A Tour of Hongcun

Hongcun in Yixian County, with its ink-wash scenery, is truly a paradise for art students! The white walls and black tiles reflect in the Moon Pond, and every casual shot looks like a natural ink painting. Want to get stunning photos to wow your friends? Keep this 1-day tour guide handy～

🚶‍♀️Immersive Tour Route
8:30-11:00 Stroll along Nanhu Painting Bridge
📍The first spot after entering Hongcun’s main gate is this curved lakeside. The arch bridge and Huizhou-style buildings shrouded in morning mist are full of charm. Be sure to capture the reflections when the lake is like a mirror! Art students often set up their easels here to sketch～

11:00-12:30 Explore Moon Pond Residences
📍Walk through the winding bluestone alleys to see the heart-shaped Moon Pond. Classic ancient houses like the Wang Clan Ancestral Hall and Chengzhi Hall surround it. It’s recommended to join a guided tour (many groups in the scenic area) to learn about the ingenious "ox intestine" drainage system design.

12:30-14:00 Must-Try Farmhouse Cuisine
🍲 Deyuelou, located right by Moon Pond, is highly recommended. Try the stinky mandarin fish and cured meat bamboo shoot pot. Around 60 RMB per person; the second-floor viewing seats fill up quickly, so arrive early～

14:00-17:00 In-Depth Check-In Route
▶️ Visit Jingdetang to see Huizhou’s three carvings (stone, brick, wood)
▶️ Take photos at Shurentang’s popular lotus window frame
▶️ Pray at the ancient red and white trees (filming location of the movie "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon")

✨Tips to Avoid Detours
1. After 4 PM, fewer tour groups mean better photo opportunities
2. Wearing Hanfu or plain-colored dresses matches the scenery better (rentals available in the scenic area)
3. Nanhu and Moon Pond are the core spots; prioritize if short on time
4. Wear non-slip shoes on rainy days! The bluestone paths are slippery

🚗 Transportation Guide
There is a direct shuttle bus from Huangshan North Station (1.5 hours / 30 RMB), with the last return bus at 6:00 PM. To catch the morning mist and sunset, it’s recommended to stay in a local guesthouse inside the scenic area (recommended: Shilili Hotel, where opening the window reveals an ink-wash painting).