As November arrives and the autumn hues fade in northern China and Sichuan, Tachuan Village in southern Anhui enters its most stunning season. The village is renowned for its vibrant Chinese tallow trees set against the backdrop of traditional Hui-style architecture, creating a harmonious blend of color and culture. Alongside Jiuzhaigou in Sichuan, Kanas in Xinjiang, and Xiangshan in Beijing, Tachuan is celebrated as one of China’s four most beautiful autumn destinations. This guide provides everything you need to know about experiencing the unique charm of Tachuan during this magical time of year.
What Makes Tachuan’s Autumn Special?
The soul of Tachuan’s autumn lies in the interplay between the colorful Chinese tallow trees and the elegant Hui-style buildings.
Located in Yixian County, Anhui Province, Tachuan is a quaint and well-preserved natural village neighboring the world-famous Hongcun. Unlike the grandeur of Jiuzhaigou or Kanas, Tachuan’s charm lies in its delicate, ink-painting-like scenery. Every fall, the red and golden hues of the tallow trees blend beautifully with the village’s white walls and black-tile roofs, creating a visual masterpiece that attracts countless photographers and nature lovers.
Though Tachuan is small and can be fully explored in half a day, it is best visited alongside nearby attractions such as Hongcun, Lu Village, Qishu Lake, and Mukeng Bamboo Sea. For an even richer experience, consider pairing your visit with a trip to the Yellow Mountain scenic area.
Best Time to Visit Tachuan
Tachuan’s autumn scenery is dominated by Chinese tallow trees, whose leaves turn color as temperatures drop:
- 12°C to 15°C: Leaves begin to turn yellow.
- 8°C to 12°C: Leaves transition to red.
According to local meteorological reports, the peak viewing period for Tachuan’s red leaves typically begins around November 9 and lasts until approximately November 20. If you’re planning a trip, aim to visit during this window. However, as temperatures continue to drop, the red leaves will gradually fall, with most trees bare by late November.
How to Get to Tachuan
Reaching Tachuan is convenient, whether you’re traveling by car, plane, or high-speed rail. Additionally, Tachuan and nearby Lu Village offer free admission until December 31, and Hongcun provides free tickets every Wednesday with prior reservation.
By High-Speed Rail
- Huangshan North Station: After arriving, take a direct shuttle to Hongcun. From there, either rent a bike or walk the 2 kilometers to Tachuan while enjoying the scenic route.
- Yixian East Station: This station is closer to Tachuan than Huangshan North. Upon arrival, take Bus No. 10 directly to Hongcun (fare: ¥8).
By Car: Self-driving is an excellent option, as it allows greater flexibility to explore neighboring villages and scenic spots.
Must-See Highlights in Tachuan
While Tachuan’s natural beauty is the main draw, the combination of cultural and scenic elements sets it apart:
- Chinese Tallow Trees: These trees are the star attraction, showcasing a spectrum of autumnal colors ranging from gold to crimson.
- Hui-Style Architecture: The village’s traditional white walls and dark tiles offer a striking contrast to the vibrant foliage, creating scenes reminiscent of traditional Chinese paintings.
- Nearby Attractions: Extend your trip by visiting Hongcun, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or venture to the serene Qishu Lake for more picturesque landscapes.
Insider Tips for Your Visit
- Manage Expectations: While Tachuan is breathtaking, its natural scenery is more subtle and intimate compared to Jiuzhaigou or Kanas. Appreciate its unique charm rather than expecting dramatic landscapes.
- Combine Destinations: To make the most of your trip, include nearby attractions like Lu Village, Mukeng Bamboo Sea, or the Yellow Mountain.
- Plan for Peak Season: Book accommodations and transportation early to avoid disappointment during the peak viewing period in November.