Jixi Longchuan Scenic Area

Historical Overview

The history of Longchuan Scenic Area can be traced back over a thousand years. It was originally established during the Tang Dynasty and gradually developed into a prosperous settlement. The Hu family, a prominent local clan, played a crucial role in its development. They built a series of elegant ancestral halls, bridges, and residential buildings, which still stand today as a testament to their architectural and cultural achievements. Throughout the Ming and Qing dynasties, Longchuan continued to thrive as a center of commerce and culture. Many scholars and officials hailed from this area, leaving behind a rich literary and artistic legacy. In modern times, Longchuan has been carefully preserved and restored, allowing visitors to experience its historical charm firsthand.

Structural Layout

Longchuan Scenic Area is laid out in a harmonious and organized manner, reflecting traditional Chinese feng shui principles. The area is centered around the Longchuan River, which meanders through the village, providing a lifeline and a scenic backdrop. The ancient buildings are arranged along the riverbanks and on the surrounding hills, creating a layered and visually appealing landscape.
The main structures can be divided into several categories:

• Ancestral Halls: These are the most prominent buildings in Longchuan, serving as places for the Hu family to worship their ancestors and hold family gatherings. The largest and most magnificent is the Tranquility and Harmony Ancestral Hall (Xu He Zong Ci), which features exquisite wood carvings, stone inscriptions, and a grand courtyard.
• Residential Buildings: The traditional residential houses in Longchuan are characterized by their white - walled and black - tiled exteriors, with intricate horse - head walls (ma tou qiang) that not only add to the aesthetic appeal but also serve a practical purpose in preventing fires from spreading.
• Bridges: There are several ancient bridges spanning the Longchuan River, such as the Rainbow Bridge (Cai Hong Qiao) and the Jade Belt Bridge (Yu Dai Qiao). These bridges not only facilitate transportation but also enhance the overall beauty of the scenic area.

Major Attractions

1. Tranquility and Harmony Ancestral Hall: This is the heart of Longchuan's cultural heritage. The hall's architecture is a masterpiece of traditional Chinese craftsmanship, with detailed wood carvings depicting historical stories, mythical creatures, and auspicious symbols. The stone courtyard in front of the hall is a great place to appreciate the overall grandeur of the building.
2. Hu Shixiang Former Residence: Hu Shixiang was a well - known figure in modern Chinese history. His former residence showcases a blend of traditional Chinese and Western architectural elements, reflecting the cultural exchanges during that period. Visitors can explore the various rooms, including the study, living room, and bedroom, to get a sense of his daily life.
3. Rainbow Bridge: As one of the most iconic bridges in Longchuan, the Rainbow Bridge is a single - arch stone bridge with a unique and elegant design. Standing on the bridge, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the river and the surrounding ancient buildings, making it a popular spot for photography.
4. Longchuan River Cruise: Taking a boat cruise along the Longchuan River is a must - do activity. As you glide through the calm waters, you can admire the ancient buildings on both sides of the river, the lush green hills in the background, and the occasional sight of local fishermen at work. It's a peaceful and relaxing way to experience the beauty of Longchuan.
5. Hu Family Memorial Archway: This is a symbol of the Hu family's honor and achievements. The archway is made of high - quality stone and features delicate carvings and inscriptions. It stands as a reminder of the family's long - standing influence in the area.

Suggested Itineraries

1. Half - Day Classic Route (3–4 hours):
   Start at the Tranquility and Harmony Ancestral Hall to immerse yourself in the area's rich cultural history. Then, stroll along the Longchuan River to the Rainbow Bridge. After crossing the bridge, visit the Hu Shixiang Former Residence to learn about modern Chinese history. Finally, take a short river cruise to end your half - day exploration.
   Highlights: Core cultural attractions and a taste of the river scenery.
2. One - Day In - Depth Route (6–7 hours):
   Begin your day at the Hu Family Memorial Archway to get an overview of the Hu family's significance. Next, visit the Tranquility and Harmony Ancestral Hall and spend some time exploring its various halls and courtyards. After that, walk along the river to see the traditional residential buildings and cross the Jade Belt Bridge. Have lunch at a local restaurant to savor authentic Anhui Cuisine. In the afternoon, visit the Hu Shixiang Former Residence and then take a longer river cruise to fully appreciate the natural beauty of the area.
   Highlights: A comprehensive exploration of both cultural and natural attractions, including a local dining experience.
3. Two - Day Leisurely Route:
   Day 1: Follow the one - day in - depth route in the morning and afternoon. In the evening, stay at a local guesthouse to experience the tranquility of the village at night. You can take a night walk along the river, enjoying the soft glow of the lanterns and the peaceful atmosphere.
   Day 2: Start the day with a visit to some of the less - known ancient buildings and temples in the area. Then, go hiking in the nearby hills to enjoy the fresh air and beautiful views. Have a picnic lunch in the hills and return to the village in the afternoon for some souvenir shopping.
   Highlights: A relaxed and immersive experience, allowing you to fully soak in the charm of Longchuan.

Ticket Purchase

• Online: You can book tickets in advance through various official tourism platforms or the official website of Longchuan Scenic Area. This is a convenient option as it allows you to skip the long queues at the ticket office. Online booking is usually available up to several days in advance.
• On - Site: Tickets can also be purchased at the ticket office at the entrance of the scenic area. However, during peak tourist seasons, there may be long queues, so it's advisable to arrive early if you choose this option.
• Prices:
  • Adult Tickets: The price varies depending on the season. During the peak season (usually from April to October), the adult ticket price is around ¥80 - ¥100. In the off - season (from November to March), it may be reduced to around ¥60 - ¥80.
  • Concession Tickets: Students, seniors (usually aged 60 and above), and children of a certain height (usually below 1.4 meters) can enjoy discounted tickets. The concession ticket price is generally half of the adult ticket price.
  • Free Tickets: Children below a certain height (usually 1.2 meters) and disabled visitors may be eligible for free entry. Military personnel may also enjoy free or discounted tickets depending on local policies.

Transportation

• By Bus:
  • If you are coming from Jixi County, you can take a local bus to Longchuan Scenic Area. The bus journey usually takes about 30 - 40 minutes, depending on the traffic conditions. Buses depart regularly from the Jixi County bus station, and the ticket price is relatively affordable, usually around ¥5 - ¥10.
  • From larger cities like Huangshan, you can first take a long - distance bus to Jixi County and then transfer to a local bus to Longchuan. The total travel time may be around 2 - 3 hours, depending on the distance and traffic.
• By Taxi:
  • Taxis are a convenient option, especially if you are traveling in a small group or want a more flexible itinerary. From Jixi County to Longchuan Scenic Area, the taxi fare is usually around ¥50 - ¥80, depending on the time of day and traffic conditions. From Huangshan to Longchuan, the fare will be higher, probably around ¥200 - ¥300.
• Self - Drive:
  • If you have your own vehicle, you can drive to Longchuan Scenic Area. The scenic area has a parking lot where you can park your car. The driving route from Jixi County to Longchuan is well - marked, and it usually takes about 30 minutes. From Huangshan, the driving time may be around 1.5 - 2 hours, depending on the traffic.

Best Time & Tips

• Best Time to Visit:
  • spring (March - May): Spring is a beautiful time to visit Longchuan as the flowers start to bloom, and the surrounding hills are covered in a lush green carpet. The weather is mild, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and river cruises.
  • autumn (September - November): Autumn brings cooler temperatures and stunning foliage. The ancient buildings are framed by the colorful leaves, creating a picturesque scene. It's also a great time to enjoy local agricultural products, such as chestnuts and persimmons.
• Peak Hours: Try to avoid visiting during the peak hours of 10 AM - 2 PM, especially on weekends and holidays. The scenic area can get quite crowded during these times, which may affect your experience. Instead, visit early in the morning when the area is relatively quiet or in the late afternoon when the crowds start to thin out.
• Essentials:
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes as you will be doing a lot of walking around the scenic area, exploring the ancient buildings and hiking in the hills.
  • Bring a hat and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun, especially during the summer months.
  • Stay hydrated by carrying a water bottle with you. There are also some refreshment stands in the scenic area where you can buy water and other drinks.
  • If you plan to take a river cruise, consider bringing a light raincoat or poncho in case of sudden rain.
  • Respect the local culture and traditions. When visiting the ancestral halls and other cultural sites, follow the rules and regulations, and do not touch or damage the historical artifacts.