Hidden Paradise Xixinan, the Millennial Charm of Huizhou Ancient City, Spring Road Trip Day 7

Huizhou, anciently known as Shezhou or Xin'an, traces its history back to 589 AD when Emperor Wen of Sui established Shezhou. In 1121, Emperor Huizong of Song renamed it Huizhou, governing six counties—She, Yi, Xiuning, Qimen, Jixi, and Wuyuan—forming the "one prefecture, six counties" structure. In 1987, Huizhou was renamed Huangshan City, with Jixi County transferred to Xuancheng, yet the name "Huizhou" endures as a cultural symbol. Nestled at the junction of Anhui, Zhejiang, and Jiangxi, Huizhou's landscape is "80% mountains, 10% water, and 10% farmland," with the Xin'an River system weaving through, creating a harmonious blend of mountains, water, and fields. Historically, scarce arable land spurred the rise of Huizhou merchants, whose influence spread nationwide. Huizhou unfolds like an ink-wash scroll—a poetic tapestry of nature and culture. White-walled, black-tiled houses dot emerald hills, while horse-head gables sketch flowing skylines like brushstrokes. Timeworn flagstone lanes wind through villages, each stone bearing centuries of history. "For lifelong enchantment, one need not dream—just come to Huizhou." Tucked away in southern Anhui's verdant landscapes lies the little-known ancient village of Xixinan. Established in the Tang Dynasty and flourishing during the Ming-Qing period, it retains its original ecology with over a dozen historic structures—pavilions, towers, and residences—alongside thousand-year-old trees and century-old osmanthus. Free to enter, it's hailed as a real-life "Secret Garden." Stepping into Xixinan, the Fengle River meanders like a jade ribbon, framing the village in timeless grace. A canopy of ancient trees stretches across acres, dappled sunlight filtering through leaves as silver streams thread the woods. Spring breathes life into tender buds and riverside wildflowers. The village's orderly layout of aged dwellings, with their weathered bricks and tiles, whispers tales of yore. Exquisite brick carvings of flora and fauna adorn lintels, echoing past prosperity. Flagstone paths, polished smooth by centuries of footsteps, lead through serene alleys. Here, time slows, allowing visitors to shed worldly cares and immerse in this poetic Jiangnan haven. Huizhou Ancient City, located in She County's Huicheng Town (25km from Shendu Town), spans 24.7 square kilometers and ranks among China's four best-preserved ancient cities. Founded in the Qin Dynasty, it served as the seat of Huizhou's prefectural government since the Tang era, featuring a unique "city-within-city" layout. Nestled by mountains and encircled by shimmering rivers, stepping into the city is like entering a three-dimensional historical scroll. Ancient streets, towering memorial arches, and exquisite residences narrate its glorious past. White-and-black Huizhou architecture lines narrow lanes, with tiered gables composing a living ink painting. At dusk, lanterns illuminate timeworn streets, tracing the city's gentle silhouette. The Xu Guoshi Memorial Archway, erected in 1584 east of Yanghe Gate, commemorates Ming scholar Xu Guo's suppression of a Yunnan rebellion. Nicknamed "Eight-Legged Archway," it's hailed as the "Oriental Arc de Triomphe." The Huizhou Prefectural Office, built during the Yuan-Ming transition, retains its 15th-century axial layout with five gates, including the South Bell Tower, ceremonial gate, and magistrate's residence—often called "a miniature Forbidden City." Doushan Street epitomizes Huizhou culture with its cluster of ancient homes, carvings, wells, and arches along narrow flagstone paths flanked by elegant architecture. The South Bell Tower, originally built in the Sui Dynasty as a princely gate, now stands as a majestic Ming-Qing era landmark with a vaulted passage and towering pavilion. Wandering these streets feels like traversing millennia, conversing with history. Huizhou cuisine mirrors its culture—profound and refined. Known for rich aromas and delicate flavors, its iconic "stinky mandarin fish" delights with fermented tang and tender charcoal-grilled flesh, irresistible bite after bite. Huizhou Ancient City, with its millennial legacy, architectural splendor, cultural depth, and lyrical landscapes, is a "living history museum." No fleeting visit suffices—every corner invites contemplation, every moment lingers in memory.