Wuyuan Must-Visit Huizhou-style Ancient City

Introduction to Wuyuan Xiangao Ancient City
Xiangao Ancient City is located in Wuyuan, known as "China's Most Beautiful Village." Formerly "Wuyuan West Lake" during the Southern Song Dynasty, it is a cultural, commercial, and tourism complex that integrates Huizhou culture, scenic landscapes, and modern creativity. The ancient city is divided into the Xihudang Street Area (an open cultural tourism commercial complex) and the Tianshangtang Scenic Area (a closed core scenic park, expected to open in February 2026). Adhering to the concept of "restoring the old as it was," it has recreated historical relics such as Huizhou-style water constructions, streets, and archways, bringing back the bustling prosperity of the Huizhou merchants' heyday. Its "Hui" character-shaped spatial design and "Three Waters," "Seven Alleys," and "Eight Sights" landscapes showcase a Huizhou aesthetic where "opening a window reveals flowing water, and every step is like entering a painting." It serves as a living example for studying Huizhou history and architectural art.
Recommended Travel Guide
I. Core Experience Area: Xihudang Street Area
Opening Information: Open for free all year round, accessible all day (recommended visiting hours: 9:30-22:30).
Address: Wuyuan County, Shangrao City (in the heart of the old town, near Zhuzi Pedestrian Street).
Must-Visit Highlights:
Landmark Buildings: Biyue Gate (historic city wall bricks), Cheng Family Courtyard (exquisitely carved Huizhou-style residence), Jiexiaofang Archway (brick carving art), Lijianjiao (corner where two alleys meet), Wufuju (mortise and tenon structure teahouse). Every step offers a new view, perfect for ancient-style photography.
Intangible Cultural Heritage & Folk Customs: Live demonstrations of intangible cultural heritage skills such as Jialu Umbrellas, Hualong Wood Carving, and Cha Wine; "day and night" immersive performances including street parades, intangible cultural heritage lanterns, and NPC interactions. The nighttime "Fish Lantern Parade" (19:00-19:35, route covers Renmin Litai, Dingxiang Yuxiang, etc.) and the Intangible Cultural Heritage Fire Art Show (fire pot, fire knife performances) are particularly stunning.
Food Matrix: Gathers 20 time-honored brands including Xingjiang Restaurant and Wuyuan Old Food Factory. Recommended dishes include Huizhou Old Wontons, Wuyuan Qigao (steamed cake), Laocheng Tofu Workshop, and Wutiaoren Dessert Shop, allowing you to experience "Wuyuan on the tip of your tongue."
Tour Route: Beimen Street (cultural and creative + intangible cultural heritage experience) → Xianru Street (food hub) → Youdeng Street → Nianshijiu Alley → Dingxiang Yuxiang (a "Hui" character-shaped route, no detours).
II. Practical Guide
Transportation:
Self-driving: Navigate to "Xiangao Xihudang Cultural Tourism Street Area," ample parking available;
High-speed rail: From Wuyuan Station, take bus No. 1 or 4 to "Zhuzi Pedestrian Street" stop, then walk 5 minutes.
Photography Tips: Wear Hanfu or New Chinese-style clothing. The best time to capture ancient-style photos with Biyue Gate, Jiexiaofang Archway, and the lake lights as a backdrop is during the blue hour (dusk).
Notes: The street area is open access and does not require reservations; some cobblestone paths may be slippery at night, so anti-slip shoes are recommended; activities are abundant during the trial operation period, so pay attention to the on-site performance schedule (e.g., Huiju opera, folk music performances).
III. Surrounding Linkages
Currently, the Tianshangtang Scenic Area is not yet open. You can prioritize visiting the Xihudang Street Area. Later, you can combine it with traditional villages like Wuyuan Huangling and Jiangwan to plan an in-depth "ancient city + countryside" tour, fully experiencing the beauty of Huizhou culture and landscapes.

With its free access, all-day experience, and rich local atmosphere, Xiangao Ancient City has become a new travel option in Wuyuan's urban area. Whether strolling through Huizhou-style alleys during the day or immersing yourself in intangible cultural heritage night tours, visitors can encounter the unique charm of a thousand-year-old Huizhou.