Jian Zhao
📌 Quick Guide – What's Inside
I've lost count of how many times I've walked these stone-paved lanes. Each visit to Xidi Ancient Village feels like stepping into a living ink painting – white walls, grey tiles, horse-head gables, and narrow alleys that whisper centuries of Huizhou merchant history. But here's the thing most guides won't tell you: the magic happens after 4 PM, when the day-trippers vanish.
Why Visit Xidi Ancient Village Instead of Hongcun?
Both are UNESCO World Heritage sites, and they're only 20 minutes apart. But Xidi feels more authentic and less commercialized. While Hongcun has become a photography hotspot (thanks to its moon pond and Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon fame), Xidi retains a quieter, lived-in atmosphere. You'll see locals drying chili peppers in courtyards, elderly men playing chess under arches, and fewer selfie sticks. If you want to experience Huizhou culture without the carnival vibe, Xidi is your spot.
How to Get to Xidi Ancient Village
Getting here is straightforward, but timing is everything. Here's the route I recommend to every traveler.
From Huangshan Tunxi International Airport (TXN)
Take a taxi to Huangshan Tourism Bus Center (about 20 minutes, ~50 CNY). From there, catch the direct bus to Xidi (departs hourly, 1 hour, 30 CNY). Alternatively, arrange a private transfer through your hotel – expect around 250-300 CNY for a car.
From Huangshan North Station (High-Speed Rail)
Exit the station and follow signs to the bus terminal (inside the station). Take bus line 1 to Yixian County Bus Station (1 hour, 20 CNY). Then transfer to the local minibus to Xidi (last leg, 20 minutes, 5 CNY). Total travel time: about 2 hours. Pro tip: the last direct bus from Xidi back to the station leaves at 5:30 PM – don't miss it, or you'll pay 150 CNY for a taxi.
By Taxi or Ride-Hailing App
From downtown Tunxi, it's about 1 hour and costs 180-220 CNY via Didi. I prefer this when I'm with luggage or after a long flight.
Xidi Ancient Village Tickets & Opening Hours
| Category | Price (CNY) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adult | 104 | Includes all main attractions |
| Student (with valid ID) | 52 | Full-time students under 24 |
| Senior (60-65) | 52 | Show passport/ID |
| Senior (65+) | Free | Must show ID |
| Child (1.2m-1.4m) | 52 | Under 1.2m free |
Opening Hours: 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM (last entry at 5:00 PM). No separate winter/summer schedule – they stick to this year-round. Reservation required? Not usually – you can buy at the gate. But during Chinese holidays (May Day, National Day), I strongly recommend booking online via WeChat mini-program “Xidi Ancient Village Official” or on Trip.com to skip queues.
Best Time to Visit Xidi Ancient Village
April–June and September–October offer the best weather: mild temperatures and blooming flowers. But here's my hard-earned advice: avoid Chinese national holidays like the plague. The village gets so packed you can barely see the stone carvings. Instead, aim for a weekday in late October – the autumn light paints the horse-head gables gold, and the harvest season means you'll see peppers and corn drying in every courtyard.
Top Attractions Inside Xidi Ancient Village
Huizhou Architecture & Alleyways
Don't just follow the main street. Get lost. The side alleys reveal hidden courtyards, ancient wells, and resident calligraphers. My favorite is Lane of the 99 Doors – a narrow passage where you can still see original carved windows from the Ming Dynasty.
Main Halls (Tang)
The village has several ancestral halls. Dafu Di (Grand Master's Residence) is the most impressive – check out the intricate wood carvings on the beams. They depict scenes from the Journey to the West. Entry is included in the ticket.
Sculpture Garden
Near the west exit, there's a small garden with stone sculptures of zodiac animals. It's a bit touristy, but kids love it. Free.
Where to Stay Near Xidi Ancient Village
I recommend staying inside the village for at least one night. The atmosphere after dark – when the red lanterns glow and the crowds have gone – is pure magic. Plus, you get to hear the roosters in the morning.
| Accommodation | Type | Price Range (CNY/night) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Three Corners Inn | Boutique Guesthouse | 350-600 | Converted Ming-era home, English-speaking host, rooftop view. Book via Booking.com. |
| Xidi Family Hotel | Budget Hostel | 120-200 | Dorm beds available, basic but clean. Good for solo backpackers. Cash only – no card. |
| Yixian Huayuan B&B | Mid-range B&B | 400-700 | Outside the village gate, quieter, with a lovely garden. Owner can arrange calligraphy workshops. |
Warning: Many guesthouses inside do not have elevators (traditional buildings). If you have heavy luggage, ask the owner to help carry it. Wi-Fi is generally stable, but don't expect super fast speeds.
Where to Eat: Authentic Huizhou Cuisine
Huizhou food is salty, rich, and uses a lot of preserved meats. You'll find the best dishes at Old Alley Kitchen (near the South Gate). I always order stinky tofu with bamboo shoots (yes, it smells – but tastes incredible) and Huizhou braised duck. Prices: 40-80 CNY per dish. Cash or WeChat Pay only – no cards. They have a picture menu, so you can point. Peak dinner hours (6-7 PM) might require a 20-minute wait.
How to Avoid Crowds in Xidi Ancient Village
Secret: Enter from the west side. Most tour buses park at the main (south) entrance. If you enter through the smaller west gate (a 5-minute walk from the main road), you'll have the first two alleys almost to yourself. Also, visit on a Tuesday or Wednesday. Mondays are busy because many Chinese attractions close, so tourists flock here. Start your day at 7:30 AM – the morning light is beautiful and you'll beat every group.
Xidi vs Hongcun: Which One Should You Choose?
Short answer: Both if you have time (they're 20 minutes apart). But if you have to pick one: Xidi for authenticity, Hongcun for iconic photos. I take my photography clients to Hongcun at sunrise (to avoid crowds), then stroll Xidi for lunch and a relaxed afternoon.
Frequently Asked Questions about Xidi Ancient Village
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