Xuancheng

Xuancheng (宣城) is a historic city in southeastern Anhui Province (安徽省) with more than 2,000 years of history. Founded in 109 BCE, it is located in the lower Yangtze River Basin (长江流域) and the Yangtze River Delta (长三角地区), bordering Wuhu (芜湖), Chizhou (池州), Huangshan (黄山), Zhejiang Province (浙江省), and Jiangsu Province (江苏省). Known for its poetic landscapes, Huizhou culture, ancient villages, and traditional crafts, Xuancheng is an excellent destination to experience the cultural charm of southern Anhui.

Why Visit Xuancheng?

Jingting Mountain (敬亭山) – Mountain of Poetry:

Jingting Mountain is the cultural symbol of Xuancheng and became famous through the works of Tang Dynasty poet Li Bai (李白). With peaceful forests, ancient temples, and panoramic mountain views, it is a popular destination for appreciating Chinese literature, photography, and leisurely hiking.

Taohuatan (桃花潭) – Poetic Riverside Scenery:

Taohuatan is a beautiful scenic area known for its clear river waters, traditional villages, and connection with Li Bai’s famous poem “Gifted to Wang Lun.” Visitors can enjoy riverside landscapes, boat rides, and the tranquil atmosphere of the Jiangnan countryside.

Longchuan Ancient Village (龙川古村) – Huizhou Cultural Heritage:

Located in Jixi County (绩溪县), Longchuan Ancient Village preserves classic Huizhou-style architecture, including ancestral halls, traditional residences, and stone streets. The village reflects the influence of Confucian culture and the history of Huizhou merchants.

Xuan Paper Culture (宣纸文化) – Traditional Chinese Craft:

Xuancheng is the birthplace of Xuan Paper (宣纸), a world-famous handmade paper used for Chinese calligraphy and ink painting. Produced mainly in Jing County (泾县), Xuan Paper has a history of more than 1,000 years and represents one of China’s most important traditional crafts.

Huizhou Culture & Ancient Villages (徽州文化) – Traditional Heritage:

Xuancheng preserves rich Huizhou cultural traditions, including ancient architecture, ancestral halls, folk customs, and traditional lifestyles. The combination of historic villages and natural landscapes offers visitors an authentic experience of southern Anhui culture.

Natural Landscapes & Countryside Experiences – Peaceful Jiangnan Scenery:

Surrounded by mountains, forests, and rivers, Xuancheng features beautiful countryside scenery and ecological landscapes. Areas such as Ningguo (宁国) are known for bamboo forests, mountain views, and outdoor experiences, making them ideal for nature lovers and travelers seeking a relaxing rural escape.

Local Cuisine (徽菜) – Flavors of Southern Anhui:

Xuancheng belongs to the cultural region of Hui Cuisine (徽菜), one of China’s traditional culinary styles. Local dishes feature mountain products, bamboo shoots, preserved foods, and fresh agricultural ingredients, offering visitors an authentic taste of southern Anhui’s food culture.