f you’re planning to visit Hongcun, Xidi, Lu Village, and Tachuan without driving, this 2-day itinerary will guide you through the most efficient and scenic way to explore these beautiful ancient villages in Anhui. The journey is convenient if you stay near Hongcun and use the bus terminal as a central hub. Here’s how to make the most of your trip.
Day 0: Friday Evening Arrival
Upon arrival in Huangshan (黄山), take the high-speed train to Huangshan North Station (黄山北站) and then catch a bus to Hongcun (宏村). Alternatively, you can take the train to Yi County East Station (黟县东站) and then hop on the Tourism Line 10 to Hongcun. The second option is faster and more affordable, and if you arrive earlier, it’s definitely recommended. The journey from Yi County East Station to Hongcun by bus is quite short.
Once in Hongcun, buy a Hongcun-Xidi combined ticket (宏村西递联票). This ticket allows you to enter both villages multiple times within 3 days, making your travel more flexible. After you’ve settled in, explore the area around your accommodation or just take in the night scenery.
Day 1: Saturday – Xidi Village Exploration
Start your day with a visit to Xidi Village (西递村), which is about a 30-minute bus ride from the Hongcun bus station (Tourism Line 10). The ticket costs ¥6. Once you reach Xidi, I highly recommend hiring a local guide for a detailed tour. For ¥90, you’ll get a guide who will take you through the key historical buildings in the village, which will enhance your experience. After the tour, feel free to explore the village on your own and take photos of the stunning Hui-style architecture.
In the afternoon, return to Hongcun by taking Tourism Line 10 back. This time, you can enjoy the village at your own pace. Hongcun is bustling with tourists, and you’ll notice many guides speaking through loudspeakers, which can make it easier to follow along, even without a guide. The village offers plenty of opportunities for photography, so don’t forget your camera.
Day 2: Sunday – Lu Village and Tachuan
On Sunday morning, wake up early and head to Lu Village (卢村) for the iconic morning mist photos. The village is about 2-3 kilometers from Hongcun, which makes for a nice early morning walk if you’re up for it. If you’re not an early riser, you can take Yi County Bus Line 1 (黟县1路) to get there. Be aware that due to increasing tourist numbers, the bus may not go all the way into Lu Village, but the driver will stop at an intersection nearby, and you can walk along a small path into the village.
After exploring Lu Village, head to Tachuan (塔川). If you’re feeling fit, you can walk there, or alternatively, ask at the bus terminal for the best bus to take (the journey typically takes around 10 minutes if there’s no traffic). You can follow the hiking route from Lu Village to Tachuan for a scenic walk.
In the afternoon, return to Huangshan North Station (黄山北站) by bus from the Huangshan Bus Station (黄山客运站) to catch your high-speed train home. Although the bus station has posted timetables, it’s always best to ask the staff, as schedules may change slightly, especially on Sundays when more people are heading back. Be sure to leave plenty of time, as the bus station can be crowded.
Final Thoughts
- Hongcun (宏村) is the busiest and most commercialized village. While it’s the most popular destination and a must-see, it can feel less authentic due to the number of tourists and souvenir shops.
- Xidi (西递) offers a quieter experience with more richly decorated architecture. It’s still commercialized but retains a more serene atmosphere, with local villagers living in hidden corners of the village.
- Lu Village (卢村) gives off a feeling of being in an older, more intimate community, with its quiet streets and the peaceful presence of large trees. However, it also gets busy with tourist groups carrying loudspeakers. A visit to the viewing platform is highly recommended to appreciate the power and beauty of the surrounding landscape.