南湖) and Moon Pond (月沼). If you have extra time, consider visiting one or two nearby villages, but make sure to prioritize Hongcun as it offers the most picturesque and distinctive experience.
11. No Free Entry: Be Aware of Scams
Please note that there are no free entry options into Hongcun. The only official entrances are the South Gate (南大门) and the North Gate (北大门), and any claims of free entry are likely scams. Make sure to purchase your tickets through official channels to avoid any problems.
12. No Cars Inside the Village
Once you arrive at Hongcun, you’ll notice that there are no cars allowed inside the village. All vehicles must park at the designated parking lot near the entrance. Be prepared for some walking, which adds to the charm and tranquility of the village.
13. Hongcun Cuisine: Must-Try Dishes
Don’t miss out on some local delicacies while in Hongcun. The stinky mandarin fish (臭鳜鱼), moldy tofu (毛豆腐), Huangshan-style sesame cakes (黄山烧饼), flower cakes (百花糕), and golden chrysanthemum tea (金丝皇菊) are all traditional dishes worth trying. The fish, in particular, is a local specialty, so make sure to give it a try.
14. Cultural Show: “Hongcun Ah Ju”
For an immersive cultural experience, watch “Hongcun Ah Ju (宏村阿菊)”, a performance that brings to life the Anhui Hui-style culture (徽州文化). The show is not only historically informative but also entertaining and a great way to learn about the traditions and customs of the region.
15. Photography Tips and Safety
There are many photographers offering tourist photos within Hongcun, but be cautious and check reviews before booking any services. It’s important to ensure that the photographer is reputable and has good feedback. Also, especially for women, always prioritize safety and be mindful of your surroundings when taking photos by the water.