Gaoxin Ancient Village in Hengnan, Hunan

Gaoxin Village, located in Huaqiao Town of Hengnan County, is home to a 300-year-old locust tree at its entrance, silently witnessing the village's rise and fall over centuries. Nestled beneath verdant mountains, rows of ancient dwellings with blue bricks and tiles come into view, featuring over 20 well-preserved structures showcasing architectural styles from the early Qing Dynasty to the Republican era. Stretching hundreds of meters, this magnificent complex forms the awe-inspiring Jiang Family Compound, renowned as "Hengnan's Premier Village." The Jiang Family Compound, also known as Maiyuan Jiangjia, spans approximately 300 acres, with origins dating back to the early Ming Dynasty and expansions during the Qing era. The interconnected houses boast staggered eaves, bluestone foundations, and black-tiled roofs. Its labyrinthine alleys, arched corridors, and latticed windows create a hidden world of charm. Ancestral halls, private schools, courtyards, and lofts are intricately linked. Two ancient trees—a camphor and a locust—stand guard at the village entrance, their gnarled branches exuding timeless vigor. Over a kilometer of bluestone-paved paths weave through the settlement, facing vast farmlands ahead and towering peaks behind. Stepping into its courtyards reveals classic Qing-era layouts complete with skylit atriums and lofts, radiating tranquility and profound cultural heritage. Recognized in 2019 as a Hunan Provincial Key Cultural Relic Protection Unit and among China's fifth batch of Traditional Villages.