Huangshan City

Written by Alexander Kopp, Wei Li
18/08/2025
Stunning modern architecture amidst lush greenery in Huangshan, China.
Matthew Jesús, Pexels

Huangshan City offers a captivating blend of dramatic natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Its centerpiece is the iconic Yellow Mountains (Huangshan Mountain), where one discovers breathtaking views of peculiar rock formations, ancient pines, and a mystical sea of clouds. Beyond the mountains, the ancient villages of Hongcun and Xidi unveil traditional Hui-style architecture and serene village life, feeling like a step into a classical Chinese painting.

While a bustling party scene is not what this destination provides, opportunities to socialise naturally arise within the ancient villages of Hongcun and Xidi. These areas, particularly their traditional guesthouses and local eateries, allow for interaction with fellow travellers and locals. Tunxi Ancient Street also serves as a vibrant hub for engaging with local culture and people.

Top 7 Things to do in Huangshan City

Activities in Huangshan City range from exploring majestic mountains and ancient villages to discovering traditional crafts and local tea culture.

1. Hiking and Sightseeing in Yellow Mountains (Huangshan)

The Yellow Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offer breathtaking granite peaks, unique pine trees, a mystical sea of clouds, and natural hot springs. Explore the well-maintained hiking trails to witness the 'four wonders' of the mountain. Consider an overnight stay on the mountain to experience both sunrise and sunset, which are considered particularly spectacular. The West Sea Grand Canyon provides a challenging yet rewarding trek through dramatic landscapes.

Cost: Mount Huangshan entrance fee is approximately CNY 190 during peak season (March-November) and CNY 95 during off-peak season (December-February). Cable car rides (Yuping, Yungu, Taiping) cost around CNY 80-90 one-way. A shuttle bus within the scenic area is about CNY 19 per direction. The funicular in West Sea Grand Canyon is approximately CNY 100.

Transport: From Huangshan City, take a bus from Huangshan Bus Station to the Yellow Mountains Scenic Area's south gate (Tangkou), a journey of approximately 1.5 hours. From Huangshan North Railway Station, shuttle buses to Tangkou take about 50 minutes and cost around CNY 20. Taxis are also available from various points, costing around CNY 200 from Huangshan North Railway Station to the scenic area. From Tangkou, scenic area shuttle buses transport visitors to the cable car stations.

2. Explore Hongcun Village

Hongcun is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its distinctive Hui-style architecture, serene village ponds like Moon Pond and South Lake, and well-preserved ancient residences. Wandering through its narrow alleys and admiring the traditional 'ox-shaped' water system offers a glimpse into historical Chinese rural life. The village served as a filming location for 'Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon', adding to its picturesque appeal.

Cost: The entrance fee for Hongcun Village is approximately CNY 104, valid for multiple entries over three days.

Transport: From Huangshan City, hourly buses depart from Huangshan Bus Station to Hongcun, taking approximately 1.5 hours and costing around CNY 20-30. Taxis are also an option, with fares around CNY 70.

3. Discover Xidi Village

Another UNESCO World Heritage site, Xidi Village, showcases meticulously preserved ancient Hui-style residences, ancestral halls, and intricate stone archways. With a history spanning over 900 years, the village provides a deep dive into the historical craftsmanship and traditional living of the region. Its quiet lanes and detailed carvings are ideal for those interested in architecture and cultural heritage.

Cost: The entrance fee for Xidi Village is approximately CNY 104, also valid for multiple entries over three days.

Transport: From Huangshan City, buses from Huangshan Bus Station to Xidi take around 40-43 minutes and cost approximately CNY 14-27. Taxis typically cost between CNY 70-110. A direct tourist bus service is available between Xidi and Hongcun for convenient travel between the two villages.

4. Stroll through Tunxi Ancient Street

Located in the heart of Huangshan City's downtown, Tunxi Ancient Street is a living museum with well-preserved Hui-style architecture from the Ming and Qing Dynasties. It is a vibrant hub for local culture, offering numerous shops selling traditional crafts such as inkstones and brushes, along with local teas and snacks. It is a pleasant area for a leisurely walk, shopping for souvenirs, and experiencing local life.

Cost: There is no entrance fee for Tunxi Ancient Street. Costs are for purchases and dining.

Transport: Tunxi Ancient Street is centrally located in Huangshan City and is often within walking distance of downtown accommodations. From Huangshan Bus or Train Station, a taxi takes about 5 minutes. From Huangshan Tunxi International Airport, a taxi costs approximately CNY 30, or an airport express bus is about CNY 6. Public buses (e.g., No. 1, 3, 5, 8, 11, 12, 15, 21) also serve the area.

5. Experience Ink Stick Making at Hu Kaiwen Ink Factory

Visit the historic Hu Kaiwen Ink Factory to witness the traditional craft of Chinese ink stick making, an essential element of Chinese calligraphy and painting. This factory, operational for over 200 years, functions as both a production site and a museum. Visitors can observe the intricate process and even participate in a hands-on workshop to create their own ink sticks, providing a unique cultural souvenir.

Cost: Participating in an ink stick making experience costs approximately CNY 150 for two ink sticks, which can be shared.

Transport: The Hu Kaiwen Ink Factory is in downtown Huangshan City, about 600 meters (10 minutes' walk) from Tunxi Ancient Street. Public buses (No. 21, 218, 219) serve the factory. A taxi from Huangshan Tunxi Airport takes approximately 20 minutes (about 5 km), and from Huangshan North Railway Station, it takes around 40 minutes (about 14 km).

6. Visit Huizhou Ancient Town (Shexian County)

Huizhou Ancient Town, located in Shexian County, is recognized as one of China's best-preserved ancient towns and a birthplace of the influential Huizhou culture. It features a distinctive collection of Ming and Qing Dynasty Hui-style architecture, including numerous memorial archways. Exploring this historical town offers a deeper understanding of the region's rich merchant history and cultural practices.

Cost: While the town itself may have free entry in some areas, a combined ticket for several attractions within Huizhou Ancient Town costs approximately CNY 80.

Transport: From Tunxi (downtown Huangshan City), take a bus to Shexian County (about 30 minutes). From Shexian County, local buses (No. 1, 2, 3, 4) connect to the ancient city area. A taxi from Huangshan Tunxi Airport to Huizhou Ancient City would cost no less than CNY 100.

7. Relax at Huangshan Hot Springs

After adventurous hikes in the Yellow Mountains, unwind at the natural hot springs located at the mountain's base. These springs are known for their therapeutic properties and provide a relaxing respite amidst the scenic mountain environment. It is a perfect way to soothe muscles and rejuvenate.

Cost: Specific individual entry costs for the hot springs are not widely published but may be included with certain accommodations or require a separate fee at the facility.

Transport: A shuttle service from Tangkou town, at the foot of the Yellow Mountains, operates every 20 minutes to the Hot Springs Area.

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