Live Your Best Lives
Explore the traditional architecture and rural lifestyle in Xiguanzhai, take a walk through its scenic streets, and visit the local cultural sites. You can also engage in photography and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the village.
Xiguanzhai, located 1,500 meters south of Tianzhu Peak , was the headquarters of Liu Yuan, the leader of the peasant uprising against the Yuan Dynasty in the late Southern Song Dynasty. At the end of the Song Dynasty, Liu Yuan, a righteous man from Qianshan, was ordered to build a stronghold to resist the invasion of Yuan troops and set up a checkpoint here, which was named Xiguanzhai. On the stone wall to the right of the stronghold, a stone inscription personally written by King Liu to record the events of that time remains.
Xiguan Village is composed of stone steps, battlements and stone walls. The left mountain cliff is a path, a line of Wudao, and the right mountain Hegu is a stream. " One man guards the pass and ten thousand men cannot open it. It is extremely dangerous and well-preserved . "
The village is located on Qinglong Peak, 1,370 meters above sea level. Wu Yifeng called it the " Tanfu Stone , " referring to the area where one climbs about 300 stone steps to the west gate. Turning right, one sees a large stone lying horizontally, round at the top and drooping at the bottom, like a person lying on his back with his belly exposed. This is called the Tanfu Stone.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended play time: 1-2 hours
Tickets are included in the scenic area ticket
7:00-17:30
Xiguanzhai is a historical village with rich cultural heritage. It is known for its traditional Anhui-style architecture and well-preserved rural lifestyle. The village is a prime example of the region's historical development and local customs.
Xiguanzhai is located in Anqing, Anhui. You can take a taxi or drive from Anqing city to the village, which is approximately a 30-minute journey. Public transport may be limited, so a taxi or private car is recommended.
The village is open year-round. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant and the natural surroundings are at their best. Early mornings are ideal for photography and peaceful exploration.
There is no formal entrance fee for Xiguanzhai. However, donations may be accepted for the maintenance of the village. You can usually pay directly at the site.
There is no need to book tickets in advance as there is no official entrance fee. However, it is advisable to check for any special events or tours that might require prior booking.
You can fully explore Xiguanzhai in about 2-3 hours, depending on how much time you spend visiting the local sites and interacting with the community.
The main highlights include the traditional architecture, the village's central square, and the local temples. The surrounding rural landscapes are also scenic and worth exploring.
Guided tours may be available in Mandarin, offering insights into the history and culture of the village. Audio guides may not be available, but local residents can provide informal tours.
The best photography spots are the central square, the traditional houses with white walls and black tiles, and the rural landscapes surrounding the village. The temple grounds also offer great opportunities for photos.
Start by exploring the central square, then take a walk through the streets lined with traditional houses. Visit the local temples and walk around the surrounding areas to enjoy the natural beauty.
Night visits are not typically available, as the village is quiet and peaceful after dark. There are no light shows, but the serene atmosphere is perfect for a calm evening walk.
The village is not usually crowded, especially on weekdays. To avoid any crowd, visit during the early morning hours or on weekdays outside of peak tourist seasons.
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available in the village. Food and water are available from local vendors or small eateries. There are no large shops, but small stalls offer local handicrafts.
The village has uneven terrain, and the narrow streets may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. However, children can explore the area with ease, and there are some accessible routes for strollers.
Cash is preferred, and mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are accepted in many places. Credit cards may not be widely accepted in the village.
There are a few local eateries near the village offering traditional Anhui cuisine. For more dining options, you can head back to Anqing city, where there are a greater variety of restaurants and cafes.
Some local restaurants offer vegetarian options, though vegan and halal food may be limited. It’s advisable to check with the restaurant in advance if you have specific dietary preferences.
There are several guesthouses and small hotels in Anqing city, around 30 minutes away by car. For a more local experience, consider staying in a traditional homestay in or near the village.
Nearby attractions include the Anqing Museum, Huangmei Opera Park, and the Qianfo Mountain. These can be easily combined with a day trip to Xiguanzhai.
There are small souvenir shops selling traditional Anhui handicrafts, including embroidered textiles, local teas, and pottery. These make for great mementos of your visit.
The best way to continue your trip is to take a taxi or private car back to Anqing city. From there, you can catch buses or trains to other parts of Anhui or continue to nearby cities.
