[2025 Yi County ] Travel Guide for Hongcun Scenic Area - Square (Updated Jul)

#chinatravel 🐂 Old Lanes and Alleyways What to capture: Narrow stone-paved lanes, doorways, calligraphy plaques, old bicycles, villagers at work. Why it’s special: These lanes show authentic daily life, untouched by time. Best time: Morning when the light filters through rooftops and fewer crowds are around. 📸 Pro Tip: Shoot in portrait orientation to emphasize the verticality and depth of the alleyways.

#chinatravel 🌳 Ancient Trees on Leigang Hill (雷岗山) — Village Overview What to capture: Panoramic view of the entire village from a slightly elevated position. Why it’s special: Offers a “postcard view” of Hongcun, including the Moon Pond and rooftops framed by mist or clouds. Best time: Morning or right after rain when the clouds hang low. 📸 Pro Tip: Use a drone if available for stunning aerial shots — you’ll see the ox-shaped layout of the village from above.

#chinatravel 🏯 Chengzhi Hall (承志堂) — Architectural Detail Shot What to capture: Detailed wood carvings, intricate brackets, interior courtyards, and antique furniture. Why it’s special: This mansion is considered the finest in the village and has incredible detail in every corner. Best time: Midday or when the interior is well-lit. 📸 Pro Tip: Focus on carved doors, calligraphy plaques, and inner courtyards with shadows to showcase the craftsmanship.

#chinatravel 2. 🌊 South Lake (南湖) — Serenity and Reflection What to capture: A wider landscape of the lake with arched stone bridges, willows, lotus (in summer), and villagers passing by. Why it’s special: It offers a grand view of Hongcun and reflects the whole village against the backdrop of Leigang Hill. Best time: Morning for misty scenes, or evening for sunset colors behind the village. 📸 Pro Tip: Use a wide-angle lens to capture the entire lake and sky; walk across the bridge to shoot from different perspectives.

#chinatravel 3. 🌁 Stone Arch Bridge at South Lake What to capture: The arched bridge over South Lake with traditional buildings and water reflections. Why it’s special: Adds depth and leading lines to your composition; great for both portraits and landscapes. Best time: Just after sunrise when the village begins to wake up. 📸 Pro Tip: Place a person or child crossing the bridge for a timeless storytelling shot.