She County

Introducing She County

She County, formerly known as Shezhou, is under the jurisdiction of Huangshan City, Anhui Province. Located at the southernmost tip of Anhui Province, it borders Huangshan Mountain to the north, Hangzhou to the east, and Qiandao Lake to the south. It covers an area of ​​2,122 square kilometers, administers 28 townships, and has a population of 490,000. One of the six counties of Huizhou, She County was the seat of the ancient Huizhou Prefecture and the birthplace of Huizhou culture and the quintessence of Peking Opera, as well as the main source of Huizhou merchants and Huizhou cuisine. She County is the primary production center for Huizhou ink and She inkstones, two of the Four Treasures of the Study. It has been awarded the honorary titles of "China's Capital of Huizhou Ink," "China's Hometown of She Inkstones," "Hometown of Hui Opera (Hui Opera Troupes)," "China's Hometown of Hui Culture," and "China's Hometown of Memorial Archways."

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Most Popular FAQs for She County

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

She County, part of Huangshan City in Anhui, has a rich history dating back over a thousand years. It is known for its ancient villages and well-preserved Hui-style architecture. The region is culturally significant for its contribution to traditional Chinese art, architecture, and Confucianism. She County is also home to the famous Hongcun and Xidi villages, which reflect the brilliance of ancient Chinese rural architecture and are now UNESCO World Heritage sites.

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

She County is located in southern Anhui Province, in the Huangshan region. You can reach She County from Huangshan by bus or taxi (about 1.5-2 hours drive). Huangshan Tunxi Airport is the nearest airport, offering both domestic and limited international flights. From the airport, taxis or buses can take you to She County. Alternatively, you can take a high-speed train to Huangshan City and then use local transportation to reach She County.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

She County is accessible year-round. The best time to visit is from March to May (spring) or September to November (autumn), when the weather is mild and the landscape is at its most scenic. The peak tourist season is during the summer months, so visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or autumn) will allow for a more relaxed experience.

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

The entrance fee for attractions like Hongcun and Xidi villages typically ranges from 100 to 150 RMB per site. Tickets can be purchased online through travel booking websites or onsite at the ticket counters. Some attractions offer bundled tickets for both Hongcun and Xidi, which may provide a slight discount.

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

It is advisable to book tickets in advance during the peak tourist season (May to October) to avoid long lines. A few days before your visit should be sufficient, but during national holidays, booking tickets at least 1 week in advance is recommended.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To explore the main attractions of She County, 1-2 days are sufficient. If you plan to visit Mount Huangshan and explore the surrounding villages in more detail, 3-4 days would be ideal to fully immerse in the area’s beauty and history.

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

Must-see highlights include Hongcun Village, known for its beautiful water systems and traditional architecture; Xidi Village, famous for its well-preserved ancient houses; and Tangyue Archways, which are a series of historical stone archways. Additionally, Mount Huangshan is nearby, offering scenic hikes and views.

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

Guided tours are available in She County, especially for Hongcun and Xidi villages, with English-speaking guides available in most of the popular tourist spots. Audio guides may also be offered in Mandarin, with some sites providing English translations.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Some of the best photography spots include the classic views of Hongcun Village with its reflective ponds and traditional architecture, as well as the iconic stone archways of Tangyue. For photography of natural landscapes, Mount Huangshan offers spectacular vistas of granite peaks, ancient pine trees, and seas of clouds.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

A recommended itinerary could begin with a visit to Hongcun Village, followed by a trip to Xidi Village. In the afternoon, head to Tangyue Archways. On the second day, take a day trip to Mount Huangshan, exploring its famous peaks and scenic trails. Alternatively, you can reverse the order depending on your preferences.

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

While She County itself does not have a major night tourism infrastructure, some hotels and resorts in the area offer evening performances showcasing traditional music and dance. However, most visitors prefer to explore the attractions during daylight, especially the villages and natural landscapes.

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

The peak season for She County is from April to October, particularly during Chinese holidays like the Spring Festival and National Day. To avoid crowds, consider visiting during weekdays in the off-peak months (November to March), particularly early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

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

Facilities such as public toilets, rest areas, and food stalls are available in popular tourist spots like Hongcun and Xidi villages. Many local restaurants serve traditional Anhui cuisine, including famous dishes like stinky tofu. There are also souvenir shops where you can purchase local handicrafts and artwork.

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

While She County is a charming rural destination, the cobblestone streets and ancient architecture in villages like Xidi and Hongcun may not be easily accessible for visitors with mobility impairments. However, the attractions themselves are suitable for children and elderly visitors who are able to navigate some uneven terrain.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is still widely accepted, but mobile payment options such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are very popular in She County, especially in tourist spots. Credit cards are accepted in larger hotels and restaurants, but smaller shops and street vendors often prefer mobile payments or cash.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

In She County, you’ll find various restaurants offering local Anhui cuisine, including the famous Huizhou cuisine known for its rich flavors. Nearby restaurants in the towns of Hongcun and Xidi serve both traditional and modern Chinese dishes, and there are also small cafes in the area offering tea and snacks.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available, as traditional Chinese cuisine often includes a variety of vegetable dishes. Vegan and halal options may be limited, but some restaurants may offer vegetarian versions of local dishes. It's advisable to confirm with restaurants in advance for specific dietary requirements.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are a range of accommodation options near She County, from guesthouses in traditional Hui-style buildings to modern hotels in nearby towns like Tunxi. If you’re staying near Hongcun or Xidi, several boutique hotels offer a more intimate experience. For a more luxurious stay, you can find upscale hotels in the Huangshan area.

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

In addition to She County, nearby attractions include Mount Huangshan (Yellow Mountain) for hiking and spectacular scenery, and the ancient villages of Tunxi and Qiyun Mountain. You can also visit the Anhui Museum in Hefei for a cultural experience that combines history with modern art.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops are plentiful in She County, particularly in Hongcun and Xidi villages. Typical souvenirs include local handicrafts like paper-cuttings, tea, and traditional wooden carvings. You can also find local silk products and embroidered textiles, which are a significant part of the region's culture.

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

After visiting She County, you can continue your journey by taking a bus or taxi to Huangshan city, from where you can catch trains or flights to other major cities in China. If you're heading to Mount Huangshan, buses or taxis are the best options for a short trip from She County.