Located in the eastern part of Wuyuan, Jiangxi Province, Xiaoqi Village (晓起村) is renowned as “China’s First Village of Tea Culture” and a “National Ecological Demonstration Village.” Surrounded by lush mountains and traversed by winding streams, this ancient village is a tranquil haven, where the gentle mist of dawn and the rising smoke from household chimneys give it the poetic name “Xiaoqi” (meaning “dawn rises”). With a history spanning over 1,000 years, Xiaoqi is famous for its well-preserved Qing Dynasty architecture, narrow alleys, and cobbled streets. It is also home to the celebrated Huang Chrysanthemums, which bloom spectacularly each November, marking the busiest harvest season for local flower farmers.
Travel Information
Ticket Information:
- Regular Ticket: 60 RMB per person
- Wuyuan 12 Scenic Spots 5-Day Pass: 210 RMB per person
- Wuyuan 12 Scenic Spots 1-Day Pass: 150 RMB per person
Opening Hours:
- Opening Hours: 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM
- Suggested Visit Duration: 2 to 3 hours
Getting to Xiaoqi Village: Take the high-speed train to Wuyuan Station (婺源站), then transfer to a local bus or hire a taxi to reach Xiaoqi Village. The distance is approximately 30 kilometers, and the journey takes about 40 minutes.
Key Attractions in Xiaoqi Village
Upper Xiaoqi & Lower Xiaoqi (上晓起、下晓起): Explore the two main parts of the village, each with its own unique charm, featuring ancient homes, winding paths, and lush surroundings.
Shuangjing Yingyue (双井映月): A picturesque spot where the reflections of the moon and nearby landscape can be seen in the water, creating a tranquil scene perfect for photography.
Golden Corridor (金屋长廊): This long corridor is known for its beautiful views and is a popular spot for visitors to take in the village’s peaceful atmosphere.
Xiaohe Pavilion (晓和亭): A peaceful pavilion that offers a lovely view of the surrounding hills and water, an ideal spot to relax and take in the natural beauty.
Xiaoqi Shen Zhang (晓起神樟): The “Sacred Camphor Tree” is an ancient and revered tree that has stood in the village for centuries, symbolizing its deep historical roots.
Local Products and Souvenirs
As you stroll through Xiaoqi, you’ll find a variety of handmade goods for sale, especially items crafted from camphor wood (樟木), including boxes, stools, and combs. The village is also known for its Huang Chrysanthemums (皇菊), which are used to make various types of chrysanthemum tea (菊花茶), a local specialty. These products make for great souvenirs to remember your visit.
Best Time to Visit
Xiaoqi Village is best visited during specific seasons to truly appreciate its beauty and charm. The Chrysanthemum season in November is particularly special, with the Huang Chrysanthemums blooming in vibrant colors. It is also an ideal time for flower farmers, making the village particularly busy during this time. Additionally, the rapeseed flower season in spring (around March to April) is another excellent period to visit, when the fields are painted bright yellow.
Tips for Visiting
Avoid Off-Season Visits: If you’re not visiting during the peak chrysanthemum season or rapeseed flower season, it’s best to skip buying the 60 RMB entry ticket, as the village may not offer the most scenic experiences at other times. If you’re visiting with a multi-attraction ticket, consider exploring the area near Hope Primary School (希望小学) for a quick visit before moving on to another location.
Less Commercialized: The village remains relatively undeveloped, with minimal commercialization, allowing visitors to experience a more authentic and peaceful glimpse of rural life. However, this also means fewer amenities, so be prepared for a more traditional experience.