Songyang

Introducing Songyang

Songyang County, located in the mountainous southwestern Zhejiang province, boasts a history of over 1,800 years and is the oldest established county in Lishui City. The county boasts eight mountains, one river, and one field. The central Songgu Plain is the largest intermountain plain in southwestern Zhejiang and is known as the "granary of Chuzhou."

Songyang is a provincial historical and cultural city. Historically, it was the economic and cultural center of Chuzhou. It has many cultural relics and historical sites, including the Yanqing Temple Pagoda, known as the "No. 1 Pagoda in Zhejiang", and the national intangible cultural heritage Songyang Gaoqiang, known as the "living fossil of opera". In addition, there are many historical relics and historical sites such as the Shicang Ancient Residential Complex, the Huang Family Courtyard, the Ming and Qing Streets, and the Brothers Jinshi Archway.

Climate and best time to travel

Mid-subtropical monsoon climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Yangjiatang Village

Located in Sandu Township, Songyang County, Yangjiatang Village is nestled in a circular valley, flanked by mountains on either side, creating a distinct feng shui layout. In Yangjiatang, where the ground is uneven, over 20 Qing Dynasty dwellings, constructed of earth and wood, rise in tiers along the hillside. The village's heights vary by approximately 2 to 3 meters, stretching 200 meters. This creates a vast architectural facade, a typical example of a terraced ancient village in Songyang County. It is known as the Golden Potala Palace.

Huang Family Courtyard

Wujing Village is located 2 kilometers northwest of Songyang County, Zhejiang Province. As soon as you enter the village, you can see a group of horse-head walls of varying heights standing tall and majestic. This is the unique wood carving art hall - Songyang Huang Family Courtyard.

Songyang Damu Mountain Cycling Tea Garden Scenic Area

Damu Mountain Cycling Tea Garden, located in Hengxi Village, Xinxing Town, Songyang County, is a model of Songyang Ecological Tea Garden. The core area of ​​the scenic area covers an area of ​​more than 2,300 acres. The area is covered by continuous hills and densely populated reservoirs. Cycling lanes run through it, with pleasant scenery and the fragrance of tea.

Recommended play time: 1-2 days

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Most Popular FAQs for Songyang

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

Songyang County, part of Lishui in Zhejiang, has a history of over 1,000 years. It is known for its rich natural landscapes, including rivers, valleys, and forests, as well as its preservation of traditional culture and ancient architecture.

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

Songyang is located in Lishui, Zhejiang province. Visitors can reach it by bus or taxi from Lishui city or nearby counties. Walking is convenient within the town and scenic areas.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Most attractions are open from 8:00 to 17:30. Spring and autumn are the best times to visit for comfortable weather and clear scenic views.

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

• Songyang Ancient Town: usually free to enter streets; small cultural sites may charge ~20–40 CNY, tickets available on-site.
• Songyang Grand Canyon: ~50 CNY; tickets can be bought at the entrance or online in advance.

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

Booking is recommended for popular scenic areas during weekends or holidays, 1–3 days in advance. Off-season visits usually do not require pre-booking.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

1–2 days are recommended to cover the ancient town, scenic canyon, and surrounding cultural sites.

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

• Songyang Ancient Town and historic streets
• Songyang Grand Canyon
• Local temples and pagodas
• Riverside scenic areas

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

Guided tours are generally available in Chinese; some sites may provide limited English explanations or informational panels.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Grand Canyon cliffs and waterfalls
• Ancient streets and bridges in the town
• Riverbanks and pagoda tops
• Forest trails and scenic viewpoints along hiking routes

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Begin with the Ancient Town, explore cultural streets and temples, then head to Songyang Grand Canyon for hiking and riverside views. Finish with riverside walks or local dining.

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

Evening strolls along the river are possible; occasional festivals or cultural events may feature lights or performances. Most scenic areas close before dark.

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

Weekends and holidays are more crowded; weekdays and off-season months are less busy.

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

Facilities include public toilets, restaurants, snack stalls, rest areas, and souvenir shops throughout the town and scenic areas.

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

Main streets are accessible, but canyon trails and some hillside paths may require moderate walking and are less suitable for those with limited mobility.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) and cards are widely accepted; cash is recommended for small vendors or rural areas.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Local restaurants serve Zhejiang cuisine, riverside cafes provide snacks and tea, and small street vendors offer local specialties.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are widely available; halal food is limited and may require planning.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Accommodations include boutique hotels in town, countryside guesthouses, and mid-range hotels near the main scenic areas.

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

Nearby attractions include Lishui forests, Longquan Tea Plantations, and other scenic rivers or ancient villages in the county.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenirs include local handicrafts, tea, rice wine, and traditional snacks.

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

Local buses, taxis, and ride-hailing apps connect to Lishui city and nearby towns; high-speed train stations in Lishui provide regional travel options.