Exploring Yongmo Village: The 'Little Yunnan' of Zhongshan

Zhongshan is a city rich in history, with each ancient village being a hidden gem. Among them, Yongmo Village is undoubtedly my favorite! Here, you won't find bustling crowds or overly commercialized attractions. Instead, it retains its most primitive and tranquil village charm. Walking through the alleys of this village feels like being in a quiet town in Yunnan, where you can experience the depth of ancient culture and enjoy a slow-paced life. How to Get to Yongmo Village If you're starting from downtown Zhongshan, driving is the most convenient option. It takes about 20 minutes by car from the city center. Simply navigate to 'Yongmo Village' or 'Jihou Hall.' The roads around the village are spacious, and parking is convenient, with plenty of spots available. This place is a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle, like entering a paradise. Strolling Through the Ancient Village: Every Brick and Tile Tells a Story Entering Yongmo Village, you'll be immediately captivated by its ancient atmosphere. The village streets are clean and well-maintained, with stone-paved alleys exuding a faint historical scent. Most of the houses here retain traditional architectural styles, with wooden beams and tiled roofs, and low courtyard walls, each bearing the marks of time. Walking through the alleys, you can feel a sense of tranquility and beauty with every step, especially on leisurely afternoons when the sunlight filters through the treetops, and the air is filled with the scent of nature. The Village's 'Little Park' and 'History Museum' The village has a small but exquisite park where local residents often walk and gather. The park is shaded by trees and adorned with blooming flowers, making it a great place to relax and chat. Beyond the park is the history museum. Though small, the museum showcases artifacts and materials that tell the story of the village's historical changes and cultural heritage. Once a bustling commercial town in ancient times, each exhibit in the museum bears witness to the village's history. Experiencing Yunnan's Charm: Slow Life in the Alleys The streets here are small but full of life. The village's alleys intertwine like a maze, with surprises around every corner. You can sit in a corner teahouse, sip fragrant tea, and listen to traditional music, or try local delicacies at a food stall. The food here isn't luxurious but is filled with the taste of home. For example, there's a well-reviewed rice noodle shop in the village, where the noodles are smooth and flavorful, with an aroma that evokes a warm sense of nostalgia. Nearby Attractions Besides the village itself, there are many other attractions worth visiting nearby. If you have time, you can visit the former residence of Zheng Guanying to appreciate the charm of this historical figure, or head to Luosanmei Mountain Park to enjoy a peaceful walk in nature. Additionally, nearby are Zhongshan Hot Springs and Julong Antique City, where you can find many precious antiques, perfect for collectors to explore. Travel Tips: How to Enjoy Your Visit • Perfect for Photography and Slow Living: Every scene here is perfect for photography, with stone-paved roads, ancient houses, and tree-shaded alleys providing excellent backdrops. The pace here is very slow, ideal for taking your time and enjoying life. • Food: The village doesn't have many dining options, but each one is full of local flavor. Teahouses, cafes, and local snacks are all available. Be sure to try the local rice noodles, which are authentic and not greasy, with a touch of homely warmth. • Duration: The village isn't very large, and you can leisurely explore it in about an hour. If you enjoy photography and savoring local life, you can extend your visit to fully enjoy the slow pace here. Conclusion: Return to Nature, Savor Life Yongmo Village is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle and return to nature. Here, you can experience the blend of history and modernity, and enjoy a sense of tranquility and leisure. Whether strolling through the alleys, savoring a cup of tea, or immersing yourself in the ancient cultural atmosphere, this is a great place to relax and enjoy a slow-paced life. Next time you're in Zhongshan, be sure to visit and quietly enjoy the beauty of this 'Little Yunnan.'