Zhejiang's Version of "The Wizard of Oz"! Discover Songzhuang Ancient Village in Songyang, a Hidden Retreat Among Streams and Stone Bridges

Looking to escape the summer heat and hustle? We recommend Songzhuang Village in Songyang County, Lishui! Certified as a hidden gem by "China National Geography," this village is nestled among mountains with a crystal-clear stream running through it. Stone bridges, ancient trees, and rammed-earth houses create an idyllic Jiangnan ink painting, making it a perfect spot for photography, summer retreats, and slow living. 🌿 Highlights Poetic Streams and Ancient Bridges A pristine stream meanders through the village, flanked by over a dozen Ming and Qing-era stone bridges covered in moss, harmonizing with the yellow-earth houses. The babbling water and villagers wading barefoot add to the rustic charm. "China National Geography" Featured Spot The centuries-old camphor tree at the village entrance frames the stream and stone bridge, a scene that graced the cover of "China National Geography." Every shot here is cinematic. Well-preserved ancient post roads and bluestone paths whisper tales of a thousand years. Slow Living in a Mountain Retreat Villagers live a leisurely agrarian life. Mornings greet you with misty mountains, while evenings invite chats on old thresholds—a pure escape from urban clamor. 🚗 Travel Tips Self-Drive Route: About 2 hours from Lishui city; navigate to "Songzhuang Village, Songyang County." Free parking is available at the entrance. Admission: Free. Recommended Itinerary: Morning: Stroll along the stream, explore bridges and old houses, and capture reflections on the water and light-play on stone paths. Afternoon: Hike to the village viewpoint for a panoramic vista or try farming activities like bamboo-shoot digging or wild-vegetable picking. Evening: Savor local farmhouse dishes like braised stream fish, salt-baked chicken, and bamboo-tube rice. 📸 Photography Tips Best Spots: Village Entrance Camphor Tree: Frame the stone bridge as a foreground with the tree and stream. Ancient Post Road Steps: Shoot low-angle shots of mossy bluestone to highlight time-worn textures. Lighting: Early morning (6-7 AM) mist or post-rain soft light enhances depth. 💡 Practical Info Accommodation: "Songfeng Homestay" (~¥300/night), a renovated century-old house with stream views. Transport: Self-driving is ideal. From Songyang High-Speed Rail Station, a 40-minute taxi ride is needed. Notes: Drive carefully on narrow mountain roads; wear non-slip shoes for some walking sections. Why Choose This Spot? Unlike crowded Wuzhen or Xitang, Songzhuang Village retains the untouched charm of Jiangnan's countryside. Here, you can cup the stream water, lean on ancient bridges, and truly slow down. This summer, embrace a healing rendezvous with nature and history!