Linkeng Village

It's a very interesting ancient village. I like it very much. Travelers must remember to search for the address navigation of Linkeng Ancient Village. We started navigating Linkeng Village, but ended up running 29 kilometers more. This ancient village built in the Ming Dynasty is more than 700 years old. You can stay and eat. I recommend this farmhouse (with pictures). I really want to stay for one night, but unfortunately I have booked a hotel in Wenzhou City in advance.

Linkeng is located in Huangnan Township. The majority of Linkeng residents bear the surname Mao, and the village boasts a history of over 700 years. Legend has it that the area was originally inhabited by the Lin family. Later, for unknown reasons, the Lins exchanged residence with the Maos from nearby Daoji Village, and the Maos continued to thrive in Linkeng. Linkeng lives up to its reputation, boasting the most well-preserved mountain dwellings along the Nanxi River. These dwellings are over 100 years old, with the oldest wooden house exceeding 200 years old. The exquisitely crafted wooden houses nestle amidst the lush greenery, exuding a quaint, natural aesthetic. The houses, nestled against the hillside, are staggered and harmoniously arranged. The village's small bridges, flowing water, and houses, with curling smoke and the occasional swirling white clouds, make one feel lost in the world.

Linkeng is a place where you'll find yourself in a hidden gem, a natural and pristine paradise. It's a great place to relax, listen to the gurgling stream, the curling smoke from cooking fires, sip tea, and just let your mind wander. The village is full of farmhouse restaurants, all serving similar, traditional farm-style cuisine. We booked a three-bedroom room at the Linkeng Impression Inn, which sleeps six. It has a kitchen for self-catering and a terrace, where we enjoyed barbecuing. It gave us a taste of what it's like to be a chef, and it gave us a small sense of accomplishment.

The village stream is lovely, especially in the summer, when you can catch fish. For fun, visit the Zhao Qunli Memorial Hall, where the crashed plane, "Little Bee," is still there. Hiking enthusiasts can head up Maogong Mountain in the morning. The air is incredibly fresh, and the mountain is high in negative ions, making it a true natural oxygen bar. The hike takes about an hour.

Linkeng, a small mountain village tucked away in a deep valley, is said to have a history of over 700 years, with the oldest existing wooden structure nearly 200 years old. Most of the villagers here have the surname Mao, not Lin. A walk around the village made sense: the terrain, surrounded on three sides by mountains, forms a parallel "pit," with a single exit connecting it to the outside world. From the village entrance, a gentle slope stretches over a kilometer. The road skirts the mountain and a gurgling stream. Several bridges span the stream, including stone arches and wooden covered bridges. The wooden covered bridges, with tiled roofs and overhanging eaves, exude an ancient charm. Inside the covered bridges, villagers relax and gather. Several peach trees, in full bloom by the stream, shade the ancient covered bridges, creating a particularly captivating scene. Unfortunately, we arrived a little late, and the sun had already set behind the mountains, so we missed out on capturing the sunset and the peach blossoms. The following days were shrouded in rain and fog, leaving us with a different kind of artistic conception. In the evening, the smoke from the mountain village rises and coils between the wooden buildings and dark tiles of the ancient village, giving people a lot of imagination. The delicious Qingming fruit (a snack made of Artemisia annua juice and glutinous rice flour wrapped with spring bamboo shoots, diced meat, and tofu filling), crisp spring bamboo shoots fried with bacon, and tender field fish all appear before your eyes.

At night, I lean on the railing to listen to the drizzle; at dawn, I lean against the window to gaze at the clouds. For those who come from cities plagued by smog, what a delightful sight this presents! Rain, fog, and clouds wash away the smog-laden lungs, creating a refreshing environment. Let us breathe deeply; only then can we comprehend the Zen of travel. The aesthetic meaning of travel lies in seeing, hearing, smelling, and tasting. Seeing is the orchestration of visual differences; hearing is the intoxication of the body and mind through the sounds and rhythms of nature; smelling is a refreshing respite from the bustling city life, reminiscent of the local flavor. Tasting encompasses both the narrower sense of savoring delicious food and the broader, integrated experience of all senses.

It takes an hour to drive from Shiweiyan. There is nothing special about it and it is not worth visiting. There are only a few households.

The village is small, so there aren't many places to visit. It seems to have become more commercialized now, with almost every household running a B&B. You can stop by if you're passing by, but it's not necessary to make a special trip from far away.

Transportation is inconvenient; I don't have a car, and getting there from downtown Wenzhou is quite a hassle. But if you enjoy ancient villages, don't miss it! Smoke curls up from the chimneys. If the weather is nice, you can soak up the sun. If it rains, it's even more artistic, perfect for quiet time.



If you are not driving by yourself or traveling with a tour group, you can refer to the following

①Take a bus from the city to Anlanting Pier;



②Take the ferry from Anlanting Pier (2 yuan, about 10 minutes, always available so you don’t have to wait long) to Oubei Pier;



③ Walk straight out of Oubei Wharf for about a few minutes to reach Oubei Bus Station;



④Take a minibus from Oubei Bus Station to Yantan Town (the latest bus leaves at 4pm. Before 4pm, there is a bus from Oubei to Yantan Town every half hour. If you miss it, chartering a car will cost about 200 yuan (according to the driver). The whole journey is 50 to 60 kilometers and seems to take nearly 2 hours. It costs 18 yuan. If you pay via WeChat, it will cost 19 yuan.);



⑤ Once you reach Yantan Town, there is no public transportation. You can either charter a car (private car or van, 40-60 yuan) or a tricycle (25 yuan) to Linkeng Ancient Village. It is 15 kilometers away and takes about 20 minutes.



Replenish:



⑥There are two minibuses leaving Linkeng, at 5:30 and 7:30 in the morning...Tomorrow I will take the 5:30 bus to Yongjia Station and take the high-speed train back.

To be honest, because I was in the southern forest for several days, I felt a little aesthetically fatigued and didn’t think it was that beautiful. I was a little disappointed. It might be because I was looking at mountains and water all day long for the past few days, so I felt a little aesthetically fatigued.

It is said that it is more enjoyable after the rain, a natural oxygen bar

The houses built on the hillside are well-arranged and harmonious. The village is full of small bridges, flowing water, houses, curling smoke, and white clouds sometimes lingering, making people wonder where they are.

Located in Nantian, Yongjia, it is a village close to Xianju. The residents have similar eating habits to Xianju. They also speak with a Xianju accent.

Linkeng is quite unique, but it is a bit crowded during the National Day holiday. It is a good view, but it loses to the white sheets [awkward]

As the first stop on our Nanxi River trip, we arrived in the evening and stayed in Linkeng Ancient Village. The people are simple and the scenery is beautiful. Prices are affordable, with B&Bs starting at just 100 per room, and meals costing 50 per person, including free-range chicken.

Admission is free, and the stone walls tell of a long history. Students from the Academy of Fine Arts are sketching. Perhaps these dilapidated houses, a record of history, will eventually disappear after years of wind and rain, leaving only their brushes to capture this moment.

The old man in the village told us that the air here is fresh and the food is all natural and fresh, so they live long lives. Go up the stone steps and stand at the top of the mountain to have a panoramic view of the entire village.

There are many B&Bs in Linkeng, and the prices are not expensive. The standard rooms range from 120 to 150 yuan. It cannot be compared with those high-end B&Bs, but it is still clean and hygienic. It must be great to stay here with fresh air and watch the sunrise in the morning.

Spend a few days in the mountains, the sky and clouds accompanied by smoke

Linkeng Village, located at the source of the Nanxi River, was founded during the Ming Dynasty. The Mao family's ancestors, originally from Ji'an, Jiangxi Province, fled war and moved from their homeland. They settled here, drawn to the breathtaking scenery, lush vegetation, and pleasant climate. Forty-five generations have lived here, spanning over seven hundred years. The village currently has 137 households and 418 residents. The villagers primarily rely on agriculture, supplemented by bamboo and timber farming. The village is named "Linkeng" because of its lush bamboo and timber, the surrounding mountains on three sides, the numerous streams and deep valleys, and the poor transportation. This area is one of the best-preserved mountain dwellings in Wenzhou.

Unlike the bustling city, the charm of the countryside lies in its tranquility. The morning crowing of roosters, the flowing water of small bridges, the dark-tiled wooden walls, and the evening smoke curling from every household evoke a wave of nostalgia. Walking along the stone path into Linkeng Village, you'll see two streams converging into one, flowing toward the Nanxi River below. The village is nestled between the mountains and the water, primarily located on the right side of the Y-shaped stream, with only a few scattered dwellings to the left and above. From bottom to top, three wooden covered bridges and two stone arch bridges (one named "Yong'an" and the other "Yongping") span the stream. Large pebbles can be seen everywhere in the stream, and the water gurgles through the cracks in the rocks. Water imbues the village with spirituality.

Climbing the steps along the stream, the cobblestone path has been worn to a shine by centuries of wear. There are no pavilions or grand mansions here, just ordinary mountain dwellings built layer by layer along the hillside. With stone foundations, wooden huts, and grey tiles, the architecture is simple, natural, and lively, yet more vibrant than tall buildings. Occasionally, you'll encounter a barking dog, only for its owner to come out and discipline it, and it will then lie down obediently on the ground. Looking at the dried noodles and osmanthus flowers drying on the roadside and in the courtyards, the raincoats hanging outside, and the quilts drying on the railings, isn't it just like when we were little in our hometown?

Behind the village, two paths lead up the mountain. After crossing Yongping Bridge, take the left path and ascend the steps. A small stream meanders along the path. As you ascend, you'll see fewer houses, the stream becomes clearer, and a vibrant array of wildflowers and grasses can be seen throughout the forest. After a few hundred meters, the village becomes largely deserted. The sound of birdsong and the gurgling of flowing water fills the air, making the village seem even more tranquil, and my heart even more at peace.

Although we only spent a morning exploring, it felt a bit rushed, but it was already captivating. Next time I have time, I'll definitely stay here for a night. Listen to the roosters crowing in the morning, smell the fragrance of wildflowers, sample mountain delicacies, savor the sweetness of the stream water, watch the smoke curling up at sunset, and gaze at the stars in the complete silence of the night. Such a vacation will be more relaxing, allowing me to quietly savor the tranquil beauty of these beautiful mountain dwellings.

To put it bluntly, Linkeng Village is just a place to see a crashed plane, and the rest is no different from an ordinary farm stay. The scenery is okay.

A friend recommended this ancient village. It's not a paradise on earth, but it's perfect for hot weather so the kids can enjoy the water. Crystal-clear shallow streams are everywhere. Personally, I think it's worth visiting if the journey isn't too far. We also went to Shiwei Rock. Climbing the mountain and looking at the rocks wasn't fun, but the boating and water play right outside the door was a delight.

The village is not big and is relatively primitive.

I particularly like the bridge in the village. In the summer, I buy popsicles and soda, sit on the bridge, listen to the gurgling water under the bridge, and watch many children drawing and chattering by the bridge, full of childishness and innocence.

Linkeng is a remote mountain village in the upper reaches of the Nanxi River. The ancestors of the mountain people knew how to beautify their environment and live in harmony with nature, and they are full of high cultural taste.

There is no entrance fee for the scenic area, but the parking fee is 10 yuan.

It is said that during the Hongwu period of the Ming Dynasty, an ancestor named Mao from Ji'an, Jiangxi came here to escape the war. Seeing the beautiful mountains and rivers, he settled here. After that, the descendants of the Mao family multiplied and settled here and the city became Linkeng.

There is a gurgling stream in the village, with ducks swimming in groups of three or five in the water, and an old man sitting on a wooden bridge, feeling contented.

An unremarkable old house in the center of the village is the Zhao Liqun Memorial Hall, which was the village committee office building in the past. It is now open to tourists free of charge to commemorate the former deputy director of Phoenix TV and China's first aerial photographer who died while photographing Linkeng.

Of all the ancient villages along the Nanxi River, I think this one is the most beautiful. The houses are built into the hillside, arranged in a well-organized pattern. The stream is clear, and the scenery is breathtaking. It rained when we visited, but it didn't dampen our spirits.

Linkeng, a small village isolated from the world, is quiet and unique, and it seems like a paradise here.

There are four places in China called Linkeng Village: Linkeng Village in Huangnan Township, Yongjia County, Wenzhou City, Zhejiang Province; Linkeng Village in Shawan Town, Jingning County, Zhejiang Province; Linkeng Village in Jiudu Town, Nan'an City, Quanzhou City, Fujian Province; and Linkeng Village in Zhangxi Township, Yongjia County, Wenzhou City, Zhejiang Province. Linkeng Village is located in the northern mountainous area of Yongjia County, at the source of the Nanxi River. It has a population of 411, primarily surnamed Mao, and its ancestors are said to have migrated from Ji'an, Jiangxi Province, to escape war.

For leisure travel, the air is very good, the village is not big, and the scenery is like that of a typical mountain village.

It's a small village, and half a day is enough to take your time to look around and play.

The village is small and well-preserved. We went there during the Qingming Festival, so there were many tourists. The accommodation was average.

The natural, simple, and ancient countryside. The mountain scenery is also worth seeing.

It's quite well-known, but after actually visiting it, I felt just average.

For a small ancient village, the National Day holiday is a tragedy. It's packed, and the roads leading into the village are often jammed. Virtually every household in the village relies on tourism, creating a predominantly commercial atmosphere and poor hygiene. We stayed in a guesthouse halfway up the mountain. The room rate was two to three times higher than usual, but the hygiene was at least acceptable. The morning air was fantastic, and even though it was mostly cloudy during the National Day holiday, the view from the top was stunning.

Although the transportation is inconvenient, it can't stop the beauty of the village. Although it is small, it is very exquisite. Although it is secluded, it is the paradise in my heart.

The white walls and green tiles are imbued with the village’s centuries-old historical imprint.

The quiet courtyard, where the sounds of chickens and dogs can be heard, still retains its simplicity and tranquility.

In the morning, Linkeng Village is shrouded in white fog because it is located between two mountains.

The smoke from the cooking stove curls up, as if in a dream.

The scenery in Linkeng is typical of a mountain village. To call it a paradise on earth might be a bit of an exaggeration, but it's nice to spend a leisurely night here and enjoy the quiet village atmosphere. There are indeed many free-range pheasants in the village, running around vigorously. It's a pity that I didn't try the free-range chicken.

The environment of Linkeng is very good. Whether you sit in the covered bridge and enjoy the breeze or soak your feet in the stream, it is a good choice to calm your mind.

The inn I chose to stay in was Taihetang. The room was very nice, with a soft bed and thick quilt. Aside from the uncomfortable cover, there were no other drawbacks. The sound of water outside the window was quite loud at night, so most tourists can bring earplugs if they can't stand it. Also, people here tend to go to bed early, so if you're hungry at night, just eat your own dry food. The inn closes around 9:30, so if you're hungry after that, you'll have to rely on yourself.

Walking up the stream, you can see a sign next to a small pond (no swimming). But the feeling of the stream is really great, let me indulge myself for once, hahahaha~

There is only one wheat cake shop in the village. They usually set up a stall at the entrance of the village. If you go there late, you can go there to buy freshly made wheat cakes for 10 yuan each. The taste is almost the same. I heard that it only costs 4 yuan outside. You can decide for yourself.

Linkeng is a quiet town perfect for relaxing.

Linkeng is not big. If you don’t take photos, you can probably finish the tour in less than an hour. It mainly consists of two T-shaped streams, and there are farmhouses beside the streams.

From Shanghai, exit the Yongjia Expressway at the Yantan exit and turn left onto Provincial Highway S223. Just past Huangnan Township, turn left and you'll reach Linkeng after a few hundred meters. The entire journey is approximately 15 kilometers. Provincial Highway S223 is easy to drive on, as it's newly paved and smooth. However, one drawback is that the streetlights are very dim at night, so nighttime driving is not recommended. S223 is a two-lane, two-way road, so drive safely as it can be prone to congestion during holidays.

Linkeng is arguably the best-preserved ancient village, boasting the best accommodations. While not very large, a night's stay there can make all the difference. The proprietress of "Gurenzhuang" explained that the government prioritizes the preservation of ancient houses and villages and supports villagers in building guesthouses. Over time, the scale of Linkeng's guesthouses has grown significantly. Compared to other accommodations along the Nanxi River, these guesthouses almost all have private bathrooms, air conditioning, water heaters, and other essential amenities, and the service is superior to other farmhouses.



Inns: Old Friend's Village, Xiaoqiao Liushui Renjia, Linyun Shanju, Taihetang, Yixuanlou, Yongping Renjia (formerly Ruyi Inn), etc.

When choosing an inn, it's best to visit it in person for the most intuitive experience. You can also negotiate the price, but of course you should check the prices online in advance. If you are going during holidays, you must book accommodation in advance, otherwise you may not be able to find a place to stay.

Parking: Many self-driving bees are concerned about this. As long as it is not a holiday and there are not many people, you can usually drive into the village at night. Of course, you can also park at the village gate. Remember to take your valuables with you. Turn left for a few hundred meters and the road is a little narrow, so drive carefully.

During the day, you need to pay a parking fee of 10 yuan to visit the scenic area, and cars are not allowed to enter the village.



We visited Linkeng in an off-season with little water. It would have been better to visit in the summer, when it would have been even more beautiful. We also encountered a cloudy day, so the photography was not very good. Please forgive us, but I want to show you that Linkeng is also beautiful on a cloudy day.

Walk up the right side of the village and you will find steps leading up the mountain, from where you can overlook Linkeng from a high place.



Note: Although the "Gu Ren Zhuang" where I stayed was very well-behaved and did not charge extra for air conditioning, I am not sure about other inns. I suggest that you ask before booking to avoid trouble.



Nearby attractions in Linkeng: Chayuankeng (drive through one of the tunnels towards Yantou Town; Chayuankeng can be accessed from both ends of the tunnel), Yubei Village (near the highway exit), Yantou Town attractions (Lishui Street, Furong Ancient Town), and Shizi Rock.

I recommend using mobile navigation: Youyou, Baidu Maps

What impressed me most here was the crisp, refreshing air, the pristine, ancient landscape, and the kind, down-to-earth mountain people. A local resident told us that it's common for elderly people there to live to be over a hundred, and even those in their nineties could easily carry firewood up and down the mountain. He even lit a stove for us to keep warm and treated us to dried sweet potatoes he'd prepared himself. I wasn't initially impressed by dried sweet potatoes, but after one bite, the soft, glutinous texture and sun-kissed sweetness instantly captivated my taste buds. I realized the stark difference between this food, imbued with the mountain people's genuine devotion to life, and the rapidly dehydrated, packaged food of the city.

What makes this place different from other ancient cities and villages is that it is indeed an ancient village that has been passed down from generation to generation for more than 600 years. Foreign cultures do not seem to have eroded this place at all. The mountain people are grateful for the mountains and rivers that nurtured them, and are filled with joy at the loss of city dwellers.

The scenery of the small village is very good, with small bridges and flowing water. It rained for a long time when we went there. We were wearing raincoats and were very excited. When the water flowed strongly, I suggest you pay attention to safety because the water was fast. There is a bridge that is a base for sketching. If you like sketching, you can go there and sit.

Linkeng was actually my destination. I came across this report while researching my itinerary online. Linkeng initially gained fame after Zhao Qunli, Deputy Director of Hong Kong Phoenix TV and known as "China's First Aerial Photographer," tragically died in the line of duty there. It transformed from an obscure mountain village into a popular tourist destination for hikers. Linkeng has remained relatively undeveloped, and the local tourism is largely uncommercialized. The people are simple and honest, boasting some of the most well-preserved mountain dwellings along the Nanxi River. These dwellings, nestled against the hillside, are harmoniously arranged. Small bridges, flowing water, houses, smoke from cooking fires, and swirling white clouds create a breathtaking rural landscape.

Linkeng Village is an ancient village with a history of over 700 years. Now it has only about 100 households and more than 400 villagers, with the majority of the villagers being surnamed "Mao". Their ancestors moved here from Ji'an, Jiangxi to escape the war and lived a leisurely life in the mountains. The village is surrounded by swaying bamboo shadows, and the houses with white walls and black tiles are mostly ancient buildings from the Qing Dynasty and are well preserved.

Linkeng is really far away and relatively small. I think it would be nice to stay there for one night. It is surrounded by mountains and bamboo forests, and it is quite comfortable.

Linkeng is famous because Phoenix TV's deputy director, Zhao Qunli, tragically died there in 2001 while performing an aerial photography mission. Zhao Qunli was China's first aerial photographer, having obtained a license to fly that small plane in the 1980s. It was truly impressive! It's such a shame! There's a small memorial hall for Director Zhao in Linkeng, and this is the plane he flew—it seemed to be called the Little Bee!

There are not many people, free admission, farm dishes - recommended tree head vegetables, snake melon. Field fish and stream fish are just so-so.

My original intention was to go somewhere less crowded, rest up, and spend a few days in peace and quiet. While I've never been able to get out of bed early in the morning, and while I haven't seen a sky full of stars in Linkeng, the rest of my experience is still true. I love this charming Linkeng, I love the sound of the gurgling water, I love sitting on the long corridor to eat and relax, I love the quaint buildings there, and I love the green mountains and blue sky. I think I'll return to this beautiful village again.

During non-holidays, there are very few tourists in Linkeng, which can be said to be a great vacation destination. Of course, it becomes very noisy during holidays, with tourists flocking in, making it difficult to have a peaceful place!

Linkeng is a very small village, said to have only about 100 people. When we went there, there were only two buses, and the rest were self-driving. The village has limited capacity, so accommodation is not very cheap. We stayed in a standard room for 70 yuan per person.

Linkeng is a very quiet little village. It would be great if the bayberries were ripe. I will definitely go there again.

Linkeng, a well-preserved area that hasn't been overdeveloped, has excellent air quality. Having not traveled in a while, it's the perfect place for a relaxing break. Linkeng, a "natural oxygen bar," is a must-see!

 

A small village in the mountains, with only a few households and ancient buildings.

Almost every house is a restaurant and a hotel.

The surging water, the rocks, and the winding path. The strange thing is that the rocks in this stream are all very large.

The stone-paved path and the small yellow flowers along the roadside create a pristine scene. It makes you feel like you've arrived in a paradise or traveled back in time to ancient times. It's so refreshing!

This is a village that I discovered recently. After reading the posts of my bee friends, I realized that this place is good. It has beautiful water, beautiful mountains, ancient style, silence, tranquility, and fresh air. It is very suitable for a leisure stay. When you come here, you will forget the hustle and bustle of the city, the noisy crowds, and the busy work. If you want to be quiet, come here and you will be satisfied.

I put down my luggage and went out for a walk. The window faced the opposite hillside, which was full of bamboo. The sound of wind blowing through bamboo leaves and gurgling streams kept ringing in my ears. It was really the most romantic window I have ever seen except for Shuanglang.

As soon as I walked out the door and headed towards the village, I was immediately greeted by a panoramic view of this beautiful village nestled among the mountains. This was undoubtedly the paradise I had imagined: nestled against the mountains and beside the water, with bamboo forests covering the entire mountain, and small bridges and flowing water hidden deep within the mountains, it captivated the eyes and touched the heart of the traveler.

Over the past two years, Linkeng has attracted an increasing number of visitors, but thankfully, it still retains its original pristine beauty, untouched by the outside world. People continue to live leisurely amidst the mountains and rivers, accustomed to the tranquility of this place. Even time seems to slow down as it passes by, reluctant to disturb the sleepy village.

Wandering around the village, I saw few people. Perhaps it was because it was noon. While I did see quite a few inns, most were closed. It was the off-season, and I seemed to be the only individual traveler staying in the village. The rest were a few groups of self-driving drivers. I stopped and started in the quiet, slowly following the stream up the mountain, enjoying this rare moment of solitude. Everywhere I looked, towering bamboo forests reached the sky, stained with lush green, the ground covered in moss, as if no one had ever set foot there. As I walked, I saw a pile of fallen bamboo ahead, suggesting loggers were roaming the mountains. I turned back.

I'd long heard of it, but upon arrival, I discovered it was already quite commercialized. The old village had been converted into restaurants and inns, and ducks were kept in the creek, ready for slaughter. Compared to Yubei Village and Chayuankeng, we all agreed that Linkeng lacked much appeal. But since we were already there, we found an inn for 100 yuan, with wifi and a private bathroom. It was quite clean. We checked in, and after a hearty meal, it was pitch black, and we went to sleep.

I live in a house with a nice view. The auntie cooks delicious food. When I get up in the morning, there is smoke from the kitchen.

The ancient village is nestled among mountains and surrounded by green waters, and is simple and peaceful. The village is as beautiful as an ink painting.

Walking among the mountains and rivers, I inadvertently became a person in the painting.

No matter how beautiful the mountains are, if you cannot calm down and have a clear mind to feel and respond, everything will be in vain.

After the rain, the sky cleared up and the evening light shone on the top of the mountain.

I haven't seen such a pure sky for a long time. I wish I could turn into that cloud.

In the morning, without tourists, the ancient village is more tranquil.

Surrounded by mountains and shrouded in morning mist, it looks like a fairyland

The greening of the village must have been carefully designed by the ancients, but there is no trace of carving.

Smoke, morning mist, flowing water, smoke melting in the morning mist

The facilities at the Nong Le Jia here are not as good as those in Mingao, but they are not bad either. The biggest difference is that there is no independent bathroom, but it is very clean. The average price here is 80 yuan per room.

The water here is very clear

The water is so clear that you can clearly see the rocks at the bottom

A distinctive village nestled among mountains and surrounded by verdant waters. Its white walls and green tiles bear the marks of a century-old history. The quiet courtyards, where the sounds of chickens and dogs roam, retain their unwavering simplicity and tranquility.

Walking side by side with family and friends on the cobblestone path, gazing at the lush green mountains stretching out in the distance. After a shower and a good lunch, lying on a bamboo lounge chair, gazing at the blue sky and green mountains across from you, chatting with friends, this is what life should be like.



The entire village is so beautiful, like a freehand ink painting spanning the heavens and the earth, that it's no wonder so many painters and photographers flock here to capture the scenery. Ordinary people like you and me, walking among the mountains and rivers, can unwittingly become part of the painting.

The water is Linkeng's most beautiful scenery, crystal clear, with its sound accompanying the river for thousands of years. The wooden houses are Linkeng's most simple features, and the weathered waterside wooden houses retain a strong sense of ancient style.

When I arrived at the entrance of Linkeng Village, I saw a persimmon tree. It was so beautiful!

Seeing this chicken coop reminded me of a poem by Lu You I read as a child, with the line, "Pigs in the pen, chickens roosting, the door half-closed." It felt so quaint! Coming from the oriental metropolis of Shanghai to this small mountain village, I felt like I'd traveled back in time, back to the days of the ancients.

The hibiscus flowers shade the farmer’s bamboo house, which is quite charming!

I came at the wrong time. If it were spring or summer, with plenty of water, there would be a stream here. Look at these big rocks washed by water over the years. Their posture, texture, and quality... are definitely in line with the aesthetic taste of art students!

Linkeng is a small village I've always wanted to visit. Since everyone's talking about it, why wouldn't I? It's about 30 kilometers from Yantou to Linkeng, all paved road with very few cars. It's so refreshing to drive at almost 30 mph. It only takes about an hour to get there.

It seems to be the season for eating bamboo shoots recently. The dried bamboo shoots made by the locals themselves are delicious~

Drive all the way to Yantan Town, then turn onto Provincial Highway 223. Once you reach Huangnan Township in Yongjia, don't go down the slope to the left when you see the Huangnan sign. Continue through a cave tunnel toward Xianju. Once you reach Linkeng Ancient Village, look up and see the sign. Turn left and take a small road that leads directly into the village. (Thanks to the tips from the hikers on Mafeng, I was able to avoid any detours and continue at full speed. The hike took about four hours.)

The villagers here are generally quite simple and honest. We parked at the village entrance parking lot for only 5 yuan a night, and the houses were 100 yuan per room. We didn't make a reservation, and every inn was nearly full, so we had to split up and stay at two. There wasn't much going on at night, but the red lanterns from each inn added a warm touch to the small village's nightscape. I loved it.

Without internet, I went to bed early. Tragically, while soundly asleep, a rooster crowed, seemingly right next to my bed. It was only 3:08 AM, and it was full of energy, crowing non-stop. The other chickens in the village joined in, and the dog joined in, creating a chorus of chickens and dogs. I finally waited for it to stop, and just as I was drifting off to sleep, it started again. I felt like banging my head against the wall, amazed at the villagers' resilience. Finally, after crowing three times, I got up and waited on the balcony for dawn, where I angrily found the dedicated rooster.

In the morning, before others get up, I go for a stroll in the village. It feels great. I can clearly feel the fresh and moist air in my whole body. I really like it here.

I'd previously researched Linkeng, and I discovered it first gained fame when Zhao Qunli, Deputy Director of Hong Kong Phoenix TV and known as "China's First Aerial Photographer," tragically died when his helicopter struck a high-voltage power line while filming a project titled "Searching for Lost Homes." He was buried in the tranquil and ancient Linkeng Village, a place steeped in history. Linkeng has since become a popular tourist destination for hikers. Linkeng's reputation is well-deserved: it boasts some of the most well-preserved mountain dwellings along the Nanxi River. These dwellings are over 100 years old, with the oldest one dating back over 200 years. The exquisitely crafted wooden houses nestle amidst the lush greenery, exuding a quaint, natural aesthetic. The houses, nestled against the hillside, are arranged in a harmonious, integrated pattern. Small bridges, flowing water, and houses, with curling smoke and the occasional shimmer of white clouds, create a sense of place.

Arriving at Yantou Bus Station, I asked for a bus to Linkeng, but was told there were no buses, except for one leaving at 5:40 AM. So I decided to hop on a bus to Yantan, which I vaguely remember costing 7 yuan per person. Once I got off at Yantan, I was again ripped off by a small three-wheeled vehicle. I tried to bargain but failed, and so I made my way to Linkeng.

Honestly, if you have the time, don't come during a long holiday. There are just too many people, and it's really annoying. Originally, the reason for coming to this small village was simply to experience the countryside and the tranquility, but with people coming and going everywhere and garbage floating in the stream, it really doesn't make much sense. If you can, come on the weekend, it will be much better.

The accommodation cost 100 yuan, and the two meals at noon and at night cost 160 yuan, which was an acceptable amount.

Overall, Linkeng was a little disappointing, but during holidays, it is much better than some other scenic spots.

As it was National Day, there were quite a lot of people coming to Linkeng to play. The coming and going of people made the ancient village, which should have been relatively quiet, seem very lively.

Linkeng is much less noisy in the morning, with wisps of smoke rising up, making people feel as if the ancient village has returned to its original appearance.

On October 3rd, the air in Linkeng was fresh in the morning. After lunch (RMB 20), I walked around the back mountain and picked some chestnuts on the mountain. At 8:30, I reluctantly left this small mountain village with its quaint style, mountain village food, primitive ecology and natural atmosphere.

After dinner, we strolled along the village paths. With its small bridges, flowing water, and houses, we felt like we were in a paradise. Children excitedly caught small fish by the creek; on the covered bridge, tourists leaned against the railings and chatted leisurely. At the village entrance, we saw a path leading up the mountain. We followed it, breathing in the refreshing air. Pine trees, millet trees, and various other subtropical trees we couldn't name intertwined. A lush, tall bamboo forest stretched out, its shadows swaying in the wind. We were immersed in the scenery. In about half an hour, we reached the top, where the entire Linkeng area was in full view.

After dinner, we strolled along the village paths. With its small bridges, flowing water, and houses, we felt like we were in a paradise. Children excitedly caught small fish by the creek; on the covered bridge, tourists leaned against the railings and chatted leisurely. At the village entrance, we saw a path leading up the mountain. We followed it, breathing in the refreshing air. Pine trees, millet trees, and various other subtropical trees we couldn't name intertwined. A lush, tall bamboo forest stretched out, its shadows swaying in the wind. We were immersed in the scenery. In about half an hour, we reached the top, where the entire Linkeng area was in full view.

From Yantou Town to Linkeng:

—— Direct bus: 06:00 (confirmed), 09:00 and 13:00 (for reference only), ticket price is 11 yuan/person, and the journey takes about 1 hour.

Return: 06:30 and 07:00 (confirmed), 10:00 and 14:00 (for reference only); ticket is 11 yuan/person, and the journey takes about 1 hour.

—— If you don’t take the direct bus, you can only take a minibus from Yantou to Yantan: the ticket is 7 yuan/person and the journey takes about 40 minutes; then charter a car from Yantan to Linkeng.

—— According to unreliable information, the chartered car fee from Yantou directly to Linkeng is 100 yuan/car. Personally, I think it is worth considering if there are many people.

Linkeng (free)

There's no direct bus from Yongjia to Linkeng, so you have to go to Yantan first and then charter a car. On the bus, you can ask if anyone else is going to Linkeng so you can charter a car together. We met a mother and daughter on the bus. They had the same itinerary as us, so we ended up eating, playing, and chartering a car together. The bus stop from Yongjia Station is at an intersection.

Charter a car from Yantan to Linkeng: There are no buses from Yantan to Linkeng, so you can only charter a car. The cost is 30-40 yuan for 1-3 people, and 10 yuan per person for 4 or more people. The journey takes about 20 minutes. (This is the price for a 7-seater white minivan. I saw electric tricycles, but I don't know the price. These vehicles park at Yantan Station and can be seen when you get off. Remember to save the driver's contact information in case you need it.)

Linkeng is a small, charming village. Staying in a small, waterside house near a small bridge costs 150 yuan per night for a double room. During National Day, the price goes up to 150-200 yuan, but on weekdays, you can find a room for 50-100 yuan. Almost every household in Linkeng operates a B&B, so you don't have to worry about finding a place to stay. You can even view the rooms before deciding whether to stay, and the price is negotiable.

If you ask me where I love most, it's Linkeng. It made me remember this place. A peaceful place that seems to be away from the world.

I think I will go again in the future

The next day. I'd been so eager to get up early the night before to watch the sunrise. The Linkeng night was filled with the endless sounds of wind and running water. I couldn't fall asleep. The inn was truly cold. It wasn't even 4 a.m. yet, but the roosters were crowing incessantly. I immediately turned off my alarm clock, which was supposed to be around 5 a.m. It was so romantic, wasn't it?

I got up a little after seven. The boss and his wife were up early. She was inside, drying some noodles. I guess. Still, one bowl per person. But the boss's cooking wasn't as good as his wife's. Yo~

 

The following is what I personally think is the most exciting place in this trip to Nanxi River, Linkeng, which is like a paradise on earth.

Linkeng, located in the northernmost part of Yongjia County, is extremely difficult to access. Buses from Oubei to Linkeng run only two or three times a day (so irregular, we couldn't find a bus back home, so we had to get a ride back to Yantan Town with a kind driver). In Yantou Town, I met up with a group of retired teachers from Beijing Institute of Technology, and we enjoyed a pleasant tour of Linkeng together. Perhaps precisely because of this lack of access and the lack of tourists, the area has preserved its original architecture, lifestyle, and natural scenery. If transportation were more accessible, the area would likely see an entrance fee and large-scale development, which is exactly what backpackers don't want.

Linkeng is beautiful, its seclusion, its idyllic scenery, and its simple people. However, it was a real pain for us backpackers, as I have to complain about the inconvenient transportation. Perhaps this is what makes Linkeng such a secluded paradise. There are only three buses a day from Oubei to Linkeng (though I'm afraid even fewer), and even fewer going back. There was supposed to be a bus at 1:00 PM, but it never came. We waited an extra hour until a kind driver finally took us to Yantan Town, where we could go our separate ways.

It truly feels like a paradise! Highly recommended. The location is easy to access, with few people and cars, and it's free from pollution and commercialization, making it a worthwhile visit. However, the transportation is limited, so those who don't drive should consider this carefully.

Linkeng was a truly worthwhile trip. I ate a wheat pancake on the way and left my camera bag and wallet in a small shop. The owner returned them to me. I was so touched! The locals are so kind.

The inconvenience of transportation actually provides a good environment for hikers. It is small in scale, but still very impressive! It is definitely worth a visit!

Linkeng is truly a place perfect for relaxing, peaceful and devoid of commercial activity. During the time my mother and I wandered the village, we didn't see any other tourists, let alone tour groups. The villagers are probably quite accustomed to photographers. From time to time, someone would approach us, but the general feeling was that they wanted us to stay overnight or have a meal at their home. The people of Linkeng seemed quite friendly and willing to accept our requests. When they heard we had a place to stay, they didn't give us any cold shoulder, but simply smiled and suggested we visit their home next time we were in Linkeng.

The whole village is neither big nor small, and it only takes a little over an hour to walk around. I wanted to climb up the mountain to overlook the whole village, but it was getting late and I was worried that the mountain road would be difficult to walk on, so I gave up halfway and planned to go up the mountain tomorrow morning to take pictures of the smoke and morning mist.

The proprietress of Linxian Pavilion said the best spot for capturing panoramic views of Linkeng is the hilltop with a stone resembling a flying rock. The hilltop doesn't look high, but the hike is still quite tiring. As the rain intensified, a village woman spotted us ascending the hill and waved, urging us to come down, mumbling something incomprehensible. I couldn't tell if she was worried we might damage the crops or if it was dangerous. The dirt road up the hill wasn't part of the scenic area, so it was steep and even more slippery in the rain. The woman was a bit apprehensive. I assessed the situation and decided that even with the downpour, I wouldn't be able to get good photos, so I turned back to the village.

Linkeng Ticket Price: Free Parking: 5 yuan

Money-saving tips:

1. Free is the biggest money saver

2. Bargain for accommodation and ask if air conditioning is included. Our first stop of the day was Linkeng Ancient Village in Huangnan Township, Yongjia County, about 400 kilometers from Xinzhuang, Shanghai. Linkeng isn't listed on many maps, and GPS doesn't have it. Travelers who have been there rarely mention the route in their travelogues, so I've written down the driving directions here for those who might want to visit later:

The route is actually quite simple: take the G60 (a section of which is the Hangzhou Ring Expressway), then turn onto the S26 Zhuyong Expressway and exit at the Yantan exit. After exiting the toll booth, turn left at the first traffic light and continue straight along Provincial Highway S223 (formerly Provincial Highway S41). It's about 15 kilometers away, and you'll arrive. Signs for the ancient village are everywhere along the way, so you can't miss it. If you're directionally challenged like me, just set your GPS to Huangnan Township Central Primary School. Once there, you'll see the Linkeng sign. That's how I navigated there.

The road conditions are generally average. Starting in Hangzhou, the G60 narrows, becoming a two-lane ring road. Things gradually improve until you reach S26. However, the S26 has a 100 km speed limit, and many tunnels have an 80 km speed limit, so it's hard to drive fast. By the time I reached Linkeng, it had already taken me over five hours to complete the 400-kilometer journey.

It was already 3:15 when we arrived at Linkeng Ancient Village. It should have been the best time for photography, but it was a cloudy day. There was an old man at the entrance of the village collecting parking fees, 5 yuan. Because it was the off-season, we could drive directly into the village, otherwise we would have to walk a long way. The ancient village was well preserved and did not disappoint me. It was built on the mountainside, with a staggered layout, and it felt larger than the average ancient town. All the buildings were made of wood, not

Linkeng Ticket Price: Free Parking: 5 yuan

Money-saving tips:

1. Free is the biggest money saver

2. Bargain for accommodation and ask if air conditioning is included. Our first stop of the day was Linkeng Ancient Village in Huangnan Township, Yongjia County, about 400 kilometers from Xinzhuang, Shanghai. Linkeng isn't listed on many maps, and GPS doesn't have it. Travelers who have been there rarely mention the route in their travelogues, so I've written down the driving directions here for those who might want to visit later:

The route is actually quite simple: take the G60 (a section of which is the Hangzhou Ring Expressway), then turn onto the S26 Zhuyong Expressway and exit at the Yantan exit. After exiting the toll booth, turn left at the first traffic light and continue straight along Provincial Highway S223 (formerly Provincial Highway S41). It's about 15 kilometers away, and you'll arrive. Signs for the ancient village are everywhere along the way, so you can't miss it. If you're directionally challenged like me, just set your GPS to Huangnan Township Central Primary School. Once there, you'll see the Linkeng sign. That's how I navigated there.

The road conditions are generally average. Starting in Hangzhou, the G60 narrows, becoming a two-lane ring road. Things gradually improve until you reach S26. However, the S26 has a 100 km speed limit, and many tunnels have an 80 km speed limit, so it's hard to drive fast. By the time I reached Linkeng, it had already taken me over five hours to complete the 400-kilometer journey.

We arrived at Linkeng Ancient Village at 3:15 PM, which should have been prime photography time, but unfortunately it was overcast. An old man at the entrance collected parking fees for 5 yuan. Since it was off-season, we could drive directly into the village, otherwise we'd have to walk quite a bit. The ancient village was well-preserved and didn't disappoint. Built into the hillside, it was a well-proportioned landscape and felt larger than most ancient towns. All the buildings were wooden, with no incongruous brick or tile structures.

The water in this stream is so clear and green! Who says the water in Nanxi River isn't clear?! The people of Nanxi River are also very simple and honest. When I wanted to buy water, a woman poured it directly for me from her kettle at home! I stopped an old man's electric scooter on the road, and he refused to take any money! I met a girl in Cangpo Village who explained everything and even wanted to help me with surveying! The mother-in-law at Yonghe Hall always put two eggs from her own garden in the noodles she cooked for me, and even gave me rice dumplings to take with me on the road. I asked for more money, but she refused and even asked her son to help me out! I think the high points of literary and artistic youth are really a bit high, don't you think? !!! The islanders who grew up on Gulangyu Island said that this place is really simple and honest, and they are deeply grateful to the people of Nanxi River who helped them.

After eating, I went to the bus station and found the bus with the name "Yantan". I asked the ticket seller and found out that their bus went to Linkeng at around 6 o'clock in the morning, but if I took the bus at this time, they would not go to Linkeng.

Yantou to Yantan: ￥7.00. After arriving at Yantan, a van asked where I was going. I looked around and saw that I was the only one going to Linkeng.

There was no choice but to take a van.

The driver said 40 yuan, and I bargained with him, and it was 30 yuan to Linkeng. So, I said more people would be better.

When I arrived at Linkeng, I couldn't find the big stone with the word "Linkeng" written on it. Later, I asked the villagers and found out that a while ago, a crew of the drama "Zhao Kuangyin" came to Linkeng to shoot, and the stone tablet was swallowed by the city gate made of foam.

It was still quite early when we arrived at Linkeng. Probably because the weather was cold, the village was very quiet and not many people were around.

Linkeng is a small village. There's a large stone tablet with the word "Linkeng" written on it where the minibus stops. It's actually just a small village surrounded by mountains. The most inconvenient thing about Linkeng is getting there. The proprietress of Yantou Hotel told me that during peak season (such as summer vacation, May Day, and National Day), there might be one or two regular buses. The schedule isn't very fixed, but the first one is usually between 6 and 7 PM, and the second around 9 PM. However, off-season, there might not be any buses, so you need to ask the bus station in advance. The minibuses are privately contracted, and they won't run unless there's business.

The Nanxi River boasts renowned ancient villages, including Furong and Cangpo, which I've already explored, and Linkeng Village in Huangnan Township in the north, the most desirable. After wandering around Yantou, I felt it was a bit overdeveloped, lacking proper management and maintenance, and the environment was filthy and untidy. So, I decided to forgo Furong and Cangpo in Yantou Town and head straight for Linkeng. As long as it was pristine and quiet, I was sure it would suit my taste.

We set off for Linkeng at 2:30 PM, 48 km from Longwantan, arriving at 3:30 PM. The drive along the riverbank was breathtaking, with lush green mountains and clear waters, a truly refreshing experience. I highly praise the road conditions and scenery in the Zhejiang mountainous area, which are comparable to unspoiled, pristine natural scenery.

I'll never forget this quaint little village hidden deep in the mountains: the winding, smooth stone steps, the wooden houses nestled against the hillside, and, of course, the delicious farmhouse meals and the carefree, over-the-top banter after a few drinks... In a sense, this is the best ancient village I've ever visited! I wonder if it still retains the tranquility and peace of its former paradise...

It's a nice village, but it's commercialized now. You can go there and have a look. There are places to stay and eat.

The village's buildings are antique and set against the backdrop of green trees, bamboo forests, streams, and strange rocks. They exude tranquility in their simplicity.

Linkeng is often described as a small village that feels like a paradise on earth. I don't know if it was because there were too many tourists this time, destroying the village's original style, or if it's because I've visited too many small towns and villages, but in any case, I was a little disappointed. It was just a relatively primitive small village at best.