In Huizhou Ancient City, Encounter a Poetic Dream Spanning Thousands of Years

"A lifetime's most enchanting place is Huizhou, where dreams dare not tread." Stepping into Huizhou Ancient City is like opening an ancient thread-bound book, each page filled with stories of time. 📍 Location: Huicheng Town, She County, Huangshan City, Anhui Province. Super convenient transportation—take the high-speed rail to Shexian North Station, then a 20-minute taxi ride or transfer to a bus for an affordable option. 🏮 Must-Visit Attractions 1. **Xu Guoshi Archway**: The only eight-legged archway in China, built during the Wanli era of the Ming Dynasty. The exquisite carvings tell the legendary life of Xu Guo, a high-ranking official who served three dynasties. Admire the stone carvings by day, and at night, the illuminated archway adds a mysterious ambiance—perfect for Instagram-worthy shots. 2. **Huizhou Prefecture Office**: A perfect replica of the solemn Ming Dynasty government office. Step into the grand hall and gaze at the plaque reading "Mirror of Justice," as if witnessing ancient magistrates presiding over trials. Daily reenactments of "County Court Trials" offer an immersive experience of ancient official life. 3. **Yuliang Dam**: One of China's best-preserved ancient water conservancy projects and the starting point of Huizhou merchants' journeys. Visit at dusk when the sunset bathes the granite layers, and the shimmering river paints a breathtaking scene. Stroll along Yuliang Old Street, where cobblestone "fish-scale streets" and Ming-Qing shop ruins whisper tales of history. 4. **Doushan Street**: A 300-meter-long ancient alley showcasing the essence of Huizhou architecture. Ancient residences like the Wang Family Mansion and Yang Family Courtyard line the street, and you might stumble upon a chastity archway with poignant stories. Wear Hanfu for photos—rainy days with oil-paper umbrellas evoke Dai Wangshu's "Rainy Alley" vibes. 🍱 Must-Try Foods 1. **Stinky Mandarin Fish**: A Huizhou delicacy—smelly but delicious. The firm, tender fish, marinated to perfection, bursts with umami. Find an authentic Huizhou restaurant for the real deal. 2. **Hairy Tofu**: Covered in white fuzz, fried to crispy perfection, and dipped in special sauce—irresistible at first bite. Follow the locals to the best spots. 3. **Huangshan Baked Cake**: Crispy crust filled with preserved mustard greens and minced pork, charcoal-baked for a smoky crunch. 4. **Huizhou Hotpot**: Layers of cured meat, bamboo shoots, tofu, and more simmered in rich broth—a heartwarming winter delight. 🏨 Accommodation Rec **Blossom Hill Inn·Jirong Shan Guan**: Tucked near Desheng Gate, this 5-minute-walk-to-attractions B&B was once poet Zheng Zemin’s residence. With Huizhou-style gardens, pavilions, and fish ponds, it’s a living museum. Rooms named after poems feature Huizhou carvings and antiques, while modern amenities like floor heating, Dyson hairdryers, and projectors elevate comfort. 🎫 Ticket Info: Free entry to the ancient city; some attractions charge separately (e.g., Huizhou Prefecture Office: ¥45/person). Combo tickets for multiple sites offer better value. 📸 Photo Tips - Silhouettes against Yuliang Dam at sunset = speechless beauty. - Don’t miss Xu Guoshi Archway’s night view—golden lights enhance its timeless charm. - Hanfu + oil-paper umbrella in Doushan Street = instant classical masterpiece. - Sip tea in the B&B courtyard with Huizhou architecture—pure serenity. Come to Huizhou Ancient City, where blue-tiled roofs and white walls hold history’s warmth, and find your own poetry and romance.