Xidi Travel Guide

Discover the culturally rich and picturesque village of Xidi in Anhui, China with our comprehensive travel guide. Explore the must-visit places, hike or bike through scenic routes, indulge in local cuisine, and learn about the customs and culture of Xidi.


Introduction to Xidi

Xidi is a tiny and charming village in the foothills of Huangshan mountain range, located in Anhui Province in China. Known for its well-preserved and centuries-old Huizhou-style architecture, the village has been recognized by UNESCO as part of the World Heritage site ‘Ancient Villages in Southern Anhui’. Xidi is also famous for its rich cultural heritage, with numerous landmarks from the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties that reflect the lifestyle and customs of the local residents.

List of Places to Visit in Xidi

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Xidi Ancient House Complex

The Xidi Ancient House Complex is considered one of the most impressive living examples of the Huizhou-style architecture. The houses were built during the Song Dynasty (960-1279) and have since undergone renovations to maintain their original design. Today, the attached courtyards are regarded as one of the most stunning representations of the Huizhou culture as the fortifications display methods of architecture unique to this cultural region.

Memorial Hall of Patriotic Poet Huangshan Xie

Huangshan Xie is a popular patriotic figure from the late Qing Dynasty, who is considered the patron of Xidi village. The Memorial Hall is dedicated to him and contains several exhibitions displaying his life and works.

Qingyun Peak Scenic Area

Qingyun Peak offers stunning views of the Huangshan mountain range, and also has numerous historic landmarks, including an ancient temple nestled amidst the stunning natural landscape. Visitors can hike up the Qingyun Peak to take in the grand view.

Natural Attractions of Xidi: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Moon Pond

Moon Pond is a serene and tranquil natural location, famous for its scenic beauty throughout Xidi. The area is surrounded by dense forests with flourishing flora that is visible during spring and autumn.

Nanping Hill

Nanping Hill is located outside the Xin’an River in the northeast of Xidi Village, and is a popular location for hiking, with a view of ancient villages and lush green landscapes.

Hongcun Village

Hongcun Village is another UNESCO World Heritage Site and is located near Xidi village. The location earned acclaim as a stunning example of ancient Anhui Huizhou-style architecture and is a must-visit for anyone exploring the area.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Xidi

Huangshan Mountain

Huangshan Mountain, located a few hours from Xidi, is regarded as the best mountain range in China with ample opportunities for trekking and cycling. Travelers can embark on a journey to the mountain range and behold the stunning valleys of Anhui Province, until its peak 1,860 meters above sea level as they take a glimpse of the forested ridges and peaks.

Xin’anjiang Scenic Area

Xin’anjiang Scenic Area is another prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts, and visitors can enjoy hiking, water activities like boat rides, and even explore local villages.

Best Things to Do in Xidi: Activities and Tours

Huizhou Ancient Towns Tour

Join a guided Huizhou ancient town tour to Xidi and other historic villages to learn first-hand about the unique culture and history of the area.

Tea Culture Tour

Get a taste of the vibrant tea culture of Anhui by embarking on a tea culture tour, which includes sampling different teas and visiting tea gardens throughout the region.

Week-Long Itinerary for Xidi

A week in Xidi can be a relaxing and enjoyable experience, giving plenty of opportunity to explore the village and its surroundings. Here is an ideal itinerary for a week in Xidi:

Day Activities
1 Arrival and check into accommodation
2 Explore Xidi Ancient House Complex and Huangshan Xie’s Memorial Hall
3 Visit Qingyun Peak Scenic Area and Moon Pond
4 Hike up Nanping Hill
5 Take a day trip to Hongcun Village
6 Venture out to nearby Xin’anjiang Scenic Area for outdoor activities
7 Optional day trip to Huangshan Mountain or join a tea culture tour.

Food and Drink Scene of Xidi

Must-Try Dishes

Huizhou Cuisine

Delight your tastebuds with Huizhou cuisine, which boasts a distinctive flavor with a focus on using locally sourced ingredients. Famous dishes include Qingyan Tofu, Hengshan Banyan Tree Beef, and Huizhou Stinky Tofu.

Local Beverages

Huangshan Maofeng Tea

Huangshan Maofeng tea is a high-quality green tea grown and harvested from the slopes of Huangshan Mountain, featuring a light and refreshing taste.

Where to Stay in Xidi: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Visitors can choose from a range of affordable and comfortable accommodations in Xidi, from traditional guesthouses to modern hotels. Some of the best options include Xidi Langting Inn, Xidi Yunju Guesthouse, and Xidi Mark’s Hostel.

What to Buy in Xidi: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Take home a piece of Xidi with a unique handiwork souvenir or a traditional Huizhou-style handicraft like Huizhou wood carvings or ink blocks.

Local Culture and Customs of Xidi

Xidi retains strong traditional customs and has a deep appreciation for ancient culture, which is reflected in the famous Huizhou-style architecture and festivals such as the Chrysanthemum festival.

Best Time to Visit Xidi

Spring (April to May) and Autumn (October to November) are the best times to visit Xidi, as the weather is pleasant and mild, with many attractive sights to explore:

Do’s and Don’ts of Xidi

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Dress appropriately for the weather and culture.
  • Try the local cuisine of Xidi and Huizhou.

Don’t:

  • Take photos of people without their consent.
  • Litter or damage cultural landmarks.
  • Bring valuables or wear expensive jewelry while out and about.

Safety and Health

Safety in Xidi

Xidi is a safe location for travelers, with low crime rates and friendly locals who are willing to help. However, like every place, it’s essential to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety.

Health in Xidi

Make sure to stay hydrated and bring your medication with you. Also, be mindful of food allergies and insect bites, and be sure to carry insect repellent and antihistamines.

Getting to Xidi: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Xidi

The nearest airport to Xidi is Huangshan Tunxi International Airport, located around 80 kilometers away, and is well-connected to major cities in China.

Bus Stations Near Xidi

Visitors can take a bus from the Huangshan Bus Station or the Tunxi Long-distance Bus Station to reach Xidi. The journey takes around two hours.

Other Options

Taxis, private cars, and rental cars are other options to get around the area.

How to Get Around in Xidi

The village is small and compact, so getting around on foot is the best option to explore everything Xidi has to offer. Alternatively, rent a bike or e-bike to explore the outskirts of the village.

Where to Go Next from Xidi: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Huangshan Mountain

Huangshan Mountain is a must-visit destination near Xidi, featuring breath-taking natural scenery and cultural heritage sites.

Tunxi Old Town

Tunxi Old Town in Huangshan is an ancient town with a rich history and culture, including museums, temples, and stores selling unique handicrafts.

Conclusion

Xidi is an ideal destination for travelers looking to explore ancient Chinese culture, architecture and outdoor activities amidst stunning natural scenery. The village’s unique cultural heritage and traditions, combined with its natural beauty, make it a must-visit destination in China. Explore the village’s charming alleys, hike the scenic routes and indulge in local cuisine to make your visit memorable!

An arch in Xidi An arch in Xidi