Hongcun Village (宏村), located in Yixian County, Huangshan City, Anhui Province, is one of China's most picturesque ancient villages. Established in 1131 during the Southern Song Dynasty, this 800-year-old settlement was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000 alongside Xidi Village. Often called "a village in a Chinese painting," its white-walled, black-tiled Hui-style architecture and ingenious water system attract global visitors.
Key Features
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Ox-Shaped Layout
Hongcun's unique design mimics a resting water buffalo:- Head: Leigang Hill with two ancient trees as "horns"
- Body: 140+ Ming-Qing era residences (14th–19th century)
- Organs:
- "Ox stomach": Moon Pond (半月沼), a crescent-shaped reservoir
- "Ox intestines": 1,200-meter water channel network supplying households
- "Ox belly": South Lake (南湖), featured in Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon
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Architectural Highlights
- Chengzhi Hall (承志堂): A salt merchant's 1855 mansion with gold-painted woodcarvings
- Nanhu Academy (南湖书院): Historic school attended by statesmen
- Horsehead Walls (马头墙): Fire-resistant gables with artistic designs
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Cultural Significance
- Embodies Huizhou culture through clan-based planning and Confucian values
- Three Carvings Art: Exquisite brick, wood, and stone carvings adorn buildings
- Inspired Ang Lee’s film and traditional Chinese ink paintings
Visitor Experience
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Best Time to Visit: Spring (blossoms) & Autumn (golden rice fields)
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Must-See Spots:
- Moon Pond at Dawn: Mirror-like reflections of Hui architecture
- South Lake Bridge: Iconic photo spot with lotus blooms
- Ancient Alleyways: Cobblestone paths lined with artisan shops
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Practical Info:
- Ticket: ¥104 (≈$15), valid 24 hours
- Transport: 1.5-hour bus from Huangshan North Station
- Stay: Overnight in restored Ming-Qing guesthouses
Preservation & Recognition
- Protected as a AAAAA scenic area (China’s highest rating)
- Listed among "China’s Top 10 Most Beautiful Villages"
- Hosted global figures like Austrian entrepreneur Amin and diplomats
Hongcun offers a timeless journey through China’s rural heritage, blending ecology, architecture, and history into a living masterpiece.
