Chaji Ancient Village: A Hidden Huizhou Gem Favored by Art Students

Every three steps there's an easel, every five steps an ancient bridge. This millennium-old village, home to 108 ancestral halls, still practices authentic slow living by washing clothes and vegetables by the creek.

I discovered a ticket-saving tip: enter the village after 4:30 PM to avoid peak crowds and enjoy a full day of sightseeing the next day (tickets are valid for two days). Seniors over 65, active military personnel, and other eligible individuals can enter for free.

Chaji is most beautiful in the early morning. Mist shrouds the horse-head walls as villagers begin washing clothes and vegetables by Xuxi Creek, accompanied only by sketching students and your camera. Be sure to visit the Degongting House to see the Yuan Dynasty brick carving "Carp Leaping over the Dragon Gate," and the exquisite wood carvings in Erjia Ancestral Hall, which are considered the essence of Huizhou’s three major carvings.

Throughout the village, you’ll find stalls selling fermented tofu and rice wine. I tried the freshly grilled fermented tofu from an elderly lady’s cart—crispy on the outside, tender inside, with a unique fermented aroma that’s addictive.

Practical Tips:

· Transportation: Take a direct bus from Jing County Bus Station (about 15 RMB, 1.5 hours)
· Accommodation: Recommended to stay in village homestays, comfortable for 200-300 RMB
· Must-Do: Morning stroll along the creek, watch villagers wash clothes, and taste freshly grilled fermented tofu

Chaji is not a place for a rushed visit; staying overnight is the only way to truly appreciate its beauty. When the tourists leave, only the sound of the creek and a sky full of stars remain—this is the truest face of the millennium-old village.

Post by HenryBell.62 | Aug 23, 2025