Known as one of the most beautiful mountain ranges in China, Huangshan is situated in Huizhou region of the country's southeast-central province of Anhui. Millions of visitors make a trip each year to catch a sight of theses magnificent granite peaks cradled by beds of clouds and frequently depicted in traditional Chinese paintings. And named after the mountain, the area around Huangshan City (pop. 1.5 million, a 4½-hour drive west of Shanghai) is home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the traditional villages of Xidi and Hongcun.
Take a step back away from the hustle and bustle of big-city life and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of these villages, it is the perfect opportunity to get in touch with nature and experience a very historical and cultural part of China. Xidi was built during the Song Dynasty in the mid-11th century, with granite-paved streets and ancient wooden halls, while Hongcun dates back to 1131, also features granite streets, and was the location for scenes in 2000's Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.
And it's worth noting that while Xidi and Hongcun are the two villages of the UNESCO Heritage Site, we recommend staying overnight in Tachuan village just two kilometres from Hongcun (for example at one of its many boutique accommodations), which also quite picturesque and historic but also quieter and more comfortable, away from the tour groups that stay in Hongcun.
The China Guide offers tailored packages to this village to suit travellers’ needs - check us out!
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