Xidi Village in Huangshan

Xidi Ancient Village, Anhui: Step Into a Living Ink Painting of Huizhou

Name in Chinese: 西递村 (Xīdì cūn)

Location: Xidi village is located in Yi County, Huangshan City, Anhui Province, China, approximately 40 km from Huangshan Mountain.

For travelers seeking China's ancient traditions and serene aesthetics, Xidi Village, located at the southern foot of Huangshan, is a must-visit UNESCO World Heritage site. Free from commercial bustle, it preserves over 300 well-preserved Ming and Qing-era residences, offering a vivid glimpse into Huizhou life centered on clan, commerce, and Confucian culture - truly a living museum of traditional Chinese architecture.

Xidi Ancient Village – Key Sights & Must-Do Experiences

Visiting Xidi is a deep dive into architecture, culture, and nature, where every alley and courtyard tells a story.

1. Core Architectural Highlights

The village's charm lies in its meticulous layout and beautifully decorated residences, mainly along three main streets and over forty alleys:

• Hu Wenguang Memorial Archway: A striking stone arch at the village entrance, showcasing exquisite Ming-era      stone carving and marking Xidi's historic prestige.

• Jing'ai Hall: The central ancestral hall of the Hu clan, grand and culturally significant, offering insight into Huizhou clan traditions.

• Da Fu Residence & "Step Back and Reflect": A Qing dynasty official's residence featuring the famous inscription that embodies Huizhou philosophy of humility and courtesy - a thoughtful highlight.

• Zhui Mu Hall: An ancestral shrine with intricate carvings and a rich cultural atmosphere.

• West and East Gardens: Classic  Huizhou private gardens with rockeries, koi ponds, and ornate windows,      reflecting the refined lifestyle of ancient Huizhou merchants.

2. Must-Try Cultural Experiences

Xidi is a living heritage village, offering immersive activities:

• Traditional Craft Experience: At the Zhui Mu Hall folk art center, try printing "Fu"characters or scholar's plaques to create a unique keepsake.

• Huizhou Art & Performance: Watch authentic Huiju opera at the Zoumalo or old theater stage, or participate in interactive traditional wedding rituals.

• Unique Perspectives: Take a low-altitude helicopter tour for aerial views of the white-walled, black-tiled architecture woven with farmland.

• Immersive Night Tours: As dusk falls, the village lights illuminate the architecture, creating stunning night scenes. During holidays, you may witness lantern parades or drone light shows, adding a magical atmosphere.

Suggested Routes & Duration – Xidi Village

Xidi Village is moderate in size, making it perfect for exploring on foot.

Xidi Core Half-Day Tour(2–3 hours)      

Enter the village via Hu Wenguang Memorial Archway → Visit Jing'ai Hall → Stroll along the cobblestone main street, explore representative old houses such as Dafu Residence and Ruiyu Court → Wander through West Garden or East Garden → Optional: Visit the rear stream-viewing pavilion for panoramic village views.

Xidi In-Depth Full-Day Tour (5–6 hours)

Includes all highlights of the half-day tour plus more historic residences like Zhuimu Hall → Try a hands-on intangible heritage craft → Enjoy authentic Huizhou cuisine at lunch → Explore the alleys in the afternoon or relax at a riverside tea house or café → Stay for the evening village ambiance and night views.

Xidi + Hongcun Classic One-Day Tour(~9 hours)

Morning: Visit Hongcun Village and admire the picturesque South Lake and Moon Pond → Afternoon: Transfer to Xidi to experience its traditional Huizhou architecture and clan culture. A highly efficient route to experience the essence of Anhui's ancient villages.

Plan your transfer from Huangshan city: Huangshan to Hongcun & Xidi Private Car Rental | One-Day Transfer Service

Or check out a more detailed trip itinerary including Xidi village: Huangshan Tours & Trips – Private Experiences for Overseas Travelers

Luxury & Boutique Stays near Xidi Village

Banyan Tree Huangshan – Nestled in Lu Village between Xidi & Hongcun, this Huizhou-style resort offers panoramic mountain views, a full-service spa, swimming pool, and fine dining. Perfect for travelers seeking top-tier luxury and cultural immersion.

Xidi Qingyuan · Huìtáng No.1 Guesthouse – Restored from a century-old residence inside Xidi Village, it blends heritage charm with modern comforts. Guests can experience authentic ancient village life with attentive service.

Zhulan Bar (Xidi Branch) – On the edge of Xidi, this converted old oil factory has a rustic, artsy vibe with spacious common areas and curated collections. Ideal for those seeking a relaxed, creative atmosphere.

Tachuan Academy – Hidden in Tachuan Village, about 20 minutes from Xidi, this Zen-inspired boutique features a book bar and tea room, offering tranquil countryside views, especially spectacular in autumn.

Other Stays & Booking Tips

Xidi and nearby Yixian offer boutique inns in historic houses, usually small (5–10 rooms) with unique designs and attentive hosts.

Tips:

·       Book Early: Popular stays like Qingyuan, Zhulan Bar, and Banyan Tree Huangshan fill fast in spring, autumn, and holidays.

·       Check Location: Village stays offer quiet mornings/evenings but may require walking with luggage; outside the village is easier for parking.

·       Enjoy the Experience: Treat your stay as part of the Huizhou lifestyle—sip tea, read, and stroll the courtyards.