Just got back from Hongcun Village, and I have to share my experience.
While popular scenic spots are often crowded, Hongcun in April is like a slowly unfolding ink painting, serene and beautiful! Many people chase after popular attractions, but they overlook this stunning ancient village hidden in the depths of southern Anhui 🥰. Hongcun in April is full of spring, shrouded in mist and rain. Escaping the hustle and bustle of crowds, starting a leisurely "reverse trip" here is incredibly relaxing! Transportation is also very convenient, with high-speed rail stations and bus stations nearby 🚗, plus white walls and black tiles, flowing water, and authentic Huizhou cuisine. After my trip, I'm completely charmed by Hongcun, and now I'm sharing this comprehensive guide with you. Feel free to ask any questions ❓
🚶 "My Itinerary"
Day 1: Huangshan North Station - Hongcun Scenic Area - South Lake - Moon Pond
Day 2: Chengzhi Hall - Shuren Hall - Hongcun Ancient Alleyways
Day 3: Qishu Lake - Tachuan - Return Trip
🚩 "About the Surrounding Attractions"
1⃣️ Hongcun Scenic Area
The entire village is nestled against mountains and water, laid out in the shape of an ox 🐂, and is known as the "village in a Chinese painting." In April, the rapeseed flowers haven't completely faded, contrasting with the white walls and black tiles, making it look like something out of an ink painting. Standing at the entrance of the village, you can see a beautiful pastoral landscape, and every photo is a masterpiece 📷!
2⃣️ South Lake
The "belly of the ox" in Hongcun, the lake's surface is as calm as a mirror, reflecting the ancient buildings and green trees 🌳 on the shore. In the morning mist, South Lake looks like a fairyland; in the evening, as the sun sets, the lake surface is dyed golden, incredibly romantic. Stroll along the South Lake Painting Bridge, feel the tranquility of time, and see many students sketching here 🎨.
3⃣️ Moon Pond
Known as the "stomach of the ox" in Hongcun, this semicircular pond has crystal-clear water, surrounded by ancient buildings with upturned eaves and reflected white walls and black tiles. On sunny days, the blue sky and white clouds complement the ancient buildings; when it rains, the raindrops falling on the water create ripples, adding a unique charm, making it a super atmospheric spot for photos 💫!
4⃣️ Chengzhi Hall
The largest residential building in Hongcun, with exquisite wood carvings, each one lifelike, it's a model of Huizhou wood carving art. Here, you can feel the past glory and wealth of Huizhou merchants, as if traveling back in time to savor that history 🎞️.
5⃣️ Shuren Hall
An ancient house full of cultural atmosphere, the hall displays many calligraphy, paintings, and antiques, exuding a strong scholarly fragrance. Stepping inside, you can feel the elegant life of ancient scholars, calm down, and experience the unique charm and profound heritage of Huizhou architecture 📚.
6⃣️ Hongcun Ancient Alleyways
Deep and winding alleys crisscross, full of mystery. Wander through them, touch the mottled walls, feel the traces of time, and you might encounter surprises around every corner. You can also meet local villagers and hear their stories about Hongcun 👵👴.
7⃣️ Qishu Lake
Not far from Hongcun, the lake is clear and blue, surrounded by mountains, with beautiful scenery. In April, the lakeside is covered with green grass and blooming wildflowers. You can rent a boat and enjoy the tranquility on the lake, or stroll along the shore, breathing in the fresh air 🌊.
8⃣️ Tachuan
Although Tachuan is famous for its autumn leaves, it's just as beautiful in April! Lush trees, gurgling streams, and ancient houses with white walls and black tiles dot the landscape, full of idyllic charm, making it a great place for spring outings 🍃.
🏨 "Accommodation Guide"
I highly recommend staying in a B&B within the Hongcun Scenic Area 🛏️! Open the window to see ancient buildings and flowing water, wake up to the sound of birds in the morning, and fall asleep under the moonlight at night, immersing yourself in the tranquility and beauty of Hongcun. Plus, it's convenient for getting around, allowing you to wander around the ancient village anytime ~
🍜 "Food Guide"
✅ Stinky Mandarin Fish: Smells stinky, tastes delicious, the fish is tender and firm, with a unique pickled flavor that's irresistible. It's one of the signature dishes of Huizhou cuisine, a must-try! 😋
✅ Hairy Tofu: Covered with white fuzz, it's fried until golden, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Served with a special sauce, it has a rich taste and is full of Huizhou flavor 🧀.
✅ Huangshan Sesame Seed Cakes: Crispy crust with a filling of dried plums and pork, salty and delicious, you can't stop at just one. They make a great souvenir 🎁.
✅ Scrambled Eggs with Five-leaf Aralia: Tender five-leaf aralia leaves are stir-fried with eggs, fragrant and delicious, and nutritious. It's a local specialty 🥚. There are also braised pork with dried bamboo shoots, Huizhou meatballs, and other delicacies. You must indulge yourself when you come to Hongcun! 🍖