Hongcun exudes ancient flavor

Cycling on a country road near Hongcun Village. [Photo/chinadaily.com.cn-by Liu Donghui]

Early summer scenery of South lake in Hongcun Village. [Photo/chinadaily.com.cn-by Liu Donghui]

For a taste of ancient China, go to Hongcun in Anhui province, which has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There, you will find a cluster of ancient villages with exceptionally well-preserved Anhui-style architectures, dating back to the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties.

Visitors can walk into the traditional rural settlements, for a breathtaking view of magnificent buildings, which have largely disappeared or transformed during the past century. The scene is so picturesque that it has earned Hongcun the reputation of “villages out of a Chinese painting”.

Near Hongcun sits Zilu Temple, another favorite among visitors and pilgrims. The left mountain of the temple is shaped like a dragon while the right one looks like a white tiger.

Another interesting site to visit is the residence of Sai Jinhua, a famous courtesan in the late Qing Dynasty to learn more about the legendary but very controversial figure. Sai was sold to a brothel at a young age but her life changed when she married a well-connected scholar, Hong Jun. She traveled to many parts of Europe with her husband and led a fanciful life. But she was kicked out of family when her husband died prematurely. Sai was later imprisoned for a suicide case, remarried once and died in destitute in 1936.

Moon Pond in Hongcun Village. [Photo/chinadaily.com.cn-by Liu Donghui]

Travel tips

Recommended cycling rout: Hongcun parking area ---- Qishu Lake Vacation Village --- Zilu Temple --- Former residence of Sai Jinhua --- Xiuli Movie and TV Village --- Yixian County urban area (for lunch) --- Wuli Village --- Nanping Village --- Guanli Village --- Drum-beating Ridge --- Return.

Estimated duration: The 90 km-journey takes one day.

Best season for cycling: Mid-March to mid-April is the best time to cycle in Hongcun, when the village is decorated with cole flowers, peach blossom and peony. Visitors get to enjoy the colors of autumn in September and October.

Bicycle rental: Rent a bicycle at 50 yuan ($8) per day. The Qishu Fairyland Zhongkun International Hotel Mountain also rent out mountain bikes at 100 yuan per day.

Reminder: Roads are generally good for cycling. Bring sunscreen, just in case. Cycling is not allowed within the Hongcun village.