Hongcun (宏村) and Xidi (西递) are two of the most beautiful and well-preserved ancient villages in Anhui Province, renowned for their picturesque landscapes and traditional Hui-style architecture. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip, here are some essential tips and advice for visitors planning to explore these cultural gems. Whether you’re driving, sightseeing, or looking for great photo spots, this guide will help you make the most of your visit to both villages.
Opening Hours and Ticket Information
Hongcun: Open all day. The entrance fee is ¥94 per person. Once you purchase the ticket, it is valid for 3 days, allowing unlimited entries to Hongcun within that period.
Xidi: Open all day. The entrance fee is also ¥94 per person, with a 3-day validity for unlimited entries during that time.
Travel Tips and Recommendations
Arrive Early if Driving: If you are driving, it’s best to arrive early as the parking lots at both Hongcun and Xidi can get crowded quickly. The parking areas are small, and spaces fill up fast, which means you might have to park far away from the entrances if you arrive late.
Buy Tickets Online and Bring Your ID: Both Hongcun and Xidi allow you to buy tickets online in advance. However, make sure to bring your ID, as both villages require identification verification to enter the park. This is essential for the ticket validation process.
Allocate a Full Day for the Visit: A visit to Xidi and Hongcun will take around one full day, as the two villages are not located next to each other. They are about 10 kilometers apart, and driving between them takes around 20 minutes.
Avoid Shopping in the Villages: While exploring, you’ll come across many souvenir shops, but it’s advisable to avoid purchasing items from them. Most of the shops are run by people from outside the area, and the prices tend to be high. If you want to buy souvenirs, it’s better to do so online, where prices are generally lower. If you’re curious to try something local, you could buy a small item, but be mindful of your budget.
Best Photography Times in Hongcun: For those looking to capture stunning photos, the best time to visit Hongcun is early in the morning, around 6 AM. The mist over the lake during this time creates a magical atmosphere and makes for breathtaking photos. Alternatively, you can visit South Lake (南湖) around 6 PM in the evening. The sunset reflections on the water create a serene and sparkling scene, perfect for capturing the beauty of the village.
Ticket Validity for Re-entry: Both Hongcun and Xidi offer re-entry with a single ticket within 3 days. This allows you to visit multiple times if you wish to explore more at a leisurely pace.
Accommodation Recommendations: Staying inside Hongcun is not recommended for those with luggage, as the village streets are quite uneven and walking with a suitcase can be very difficult. Instead, consider staying in Yi County (黟县), which is very close to both Hongcun and Xidi.
Nighttime Light Show in Xidi: If you’re traveling with elderly family members or children, consider visiting Xidi in the evening to enjoy the amazing light show. It’s a peaceful experience that is perfect for families and offers another side of the village’s beauty.
Experience Hui Cuisine in Yi County: For food enthusiasts, you might want to try some local Tujia cuisine in Yi County, which will surprise you with its refreshing take on Huizhou traditional dishes. You may have thought that the famous stinky mandarin fish (臭鳜鱼) or moldy tofu (毛豆腐) were not to your taste, but these dishes are far less pungent and more delicious than they sound. Huizhou stir-fry (徽州小炒) also includes meat and vegetables, not just tofu. Also, try the rice wine (酒酿) in Hongcun – it’s a delightful treat that may leave you feeling pleasantly tipsy.