Ancient Villages in Southern Anhui – Xidi and Hongcun

The Xidi and Hongcun Ancient Villages (黄山市皖南古村落－西递宏村), located in Yi County (黟县), Huangshan City (黄山市), Anhui Province (安徽省), are renowned tourist destinations. They comprise the Xidi Scenic Area, covering 16 hectares, and the Hongcun Scenic Area, which spans over 30 hectares. These villages are considered prime examples of ancient Chinese residential architecture and urban planning, representing the highest level of Huizhou architecture from the Ming (1368–1644) and Qing Dynasties (1644–1912).

Xidi and Hongcun Villages

Xidi Village

Xidi Village is remarkably well-preserved, with over 300 ancient houses, 124 of which remain intact in their original form. The village showcases the highest standards in residential construction from the Tang (618–907) and Song Dynasties (960–1279), with its ancient architecture perfectly blending with the natural environment. The village is an exemplary model of traditional Huizhou-style buildings, featuring intricately carved wooden structures and a peaceful rural setting.

Hongcun Village

Hongcun Village, home to over 140 well-preserved houses from the Ming and Qing Dynasties, is famous for its rich cultural history. A key highlight is the Chengzhi Hall, known for its exquisite craftsmanship, earning the nickname "The Palace of the People". Other famous attractions include South Lake Spring Dawn, Academy Recitations, Moon Pond and Lotus, and Ancient Trees by the Pavilion. Several other ancient homes like Shuren Hall, Taoyuan Residence, and Jingxi Hall are beautifully preserved, reflecting the meticulous craftsmanship of the era.

Recognition

On May 5, 2011, Xidi and Hongcun Ancient Villages were officially recognized as AAAAA-level tourist attractions by the National Tourism Administration of the People's Republic of China, further solidifying their cultural and historical importance.

• Official Name: Xidi-Hongcun Ancient Village, Huangshan

• Location:

  • Xidi Village: Xidi Town, Yi County, Huangshan City, Anhui Province

  • Hongcun Village: Hongcun Town, Yi County, Huangshan City, Anhui Province

• Climate: Subtropical monsoon climate, characterized by mild winters, warm summers, and ample rainfall.

• Opening Hours:

  • Xidi Village: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

  • Hongcun Village: Open all day

• Entrance Fee: 104 RMB per person for both Xidi and Hongcun Villages

History and Development

Hongcun Village

Hongcun, historically known as Hong Village, was founded in the Southern Song Dynasty (1127–1279) during the Shaoxing era (1131). The founder, Wang Yanjing, moved his family to Hongcun after a devastating fire destroyed his home in Qishu Village (奇墅村). Over time, the village grew, with the construction of temples and family halls, including Le Xu Hall and Tai Zi Temple, which played a significant role in its development as a family-based community.

During the Ming (1368–1644) and Qing Dynasties (1644–1911), large academies like the South Lake Academy and other residential buildings were constructed, adding to Hongcun’s cultural significance.

Xidi Village

Xidi Village dates back to the Northern Song Dynasty (960–1127) and was originally called Xichuan. The village was named after the three streams that flow through it from east to west. Additionally, the name "Xidi" comes from its location near an ancient postal station located 1.5 kilometers to the west.

Geographical Features

Location and Environment

• Hongcun Village: Situated at the foot of Leigang Mountain (雷岗山) to the north, with a picturesque view of Qishu Lake (奇墅湖) to the south, and surrounded by lush mountains on the other sides.

• Xidi Village: Nestled in a valley at the southern foot of Mount Huangshan (黄山), surrounded by steep mountains and lush forests. The area has a fertile landscape with ample sunshine, making it an ideal place for residence.

Climate

Yi County, where both villages are located, enjoys a subtropical monsoon climate with mild winters and warm summers. The area receives significant rainfall, contributing to its lush vegetation and vibrant natural landscapes. The average annual temperature is about 16.1°C (61.1°F), with an annual rainfall of 1780.7mm.

Terrain and Topography

Hongcun Village

Hongcun is framed by the southern slopes of the Yellow Mountain range, offering a scenic backdrop. The village is built around Moon Pond, with its layout designed to represent the harmony of nature, incorporating feng shui principles. Surrounded by mountains and streams, the village is perfectly situated for natural protection and scenic beauty.

Xidi Village

Xidi is located in a valley, surrounded by Luofeng Mountain (罗峰山) and Shishi Mountain (石狮山). It is known for its fertile soil and plentiful sunshine, with three clear rivers converging in the area. The village’s layout follows natural landforms, contributing to its harmonious and picturesque environment.

Layout and Architecture

Hongcun Village

The village layout centers around Moon Pond, which serves as the focal point of the community. The surrounding area is lined with traditional buildings and streets that radiate from the pond, creating a dynamic and functional urban space. The water system, including the water channels that run through the village, forms an essential part of its structure, with streets and alleys naturally developing along these routes.

Xidi Village

Xidi’s layout is similar to a traditional ship shape with three main streets converging at the center of the village. The village has narrow alleys running from north to south, and its structure is built around three main rivers, with important buildings strategically placed along these waterways. The village’s design reflects feng shui principles and the harmonious relationship between humans and nature.

Key Attractions

Zouma Tower (走马楼)

Zouma Tower, also known as Lingyun Pavilion (凌云阁), was built in 1787 during the Qianlong period of the Qing Dynasty (清乾隆). It was constructed by Hu Guansi (胡贯三), a renowned figure from Huizhou (徽州), to welcome Cao Zhenyong, the prime minister during the Qianlong, Jiaqing, and Daoguang eras. The tower serves as a grand symbol of the region’s cultural heritage.

Kuanggu Zhai (旷古斋)

Built in 1662 during the Kangxi period of the Qing Dynasty (清康熙), Kuanggu Zhai spans 130 square meters. The original owner, a scholar-merchant, designed the house to harmonize business and academic pursuits. Its structure features two floors with three rooms, central hall furnishings, and unique decorative elements like a self-chiming clock, symbolizing "lifelong tranquility."

Ruiyu Ting (瑞玉庭)

Built in 1853 during the Xianfeng period of the Qing Dynasty (清咸丰), Ruiyu Ting covers 134 square meters. The original owner was a successful merchant from Huizhou. The design features an elegant courtyard with intricate carvings and artwork, reflecting the owner’s taste and aspirations.

Taoli Yuan (桃李园)

Completed in 1854 during the Xianfeng period (清咸丰), Taoli Yuan spans 294 square meters. The house consists of three sections: the front hall and the central hall were constructed by Hu Yunming in 1854, while the rear hall was built by Hu Daxiang, a renowned merchant during the Daoguang era.

Xi Yuan (西园)

Built in 1824 during the Daoguang period (清道光), Xi Yuan spans 507 square meters. This house was once the residence of Hu Wenzhao, a Governor from Kaifeng, Henan. The grand entrance and unique architectural style make it one of the most impressive structures in the Xidi Scenic Area.

Dong Yuan (东园)

Dong Yuan, built in 1724 during the Yongzheng period (清雍正), covers 226 square meters. This house belonged to Hu Wenzhao's ancestors and features a distinctive "leaf-shaped" window symbolizing the owner’s return to his roots.

Chunren Tang (惇仁堂)

Built in 1721 during the Kangxi period (清康熙), Chunren Tang spans 174 square meters. Known for its spacious layout and excellent lighting, this building includes unique skylights, rare in the region’s ancient homes.

Jingai Tang (敬爱堂)

Originally built in 1600 during the Wanli period of the Ming Dynasty (明万历), Jingai Tang was rebuilt in the early Qing Dynasty after being damaged by fire. The hall, covering 1,800 square meters, reflects the principles of respect and love within the family and was once the home of Hu Shiheng, a Ming Dynasty scholar.

Qingyun Xuan (青云轩)

Built in 1870 during the Tongzhi period (清同治), Qingyun Xuan is a traditional study hall with a distinctive courtyard layout. It features a century-old peony and a unique wind-well system for natural climate control.

Yingfu Tang (膺福堂)

Yingfu Tang, built in 1664 during the Kangxi period (清康熙), covers 183 square meters. This mansion belonged to Hu Ruchuan, a prominent official of the Qing Dynasty, and exemplifies the architectural grandeur of high-ranking officials.

Zhuimu Tang (追慕堂)

Constructed in 1794 during the Qianlong period (清乾隆), Zhuimu Tang spans 351 square meters. It was built to honor the ancestors Hu Bingpei and Hu Yinghai for their cultural legacy and generosity.

Diji Tang (迪吉堂)

Built in 1664 during the Kangxi period (清康熙), Diji Tang is a three-tier, five-room building. This ancestral home was the residence of Hu Bingpei, Hu Yinghai, and Hu Guansi across three generations.

Hu Wenguang Memorial Archway (胡文光刺史牌楼)

Constructed in 1578 during the Ming Dynasty (明万历), this archway honors Hu Wenguang, a distinguished official. The archway, made from Yi County green stone, stands at 12.3 meters tall and is a fine example of Chinese stone architecture.

Yue Zha (月沼)

Built in the Ming Dynasty (1403–1424), Yue Zha is a crescent-shaped pond used historically for fire prevention and water supply. It was later excavated into its current shape.

Nan Hu (南湖)

Located at the southern end of Hongcun Village, Nan Hu was built in 1607 as a man-made lake designed to mimic the West Lake (西湖), adding to the area’s scenic beauty.

Chengzhi Tang (承志堂)

Located along the central water channel of Hongcun, Chengzhi Tang was built in 1855 during the Xianfeng period (清咸丰). This large wooden structure spans 2,100 square meters and is well-preserved, showcasing the elegance of Huizhou architecture.

Nan Hu Academy (南湖书院)

This academy, located on the banks of Nan Hu, was originally built at the end of the Ming Dynasty and later rebuilt in 1814 during the Jiaqing period (清嘉庆). It was a center for private education and remains an important cultural landmark in the region.

Le Xu Tang (乐叙堂)

Situated at the north bank of Yue Zha, Le Xu Tang is an ancestral hall of the Wang Family, built in the early 15th century. Its architectural style is representative of the Ming Dynasty, with exquisite wooden carvings.

Cultural Events

Major Events

• 2005: The first China Rural Tourism Cultural Festival was held in Hongcun.

• 2023: The Yi County Xidi Day and World Best Tourism Villages Protection and Development Conference took place in Xidi.

• 2024: The 2024 Yi County Xidi and Hongcun International Watercolor Art Festival will open with the theme "Global Event, Together Painting World Heritage."

• 2024: The First Yi County Qingmei Festival will be held in Xidi.

• 2024: The 18th China Huangshan (Yi County) Rural Photography Exhibition will take place in Xidi.

Specialty Cuisine

The local delicacies in Xidi and Hongcun Scenic Areas include:

• Cypress-flavored arrowroot balls

• Red-braised river fish

• Yi-style black pig stomach

• Huizhou-style steamed pork

• Ruyi chicken

• Longmen honey bass

Honors and Recognition

• In 2011, Xidi and Hongcun were recognized as AAAAA-level tourist attractions by the National Tourism Administration.

• In 2016, the villages were included in the third batch of National Tourism Standardization Demonstration Units.

• In 2022, both Hongcun and Xidi were recognized as provincial-level civilized tourism demonstration units by the Anhui Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism.

Management Entities

Yi County Huizhou Tourism Development (Group) Co., Ltd.,  (黟县徽黄旅游发展（集团）有限公司) established in 2012, is a state-owned enterprise engaged in tourism site development, consulting services, and infrastructure construction. The group manages a variety of tourism-related assets, including heritage sites like Xidi and Hongcun. It also operates joint ventures with several industry partners to create innovative tourism experiences.

Ticket Prices

• Xidi Scenic Area (西递景区): 104 RMB per person

• Hongcun Scenic Area (宏村景区): 104 RMB per person

Discounted Ticket Categories

1. Youth (儿童、学生、未成年人):

   • Aged 6 (excluding 6) to 18 (inclusive)

   • Full-time undergraduate and lower level students

2. Seniors (老年人):

   • Aged 60 (inclusive) to 65 (exclusive)

3. Military (现役军人家属、退役军人):

   • Families of active-duty soldiers and retired soldiers

These groups are eligible for a 50% discount on the ticket price when visiting Hongcun Scenic Area (宏村景区), provided they present valid identification.

Free Admission Categories

1. Minors :

   • Children under 6 years old or those under 1.2 meters tall

2. Seniors:

   • Elderly aged 65 (inclusive) and above

3. Military and Rescue Personnel :

   • Active-duty soldiers, disabled soldiers, retired military personnel, "Three Relics" families (families of martyrs, soldiers who died on duty, or military families of deceased veterans), and active, retired, or disabled fire rescue workers

These groups are eligible for free admission upon presenting valid identification.

Transportation

Getting to Hongcun Scenic Area (宏村景区)

• Provincial Road S218 (省道S218) runs north to south through Hongcun (宏村), while Hongru Road (宏儒公路) runs east to west. Hongcun is located 29 km from the Huangshan Scenic Area (黄山景区).

• Main Streets (街道): Jicun Street (际村街道), Beizhuang Street (北庄街道), Hongcun Street (宏村街道)

• Provincial Road (省道): S218

• Rural Roads (乡道): Hongru Road (宏儒公路), Saihong Road (赛宏公路)

• Airport (机场): Huangshan Tunxi International Airport (黄山屯溪国际机场) – 66.7 km, 30-minute drive

Self-Drive Directions (自驾路线):

• From Hefei (合肥), take the Jingtai Expressway (京台高速公路) → He'an Expressway (合安高速公路) → Jingtai Expressway (京台高速公路) → Gangcun Road (冈村路) → Y102 → Hongcun (宏村).

Getting to Xidi Scenic Area (西递景区)

• From Huangshan (黄山):
  After arriving at Huangshan City Bus Station (黄山市汽车站), take a bus to Yi County (黟县), which departs every 30 minutes. The fare is 12 RMB. Upon arrival in Yi County, transfer to a bus to Xidi (西递), which operates every 20 minutes. The fare is 2 RMB. The last bus departs at 17:30.

• From Hongcun (宏村):
  There are two options to travel from Hongcun to Xidi:

  1. Tourist Bus: From South Lake Parking Lot (南湖停车场) in Hongcun, buses run at 8:00, 9:00, 10:00, 11:00, and 1:00 PM, 2:00 PM, 3:00 PM, and 4:00 PM. The fare is 2 RMB, and the journey takes approximately 20 minutes.

  2. Local Bus: From the Old Village Entrance (老村口) in Hongcun, buses to Yi County (黟县) run every 20 minutes. The fare is 2 RMB. After arriving in Yi County, cross the bridge, turn left, and head to the Yi County Bus Station (黟县汽车站) for a bus to Xidi. The fare is 2 RMB, and the journey takes around 20 minutes.

• From Tunxi (屯溪):
  From Tunxi, buses to Xidi do not require a stop in Yi County. Follow the signs to Xidi. Buses depart from Tunxi Bus Station (屯溪汽车站) on Tourist Route 1 (旅1路), passing Hongcun (宏村). The journey takes approximately 1 hour. The buses leave at 7:30 AM and 1:00 PM.

Recommended Itineraries

Hongcun Scenic Area (宏村景区)

• South Lake (南湖) → South Lake Academy (南湖书院) → Le Bi Tang (乐彼堂) → Shuizhen (水圳) → Jingde Tang (敬德堂) → Yue Zha (月沼) → Wang Family Ancestral Hall (汪氏宗祠) → Jingxiu Tang (敬修堂) → Chengzhi Tang (承志堂) → Shuren Tang (树人堂) → Taoyuan Residence (桃源居) → Ancient Tree at the Village Entrance (村口古树)

Xidi Scenic Area (西递景区)

• Zouma Tower (走马楼) → Hu Wenguang Memorial Archway (胡文光刺史牌坊) → Yingtianqi Art Museum (应天齐艺术馆) → Kuanggu Zhai (旷古斋) → Duyi Courtyard (笃谊庭) → Diji Tang (迪吉堂) → Shangde Tang (尚德堂) → Dong Yuan (东园)

Alternative Xidi Route (西递景区替代路线):

• Main Gate (正门) → Zouma Tower (走马楼) → Hu Wenguang Memorial Archway (胡文光刺史牌坊) → Yingtianqi Art Museum (应天齐艺术馆) → Diji Tang (迪吉堂) → Duyi Courtyard (笃谊庭) → Xi Yuan (西园) → Taoli Yuan (桃李园)