Xidi Village is an original and well preserved traditional Chinese village that features Anhui-style architecture dating to the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) and 3,611 Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). It was founded in the Northern Song Dynasty Huangyou Period (960-1127) and further developed in the middle of the Ming Dynasty and early Qing Dynasty era.
Xidi is located in Yixian County of Anhui and many regard it as one of the most beautiful villages in the world featuring over 300 Ming and Qing dynasty residences along with its classical streets and laneways.
Xidi Village Highlights
Hu Wenguang Memorial Archway
The decorated archway featuring depictions of the Eight Immortals was built during the Ming dynasty (1368 – 1644) in memory of Hu Wenguang, a Ming officer.
Da Fu Grand House
A Hu family residence. It was built in the Kangxi Period of Qing Dynasty (1691
A.D.).
East Garden
Featuring main hall, front hall, and a study room that dates back the Yongzheng Period of Qing Dynasty (1724 A.D.)
West Garden
A classical Suzhou style garden that was built in the fourth year of Daoguang Period of Qing Dynasty (1824 A.D.).
Facts
- Chinese Name: 西递村古建筑群
- UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site
- National 5A rated attraction
- Location: Yi County, Anhui
- Open Hours: 08:00~18:00
- Tickets: 104 Yuan per person
Visiting Xidi Village
Time: between 4-6 hours
The main road runs in an east-west direction and is flanked by two parallel streets. Getting into the village, you’ll see Lingyun Attic, Hu Wenguang’s Memorial Archway, Ruiyu Courtyard, Taoli Garden, East Garden, West Garden, Dafu Grand Hall, Jing’ai Hall, Lvfu Hall, Qingyun Pavilion, Yingfu Hall, Dujing Hall, Yanggao Hall, Shangde Hall, etc. Following the main zig-zaggy road from west to east and you’ll explore all the essentials of Xidi Ancient Village.
Local Specialties
- Huangshan Maofeng Tea – is one of China’s ten famous teas.
- Laba Toufu (bean curd) – a famous specialty of the region that even has a festival in its honor. Noted for its chewiness and saltiness.
- Salted Mandarin Fish – local fresh fish that is preserved using the salt technique that dates back over two hundred years.
Getting to Xidi Village
From Yixian: Yixian Bus Station has services to Xidi Ancient Village. A taxi will only take around 14 minutes and 20 RMB.
From Hongcun Village to Xidi Village: Sightseeing buses depart from the South Lake Parking Lot at 08:00, 09:00, 10:00, 11:00, 13:00, 14:00, 15:00 and 16:00. It takes about 20 minutes from Hongcun to Xidi.
From Huangshan downtown area to Xidi: Sightseeing buses are available in Huangshan/Tunxi Bus Station (黄山汽车站). Buses run from 8:00-16:00.
From Tangkou (Mt. Huangshan) to Xidi: There is a bus station located in Mount Huangshan Front Gate. Buses depart from 10:00 and 15:30. Travel time is around 1 hour. Alternatively, you should be able to take a taxi which takes around 45 minutes and costs around 100 RMB.
Stay in Xidi Village
There is limited accommodation so be sure to book in advance especially during holiday periods.
In the village
Muran Guesthouse – Foreign visitor friendly. A classical courtyard style with modern fittings. Located in the village.
In Huangshan/Tunxi Downtown
Crowne Plaza – Outside of peak holiday times you can get amazing rates at this five-star branded hotel.
Huazhu Chenguangli River View – settled within an ancient Hui style building with a modern fit-out the guest house offers English speaking staff and restaurant.
Nearby Attractions
- Hongcun Ancient Village (10 km)
- Huangshan Tunxi downtown (54 km)
- Mt. Huangshan Scenic Area (38 km)
- Huizhou Ancient City (70 km)
Map Location