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Located in Fuling Town, Jixi County, Anhui Province, it borders Huangshan Mountain to the north and Tianmu Mountain to the south. With limited per capita arable land and scarce resources, locals have sought development outside the region since the Song Dynasty. Generations of Huizhou residents have forged a series of arduous trade routes, traversing salt, tea, and mountain products. The Huihang Ancient Road is one such route, once known as the "Silk Road" for merchants from Huizhou and Zhejiang.
Today, ancient trails are enjoying a resurgence, becoming a classic route for outdoor travel in the Jiangnan region. The Huihang Ancient Trail has been hailed by hiking enthusiasts as one of China's "Top Ten Ancient Hiking Trails" and the "Top Hiking Route in East China." Running from Fuling Town, Jixi County, Huizhou, Anhui Province in the west to Maxiao Township, Lin'an City, Zhejiang Province in the east, it lies north of the Qingliangfeng National Nature Reserve, bordered by Huangshan Mountain to the north and Tianmu Mountain to the south. With a total length of 15 kilometers, it served as a crucial link between Huizhou and Hangzhou in ancient times. The most well-preserved section, the winding stone steps in Jixi County, represents the essence of the Huihang Ancient Trail and embodies the wisdom and strength of the ancient Han working people.
The Xiaoyao area of the Huihang Ancient Road is surrounded by mountains, with cool summers, abundant rainfall, and a humid climate.
The best time to travel is April and May every year, when the rhododendrons and orchids on the Huihang Ancient Road are in full bloom, the scenery is at its most beautiful, and the climate is warm and humid, neither too cold nor too hot, making it perfect for travel.
Hiking duration 6 hours
Recommended Activities: Hiking, mountain climbing, camping, admiring azaleas in spring, moonlit nights in summer, yellow leaves in autumn, and first snow in winter.
Recommended activities at Jiangnan First Pass, Nantianao, Shicha Pavilion, Xiaxuetang, and Xiaoyao Valley
Recommended play time: 1-2 days
Adult tickets are 68, children half price
6:00-18:00
The Huihang Ancient Road dates back to the Tang Dynasty, serving as an important trade route between Hangzhou and Jiande. The road has historically been used by merchants and travelers, and it is lined with traditional villages, temples, and natural beauty. It offers a glimpse into the region's culture and history, reflecting both the architecture and landscapes that were crucial to trade and daily life over the centuries.
Huihang Ancient Road is located in the outskirts of Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province. To get there, you can take a bus or taxi from Hangzhou city center to the starting point of the road. There are also private tours and local transportation services that offer guided trips to the area. Walking or biking along the road is a popular way to explore the site.
Huihang Ancient Road is open year-round for visitors. The best times to visit are during the spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) months, when the weather is mild and the scenery is most beautiful. Avoid visiting during the summer peak season (June-August) to escape the crowds.
There is no fixed entrance fee for the Huihang Ancient Road itself, as it is an open scenic area. However, if you plan to visit specific attractions or sites along the road, such as temples or museums, you may need to pay a small entrance fee. Tickets can be purchased on-site, or through local tour operators.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for the road itself, but it is recommended if you plan to visit specific attractions along the route. Booking a few days in advance during peak seasons is advisable to avoid long waits or availability issues.
To fully explore the Huihang Ancient Road and enjoy its historical sites, nature, and villages, you will need at least one full day. If you are hiking or biking along the route, two days would allow for a more leisurely experience.
Guided tours are available, typically in Mandarin, though some tour operators may offer tours in English. Audio guides may also be available for certain sites along the road.
Start your journey from the southern entrance of the Huihang Ancient Road in Hangzhou, then follow the path north through picturesque villages and scenic landscapes. Stop by historical temples and traditional sites. If you are hiking, take your time to explore the mountains and enjoy the natural beauty along the way.
Night visits and light shows are not typically available along the Huihang Ancient Road. However, some villages may offer evening cultural performances during peak tourist seasons.
While Huihang Ancient Road is not typically overcrowded, it can get busy during weekends and holidays. The least crowded times are weekdays in the off-peak seasons (spring and autumn). Avoid national holidays for a more peaceful experience.
There are basic facilities along the road, including rest areas, toilets, and small local shops selling snacks and drinks. However, it is recommended to carry water and food with you, especially if you are planning to hike or bike long distances.
Huihang Ancient Road can be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors due to its uneven terrain and lack of fully accessible paths. However, children and most visitors in good physical condition will find the road manageable. Some parts of the road may be easier to navigate, particularly if you choose to explore by car or bus.
Mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are widely accepted, and credit cards are accepted at many of the major sites and shops along the route. However, it’s a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases in rural areas.
There are a few small restaurants and cafes along the road that serve traditional Zhejiang cuisine. For a wider selection, Hangzhou city center offers more dining options with both local and international flavors.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in some of the local eateries, but halal food options are rare in this region. It’s advisable to check with restaurants in advance or prepare your own meals if you have specific dietary requirements.
There are several guesthouses and hotels along the Huihang Ancient Road, especially near the main villages. For more luxurious options, Hangzhou city offers a range of hotels and resorts.
Yes, there are souvenir shops along the Huihang Ancient Road selling local crafts, tea, and traditional Chinese items like calligraphy, pottery, and paintings. Local tea, especially Longjing tea, is a popular souvenir.
After visiting the Huihang Ancient Road, you can easily continue your trip by taking a bus, taxi, or private car to Hangzhou city center. The city’s bus and metro systems are well-connected to major attractions, and there are high-speed train services to other cities like Shanghai and Beijing.
