Xidi Village Travel Guide: Discover Ancient Huizhou Culture

Tucked away in the lush hills of southern Anhui Province, Xidi Village is a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers international travelers a rare glimpse into China’s Ming and Qing dynasty architecture and rural life. Located about 40 kilometers from the city of Huangshan (formerly known as Tunxi), Xidi is often paired with nearby Hongcun Village as one of the best-preserved ancient villages in China. This guide provides practical advice for visiting Xidi, helping you plan a smooth and memorable trip.

Why Visit Xidi Village?

Xidi is not just a collection of old buildings—it is a living museum of Huizhou culture. Established over 900 years ago during the Song Dynasty, the village flourished during the Ming and Qing dynasties thanks to successful Huizhou merchants who returned home to build elaborate homes, ancestral halls, and archways. Walking the cobblestone streets, you will see:

• Ornate residential houses with black-tiled roofs and whitewashed walls
• Intricate wood, stone, and brick carvings adorning doorways and beams
• Ancient archways (paifang) erected to honor virtuous scholars and officials
• A serene lotus pond and winding streams that mirror the village’s classic layout

Unlike many tourist attractions, Xidi remains a living community. Local residents still live in these historic homes, selling handmade souvenirs or serving simple meals, so the atmosphere feels authentic rather than staged.

How to Get to Xidi Village

From Huangshan City (Tunxi)

Most travelers fly into Huangshan Tunxi International Airport (TXN) or take the high-speed train to Huangshan North Railway Station. From there:

1. Bus: Take a direct tourist bus from Tunxi Bus Station to Xidi. The journey takes about 1 hour.
2. Private car or taxi: A comfortable option if you are traveling with luggage or in a small group. Arrange through your hotel or a travel agency. The drive takes roughly 50 minutes.
3. Tour package: Many international travel operators include Xidi as part of a multi-day tour of the Huangshan region. This can save time on logistics.

If you are coming directly from the Huangshan Scenic Area (mountain), it is about a 1.5-hour drive southwest.

Combining with Hongcun Village

Xidi and Hongcun are only about 20 kilometers apart. Most visitors see both in one day. You can take a local bus or hire a driver to take you between them. A typical day trip starts in Xidi in the morning, then heads to Hongcun in the afternoon.

Best Time to Visit Xidi

The busiest periods are Chinese public holidays (especially National Day in early October and Spring Festival). If you can, visit on a weekday to enjoy the village at a slower pace.

What to See and Do in Xidi

1. Walk the Main Street and Side Alleys

The village is built along a central stream, with narrow alleyways branching off. Simply wander and soak in the atmosphere. You will pass:

• Dafu Di (大府第): The former residence of a high-ranking official
• Jingai Hall (敬爱堂): A grand ancestral hall used for ceremonies
• Liangxiang Pavilion (良香楼): A fine example of Huizhou residential architecture

2. Photograph the Iconic Archways

Xidi is famous for its three stone archways, or paifang. The most photographed is the Hu Wenguang Archway (also called the “Archway of Loyalty and Filial Piety”) at the village entrance. These structures were built to commemorate local scholars and officials who brought honor to their family.

3. Visit the Ancestral Halls

Huizhou culture places great importance on clan lineage. The Rangli Hall and Tingzai Hall are two beautifully preserved ancestral halls where families once held meetings, weddings, and ancestor worship ceremonies. Notice the elaborate carvings depicting scenes from Chinese folklore.

4. Climb the Small Hill for a Panorama

Just outside the village, a short uphill path leads to a viewpoint above Xidi. From here, you can see the entire village layout—a harmonious arrangement of black-tiled roofs set against green mountains. This is a fantastic spot for sunrise or sunset photography.

5. Try Local Huizhou Cuisine

Don’t leave without tasting Huizhou-style dishes. Look for:

• Stinky Mandarin Fish (臭鳜鱼): A pungent but delicious fermented fish, a regional specialty
• Mao Tofu (毛豆腐): Fermented tofu covered in a white mold; crispy on the outside, creamy inside
• Bamboo Shoots with Pork: A simple, earthy dish highlighting fresh bamboo shoots
• Huishan Sesame Cake: A sweet sesame-flavored pastry

Many small family-run restaurants along the main street serve these dishes. Prices are generally reasonable.

6. Stay Overnight (Optional)

Although Xidi can be visited as a day trip from Huangshan city, staying overnight allows you to experience the village after the day-trippers leave. A handful of guesthouses (minsu) operate inside the village, offering simple rooms in converted historic homes. Waking up to the sound of birds and the scent of woodsmoke is unforgettable.

Practical Travel Tips

• Admission fee: An entrance ticket is required. Check official tourism websites for current prices (usually around 100–150 RMB). Keep your ticket handy—it may be checked at several points inside the village.
• Opening hours: The village is open daily from about 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM (hours may vary by season). Guesthouse guests can enter earlier or later.
• Footwear: Cobblestones can be uneven and slippery when wet. Wear comfortable walking shoes with good grip.
• Language: English is not widely spoken in the village. A translation app or a phrasebook will help with ordering food or asking directions.
• Cash: While mobile payment (WeChat Pay, Alipay) is common, some small vendors only accept cash. Bring a small amount of RMB.
• Bathrooms: Public toilets are available near the entrance and along the main street. Carry your own toilet paper and hand sanitizer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How much time should I spend in Xidi? A: Most visitors spend 2–3 hours exploring the village. If you combine Xidi and Hongcun in one day, allocate about 4–5 hours total, including travel between them.

Q: Is Xidi very crowded? A: Compared to Hongcun, Xidi is generally quieter and less commercialized. It still gets busy during Chinese holidays, but on normal days you can enjoy a more relaxed visit.

Q: Can I take photos inside the historic houses? A: Photography is usually allowed inside the halls and homes, but some areas may restrict flash photography to protect fragile carvings. Always respect posted signs.

Q: Are there English-speaking guides available? A: Yes, you can hire a local guide at the ticket office for a small fee. Guides can explain the history and symbolism of the buildings. Alternatively, consider joining a small-group tour that includes an English-speaking guide.

Q: What other attractions are near Xidi? A: Besides Hongcun, the Mu Keng Bamboo Sea and Tachuan Autumn Scenic Area are within a short drive. The Huangshan (Yellow Mountain) Scenic Area is about 50 kilometers away, perfect for a follow-up adventure.

Conclusion

Xidi Village offers a serene and deeply cultural escape from China’s bustling cities. Its well-preserved architecture, living Huizhou traditions, and tranquil rural setting make it a highlight of any trip to the Anhui region. Whether you spend a few hours or a full day, the village will leave you with lasting memories of ancient China. For a complete experience, consider visiting during spring or autumn, and pair Xidi with a trip to the majestic Huangshan mountain range.