Wednesday, November 16, 2016

Treasures of China: Hongcun Ancient Village, Yi County, Anhui Province



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Treasures of China is a celebration of dramatic contrasts, a unique blend of cultural journeys and far-flung destinations where a world of adventure awaits.

Hongcun Ancient Village is a place lost in time. 

Located in Yi County in the ancient Huizhou region of Anhui Province, visitors are invited to immerse themselves in this enchanting village. 

Hongcun's comprehensive design, landscape and architectural minutiae date from the Ming and Qing dynasties.

Hongcun was built by prosperous merchants and officials returning home from the pressures of business and appointment.

The unique, ethereal style of these Anhui buildings are both plain yet elegant. They are embellished with ornate carvings pleasing to the eye.

The topography of Hongcun village was designed according to traditional feng shui concepts. Innovative blending of the elements of water, trees, gardens and farmland resulted in a harmonious ambience that exhibits classical Chinese sophistication.



Villagers are able to divert water via narrow canals into their courtyards, thus turning their houses into exquisite garden settings.

With Hongcun located at the foot of the hill next to a stream which flows into the Moon Pond at the center of the village, and another to the south, the whole reflects the sublime coexistence and harmonious balance of man and nature.

Did you see the movie Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon? You'll be pleased to learn that scenes from that movie were filmed here.

A walk around Hongcun's countryside is a wonderful experience anytime of the year, especially its renowned bamboo grove. In Spring the village is ablaze with the blossoms of yellow rape field flowers. In Autumn Hongcun is ignited by a sea of red foliage you'll never forget.

A stroll through Hongcun will evoke scenes from ancient Chinese scroll paintings. This truly is one of the treasures of China.


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