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Tunxi Old Street in Huangshan is known for its traditional architecture, offering a unique glimpse into the region's history and culture. Walk along the cobblestone streets, explore the ancient wooden houses, and shop for local handicrafts. Be sure to visit the traditional teahouses to taste Anhui’s famous tea, and try local snacks. Don’t miss the picturesque river and surrounding landscapes, perfect for leisurely walks and photography.
Tunxi Old Street is located in the heart of Tunxi District, Huangshan City, Anhui Province. Nestled against the mountains to the north and flanked by water to the south, it stretches 1,272 meters, with a core area of 853 meters and a width ranging from 5 to 8 meters. Comprising one main street, three cross streets, and 18 alleys, the streetscape is composed of over 300 Hui-style buildings dating from various eras, arranged in a fish-skeleton pattern, narrow in the west and wider in the east. Because it sits at the confluence of the Hengjiang, Liushui, and Xin'anjiang rivers, Tunxi Old Street is often called a "flowing painting of the Qingming Riverside Scene." It is China's best-preserved ancient street market, showcasing the architectural styles of the Southern Song, Ming, and Qing dynasties. It is a designated National Key Cultural Relic Protection Site.
In 2009, Tunxi Old Street was selected as a "Famous Historical and Cultural Street in China" along with Beijing Guozijian Street and Suzhou Pingjiang Road.
The subtropical monsoon climate is suitable for all seasons.
Tunxi Museum
The old street is home to numerous museums, including the Tunxi Museum, the only national museum on the street. In 2012, it was transformed into the "Tunxi Old Street Community Museum," one of the first five demonstration sites for eco-(community) museums in China.
Wancui Building
Another museum on the old street is Wancuilou, China's first private museum in the form of an ancient building. Spanning over 2,000 square meters, it blends the styles of Huizhou-style dwellings, gardens, mansions, and shops. The museum displays the owner's extensive collection of cultural relics, as well as over 500 pieces of calligraphy and paintings by contemporary celebrities and 900 precious inkstones.
Cheng's Miyake
The Cheng Family Three Residences are a classic example of Ming Dynasty residential architecture and a National Key Cultural Relic Protection Site. Located on Baishu Street in Tunxi District, Huangshan District, Anhui Province, the three Ming Dynasty buildings are located at No. 6, No. 7, and No. 28, Baishudongli Lane, Tunxi.
It is recommended to play for 3 to 4 hours.
free
Open all day
Tunxi Old Street has a long history, dating back over 1,000 years, and serves as the cultural heart of Huangshan. It is famous for its well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture and is an important site for understanding the region's historical and cultural heritage. The street was a bustling center for trade and is now a popular tourist destination showcasing traditional Chinese life and commerce.
Tunxi Old Street is located in the city of Huangshan, Anhui Province, near the foot of the famous Huangshan Mountain. It can be easily reached by taxi or bus from the Huangshan Railway Station or the Huangshan Tunxi International Airport. The old street is within walking distance from downtown Huangshan, making it a convenient and accessible attraction.
Tunxi Old Street is open year-round, with no specific opening hours. However, the best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and the area is less crowded. Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for exploring the street to avoid large crowds.
There is no entrance fee to visit Tunxi Old Street itself, as it is an open public area. However, some specific sites or activities within the street, like visiting traditional teahouses or galleries, may have additional costs. Tickets for such activities can be purchased directly at the venues.
No advance booking is required for visiting Tunxi Old Street as it is a public area. However, if you plan to visit specific attractions or activities within the street, such as a guided tour, it is advisable to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Exploring Tunxi Old Street typically takes about 2 to 3 hours. This allows enough time to stroll the street, shop for souvenirs, enjoy a meal or tea, and soak in the local culture and history.
Key highlights include the traditional architecture of the street, especially the wooden houses and ancient shops. Don’t miss the tea houses offering local tea varieties, and the small riverside areas perfect for relaxing. The bustling local markets and antique shops also provide unique cultural experiences.
Guided tours are available, especially for tourists looking to explore the cultural significance of the area in-depth. Most guides speak Mandarin, though some may offer tours in English during peak seasons. Audio guides can also be rented at select locations.
The best photography spots are along the riverbanks and near the traditional wooden houses. The narrow alleys and stone-paved roads offer a historic ambiance that makes for great photos. The surrounding mountains provide a scenic backdrop for wider shots of the street.
Start your visit by entering from the eastern end of the street, where you can enjoy the traditional architecture and local shops. Explore the main street, then head towards the river for a more peaceful environment. End your visit with a tea break at one of the traditional teahouses to relax and reflect on your experience.
While Tunxi Old Street is not known for night visits or light shows, the area takes on a charming atmosphere in the evening when the lights illuminate the ancient buildings. Special tours are available during festivals, where you can enjoy performances and local cultural activities.
Tunxi Old Street can be crowded during weekends and holidays, especially in summer and during Chinese New Year. The least crowded times are on weekdays, particularly in the mornings or late afternoons outside of peak travel seasons.
The street offers basic facilities including public toilets, water stations, and rest areas. There are numerous small shops selling local snacks, souvenirs, and traditional goods. Several traditional teahouses provide a comfortable place to relax and enjoy local tea.
The street is largely pedestrian, with cobblestone pathways that may be challenging for wheelchair users. However, elderly visitors and children can easily navigate the main areas, although some parts of the street may have uneven surfaces.
While cash is still accepted, mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used in Tunxi Old Street. Many of the small shops and teahouses also accept credit cards.
There are many small restaurants and cafes in and around Tunxi Old Street. These serve a variety of Anhui cuisine, including local snacks like stinky tofu, and traditional dishes like Hui-style hotpot. Several traditional teahouses offer local tea and snacks.
Vegetarian options are available in many of the restaurants, offering dishes made with fresh vegetables and tofu. Vegan and halal food options are more limited, but there are a few eateries catering to these dietary preferences.
There are various hotels near Tunxi Old Street, ranging from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels. Some popular choices include the Huangshan Tunxi International Hotel and Tunxi Old Street Hotel. These are conveniently located for easy access to the street and other nearby attractions.
Nearby attractions include the Huangshan Mountain, which is a short distance from the old street, and the Hongcun and Xidi Ancient Villages. These cultural landmarks are part of the UNESCO World Heritage sites and can be easily included in a day trip from Tunxi.
Yes, there are plenty of souvenir shops along Tunxi Old Street. Typical souvenirs include local teas, handmade crafts, traditional Chinese calligraphy, and Hui-style carvings. You can also find traditional clothing, such as silk scarves and embroidered items.
To continue your trip after visiting Tunxi Old Street, taxis are a convenient option for exploring Huangshan city or heading towards Huangshan Mountain. Buses and private tours also provide transportation to nearby villages or scenic spots like Hongcun.
