Southern Anhui in March: This Hidden Village in the Clouds Is Truly Top-Notch

Hidden among the folds of the She County mountains lies the secret realm of Shitan, Anhui. In spring, the sea of rapeseed flowers spills gold, the terraced fields cascade like chains, and ancient villages with white walls and black tiles hang in the clouds. When the morning mist rises, it's as if an ink painting has come to life. Hike the mountain paths amidst pear blossoms and peach blooms, and with a click of the shutter, you capture half a scroll of Huizhou poetry. Shitan Village, She County Exclusive Guide (Applicable from late March to mid-April 2025) I. Core Highlights and Best Time to Visit The peak blooming season for rapeseed flowers in Shitan is from late March to mid-April. The golden sea of flowers intertwined with Hui-style architecture, clouds, and mist makes it a prime time for sightseeing and photography. Best Time: Arrive at the mountaintop viewing platform between 5:30 and 8:00 to capture the morning mist, sunrise, and sea of clouds (or the hazy charm of a rainy Jiangnan if it rains). Special Reminder: The biggest highlight of Shitan is the sea of clouds. It's recommended to check the weather forecast for She County before your trip. If there are two or three consecutive rainy days, there's a 70% chance of a sea of clouds. On the first clear day after rain, there's a 90% chance of a vast sea of clouds, which may persist for the following two or three days. II. Classic Routes 1. Take the scenic shuttle bus to the Xiatai Viewing Platform (core photography spot) for a panoramic view of the terraced flower fields and ancient villages, and capture the mist-shrouded "Ink Wash Huizhou." 2. Hiking Loop: Xiatai Village → Hushan Village (deserted village) → Hushan Ridge Viewing Platform → Beishan Village. The route is dotted with rapeseed flowers, pear blossoms, and ancient dwellings, taking approximately 2–3 hrs. III. Transportation and Driving Tips Driving Route: From She County, navigate to "She County Shitan Village Tourist Distribution Center." The journey is approximately 35 km and takes about 40 mins. Parking Tips: Cars can be parked for free at the distribution center or the village entrance. Then, transfer to a shuttle bus. The mountain roads are narrow with many 180-degree sharp turns, so driving up the mountain is not recommended. Scenic shuttle buses operate from 5:00 to 19:00. If staying overnight on the mountain, arrive before 19:00. Otherwise, contact the village committee to arrange transportation (additional fees apply). IV. Accommodation Recommendations: 1. Accommodation at the foot of the mountain (Shitan Village): Many homestays in the village offer room and board for approximately 90–150 CNY/person/day (including three meals). Accommodation is basic but offers an authentic rural experience. It's recommended to contact them in advance to confirm availability. During peak season (March–April), book at least one week in advance. 2. Mountain Accommodation (Beishan Village, Xiatai Village): Mountain homestays are convenient for capturing the sea of clouds and flower fields in the early morning, but prices are slightly higher (around 200–300+ CNY/night). 3. She County Accommodation: For a more comfortable stay, consider She County (approximately 40 mins drive). Standard rooms are priced around 150–300 CNY/night with comprehensive facilities, suitable for families. V. Local Cuisine Recommended Farmhouse Dishes: Dried bamboo shoots with braised pork, Shitan tofu, free-range chicken soup, and Qingming Kueh (around 30–50 CNY per person). Tip: There are limited restaurants in the village. Pre-ordering meals with your homestay is recommended. VI. Important Notes 1. Tickets and Fees: Admission is free. Shuttle bus: 15 CNY/person one-way, 30 CNY/person round-trip. 2. Traffic Control: From March 8, a one-way traffic management system is in place. Private cars are prohibited from ascending the mountain. Visitors must transfer to the scenic shuttle bus at the Shitan Village Tourist Distribution Center. 3. Recommended Gear: The mountainous area is prone to rain and fog. Bring waterproof clothing, non-slip shoes, and a windbreaker (due to large temperature differences). 4. The mobile phone signal is weak in some mountain homestays. It's advisable to carry some cash for payment. 5. Tip for Avoiding Crowds: Avoid weekends and holidays. Opt for a working day visit.