The sorry state of Hongcun Scenic Area in March

Hongcun, a stunning ancient village nestled in the mountains and rivers of southern Anhui, resembles a flowing ink painting, quietly narrating a thousand years of history. With its white walls and black tiles, small bridges and flowing water, every corner exudes the unique gentleness and tranquility of a Jiangnan water town. If you plan to visit, this guide is definitely worth saving. 🏞️Must-see attractions: 1. South Lake Moon Pond (Nanhu Yuèzhǎo): The heart of Hongcun. The lake's surface is like a mirror, reflecting the ancient dwellings. It's especially beautiful at dawn and dusk. 2. Chengzhi Hall: The largest ancient building complex in Hongcun. The exquisite wood, stone, and brick carvings are breathtaking, showcasing the wisdom and craftsmanship of ancient artisans. 3. Shuren Hall: A typical Hui-style building with a sophisticated interior layout. A must-visit for understanding Hui culture. 4. Lexu Hall: Hongcun's ancestral hall. With its long history and magnificent architecture, it serves as the spiritual home of Hongcun residents. 5. Hongcun Water Channel: The water system surrounding the entire village is a unique scenic feature of Hongcun. Stroll along it and experience the dynamism and charm of the water town. 6. Leigang Hill Viewing Platform: Climb to the top for a panoramic view of Hongcun. A paradise for photography enthusiasts. 7. Mukeng Bamboo Forest: A lush bamboo forest not far from Hongcun. With fresh air and greenery, it's a great place for hiking and cycling. 8. Lucun Village: Another ancient village similar in style to Hongcun. The Lucun Wood Carving House is particularly famous and worth exploring. 🍽️Food recommendations: • Mao Tofu: Crispy golden crust, soft inside. Dip it in the special sauce for a delicious treat. • Stinky Mandarin Fish (Chòu Guìyú): Don't let the name fool you, it tastes surprisingly delicious. A classic Huizhou dish. • Hongcun Pastries: Various flavors of pastries, sweet and soft. A perfect choice for sampling local flavors. 🚗Transportation: • From Huangshan Tunxi Airport or Huangshan North Railway Station, take a direct bus or hire a car to Hongcun. The journey takes about 1–2 hours. • Self-driving is also a good option, as the scenery along the way is picturesque. However, be mindful of mountain road conditions. 🏨Accommodation: • Hongcun has many antique inns and guesthouses, such as "Dream Back to Hongcun" and "Huiyun Inn." They offer reasonable prices, elegant environments, and an authentic Hui-style living experience. • For a more comfortable stay, you can also choose resort hotels or boutique guesthouses in the surrounding area. 💡Tips: • Hongcun is beautiful all year round, but spring and autumn are the most pleasant seasons to visit. • Book tickets online in advance to avoid queuing on-site. • Please respect local customs and keep the environment clean during your visit.