Yixian County, located in the southern part of Anhui Province, is renowned as one of the birthplaces of Huizhou culture and a historic gathering place for ancient Huizhou merchants. Famous for its well-preserved Ming and Qing architecture, the county is home to UNESCO World Heritage sites like Xidi and Hongcun, as well as numerous national historical villages and traditional settlements. The county’s natural beauty, with its serene landscapes and idyllic rural settings, makes it an ideal destination for countryside tourism and relaxation.
1. Hongcun Scenic Area (宏村景区) – 5A Level
Introduction: Hongcun is a unique village shaped like an ox, nestled at the foot of the Huangshan mountain range. The entire village layout is based on the shape of an ox, with its winding streams and buildings resembling the creature’s body and horns. This picturesque village is often referred to as the “Village in a Chinese Painting” due to its serene beauty, with clear waters, tranquil reflections, and timeless architecture.
Highlights: The village is known for its stunning integration of natural beauty and traditional Huizhou architecture. The reflection of the surrounding mountains and traditional buildings in the calm waters of the Moon Pond is a must-see, especially during the evening when the village lights create a magical atmosphere. The charm of Hongcun lies in its harmonious balance between man-made structures and nature.
Travel Tips: To fully appreciate Hongcun, visitors should explore the village both during the day and at night. By day, the natural beauty of the surrounding hills and the intricate architecture can be admired, while at night, the Moon Pond offers a peaceful and almost ethereal scene perfect for photography.
2. Xidi Scenic Area (西递景区) – 5A Level
Introduction: Xidi Village, dating back to the Northern Song Dynasty (960-1127), is another gem in Yixian County. With a history of nearly 1,000 years, it was at its peak during the early Qing Dynasty. The village has preserved its ancient Huizhou architecture, which features exquisite craftsmanship and well-organized layout. It is known for its intact residential buildings, ancestral halls, and the famous Hu Wen Guang Memorial Archway, a typical example of Ming Dynasty Huizhou stone archways.
Highlights: Xidi is renowned for its well-preserved architecture, with traditional wooden houses, intricate carvings, and whitewashed walls. The village layout reflects the traditional principles of Chinese feng shui, with residences arranged to maximize natural light and airflow. The Hu Wen Guang Memorial Archway is a notable landmark, representing the cultural heritage and historical significance of the area.
Travel Tips: A leisurely stroll through Xidi’s narrow alleys and winding streets allows visitors to appreciate the beauty of the architecture. It’s also an excellent place to experience the daily life of the local people while enjoying the ancient atmosphere.
3. Mukeng Bamboo Forest (木坑竹海)
Introduction: Located 1.5 kilometers southeast of Tachuan, Mukeng Bamboo Forest is a lush paradise of towering bamboo groves. It is also famous as one of the filming locations for the movie Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. The forest covers vast expanses of land, offering a quiet and peaceful retreat from the bustle of modern life.
Highlights: The bamboo forest is filled with dense bamboo thickets, creating an otherworldly atmosphere that is both serene and mysterious. The forest is particularly enchanting in spring and autumn when the air is crisp, and the bamboo exudes a calming fragrance. It’s an ideal place for hiking, nature walks, and photography, with light filtering through the bamboo shoots, casting beautiful shadows on the forest floor.
Travel Tips: Spring and autumn are the best seasons to visit Mukeng Bamboo Forest when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities and the landscape is at its most vibrant. Visitors can take a peaceful walk through the forest, enjoy the quiet, and appreciate the harmony between nature and human life.
4. Tachuan Village (塔川)
Introduction: Tachuan, also known as “Tashang,” is a picturesque village located in Hongcun Town. It is famous for its incredible autumn landscapes, making it a paradise for photographers. The village is surrounded by beautiful mountains, and its stunning scenery is particularly notable in November, when the red and yellow autumn leaves create a colorful canvas.
Highlights: Tachuan is best known for its spectacular fall foliage, where vibrant red and golden leaves cover the hillsides and reflect in the village’s clear ponds. The charming village features traditional Huizhou-style houses, white-washed walls, and black-tiled roofs that contrast beautifully with the surrounding natural beauty. It’s a perfect destination for capturing the essence of rural life and the changing seasons.
Travel Tips: Autumn is undoubtedly the best time to visit Tachuan. Visitors should bring their cameras to capture the mesmerizing colors of the leaves and the picturesque landscape. The village is also less crowded during this time, allowing for a more intimate experience with nature.
5. Pingshan Village (屏山村)
Introduction: Pingshan Village, also known as Jiyang Creek or Shucun, is located about 4 kilometers northeast of She County. This idyllic village is nestled along the Jiyang Creek, and its ancient stone bridges and clear streams form a harmonious landscape that feels untouched by time.
Highlights: Pingshan Village offers visitors a tranquil retreat with its traditional stone bridges, flowing creek, and rural charm. The village is known for its scenic beauty, with traditional architecture blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings. The quiet countryside atmosphere provides a perfect escape for those looking to experience traditional village life and enjoy the peaceful flow of the creek.
Travel Tips: The best times to visit Pingshan are in the early morning or late afternoon, when the light is soft and the village is at its most picturesque. The calm, reflective waters of the creek create an idyllic scene, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and contemplation.