Eastern Route of Wuyuan – A Cluster of Ancient Villages

The Eastern Route of Wuyuan primarily features ancient villages, ancestral halls, and natural landscapes. Key attractions along this route include Likeng, Wangkou, Xiaoqi, Jiangwan, Moon Bay, Jiangling, Gaoshan Pinghu, and Qingyuan.

Most visitors tend to focus on Likeng, Wangkou, Jiangwan, and Xiaoqi due to their convenient location along the same line, making transportation easy and accessible. This route allows travelers to immerse themselves in the picturesque scenery and rich cultural heritage of the area.

Travel Information about the Eastern Route

Ticket and Opening Hours

Best Time to Visit

All seasons are suitable for visiting Wuyuan, but spring showcases the most beautiful scenery, with fields of rapeseed flowers and pastoral landscapes that highlight the charm of Huizhou ancient villages. Along the way, visitors can enjoy stunning natural views.

Access to Scenic Areas

Location:

• Moon Bay is near Jipan Village in Qiukou Town.
• Likeng is also in Qiukou Town.
• Jiangwan is located about 20 kilometers east of Wuyuan County.
• Xiaoqi is found at the confluence of Duanxin Water and Xiaoqi Water, approximately 45 kilometers northeast of the county.
• Wangkou is situated in Jiangwan Town.
• Jiangling is in Xitou Township.
• Huangling is nestled in the southeastern part of Wuyuan County, within the Shier Mountain Range.

Transportation: Travelers can take a high-speed train to Wuyuan and then catch minivans to the various scenic areas.

Highlights of the Eastern Route of Wuyuan

Moon Bay

Moon Bay (月亮湾) in Wuyuan gets its name from a small island in the river that resembles a crescent moon. It is located about 700 meters east of Ziyang Town, halfway to Likeng. Nestled between mountains and water, Moon Bay boasts beautiful scenery. The entire area features clear water, clean silver-white sands, and fresh air. Being in this setting truly inspires admiration for the wonders of nature.

Moon Bay is one of the best spots for photography enthusiasts. The lush green seedlings intertwine with the golden rapeseed flowers, while the mountains and the winding river reflect each other beautifully. Villages embrace tall trees, creating a scene reminiscent of a Chinese ink wash landscape painting. Occasionally, a small boat can be seen on the river, harmonizing with the traditional Huizhou houses scattered at varying heights. Sometimes, a few farmers can be spotted washing clothes by the river, attracting passersby to stop and capture this natural beauty.

Likeng Village

Likeng (李坑) is an ancient village predominantly inhabited by the Li family, located about 12 kilometers from Wuyuan County. The village is characterized by its traditional Huizhou architecture, creating a peaceful and harmonious atmosphere. Surrounded by mountains, Likeng features picturesque scenery with clear waters and lush landscapes.

The village’s Ming and Qing Dynasty buildings are uniquely situated along the stream and against the mountains, with white walls and dark tiles creating a charming, staggered appearance. The village’s narrow streets and winding streams add to its allure, while the cobblestone paths and elegant small bridges support daily village life. Notable spots include the Two Streams of Clear Water, Willow and Qiong Stones, Double Bridges Overlapping, Jiao Spring Moon, Dao Temple Bells, and Immortal Bridge.

Likeng is also known for its local cuisine, including Li Keng roasted meat, flower mushrooms with stone chicken, braised bagged carp, and steamed chicken, all complemented by Li Keng glutinous rice wine. Visitors might also have the chance to witness traditional Nuo Opera performances, though the schedule is not fixed. During the Mid-Autumn Festival, Likeng hosts a grand dragon dance event, adding to the village’s vibrant cultural scene.

Transportation Options in Likeng:

1. Agricultural Vehicles: Riding in local residents’ agricultural trucks is a cost-effective option. This mode of transportation allows you to enjoy the beautiful pastoral scenery along the way, adding a unique charm to your journey.
2. Motorbike Taxis: Hiring a motorbike taxi is suitable for 1 to 2 people, typically costing between 60 to 80 yuan per day, and 80 to 100 yuan per day during peak travel periods, such as Golden Week. However, it’s important to prioritize safety when using motorbike taxis and be prepared for a physically demanding ride.
3. Car Rentals: If you prefer to rent a car locally, expect to pay around 200 to 300 yuan per day. The prices for higher-end vehicles may be even more expensive.

Jiangwan Village

Jiangwan (江湾), founded in the early Tang Dynasty, developed around a bend in the river where families with surnames such as Teng, Ye, Bao, and Dai settled, gradually forming a larger village. In the second year of the Northern Song Dynasty (1079), Jiang Di, the eighth-generation ancestor of the Xiao family, relocated to Jiangwan, leading to the growth of a large clan. The village still retains well-preserved ancient Huizhou architecture, including public buildings like Donghe Gate and the water dam well.

This millennium-old town is rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage. From the Song to the Qing dynasties, it has nurtured 38 scholars, including top candidates and officials. Notable figures such as the Ming Dynasty anti-Japanese general Jiang Yilin, court physician Jiang Yidao, Qing Dynasty scholar Jiang Yong, and Republican educator Jiang Qian emerged from here. Today, Jiangwan is a significant site in Wuyuan’s cultural and ecological tourism, recognized as a National 4A scenic spot.

The best seasons to visit are spring and autumn. In spring, you can admire blooming rapeseed flowers, while the colorful autumn offers great photography opportunities. Although the scenery in summer is beautiful, it can be quite hot. Winter is relatively mild and sees fewer tourists, but the landscape does not compare to the vibrant views of spring and autumn.

Festivals and Activities:

Jiangwan is known for the Chaoxian Festival, during which participants observe a week of fasting and bathing before donning new clothes and carrying yellow incense bags. They believe that those who offer the first incense will have good fortune throughout the year, a joy greater than passing the imperial examination. Around the Lantern Festival, local rural areas, including Yushan, Wuyuan, and Shangrao County, engage in the custom of dancing with board dragon lanterns, often made up of hundreds of segments. On the night of the Lantern Festival, the glowing lights illuminate the small village paths, resembling a giant dragon weaving through the streets, attracting crowds and creating a spectacular scene.

Jiangwan’s Scenic Beauty:

Jiangwan is nestled in a river valley surrounded by three majestic mountains: Lingshan to the east, Youshan to the south, and Houlongshan to the north. The clear Liyuan River flows from east to west in a graceful S-shape, meandering freely through the valley, bestowing upon beautiful Wuyuan an enchanting charm reminiscent of flowing water.

One of the greatest prides of the people of Jiangwan is the ancient Houlongshan. They believe that the prosperity and abundance of talented individuals in their lineage are due to the blessings of the dragon vein of Houlongshan. This deep connection has led the villagers to prohibit anyone from disturbing the mountain’s flora and fauna. In the past, they practiced “killing the son to seal the mountain,” and today it has transformed into “killing the pig to seal the mountain.” For centuries, no one has dared to venture onto Houlongshan to cut firewood, allowing the vegetation to remain remarkably well-preserved. Walking in this area feels like entering a pristine forest, where ancient trees stand tall, and dense canopies create a tranquil and timeless beauty.

Xiaoqi Village

Xiaoqi (晓起村) is located approximately 45 kilometers northeast of Wuyuan County, at the confluence of Duanxin and Xiaoqi Rivers. Founded in the third year of the Tang Dynasty’s Zhenyuan era (787 AD), Xiaoqi is divided into Upper Xiaoqi and Lower Xiaoqi. It is the hometown of Jiang Renjing, a notable official from the Qing Dynasty, and has been recognized as a national-level agricultural ecological demonstration village.

A Cultural and Natural Haven:

Surrounded by mountains and intersected by water, Xiaoqi is characterized by its numerous residential buildings primarily from the Ming and Qing Dynasties, each displaying unique architectural styles. This village is a gem of ancient cultural and ecological heritage in China, dotted with tranquil Ming and Qing residences, winding pathways, and ancient post roads that have gracefully aged over thousands of years. The land, known for its charm and beauty, has a rich history marked by the achievements of four Jinshi (highest degree holders) and four generations of first-rank officials, leaving a precious spiritual legacy for future generations.

The Ancient Tree Viewing Garden:

Within Xiaoqi lies the Minggui Ancient Tree Viewing Garden, home to over a thousand ancient camphor trees, rare large-leaf red nanmu trees, and first-class national tree species such as the Jiangnan redwood. These trees bring vibrant greenery to Xiaoqi, enhancing its charm and allowing visitors to appreciate the beauty of nature in this peaceful village.

Wangkou Village

Wangkou Village (汪口村) was established during the Song Dynasty by Yu Gao, a descendant of the nine generations of the Wang family. Nestled in a region surrounded by mountains and rivers, Wangkou is renowned for its exceptional natural beauty and cultural richness, making it a significant site in ancient Huizhou.

Geographical Significance:

Located in the northeast of Wuyuan, Wangkou was historically known as Yongchuan, deriving its name from the convergence of two rivers, which creates a picturesque landscape. The village is home to numerous historic and artistic treasures, including the Yushi Ancestral Hall, celebrated as an art repository, and a thousand-year-old ancient street characterized by its traditional Huizhou architectural style. Notable structures such as Jing Tang, Mao De Tang, Da Fu Di, and Yang Shu Wu, alongside the “Pingdu Yan” site designed by Qing Dynasty scholar Jiang Yong, add to the village’s charm.

A Hub of Culture and Learning:

Historically, Wangkou flourished with literary talent and cultural achievements. It produced 14 Jinshi and 73 officials of higher ranks, with nine renowned for their remarkable literary contributions, collectively authoring 27 works. The village also fostered a community of prosperous merchants known as Huizhou merchants, who excelled in various fields, including medicine, seal carving, and painting.

Commercial Center:

During the Ming and Qing Dynasties, Wangkou served as a vital distribution center for goods between Huizhou and Raozhou. Its bustling shops and vibrant merchant activities made it the commercial heart of the region, as boats laden with goods traveled the waterways. The village retains its historical character, featuring ancient forests, docks, commercial streets, alleys, ancestral halls, and numerous well-preserved residences and scholarly retreats, all of which reflect the rich heritage of the Ming and Qing periods.

Best Time to Visit:

1. Summer and Autumn: These seasons are ideal for visiting Wangkou, as you can enjoy activities like bamboo rafting on the water. The scenery is vibrant, with lush greenery and colorful landscapes.
2. Winter: Wuyuan transforms into a serene and picturesque setting during winter. After snowfall, the ancient town exudes a peaceful charm, making it perfect for photography enthusiasts seeking to capture the beauty of snow-covered landscapes.

Transportation:

From Wuyuan County to Wangkou, there are numerous minibuses available. They run frequently, approximately every 15 minutes. You can also catch buses heading to Jiangwan, Xiaoqi, and Qingyuan, which stop at Wangkou, ensuring convenient access to this beautiful destination.

Jiangling Village

Located in the northeastern part of Wuyuan County, Jiangling (江岭) is bordered by Xiaoqi to the south and Xitou to the east. The area is renowned for its terraced fields, particularly during the blooming season of rapeseed flowers. The golden blossoms spread from the mountain tops down into the valleys, creating a stunning visual spectacle. From the mountaintop, visitors can gaze upon the endless layers of rapeseed flowers, while the black-tiled, white-walled Huizhou-style houses dotting the villages blend beautifully with the vibrant yellow fields. This picturesque scenery makes Jiangling a favorite spot for photographers and tourists alike.

Jiangling Scenery: Representing the pastoral beauty of Wuyuan, the roads winding through the mountains provide breathtaking views. Looking down from Jiangling, one can see the cascading terraced fields, rolling green hills, and clusters of villages along the rivers, forming a beautiful landscape painting.

High Mountain Lake: Nestled among the northern mountains of Wuyuan, the area features many small streams and rivers with significant drop-offs. Dams have been constructed at the narrow exits of the valleys to harness water for irrigation. This creates a large lake surrounded by towering mountains, known as the High Mountain Lake.

Qingyuan Ancient Village: Established during the Tang Dynasty, Qingyuan Village boasts over a hundred well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty residences. The village is built along a rushing stream, shaped like a long boat. Walking along the cobblestone streets by the river, visitors encounter numerous long stone bridges every twenty meters or so. The entire village harmoniously blends with its natural surroundings, providing a serene and cohesive atmosphere.

Tips for Visiting Jiangling:

1. Avoid Traffic Congestion: Jiangling can experience heavy traffic due to the influx of tourists, especially on weekends. It’s advisable to arrive early or visit during off-peak times to avoid delays.
2. Optimal Flower Viewing Season: The rapeseed flowers typically bloom from March to April. During this time, there can be a significant temperature difference between morning and evening, so be sure to dress warmly.
3. Best Viewing Spots: You can hike from the Jiangling Spring Dawn Viewing Platform (Platform 1) to Viewing Platform 2, which offers the best views of the rapeseed flowers. There are guide signs along the bluestone path between the platforms.
4. Photography Tips: When photographing the rapeseed flowers, use front lighting to capture their vibrant colors. Backlighting works well for close-ups or mid-range shots; when the light is just right, it beautifully highlights the texture of the flowers and leaves.

Huangling Village

Huangling Village (篁岭村), named for its abundant bamboo, is renowned for its terraced fields and picturesque landscapes. Nestled in the Shier Mountain of Jiangwan Town, the village is characterized by houses that line the hillsides and terraced fields that cascade down, creating a breathtaking vista. It is also the hometown of the prominent Qing Dynasty officials, Cao Wentian and Cao Zhenyan.

Surrounded by mountains, the village’s unique geography means that residents dry their crops on bamboo trays set up in front of their windows, giving rise to the distinctive “sun-drying” autumn custom. In the fall, every household displays an array of bamboo trays filled with corn, pumpkins, chili peppers, and other crops, basking in the sunlight. This vibrant display adds a joyful touch to the autumn scenery.

Huangling’s thousand acres of terraced fields bloom with a kaleidoscope of colors throughout the seasons, especially in March and April when fields of rapeseed flowers, peach blossoms, pear blossoms, and azaleas come together in a stunning visual feast.

Useful Tips:

• Getting There: Visitors can reach Huangling Village by taking Provincial Route 201 from Jiangwan Town. After making a right turn at Zhantou Village and traveling approximately 4.5 kilometers, you will arrive at the Huangling Tourist Service Center, where you can take the cable car for an easier tour of the area.
• Accommodation: The ancient village has transformed some of its original residences into unique hotels and guesthouses. Visitors can pre-book various types of rooms online according to their preferences, ensuring a comfortable stay that suits their needs.