Hongcun Village, located in Anhui Province, is a charming ancient village famous for its unique Hui-style architecture, beautiful landscapes, and serene atmosphere. Whether you’re planning a leisurely visit or a longer stay, this guide provides essential information on how to get to Hongcun and where to stay once you’re there. From convenient driving routes to comfortable accommodations, here’s everything you need to know about visiting Hongcun Village.
How to Get to Hongcun Village
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.
Where to Stay in Hongcun Village
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.