Xiongcun Village (雄村), originally known as Hongcun, boasts a rich history spanning over 800 years. In the late Yuan dynasty, the Cao family settled here and renamed the village based on a phrase from the “Cao Quan Bei” inscription, which translates to “branches spread and leaves distribute, where it is all strong (枝分叶布，所在为雄).”
Surrounded by green mountains and concealed by bamboo groves, the village is graced by the clear waters of the Xin’an River flowing nearby. This picturesque location is considered a treasure of natural beauty, often compared to “the first village of beautiful Jiangnan” in Chengkan and the “hometown of archways” in Tangyue.
Xiongcun is also an ancient village known for its educational development and the emergence of talented individuals. The village is primarily inhabited by members of the Cao family, who have produced numerous distinguished officials throughout history, truly embodying the meaning of its name. Many of these individuals began their scholarly journeys at the Zhushan Academy located within the village, emphasizing the village’s deep-rooted educational heritage.
Travel Information about Xiongcun Village
Ticket and Opening Hours
Ticket Price: 54 RMB
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Getting to the Scenic Area
Location: Outskirts of Huangshan City, Qingtian County
Transportation:
- Buses to Xiongcun are available from the Shexian Bus Station.
- For those driving from Shanghai, take the Shanghai-Hangzhou Expressway, then switch to the Hangzhou-Huizhou Expressway to Qingtian County. Exit and follow National Route 215 to Shexian County; turn left at the second toll station and continue 7 kilometers to the scenic area.
- From Hangzhou, drive via the Hangzhou-Huizhou Expressway to the Shexian exit, then follow National Route 215 to Shexian County; turn left at the first toll station and proceed 7 kilometers to the scenic area.
Attraction Rating
- Cultural Value: ★★★
- Features: ★★★
- Leisure: ★★★
- Beauty: ★★★
- Romance: ★★
- Excitement: ★★
Highlights of Xiongcun Village
Sishi Yipinfang (Four Generations of First-Class Officials Memorial Arch)
Sishi Yipinfang stands proudly at the entrance of Xiongcun Village, in front of the Caos’ ancestral hall. This impressive structure, with four towering pillars and three stories, was built to honor Cao Wentian, the Minister of Revenue, and his three generations of ancestors. The names and titles of Cao Wentian, his father, grandfather, and great-grandfather are intricately carved on the beam of the second floor. The arch is named “Four Generations of First-Class Officials” due to the hereditary influence and prominence of the family.
Cao Wentian (1736–1800), also known as Jinyi, was born into a family of salt merchants in Xiongcun. He was diligent in his studies from a young age and achieved success in the imperial examination at the age of 25, becoming a jinshi (the highest degree in the imperial examination). He served as Minister of Revenue for many years, gaining a reputation for his efficiency and integrity.
In the thirty-eighth year of the Qianlong era (1773), the Qianlong Emperor established the Siku Quanshu (Complete Library of the Four Treasuries), and Cao Wentian was appointed as one of its chief editors. His ability to remain impartial and just earned him the emperor’s favor, leading to praises such as, “Cao Wentian does not engage in favoritism, demonstrating the virtues of a great minister.”
In the forty-eighth year of the Qianlong era (1783), after requesting to retire to his hometown to care for his elderly mother, he made two trips to the capital to celebrate the Qianlong Emperor’s birthday, which deeply moved the emperor. Acknowledging Cao Wentian’s unique status and character, the emperor bestowed first-class titles upon his great-grandfather, grandfather, father, and himself, resulting in the creation of the “Four Generations of First-Class Officials Memorial Arch.”
Zhushan Academy
Zhushan Academy was established by Cao Wentian’s uncle, Gan Ping, and his father, Ying Qing, around the twentieth year of the Qianlong era (1756). Initially, the Cao family thrived as salt merchants, amassing considerable wealth by the time of Cao Jinji. However, despite their riches, he held strong Confucian values. On his deathbed, he repeatedly instructed his two sons, Gan Ping and Ying Qing, to build a Wenchang Pavilion by the bamboo creek, create an academy, and establish a community shrine and garden. Following their father’s wishes, Gan Ping and Ying Qing began the construction of the academy in the early years of Qianlong, which took over a decade to complete.
The stone drums flanking Zhushan Academy and the large plaque reading “Zhushan Academy” above the entrance are striking features. Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a wooden screen, and both wings of the academy are supported by square stone columns, creating a spacious and grand main hall.
Located near the ancient Taohua Dam, which is backed by Zhushan Academy and the Gongming Archway of the Grand Minister, the area is adjacent to the tranquil Gan River. During the peach blossom season, the trees bloom in vibrant colors, creating a stunning sight of blooming peach blossoms stretching for miles, known as the “Ten Miles of Red Clouds.” The Wenchang Pavilion, designed in a Bagua style, rises majestically amidst many ancient osmanthus trees, making it a popular spot for photographers. The best photography location is the large playground, and taking photos from a boat on the river is also a delightful option.
Xingyan Temple
During the Kangxi period of the Qing Dynasty, the Cheng clan from Xiong Village obtained a royal decree from the emperor to reconstruct Xingyan Temple. At that time, the temple was filled with fragrant incense and the rhythmic sounds of wooden fish, attracting numerous devotees. It is said that the temple housed a rare treasure – a golden-bodied Bodhisattva, drawing worshippers from all around and creating a magnificent scene reminiscent of a heavenly Buddhist kingdom.
The island where Xingyan Temple is located is known as “Small South Sea,” named for its connection to the “Grand South Sea” of Qiantang River Bay, echoing the grandeur of Putuo Mountain. In front of the temple, a platform made of blue stone slabs provides a welcoming area, while the surrounding area is protected by railings constructed from rough stone, enhancing the temple’s serene and majestic atmosphere.
Osmanthus Hall and Lingyun Pavilion
Osmanthus Hall is located at the eastern end of Taohua Dam and connects to Zhushan Academy. The garden features dozens of osmanthus trees, including varieties such as the fragrant osmanthus and the August osmanthus. Osmanthus Hall, also known as “Qingkuang Pavilion,” boasts a central wall inscribed with the poem “Qingkuang Fu,” written by Cao Xueshi.
At the western end of the osmanthus garden stands an octagonal pavilion called “Lingyun Pavilion,” also referred to as “Wenchang Pavilion.” This grand structure has a stone base with eight sides, rising over six feet high. The pavilion has two levels, each with an octagonal design. The roof is made of tin, with the base resembling a lotus blossom. To protect against wind, eight iron chains are tied between the corners. The corners of the pavilion are elegantly curved upward, resembling birds in flight, with wind chimes hanging down.
Together, Taohua Dam, Osmanthus Hall, the octagonal pavilion, and Zhushan Academy form an alluring ensemble along the banks of the Xin’an River. When the osmanthus flowers bloom, climbing the pavilion offers stunning views, accompanied by the gentle fragrance of flowers carried by the breeze and the melodious sound of chimes. Surrounded by lush green mountains and gentle waters, one feels as if they are in a fairyland.
Small South Sea
Small South Sea, also known as Cen Mountain, is the first island in the Xin’an River. The island features rugged rocks and is surrounded by water on all sides. It is home to the “Zhouliu Temple,” built in the eighth year of the Tang Dynasty (911 AD), symbolizing the idea of flowing water all around, making it a unique scenic spot along the Xin’an River.
From the railing, one can enjoy the breathtaking views of lush green trees and towering bamboo, interspersed with scattered villages and houses. The gentle ripples of the flowing water and the distant mountains create a picturesque landscape that captivates the eyes. Inside the temple, there is a guest hall that is mostly suspended and built on a cliff, with jagged rocks below and the rushing river flowing beneath, adding an element of thrilling beauty to the site.
Ciguang Temple
Ciguang Temple is situated on the hillside opposite the Zhushan Academy, across the river. It was built by Cao Zhenyong for his sister and tells a touching story of a brother and sister encouraging each other in their studies.
As a child, Cao Zhenyong was quite mischievous and showed little interest in academics. His sister earnestly advised him, saying, “If you do not focus on your studies, how will you be able to enter the officialdom and carry on our father’s legacy?” In response, Cao Zhenyong boasted, “One day, I will definitely become an official and surpass our father.” His sister, intending to motivate him further, replied, “If you become an official, I will become a nun.”
Inspired by her words, Cao Zhenyong dedicated himself to his studies. He ultimately fulfilled his sister’s expectations by passing the imperial examination and rising to the rank of a military minister, wielding significant power in the court. True to her promise, his sister became a nun, and Cao Zhenyong built Ciguang Temple on the opposite bank of the Xin’an River for her to practice her faith.