🇨🇳 Wandering Through Time — Xidi & Hongcun, the Soul of Anhui

Nestled among the misty hills of Huangshan, the villages of Xidi and Hongcun whisper stories from another century. Their stone pathways, lotus ponds, and white-walled homes with black-tiled roofs embody the timeless beauty of Huizhou architecture — calm, poetic, and full of life. If you’re arriving from Shanghai, make these villages your first stop after getting to Huangshan North Station. It’s the perfect way to ease into the rhythm of the region before climbing the Yellow Mountain. ✨ Xidi feels like an open-air museum — quiet alleys shaded by ancient trees, wooden gates carved with delicate patterns, and locals who still greet travelers with a smile. The entrance ticket costs 104 RMB, with discounts for students and children (56 RMB). 🌿 Hongcun, by contrast, is pure harmony — a village built around shimmering ponds and stone bridges that reflect the sky. Its peaceful symmetry inspired scenes in Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. Here, time slows down: you can sip tea by the water, watch the light shift over the rooftops, and breathe in centuries of artistry. 🚗 Getting there: • From the Huangshan Tourism Passenger Transport Hub, you can take a bus to Xidi (around 23 RMB). • Buses from Xidi to Hongcun run every 40 minutes and take about 30 minutes. • But if you’re traveling in a group, it’s far more comfortable and economical to take a Didi or taxi — flexible, fast, and surprisingly affordable. 📍 Suggested route: ➡️ Shanghai → Huangshan North Station → Xidi → Hongcun → Tangkou (your base for Huangshan Mountain). This route flows naturally — from cultural roots to natural wonders — setting the tone for a journey that blends heritage, beauty, and adventure. 💡 Travel Notes: • Bring some cash; smaller stalls might not accept mobile payments. • The sunset in Hongcun is magical — the entire lake turns gold. • Early mornings are best for photos: the mist rising between rooftops is pure poetry. • If you love local snacks, try the handmade tofu or sesame pastries sold near the main gate.