Summer Hidden Gems|5 Off-the-Beaten-Path Escapes to Embrace Cool Mountains & Seas
by AOV. Sam 3161
Jun 10, 2025
🍃 Zhaji Ancient Town, Anhui|Step into a real-life version of the "Riverside Scene at Qingming Festival" – this is the true essence of Jiangnan!💫
✨ This is the real hidden gem of Jiangnan!
✅ More authentic than Hongcun! No commercialized shops or crowds, only the original Huizhou-style ancient village charm🏯
✅ A paradise for sketching! Art students painting everywhere, making you feel like you've stepped into an ink wash painting🎨
✅ Full of atmosphere! The blue bricks and black tiles, small bridges and flowing water in the morning mist create perfect photo opportunities📸
📸 Must-visit spots:
1️⃣ Honglou Bridge – The landmark of the ancient town! Overlooking Xuxi Stream from the bridge, every shot captures the essence of Jiangnan🌈
2️⃣ Degong Hall – The brick-carved gatehouse of Yuan Dynasty architecture, where every detail tells a historical story
🍜 Unmissable Zhaji delicacies:
▪️ Hairy tofu is the best! Crispy outside and tender inside, perfect with special spicy sauce🔥
▪️ Stinky mandarin fish – A true Huizhou specialty, smelly but incredibly delicious🐟
▪️ Qinyu steamed egg – A local favorite, so tender and smooth you'll fall in love instantly💕
🏡 Accommodation recommendation:
📍 "Floating Flower Luxury • Xuan Paper Source Sichuan-Tibet Line Designer Homestay"
✨ Traditional antique decor with great value!
✨ Hotel design is top-notch, every corner is photogenic💫
✨ The owner has great taste, every part of the lobby is exquisite
✨ Comfortable and spacious rooms, enjoy mountain views while soaking in indoor hot springs🌄
✨ Breakfast, lunch, and afternoon tea are so delicious you won't want to leave😋
💡 Travel tips:
✔️ Wear comfortable shoes! The stone roads can be tough on feet
✔️ Early morning (5-8 AM) has the fewest people and perfect lighting for photos🌅
✔️ Visit nearby "Peach Blossom Pool" for the same scenery that inspired Li Bai!
🚕 Navigation: Zhaji
📍 Address: Zhaji Ancient Town, Jing County, Xuancheng City, Anhui Province
🎟️ Ticket: 65 RMB (half price with student ID)
🚗 Transportation: Recommended to drive or take high-speed rail to Jing County Station then transfer by bus
If you're tired of city noise, come here and dream of Jiangnan~💤
Post by Lewis_12-Scarlett | Aug 8, 2025






















