Located in southern Anhui Province‘s Huangshan City, Huangshan (literally ‘Yellow Mountains’) stands out as one of China’s most renowned national parks. In 1990, Huangshan was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Huangshan does not derive its Chinese name ‘Yellow Mountains’ from the color yellow but rather from the legend that the area was renamed after the mythical Yellow Emperor (Huang Di). The Yellow Emperor considered the Chinese people’s legendary ancestor, resided in Huangshan, where he refined the elixirs of immortality and ultimately transformed into a supernatural being.

Huangshan is renowned for its spectacular jagged peaks, a picturesque sea of clouds, unique snow-covered tops, and oddly shaped pines.

There are four cableways to different destinations in Huangshan: Taiping Cableway, Yungu Cableway, Yuping Cableway, and Xihai Grand Canyon Sightseeing Cable Car. Taking a cable car is an excellent option for those who want to save energy. However, it’s important to note that the Xihai Grand Canyon Sightseeing Cable Car is closed for winter maintenance from December to March every year.

Alternatively, hikers can choose from three possible routes to reach the top of the Huangshan. The Eastern Stairs is the more accessible and popular route, taking about three hours. The Western Stairs are steeper and longer, taking around five hours. The Xihai Grand Canyon route is a challenging and rewarding hike, taking about seven hours round trip through rugged terrain.

Near the southwestern slope of the Huangshan Mountains, Hongcun Village is a 900-year-old village renowned as “the ancient village in Chinese paintings.” Many travelers visit this beautiful village before or after their Huangshan trip.

Upon arriving at Hongcun Village, you will be impressed by a charming landscape: mists, gray tiles, white walls, stone bridges, water lily ponds, and verdant hills in the background. The famous film Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon scenes were filmed in Hongcun.

Hongcun Village retains its tranquil vibe and unique ancient Hui-style architecture. More than 140 Anhui-style houses were built during the Ming and Qing dynasties. The buildings’ plain and elegant colors, delicate and elegant carvings on their roofs, and tasteful furnishings in their interiors demonstrate the unique and exquisite style of Anhui architecture.

Xidi Village, located about 10 km south of Hongcun Village, is another famous ancient village showcasing well-preserved architecture. For those who prefer less crowded destinations, Xidi Village is an alternative to Hongcun.

Xidi Village boasts 124 well-preserved wooden houses featuring exquisite wood, brick, and stone carvings. Flowers, birds, and beasts were carved on the marble doorframes, while pavilions, human figures, and scenes from local operas were engraved on the engraved bricks.

In 2000, Hongcun and Xidi Village became UNESCO World Heritage Sites.