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Walk along the Gongcha Ancient Road to experience its historical significance and the natural beauty of the surroundings. The road offers scenic views and is a great place for photography. Visit nearby temples and cultural landmarks. You can also explore local villages to learn about the traditional lifestyle in this area.
The Gongcha Ancient Road is located in Changxing County, Huzhou. It starts from Jinshan Village, Shuikou and ends at Beichuan Village, Jiapu.
Zisun tea, named after the tea saint Lu Yu of the Tang Dynasty, was far superior to Yangxian tea and became the tribute tea at that time. Since Yan Zhenqing became the governor of Huzhou, the two states of Huzhou and Changzhou had to provide tribute tea to the Tang Dynasty court. It was the primary task of the governors of Huzhou and Changzhou. Every spring, they had to personally supervise the production in the mountains and had to ensure that it arrived in Chang'an before Qingming Festival, so they built an ancient post road for delivery by fast horses.
Suitable for all seasons
The ancient trail is about 14 km long and takes about 4-5 hours to hike.
free
All day
The Gongcha Ancient Road is an important cultural and historical route that dates back to ancient China. It was used for trade and communication between different regions. Today, it serves as a reminder of the ancient transport networks that shaped the region’s development.
The Gongcha Ancient Road is located in Huzhou, Zhejiang Province. The easiest way to reach it is by taking a taxi or private car from Huzhou city center. Public transport options are limited, so it’s recommended to use a taxi or rent a car for a more convenient journey.
The road is open year-round. The best time to visit is during spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the landscape is at its most beautiful. Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for avoiding the crowds.
There is no entrance fee to visit the Gongcha Ancient Road itself. However, there may be fees for certain guided tours or attractions along the route. Tickets for these can usually be purchased onsite or through local tourism platforms.
Booking tickets in advance is typically not necessary unless you plan to join a guided tour. If visiting during peak tourist seasons, it’s advisable to book at least 1-2 days in advance to secure a spot for popular tours.
Exploring the Gongcha Ancient Road and its surroundings can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, depending on how long you wish to spend at different sites along the road.
Key highlights include the ancient stone-paved road, nearby temples, and scenic spots offering great views of the surrounding countryside. You can also explore the historical architecture in the villages along the route.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some guides may offer basic English explanations. Audio guides are not commonly provided, but guided tours are the best option for in-depth information about the history of the road.
The best viewpoints are located at various points along the road where you can capture the sweeping landscapes and ancient architecture. The areas near the temples and the hills offer particularly stunning photographic opportunities.
Start by walking along the ancient road to appreciate its historic nature. Then, visit the nearby temples and explore the villages. If you have extra time, consider hiking up the hills for a panoramic view of the area.
There are no night visits or light shows available. The site is best visited during the day to fully appreciate the scenic views and cultural landmarks along the road.
The road can get busy during weekends and holidays. The least crowded times to visit are weekdays, especially early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Basic facilities such as public toilets and rest areas are available along the road. There are a few small shops selling snacks, drinks, and souvenirs. However, it’s recommended to bring your own water and snacks for a more comfortable visit.
The Gongcha Ancient Road can be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors due to uneven terrain and stairs in certain areas. Children can enjoy the visit, but parents should be cautious in areas with steep paths. It is advisable to check the route and plan accordingly.
Mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly accepted, but it’s advisable to carry some cash, especially for purchases at small local shops or for tips to guides.
There are a few local restaurants and cafes in the nearby villages offering traditional Zhejiang cuisine. These include dishes such as steamed fish, bamboo shoots, and stir-fried vegetables.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at local eateries, featuring vegetable-based dishes. Halal options may be limited, but there are some in nearby towns or in Huzhou city.
There are several guesthouses and homestays in the nearby villages for those who want a rural experience. For more modern accommodations, Huzhou city, around 30 minutes away by car, offers a variety of hotels.
Nearby attractions include the Nanxun Ancient Town, known for its well-preserved water town architecture, and the stunning Wuxing Mountain, ideal for hiking and nature lovers.
Yes, there are small souvenir shops along the road selling local handicrafts, such as bamboo products, silk items, and traditional Zhejiang tea. Local snacks and herbal goods are also popular souvenirs.
After visiting, taxis or ride-hailing services like Didi are the best options for continuing your trip. Huzhou city offers bus and train services to other major destinations in Zhejiang and beyond.
