Here, the Most Beautiful Ancient Town Rated by National Geographic
Attraction Recommendations
Huizhou Ancient City: Located in She County and built during the Qin Dynasty, it is the birthplace of "Huizhou Studies." The city features attractions like the Xu Guoshi Stone Archway, Huizhou Prefecture Government Office, and Nanqiao Tower, offering a glimpse into the legacy of ancient Huizhou.
Xin'an River Landscape Gallery: Along Huangshan Avenue in She County, dotted with Huizhou-style villages on both banks, you can take a boat to admire the scenery and experience the poetic charm of "walking in a mirror, birds flying through a painted screen."
Yangchan Earth Buildings: Nestled near Shendu Scenic Area in She County, these terraced earthen buildings cling to the mountainside, showcasing unique rural architecture and exuding a rustic village atmosphere.
Hongcun Scenic Area: Known as the "Chinese Painting Village" in Hongcun Town, Yi County, its ingenious ox-shaped water system layout, South Lake, and Moon Pond resemble embedded pearls, with Huizhou-style architecture reflected in the water, creating a picturesque scene.
Xidi: Located in Yi County, this well-preserved ancient village boasts exquisite structures like the Hu Wenguang Memorial Archway, as well as solemn ancestral halls such as Jing'ai Hall and Zhuimu Hall, highlighting the superb craftsmanship and profound cultural heritage of Huizhou architecture.
Food Recommendations
Stinky Mandarin Fish: A signature Huizhou dish—smelly in aroma but delicious in taste, with tender, savory fish meat.
Hairy Tofu: Covered in white fuzz, it becomes crispy outside and soft inside when fried or grilled, paired with a special sauce for a unique flavor.
Huangshan Baked Cake: Also called "Crab Shell Yellow," it has a crispy crust and a balanced sweet-salty filling of preserved vegetables and pork, rich in aroma.
Huizhou Knife-Cut Cured Meat: Steamed with bamboo shoots, the cured meat is savory, fatty yet not greasy, and fragrant.
Accommodation Options
Luxury: Huangshan Ziyang Misty Rain Resort Hotel, a Huizhou-style garden hotel by the Xin'an River, offers beautiful surroundings and full amenities.
Boutique Homestay: The Blossom Hill Inn·Jirong Shanguan Cultural Theme Homestay on Chengdong Road in Huizhou Town features Huizhou architecture and a strong cultural vibe.
Itinerary Suggestions
Two-Day Trip: Day 1—Explore Huizhou Ancient City, visit the Xu Guoshi Stone Archway and Huizhou Prefecture Government Office, then head to Yuliang Dam in the afternoon. Day 2—Tour Hongcun Scenic Area, admire South Lake Academy and Moon Pond, and soak in the ancient village charm.
Three-Day Trip: Day 1—Visit Huizhou Ancient City and Yuliang Dam. Day 2—Stroll through Xidi’s ancient streets and admire its architecture, then head to Nanping in the afternoon for a taste of history. Day 3—Explore Chengkan Bagua Village and experience the unique allure of "visiting Chengkan, a life without obstacles."