Encounter Ink-Wash Jiangnan: A Travel Guide to Hongcun Village

Hongcun Village is not large, and 1-2 days are enough to fully appreciate its charm. A 2-day, 1-night trip is recommended. Arrive at noon on the first day, stroll through the ancient village, and admire the sunset over South Lake and Moon Pond. Wake up early on the second day to experience Hongcun in the morning mist, visit Chengzhi Hall and other attractions in the morning, and return in the afternoon. Must-See Attractions South Lake: The iconic attraction of Hongcun Village, resembling a natural ink-wash painting. Weeping willows line the lake, and the clear water reflects the white walls and black tiles of the houses and the distant mountains. Every photo taken here is a masterpiece. Moon Pond: A half-moon-shaped pond surrounded by charmingly scattered houses, it is the heart of Hongcun. The nights here are exceptionally peaceful, with moonlight shimmering on the water's surface, complementing the lights along the shore, creating a breathtaking scene. Chengzhi Hall: An outstanding representative of Hui-style architecture, its wood, brick, and stone carvings are exquisite. Stepping inside is like traveling back in time, allowing you to deeply experience the splendor of Huizhou merchant culture. Local Specialties Stinky Mandarin Fish: Smells stinky but tastes delicious. The fish is tender and has a unique flavor due to a special pickling process. It's a must-try dish in Hongcun. Hongcun Hairy Tofu: Covered with white hairs on the surface, it becomes crispy on the outside and soft on the inside after being pan-fried. Served with a special sauce, each bite is a burst of happiness. Huangshan Sesame Seed Cakes: Crispy on the outside and savory on the inside, these cakes come in various flavors, such as preserved mustard greens and pork. They make a great souvenir and are easy to carry.