Nestled in the embrace of the mountains in Zhejiang province lies a thousand-year-old ancient village known as “a place where the clouds are so deep that it’s unknown” – Xiazhang Ancient Village. This ancient village is like a brilliant pearl, embedded in the lush green mountains, waiting for fortunate visitors to explore.
The Charm of the Thousand-Year-Old Village
Xiazhang Ancient Village is located in the northwest of Longquan City, Zhejiang Province, just 6 kilometers away from the city center. It has a history of more than a thousand years and is an ancient village that integrates natural scenery, historical culture, and human landscapes. According to legend, the village got its name “Xiazhang” because of a thousand-year-old camphor tree at the southern entrance of the village. The village is shrouded in clouds and mist all year round, making it feel like a fairyland that captivates visitors.
🚌 To get to Xiazhang Ancient Village, you can choose to take a high-speed train or bus to Longquan City and then transfer to a local bus or taxi. As the ancient village is located in a mountainous area, it is recommended that self-driving tourists plan their routes in advance to ensure a safe and smooth arrival.
The Historical and Cultural Heritage of the Ancient Village
Xiazhang Ancient Village has a long history and a deep cultural heritage. It was once a refuge for Emperor Huizong of the Northern Song Dynasty and a temporary palace for the last two princes of the Southern Song Dynasty. The famous scholar Guan Shifu of the Song Dynasty once lived in seclusion here, describing the tranquil and beautiful pastoral life with the poem “The white clouds in the valley are endless, and the clear moon in the pond leaves no trace of fishing.”
As you stroll through the ancient village, you can see dozens of ancient houses from the Ming and Qing dynasties scattered along the cobblestone streets, with carved beams and painted rafters displaying a simple and elegant style. In addition, the village has preserved ancient relics from the Song Dynasty, such as Baiyun Temple, Baishui Bridge, and Yunwu Academy, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful scenery while experiencing a strong historical and cultural atmosphere.
The Natural Scenery of the Ancient Village
Xiazhang Ancient Village is situated in a half-mountain depression at the top of the “Double Dragon Flying Waterfall,” surrounded by mountains on all sides. From a distance, the village is shrouded in clouds and mist, creating a picturesque scene.
As you stroll through the ancient village, you can feel the fresh air and tranquil atmosphere, as if you have entered a secluded paradise. Following the uphill path leading to the Song Dynasty relic Baiyun Temple and passing by Yunwu Academy, you can reach the top and overlook the entire village, truly appreciating the meaning of “homes hidden deep in the white clouds.”
Moreover, the Baiyun Rock Scenic Area in the north of the village is also worth a visit. It features waterfalls, cliffs, and thousand-year-old ancient houses, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty while experiencing the unique charm of the ancient village.
The Specialty Cuisine of the Ancient Village
In addition to admiring the scenery and experiencing the historical and cultural heritage, tasting the local specialty cuisine is also a great pleasure when visiting Xiazhang Ancient Village. The cuisine here mainly consists of farmhouse dishes with unique flavors that linger in your memory.
You can savor delicacies made from local ingredients such as wild mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and free-range chicken, experiencing the gifts of nature. Moreover, there are many farmhouse restaurants and snack stalls in the ancient village, allowing you to fully enjoy the delights brought by food while exploring.
Travel Suggestions for the Ancient Village
- ✅ Best time to visit: Xiazhang Ancient Village is suitable for visiting all year round, but spring and autumn have pleasant weather and beautiful scenery, making them the best seasons to visit.
- ✅ Clothing suggestions: As the ancient village is located in a mountainous area, the temperature difference between day and night is significant. It is recommended that tourists wear comfortable and easy-to-move clothing and bring a jacket for unexpected needs.
- ✅ Points to note: During your visit, please respect the local customs and historical and cultural heritage, and do not arbitrarily damage ancient buildings or the natural environment. At the same time, please pay attention to safety and follow the guidance of tour guides and local villagers.
Xiazhang Ancient Village is a charming and mysterious thousand-year-old village that attracts countless visitors with its unique natural scenery, historical culture, and human landscapes. Here, you can feel the tranquil and harmonious atmosphere and appreciate the unique charm of the ancient village. We believe that you will have an unforgettable journey here!
