Bishan

Introducing Bishan

Traveling northwest from Yi County, following the Zhang River for 4 kilometers, a series of mountains stretch out before you. A large cluster of houses at the foothills represents the "Three, Six, and Nine Villages" of ancient Yi. Today, people refer to it as Bishan Village, just as they often refer to the Nineth Village as Pingshan Village (formerly Shu Village) and the Sixth Village as Henggang Village (formerly Xichuan Village). Even the towering Yunmen Pagoda is now known as the Bishan Pagoda. The village has a herringbone street, and during the People's Commune era, the street was used to divide the area east and west, giving rise to the names Bidong and Bixi.

Bishan originally meant mountain, just as Pingshan was originally Pingfeng Mountain and Xidi was originally Xidipu. These names have now been adopted as village names. However, the original name of Bishan Village, located at the foot of Bishan, "Huangpi," has disappeared, and few people know it today. Perhaps only Huangpitou remains, which remains a mystery.

Climate and best time to travel

Yi County has a northern subtropical humid monsoon climate. It boasts distinct four seasons and a mild climate. Winters and summers are long, while spring and autumn are short. The average annual temperature is 15.5°C. Bishan, the name of a legendary mountain mentioned in the classic Chinese novel "Classic of Mountains and Seas," is a popular destination for travelers in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

We recommend visiting Bishan Bookstore and Bishan Village;

3 hours of play time

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

Open all day

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Most Popular FAQs for Bishan

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Bishan is a historical village in Huangshan, Anhui, known for its preserved ancient architecture and cultural heritage. It offers a glimpse into traditional Chinese rural life and has become a popular destination for tourists interested in ancient villages and rural landscapes.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Bishan is located in Huangshan, Anhui, and can be accessed by bus or taxi from the Huangshan city center. It's also possible to reach the village by walking from nearby scenic areas, though a taxi is the most convenient option.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Bishan is open year-round for visitors. The best time to visit is in spring and autumn when the weather is mild, and the landscape is at its most scenic.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is generally no entrance fee to visit Bishan village. However, certain sites or museums in the area may charge a small fee. Tickets can be purchased on-site.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Tickets are not usually required in advance unless visiting specific exhibitions or events. Booking a few days in advance is recommended for events or peak tourist seasons.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It typically takes around 2-4 hours to explore the village, depending on your pace and how many of the local attractions you visit.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The traditional ancient architecture, including ancient residential buildings and courtyards.
• The nearby rice terraces, which offer spectacular views, especially during the harvest season.
• The local temples, which provide insight into the cultural and spiritual life of the region.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some guides may offer tours in English. Audio guides are also available in multiple languages.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The rice terraces, especially during sunrise or sunset, offer the best photography opportunities.
• The rooftops of ancient houses in Bishan provide great panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with a walk through the village's ancient streets, then visit the rice terraces. End with a stop at one of the local temples or cultural exhibitions for a deeper understanding of the area's heritage.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are not commonly offered. However, some cultural performances or events might take place during festivals or weekends.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Bishan can get busy during weekends and public holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit during the early morning or on weekdays, particularly during the off-season (late autumn or winter).

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are public toilets and small rest areas around the village. Food and water can be purchased at local restaurants, and there are a few shops selling local crafts and souvenirs.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The village’s cobblestone streets and uneven pathways may make it difficult for elderly or disabled visitors to fully explore. However, children can easily visit the area, especially in the less steep parts of the village.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (e.g., Alipay, WeChat Pay) are widely accepted in Bishan. Some smaller shops may still prefer cash, but most tourist-related services accept mobile payments or credit cards.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several small local restaurants in Bishan serving Anhui cuisine, as well as cafes offering tea and light snacks.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available in local restaurants, and some places may offer vegan-friendly dishes. Halal food options may be limited, but some eateries may cater to Muslim visitors upon request.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are a few guesthouses and small hotels in Bishan, as well as more luxurious options in nearby Huangshan city. Booking in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Huangshan Scenic Area, Xidi Ancient Village, and Hongcun Ancient Village. These can be easily combined with a visit to Bishan for a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are several souvenir shops in Bishan selling traditional Anhui crafts, local teas, and handmade souvenirs such as pottery and embroidered textiles.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

Taxis, buses, and ride-hailing services like Didi are available. Visitors can also take a bus or taxi to Huangshan city for further transportation options to other destinations.