Overview:

Xidi and Hongcun are two ancient villages that have been designated as UNESCO World Heritage sites in 2000. They are located in Yixian county, Anhui Province, near Huangshan mountain. Xidi and Hongcun are extremely well preserved ancient villages, with architecture and distinct villages and streets that have remained unchanged over time. The villages have retained their original structures down to the street layout, stone bridges, and even the traditional vegetation such as bamboos and Chinese elms. The villages feature a unique blend of traditional Chinese architecture and natural beauty, including overhanging eaves, red walled courtyards, and stunningly landscaped gardens and ponds. Together, the two villages offer visitors a glimpse into the past and a look at the traditional culture and lifestyle of the people of Anhui. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in China
Prominent Features:

1. UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Xidi and Hongcun are two of the China's 55 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and were listed in 2000. 2. Traditional village layouts: Both villages feature a traditional layout, with stone-paved narrow roads and ancient bridges connecting courtyards and alleys. 3. Ancient architecture: Notable examples of traditional Chinese architecture include the Huang family townhouse in Xidi, the Chengzu Fang courtyard in Xidi, and the Yuefeng Lou and Yongxing Lou in Hongcun. 4. Rich cultural heritage: The villages feature a variety of cultural attractions, from carvings and sculptures to traditional opera performances. 5. Landscaped gardens: The landscapes of the villages feature lush gardens and courtyards filled with weeping willows, banyan and bamboo trees, and lotus ponds. 6. Picturesque views: Both villages feature postcard-worthy views, with hills, water, and peaks as the backdrop. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in China.

History:

Xidi and Hongcun are two ancient villages located in the beautiful Huangshan Mountains of Anhui. Both are inscribed together on the UNESCO World Heritage list for their remarkable history and architecture. The two villages, situated in the Yixian County of Anhui Province have a history that dates back to the 10th century when they were founded by local aristocratic families who left their imprint on the place. Over the centuries, these two villages developed into bustling settlements and were often considered the most prosperous and most beautiful villages in the area. Influenced by both Chinese and foreign cultures, Xidi and Hongcun are known for their exquisite traditional architecture. The villages feature classic Hui-style houses that are characterized by intricate carvings, grey brick patterns, and lovely courtyards. To this day, many of these constructions have been preserved and remain in remarkably good condition. In addition, many of the traditional wells, ponds, bridges, and streets remain perfectly preserved, making the two villages a true symbol of traditional Chinese culture and rural architecture. Both Xidi and Hongcun were declared UNESCO World Heritage sites in 2000, and since then they have attracted visitors from all over the world. These visitors come to witness the stunning countryside, explore the winding streets lined with traditional buildings, and gain insight into the once-bustling way of life in these ancient villages. Visit one of the famous monuments of China with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. Xidi and Hongcun were inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2000. 2. Xidi and Hongcun have combined the elegant aesthetics of the aristocrats, proudly demonstrating the creative genius of craftsmanship. 3. In Xidi and Hongcun, there are over 140 well-preserved residential houses, many of which were built during the period of the Ming and Qing Dynasties. 4. The water system of Xidi and Hongcun is unique. In order to irrigate the fields, the lakes of the villages are connected by three main water channels and make use of the principal of gravity to form a circuit. 5. Xidi and Hongcun are known for their grand courtyards, labyrinthine alleys, whitewashed walls, gray-tiled roofs. All these ancient architectural elements have preserved well in the villages and create a picture of elegant beauty. 6. The streets in Xidi and Hongcun are extremely narrow and some are even too small to have cars in. Therefore, the traditional custom of ox cart is still in use in some parts of the two ancient villages. 7. Xidi and Hongcun are the inspiration for many successful Chinese movies such as "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" and "Raise the Red Lantern". 8. Every year, many Chinese and foreign tourists visit Xidi and Hongcun to appreciate its beautiful landscape and to experience its laid-back atmosphere. One of the historical monuments of China, it tells the story of a bygone era