Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Wuyuan County, Jiangxi Province, Sixi and Yancun Villages (思溪延村) offer a captivating journey back in time. Established during the Southern Song Dynasty in 1199, these villages boast a history of over 800 years. Connected by a small river and a rustic pathway, they are famed for their well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture. With whitewashed walls and black-tiled roofs, the villages radiate an elegant simplicity. From stunning ancient homes to exquisite carvings and cultural relics, Sixi and Yancun Villages promise an enchanting experience for history lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Origin of the Names
Sixi Village (思溪): The name “Sixi” (思溪) originates from a poetic sentiment of longing for the stream, symbolizing harmony and nostalgia. Known for its “Three Treasures” – ancient houses, the covered Tongji Bridge (通济桥), and intricate carvings – Sixi is also celebrated as a cultural hub for filming, often referred to as the “Liaozhai Cultural Village” (聊斋影视文化名村). The village exudes a serene charm, offering scenic vistas, peaceful walks, and fewer crowds, making it an idyllic retreat.
Yancun Village (延村): Previously called Yanchuan (延川), Yancun (延村) has been home to several families since the Ming Dynasty, including the prominent Jin family. Yancun is famous for its commercial legacy and has been dubbed the “Museum of Ming and Qing Merchant Residences” (明清商宅博物馆). The village houses grand ancestral halls, exquisite carvings, and a rich heritage that narrates the story of its vibrant trade history.
Getting to Sixi and Yan Villages
Location: Located in Sixi Town (思口镇), Wuyuan County (婺源县), Sixi and Yancun Villages (思溪延村) are about 13 kilometers from Ziyang Town (紫阳镇), the county seat.
Ticket: Visitors can purchase a standalone ticket for RMB 60 or opt for a scenic area pass that includes multiple attractions in Wuyuan.
Getting to Sixi and Yancun Villages
- By High-Speed Rail: Take a train directly to Wuyuan Station (婺源站). From there, buses or taxis connect visitors to major scenic spots.
- By Bus: From Wuyuan’s Old North Station (婺源老北站), catch a bus heading to Sixi-Yancun (思溪延村). The bus stops at Sikou Town (思口镇) (ticket: RMB 8). Buses run every 20 minutes between 7:30 AM and 4:50 PM. After alighting in Sixi Town, the village entrance is about 2 km away.
- Visitors can also take a taxi at Wuyuan County Center. The cost ranges from 30 to 40 Yuan.
Must-Visit Attractions and Highlights
- Tongji Bridge (通济桥): A 500-year-old covered bridge reminiscent of the famous Rainbow Bridge (彩虹桥).
- Narrow Alleys (一人巷): Explore the charming one-person-wide lanes, which provide a glimpse of ancient village life.
- Woodcarvings and Screens (木雕和屏风): Each ancient residence features intricate wooden carvings, each with unique themes and meanings.
- Hundred Longevity Hall (百寿花厅): Marvel at the 99 “寿” (longevity) characters carved into the screens, with the 100th character only visible from an aerial view of the house.
- Ancient Dovetail Well (榫卯结构燕尾古井): A unique well built using the mortise-and-tenon technique, bonded with a mix of flour, eggs, and sugar.
- Family Hall in Yancun: The ancestral hall of the Yu family (俞), designed in the shape of the Chinese character “Yu” (俞), showcasing the family’s legacy.
- Hidden Corners for Wedding Sedans (拐弯抬花轿巷): Discover the unique design of old houses with curved corners, facilitating traditional bridal sedan processions.
Culinary Delights
A trip to Sixi and Yancun (思溪延村) is incomplete without sampling the local delicacies:
- He Bao Red Carp (荷包红鲤鱼): A signature dish with tender, flavorful fish.
- Qingming Rice Cakes (清明果): Made from glutinous rice flour and mugwort leaves, offering a chewy, aromatic treat.
- Zi Cake (子糕): A savory snack made of glutinous rice and pork.
- Stir-Fried Bamboo Shoots with Pork (笋干炒肉): A savory combination of tender bamboo shoots and flavorful pork.
- Rice Wine (米酒): Sweet and mildly alcoholic, perfect for a refreshing sip.