Nestled in the picturesque Taohua Yuan of Yi County, Hongcun Ancient Village (宏村) is renowned both domestically and internationally, largely due to its portrayal in the Oscar-winning film Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. Often referred to as “the village in Chinese paintings,” Hongcun captivates visitors with its idyllic scenery and rich history.
Established during the Northern Song Dynasty nearly a thousand years ago, Hongcun, also known as Hong Village, is primarily inhabited by the Wang clan. The villagers’ ingenuity led to the innovative planning of this unique settlement, which is designed in the shape of an ox, complete with an intricate water system that has been recognized as one of the “wonders of China.” This exceptional design exemplifies the harmonious relationship between nature and architecture, making it a remarkable cultural heritage site.
The village features hundreds of ancient residences, including the renowned South Lake Academy, Jingxiutang, Dongxiantang, and Xuren Hall, all beautifully arranged. Notably, Chengzhitang is considered the best-preserved ancient residence in Yi County. Its main hall boasts exquisitely crafted wooden beams, intricate bracket sets, decorative doors, and window frames adorned with detailed carvings. These artworks showcase the finesse and complexity of Huizhou-style wood carving, making it a true masterpiece of the “Four Carvings” art of Huizhou.
Visitors to Hongcun will find themselves stepping back in time, surrounded by stunning architecture and the serene beauty of traditional Chinese culture, offering a glimpse into the past that continues to inspire.
Travel Information about Hongcun Ancient Village
Ticket Information and Opening Hours
Ticket Price: 104 CNY (valid for three days and includes a guided tour)
Opening Hours: 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM
Best Times to Visit:
March to April: The rapeseed flowers bloom, creating a picturesque scene with the village’s pink walls and dark tiles.
November: Autumn colors peak with stunning red leaves adorning the mountains, creating a breathtaking landscape.
Getting to Hongcun Village
Location: Hongcun Town, Yi County, Huangshan City.
By Car:
For those traveling by car, the best route is to navigate to Hongcun South Gate (南门). The parking lot at South Gate is shaded, making it a great place to park, especially during the hot summer months. In the fall, the rice fields near South Gate offer picturesque views, and it’s a perfect spot to take in the autumn scenery. South Gate is also close to Tachuan Village, famous for its autumn colors, which National Geographic once ranked among China’s top four autumn sceneries.
Another option is the West Gate (西门), which is located outside the scenic area. This area has many guesthouses and dining options, making it convenient for parking and enjoying the local food. The North Gate (北门) is located on a bridge, with parking nearby, but it’s not as convenient as the other gates, and walking from here to the main village area is possible.
By High-Speed Train:
The recommended station for arriving at Hongcun is the Yi County East Station (黟县东站), which is just a 20-meter walk from the station exit to the bus stop. The journey to Hongcun takes approximately 40 minutes, and the taxi fare is typically around 100 yuan. It’s advised to book a taxi in advance to avoid any delays. Alternatively, you can take the No. 8 tourist express bus that runs every 30 minutes, with a ticket price of a few yuan, and the journey takes about 45 minutes. The bus operates from 8:00 AM to 6:40 PM.
You can also arrive at Huangshan North Station (黄山北站), which offers more frequent train services. From here, a taxi ride to Hongcun takes about 70 minutes and costs around 200 yuan. If you prefer to take the bus, the bus station near North Station offers daily services from 8:55 AM to 5:05 PM, and the bus ride takes around 90 minutes, with a ticket price of about 30 yuan.
By Air:
If you’re flying into the region, the nearest airport is Tunxi Airport (屯溪机场), located about 90 minutes from Hongcun. A taxi ride from the airport to Hongcun costs around 250 yuan.
Attraction Ratings
- Culture: ★★★★★
- Unique Features: ★★★★
- Leisure: ★★★★
- Beauty: ★★★★★
- Romance: ★★★★
- Adventure: ★★
Highlights of Hongcun Ancient Village
Nanhu Lake
Nanhu Lake, located at the southern end of Hongcun, is often referred to as the “Little West Lake at the foot of Huangshan.” Constructed in the 35th year of the Wanli era (1607), this serene lake reflects the rich history and culture of the village.
During the Yongle and Wanli periods, the village expanded rapidly, resulting in densely connected buildings and a growing population. As the existing water source from Yuetang was no longer sufficient, villagers excavated several acres of fertile land in the southern part of the village, creating Nanhu Lake. The lake was designed with stone embankments, mirroring the elegant style of West Lake’s “Pinghu Qiu Yue” (Autumn Moon Over the Calm Lake).
Nanhu Lake has a graceful, bow-shaped design, with a double-layered embankment. The tranquil waters reflect the sky and surrounding scenery, creating a deep, elegant, and refreshing atmosphere. Historically, Nanhu Lake has undergone three significant renovations, with a major reconstruction in 1986 that included the building of a scenic bridge. Visitors can enjoy boating across the lake, adding a charming touch to their experience.
Yuezhao (Moon Pool)
Yuezhao, commonly known as Yuetang or “Cow’s Small Belly,” is one of the iconic landscapes of Hongcun. This picturesque pond was excavated during the Yongle era of the Ming Dynasty, a time when a local resident named Wang Siqi discovered a natural spring in the village that flowed continuously, even in winter.
Recognizing the potential of this spring, Wang Siqi hired the renowned feng shui master He Keda three times and collaborated with elder clan members to plan the expansion of Hongcun. They channeled water from the nearby Xixi River into the village and designed a pool at the center, which became Yuezhao.
Years later, Wang Shengping and other descendants invested over ten thousand gold coins to deepen and shape the pond into a half-moon form, solidifying Yuezhao’s place in the village. Surrounded by white walls and dark tiles, with the blue sky and white clouds reflected in its waters, Yuezhao radiates an enchanting charm that captivates visitors.
Jingxiutang (Respect and Cultivation Hall)
Jingxiutang, located on the northwest side of Yuezhao, was established during the Daoguang era of the Qing Dynasty and has a history of approximately 180 years. It is a quintessential example of Qing-era residential architecture in Hongcun.
The structure is elevated nearly one meter above the level of Yuezhao, with the entire house facing south. In front of the main hall lies a courtyard, which serves as a charming outdoor space. One of the most distinctive features of Jingxiutang is the 10-square-meter open area outside the courtyard gate, known locally as “Tingtan.” This space is a popular gathering spot where villagers can enjoy the coolness of summer, bask in the winter sun, and hold small social gatherings.
Jingdhetang (Respect and Virtue Hall)
Jingdhetang, situated at the bend of the Niuchang Water Channel in Hongcun, was built in the early Qing Dynasty during the Shunzhi era. It features an H-shaped layout and exemplifies the simple and dignified architectural style of the period. The house, with its square columns, represents a classic example of late Ming and early Qing Dynasty residential design in Hongcun.
Visitors can gain insights into the lives of ordinary Huizhou merchants and the architectural patterns of Huizhou’s Ming and Qing buildings through Jingdhetang. The hall’s layout includes a series of rooms arranged along a central axis, with courtyards at both the front and rear to enhance natural light. The side wings include a southern front courtyard and a northern kitchen with a small inner courtyard. To the east is a small side hall facing west and a large garden.
The importance of the entrance gate in Huizhou architecture is underscored by the saying, “A gate worth a thousand gold, with a house worth only four taels,” reflecting the gate’s role as a symbol of status and prestige.
The decorative carvings on Jingdhetang’s gate are rich in symbolism. The corners of the gate feature images of the Arowana fish with a dragon’s head and fish’s tail, symbolizing the hope that descendants will excel. Below the Arowana are the Four Auspicious Flowers: plum, orchid, bamboo, and chrysanthemum, representing noble qualities. Additionally, the gate’s lower corners are adorned with auspicious water beast motifs depicting the carp jumping over the Dragon Gate, symbolizing aspirations for a successful career and official success.
Water Channel
The water channel, known as 水圳, was constructed during the Yongle era of the Ming Dynasty and has a history of over 500 years. It stretches for more than 1,200 meters, winding through the village and providing a continuous flow of clear water year-round.
The ancestors of the Hongcun villagers built a stone dam on the Yixi River upstream to harness the natural terrain’s elevation. This ingenious system channels the crystal-clear water into the village, flowing through courtyards and homes before reaching Yuezhao and eventually draining into Nanhu Lake.
This water nourishes the farmland and irrigates the orchards, bringing vitality to the tranquil mountain village. The beautiful ambiance created by this system can be summed up in the saying, “Though the stream may seem distant, every household has a clear spring at its door.”
Chengzhitang (Chengzhi Hall)
Chengzhitang is located in the middle section of the water channel in Hongcun and was constructed in the fifth year of the Xianfeng era during the Qing Dynasty. It served as the residence of Wang Dinggui, a prominent salt merchant in the late Qing Dynasty. The building is entirely made of wood and boasts luxurious brick, stone, and wood carvings, covering an area of 2,100 square meters. It is a well-preserved example of large-scale residential architecture from this period.
Chengzhitang features an impressive layout with nine courtyards, 60 rooms of various sizes, and 136 wooden pillars. The house includes a variety of spaces, such as inner and outer courtyards, a front hall, a rear hall, east and west wings, a study, a fish pond hall, a kitchen, and a stable. Additionally, it has a specialized “Paisyange” (Mahjong room) for playing games, as well as accommodations for bodyguards and servant quarters for both male and female staff.
The interior of Chengzhitang is equipped with a pond and a well, allowing residents to access water without having to venture outside. This architectural marvel not only reflects the wealth and status of its former owner but also showcases the intricate social and functional aspects of life in a traditional Huizhou residence.
Shuren Hall
Shuren Hall, also known as the Folk Art Collection Museum, was built in the first year of the Tongzhi era (1862). It serves as the private collection museum of Wang Senqiang, the 95th descendant of Wang Sheng, the hall’s original owner. Over the years, the owner has amassed a diverse collection of artifacts from the Ming and Qing Dynasties, including traditional workshop machinery, stone utensils, Huizhou woodblock prints, folk items, and materials related to the business practices of Huizhou merchants, as well as family genealogies from Hongcun.
The layout of Shuren Hall is hexagonal, symbolizing harmony and prosperity. The upper floor showcases maps detailing the trading routes of Hongcun merchants and the historical remnants of Huizhou commerce. Visitors can find paintings that depict the bustling scenes of the old bridge and wharf that were once central to trade activities, alongside a letter from 1919 written by a local resident in Beijing involved in the insurance business.
Additionally, the museum houses portraits of Wang Dinggui, the prominent merchant from Chengzhitang, along with biographical details, family praises, and obituaries. The collection includes historical silver notes, letters, and various tools used in commerce, such as a suitcase, shoe rack, and farming implements like rakes, hoes, and raincoats.
Taoyuanju (Peach Blossom Garden)
Taoyuanju, constructed during the Xianfeng era of the Qing Dynasty, derives its name from a rare peach tree planted by the owner in the courtyard. Though modest in size, the residence is renowned for its exquisite brick carvings on the entrance and intricate wooden sculptures inside.
The entrance features finely detailed brick carvings, showcasing a variety of layered designs, including lively representations of animals like the green lion and white elephant. A standout feature is the arched brick plaque above the entrance, crafted from water-ground bricks, which resembles the winter melon beams often found in traditional halls. This arched design is a rarity among ancient residences. Inside, the wooden carvings are abundant and diverse, employing various techniques and rich themes that reflect the artistry of Huizhou craftsmanship.
Ancient Trees
At the entrance of Hongcun, two ancient trees, each around 500 years old, stand as silent witnesses to the village’s history. One is a maple poplar, locally known as the red poplar, while the other is a ginkgo tree, commonly referred to as the white fruit tree.
The red poplar reaches a height of approximately 19 meters and requires four to five people to encircle its trunk. Its canopy resembles a giant umbrella, providing a lush green shade over several acres of land at the village entrance. On the southern side stands the ginkgo tree, towering at about 20 meters, its shape reminiscent of a sword piercing the sky, making it a true gem of the village.
Historically, these trees held significant cultural importance. It was customary for villagers to have the bride’s palanquin circle the red poplar during weddings, symbolizing a wish for the couple’s enduring happiness and prosperity. Conversely, when an elderly person passed away, their coffin would be carried around the ginkgo tree, signifying a blessing for their descendants and a long life.
Zilu Temple
Zilu Temple, located near Qishu Lake in Hongcun, boasts a grand scale and remarkable architecture. Established during the Tang Dynasty, it was once a hub of faith for many devotees. However, due to years of neglect, the original structure gradually fell into disrepair. In 2003, a rebuilt Zilu Temple was completed in Ziling Mountain Bay, approximately 3 kilometers from Hongcun.
The new Zilu Temple is uniquely positioned, with the majestic Elephant Nose Peak at its back, the Green Dragon mountain range on its left, and the White Tiger mountain range on its right. In front lies a stunning view of four-layered windbreaks and two reclining Buddha peaks, while the vast Qishu Lake glistens below, creating a serene and ideal environment for meditation.
Today, Zilu Temple is divided into three main sections: the religious life area, the meditation area, and the academic area. Key structures within the temple complex include the Mountain Gate Hall, Heavenly King Hall, Bell Tower, Drum Tower, Grand Buddha Hall, Arhat Pagoda, Sutra Collection Building, Receiving Hall, Medicine Buddha Hall, Abbot’s Room, and Dining Hall. With a construction area exceeding 10,000 square meters, Zilu Temple holds considerable influence within the Buddhist community and continues to attract visitors seeking spiritual solace.
Various Itineraries for Hongcun Ancient Village
Off-the-Beaten-Path Circular Hiking Guide to Hongcun Village
The Hiking Route
Hongcun – Qishu Lake – Fengdeng – Xieli -Tachuan – Hongcun
The entire loop covers approximately 8.5 kilometers (5.3 miles), with an elevation gain of 150 meters and a descent of 60 meters. It primarily follows village roads and is well-marked, making it suitable for most hikers. Typically, this route can be completed in 2-3 hours at a leisurely pace. If you’re lucky enough to visit during autumn, this trail is considered one of the most beautiful places to experience the fall foliage of Anhui.
Scenic Highlights Along the Trail
Hongcun Village (宏村):
- As one of China’s most famous scenic spots, Hongcun is a must-see, even though it is relatively commercialized due to its early development as a tourist destination. Despite its bustling tourism, the village’s traditional Hui-style architecture and idyllic surroundings still offer a peaceful escape, especially during the fall season. The golden rice fields of Dongshansha (东山下) are in full display during autumn, creating a striking contrast with the white walls and black-tiled roofs of the traditional houses. This beautiful scenery offers a fantastic start to your journey.
- Location: Directly opposite the South Gate of Hongcun, on the eastern foot of Dongshan (东山).
- Highlight: The picturesque rice paddies and the stunning reflections of the traditional houses in the water.
Qishu Lake (奇墅湖)
- This is one of the most recommended spots along the route. With its oil painting-like scenery, clear waters, tall, straight trees, and colorful leaves, Qishu Lake is a peaceful retreat away from the crowds. During autumn and winter, the area’s water pine trees take on a soft reddish hue, creating a fairy-tale-like landscape that’s perfect for reflection or a quiet walk.
- Location: 200 meters west of the Hongcun Scenic Area, opposite Hongcun Impression (宏村印象).
- Highlight: The tranquil waters, elegant trees, and beautiful seasonal changes in the landscape.
Fengdeng and Xieli Villages (丰登–协里)
- Next, head toward the charming Xieli Village (协里村), home to the Zheng family (郑氏家族). More than 97% of the village’s residents share the same last name, making it a fascinating cultural stop. Xieli is located in the same valley as Tachuan Village (塔川), just separated by a small hill.
- On your way to Fengdeng, you’ll walk through rural landscapes where rice fields remain unharvested until early November. This peaceful, rustic setting is perfect for soaking in the traditional village atmosphere. However, note that some sections of the path are a bit uneven, so take care while walking.
- Highlight: The quiet, untouched rural atmosphere of the villages and their autumn rice fields.
Tachuan Village (塔川)
- Tachuan is the final highlight of the route. The village is shaped like a bat, with two mountain slopes resembling the wings and the middle area forming the body and head. While the village itself isn’t particularly stunning, during autumn, it is bathed in vibrant red foliage, making it one of the best spots to experience the beauty of autumn leaves. The atmosphere in Tachuan, surrounded by nature’s fiery colors, is truly spectacular.
- Highlight: The red maple trees and the dramatic natural scenery that gives Tachuan its unique charm.
2-Day Itinerary for Visiting Hongcun, Xidi, Lu Village, and Tachuan Without Driving
Day 0: Friday Evening Arrival
Upon arrival in Huangshan (黄山), take the high-speed train to Huangshan North Station (黄山北站) and then catch a bus to Hongcun (宏村). Alternatively, you can take the train to Yi County East Station (黟县东站) and then hop on the Tourism Line 10 to Hongcun. The second option is faster and more affordable, and if you arrive earlier, it’s definitely recommended. The journey from Yi County East Station to Hongcun by bus is quite short.
Once in Hongcun, buy a Hongcun-Xidi combined ticket (宏村西递联票). This ticket allows you to enter both villages multiple times within 3 days, making your travel more flexible. After you’ve settled in, explore the area around your accommodation or just take in the night scenery.
Day 1: Saturday – Xidi Village Exploration
Start your day with a visit to Xidi Village (西递村), which is about a 30-minute bus ride from the Hongcun bus station (Tourism Line 10). The ticket costs ¥6. Once you reach Xidi, I highly recommend hiring a local guide for a detailed tour. For ¥90, you’ll get a guide who will take you through the key historical buildings in the village, which will enhance your experience. After the tour, feel free to explore the village on your own and take photos of the stunning Hui-style architecture.
In the afternoon, return to Hongcun by taking Tourism Line 10 back. This time, you can enjoy the village at your own pace. Hongcun is bustling with tourists, and you’ll notice many guides speaking through loudspeakers, which can make it easier to follow along, even without a guide. The village offers plenty of opportunities for photography, so don’t forget your camera.
Day 2: Sunday – Lu Village and Tachuan
On Sunday morning, wake up early and head to Lu Village (卢村) for the iconic morning mist photos. The village is about 2-3 kilometers from Hongcun, which makes for a nice early morning walk if you’re up for it. If you’re not an early riser, you can take Yi County Bus Line 1 (黟县1路) to get there. Be aware that due to increasing tourist numbers, the bus may not go all the way into Lu Village, but the driver will stop at an intersection nearby, and you can walk along a small path into the village.
After exploring Lu Village, head to Tachuan (塔川). If you’re feeling fit, you can walk there, or alternatively, ask at the bus terminal for the best bus to take (the journey typically takes around 10 minutes if there’s no traffic). You can follow the hiking route from Lu Village to Tachuan for a scenic walk.
In the afternoon, return to Huangshan North Station (黄山北站) by bus from the Huangshan Bus Station (黄山客运站) to catch your high-speed train home. Although the bus station has posted timetables, it’s always best to ask the staff, as schedules may change slightly, especially on Sunda
2-Day Travel Guide to Tachuan, Hongcun, and Lu Village
Saturday: Lu Village & Tachuan
Sunrise at Lu Village (卢村): Start your day early by waking up at 6:00 AM and riding a shared electric bike to the Lu Village Viewing Platform to catch the sunrise. The journey takes about 15 minutes. Although the weather was cloudy, the village still offered a mystical morning fog. At around 7:30 AM, head back to Lu Village for a brief stroll. The shared bikes are available around the West Gate and are a convenient way to explore the area. When approaching the viewing platform, you’ll be notified that you’re nearing the operating zone, but you can continue towards the platform and lock the bike temporarily. There are also designated parking points in Lu Village where you can return the bikes.
Tachuan (塔川): After a quick nap and lunch in Hongcun (宏村) at around 12:00 PM, head to Tachuan. You can either walk for 30 minutes or ride a shared electric bike to reach the village. In the late afternoon, head back to Hongcun by 5:00 PM.
Sunday: Exploring Hongcun
Start your day by relaxing and sleeping in. Hongcun (宏村) offers a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely morning. Spend some time wandering around the village, appreciating the autumn beauty and the architectural charm of the ancient buildings.
In the afternoon, visit the Bus Station (客运中心) to buy tickets for your return journey. At 4:00 PM, the earliest bus ticket available was for 5:05 PM, so make sure to purchase tickets in advance online to secure your desired departure time.
3-Day Itinerary for Qiyun Mountain and Hongcun Village
Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of Qiyun Mountain
My journey began with an early morning departure from Shanghai Hongqiao (上海虹桥) at 8:05 AM, and I arrived at Huangshan North Station (黄山北站) around 11:26 AM. Once I left the station, I quickly caught the Xiu Ning Line 1 bus (about 300 meters to the left of the station exit), which took me directly to Qiyun Mountain in about an hour. I checked into Xiang Fu Rui Hotel (祥福瑞酒店), which would be my base for the next two nights.
In the afternoon, I wandered through the small town near the base of the mountain. There were various intangible cultural heritage (ICH) activities to explore, giving me a chance to experience the local traditions. As evening approached, I headed out for a bamboo raft drifting experience. The boat ride offered an incredible opportunity for photos, especially at the front of the boat. The setting sun cast a beautiful orange glow over the water, creating the perfect atmosphere.
Later, I enjoyed the evening performances, including the fire-breathing show, fire dance, golden dragon dance, and the impressive iron flower show. I was most impressed by the Iron Flower performance, which was definitely the highlight. While the other performances were entertaining, I found the fireworks display a bit underwhelming.
Day 2: Hiking Qiyun Mountain and Journey to Hongcun
I started the day with breakfast at my hotel at 8:00 AM, before heading out for an adventure. I had purchased a combined ticket for the cable car and bamboo raft ride for ¥138, as well as tickets for Qiyun Mountain and Hongcun Village for ¥103. These tickets were valid for 3 days, so I made sure to keep track of their validity.
At 9:00 AM, I took the cable car up to Qiyun Mountain. Initially, I planned to take the small loop hike, but my adventurous side kicked in, and I decided to climb to the highest peak instead. Unfortunately, that decision led to my poor companion carrying my backpack and dragging me up the mountain, both of us sweating buckets. Looking back, the small loop would have been just fine. Along the way, I heard a guide mention that certain spots offered great views of Lotus Peak in Huangshan Mountain.
By 1:30 PM, I took the cable car back down the mountain. After lunch, I caught a taxi to Hongcun Village, which cost about ¥80. My hotel also offered a shuttle service, but since it was fully booked during National Day, I opted for the taxi. The drive took around 40 minutes, and I checked into a chain hotel just outside the scenic area. The hotel was conveniently close to the bus station, and the accommodations inside the village were quite expensive. The West Gate of Hongcun was only a 5-minute walk away.
As I entered Hongcun Village, I noticed gliders and skydivers soaring above – a thrilling sight, but I didn’t have time to join in. After a short rest, I ventured into the village. The evening atmosphere was much busier than during the day, with narrow lanes and plenty of hustle and bustle. I bought some local specialties, like Graphite Red Tea (石墨红茶) (which, though pricey, had a smooth and delightful taste, even though it lacked the fragrance of Qimen Tea).
Day 3: Exploring Hongcun Village and Return
On my final day, I enjoyed a traditional breakfast at one of the many local shops near the entrance to the Hongcun Scenic Area. After eating, I entered the village and spent the day taking photos of the picturesque surroundings. Hongcun is truly a photographer’s dream, with its charming ancient architecture and scenic landscapes.
The village isn’t very large, and I managed to stroll through it in about 2 to 3 hours. Along the way, I bought a fan-shaped fridge magnet and some freshly baked sesame flatbread, which were perfect souvenirs.
In the afternoon, I headed to Yixian Travel to purchase a bus ticket for my return journey. The trip to Huangshan North Station took about 1.5 hours, and I caught the 17:41 train back to Shanghai, bringing my 3-day adventure to a close.
Visitor Guide for Hongcun Ancient Village
Accommodation in Hongcun
1. Inside the Scenic Area:
There are several unique accommodation options inside the Hongcun Scenic Area. These accommodations are charming, but keep in mind that vehicles are not allowed inside the scenic area. The guesthouses and inns use various transportation options, such as tricycles, electric cars, golf carts, or even small outdoor trailers to help guests with luggage or provide transportation to their rooms. Consider the weather conditions, such as rain, snow, or intense heat, when choosing this type of accommodation.
2. Near the Scenic Area (West Gate):
If you prefer to stay outside the main scenic area, the West Gate area has a concentration of guesthouses and hotels. Many of these are local family-run businesses, but there are also larger chain hotels such as Hanting and GreenTree Inn. These hotels are more affordable and practical, offering a good balance of comfort and convenience.
3. Nearby Villages (2 km Away):
For a quieter and more luxurious experience, consider staying about 2 kilometers from Hongcun, near villages such as Lucun. The area is known for its tranquility and stunning natural beauty. The Banyan Tree Huangshan Resort (黄山悦榕庄酒店) is a 5-star resort offering a luxurious stay with prices ranging from 2000 to 6000 yuan per night. In addition, some of the villa-style accommodations in the resort’s garden area have been converted into guesthouses, providing a unique and peaceful environment for relaxation.
Food Guide to Hongcun Village
Red List: Must-Try Foods
- Ge Gen Fen (葛根粉): This cool, refreshing drink is perfect for hot summer days. Made from kudzu root powder, it has a sweet, smooth flavor and is light on the stomach—ideal for those looking for a healthy, non-fattening drink.
- Huangji Shaobing (黄记烧饼蟹壳黄): These delicious, crispy yellow mountain-style pastries are a must-try. The elderly owner serves them with enthusiasm, and the pastries are crisp on the outside with a soft and flaky interior.
- Bujuan Lemon Tea (不卷柠檬茶): This local tea is made with Huangshan Mao Feng tea and plum. It’s fragrant and refreshing, with the bonus of being served in photogenic cups—perfect for your travel photos!
- Lingshan Sweet Wine with Red Beans (灵山酒酿红豆酒酿): A local sweet wine, often served with fermented red beans. While it’s not available in Hongcun itself, it’s a sweet treat worth hunting for, especially if you’re a dessert lover.
- Chou Gui Yu (臭鳜鱼): Despite its name, “stinky fish,” this dish tastes better than it smells. The fish is tender and flavorful, with a surprisingly mild and fresh taste, making it a must-try for the adventurous eater.
Black List: Foods to Skip
- Ba Yue Zha (八月炸): A wild fruit that’s not sweet and has many hard seeds. Personally, I didn’t enjoy it, as it doesn’t offer much flavor.
- Osmanthus Cake (桂花糕): This cake has a bitter, astringent taste and isn’t sweet enough. The filling has an artificial aftertaste that may not be to everyone’s liking.
- Wu Mi Ci (乌米糍): This rice cake has a very bland flavor, and while it might be fun for a photo, it’s not something you’ll want to eat again. It’s filling but lacks taste.
- Mao Doufu (毛豆腐): A dish that looks scary with its deep-fried tofu, it has a peculiar taste that may not appeal to everyone. The texture can be off-putting, so I recommend caution if you’re not a fan of bold flavors.
- Trendy Bamboo Tube Cups (网红竹筒杯): While they look appealing for photos, these bamboo tube cups are everywhere and not worth the purchase. They are more about looks than actual quality.
15 Essential Tips for Visiting Hongcun Village
1. Best Time to Visit: Morning and Evening
Hongcun’s true beauty comes alive at dawn and dusk. If you want to capture the most scenic views, make sure to visit during the early morning or the late afternoon. During these times, the light is soft, and the reflections of the surrounding architecture on the water in South Lake (南湖) and Moon Pond (月沼) are absolutely mesmerizing. You can explore the village in about 2 hours, but be sure to take your time enjoying these two iconic spots.
2. How to Get There: Transportation Options
If you’re not driving, the best way to get to Hongcun is by high-speed train to Yi County East Station (黟县东). From there, you can take a tourist bus (Line 10), which directly connects to Hongcun. The bus fare is around ¥8, and the ride will take you straight to the village entrance.
3. Ideal Time for Photography
For photography enthusiasts, arriving between 5:00 AM and 6:00 AM is highly recommended. The light during this time is perfect for capturing the breathtaking views of South Lake (南湖) and Moon Pond (月沼). These spots are incredibly beautiful in the early morning, when the water is still and reflects the surrounding mountains and traditional houses.
4. Accommodation Tips: Stay Outside the Scenic Area
While it may seem convenient to stay within Hongcun’s scenic area, it’s not the best choice for accommodations. The houses here are traditional buildings from the Ming and Qing dynasties and can be quite basic. Instead, opt for a higher-quality hotel located outside the village.
5. Recommended Tour Route: Explore the Highlights
A great way to explore Hongcun is to follow this suggested route:
- South Lake (南湖) → South Lake Academy (南湖书院) → Jingde Hall (敬德堂) → Moon Pond (月沼) → Lexu Hall (乐叙堂) → Jingxiu Hall (敬修堂) → Chengzhi Hall (承志堂) → Deyi Hall (得义堂) → Taoyuan Residence (桃源居)
This route will guide you through the most scenic and culturally significant parts of the village, allowing you to fully appreciate its beauty and heritage.
6. Ticket Prices
The entrance ticket for Hongcun is ¥94 per person. This ticket allows you unlimited entry for three days, and you can use your ID card to enter multiple times during this period. You can purchase tickets directly from the official Huangshan tourism platform (黄山旅游官方平台) or Trip.com.
7. Nearby Villages: West Village vs. Hongcun
While Xidi Village (西递村) is not far from Hongcun, it lacks the charm and commercialization of Hongcun. Unlike Hongcun, Xidi does not have the iconic Moon Pond (月沼) or South Lake (南湖). If you’re short on time, I recommend choosing Hongcun (宏村) as your primary destination and visiting one or two nearby villages as additional stops.
8. Popular Photo Spot: The “Old Time” Café
If you’re into photography, don’t miss the Old Time Café (宏村旧时光咖啡店), which has a famous second-floor photo spot. This place has become a popular spot for tourists looking for an Instagram-worthy photo. However, be prepared to wait in line and buy a drink before you can enter. It’s not a free attraction, so keep that in mind when planning your visit.
9. Moon Pond: A Must-See Scenic Spot
The Moon Pond (月沼) is one of Hongcun’s most famous landmarks. From Chengzhi Hall (承志堂), you can reach Moon Pond within a 10-minute walk. The pond offers a truly peaceful setting, and its beauty was even captured on a famous Chinese scenic postage stamp released in 1982. The reflections of the buildings and trees in the pond create an atmosphere of serene elegance, making it an excellent location for photography.
10. Explore Hongcun’s Surrounding Villages
Although there are other ancient villages in the area that look quite similar to Hongcun, Hongcun (宏村) stands out for its unique layout and the beauty of its South Lake (南湖) and Moon Pond (月沼). If you have extra time, consider visiting one or two nearby villages, but make sure to prioritize Hongcun as it offers the most picturesque and distinctive experience.
11. No Free Entry: Be Aware of Scams
Please note that there are no free entry options into Hongcun. The only official entrances are the South Gate (南大门) and the North Gate (北大门), and any claims of free entry are likely scams. Make sure to purchase your tickets through official channels to avoid any problems.
12. No Cars Inside the Village
Once you arrive at Hongcun, you’ll notice that there are no cars allowed inside the village. All vehicles must park at the designated parking lot near the entrance. Be prepared for some walking, which adds to the charm and tranquility of the village.
13. Hongcun Cuisine: Must-Try Dishes
Don’t miss out on some local delicacies while in Hongcun. The stinky mandarin fish (臭鳜鱼), moldy tofu (毛豆腐), Huangshan-style sesame cakes (黄山烧饼), flower cakes (百花糕), and golden chrysanthemum tea (金丝皇菊) are all traditional dishes worth trying. The fish, in particular, is a local specialty, so make sure to give it a try.
14. Cultural Show: “Hongcun Ah Ju”
For an immersive cultural experience, watch “Hongcun Ah Ju (宏村阿菊)”, a performance that brings to life the Anhui Hui-style culture (徽州文化). The show is not only historically informative but also entertaining and a great way to learn about the traditions and customs of the region.
15. Photography Tips and Safety
There are many photographers offering tourist photos within Hongcun, but be cautious and check reviews before booking any services. It’s important to ensure that the photographer is reputable and has good feedback. Also, especially