Ancient Huizhou Town
Located in She County (Shexian), Ancient Huizhou Town—also known as Shexian Ancient Town—is the heart of the county's scenic area and a vital component of Huangshan City's rich tourism resources. This well-preserved historical town offers an authentic glimpse into the glory of ancient Huizhou culture.
Seven Famous Scenic Spots
The town features seven renowned attractions, each showcasing a distinct facet of Huizhou's heritage:
| Attraction | Significance |
|---|---|
| Huiyuan Garden | Combines Song dynasty archways, residences, and ancestral halls with Huizhou's "three carvings" (brick, wood, stone) |
| Ancient Yuliang Port | Birthplace of the Huizhou merchants, who dominated Chinese business for over 300 years from the Ming to Qing dynasties |
| Xuguo Stone Memorial Archway | A unique four-connected archway supported by eight stone pillars with exquisite carvings |
| Doushan Street | An integrated ancient street featuring Huizhou merchant residences, sculptures, wells, and arches |
| Memorial Hall of Tao Xingzhi | Honors the great modern Chinese educator (1891–1946) |
| Xin'an Stele Garden | Displays ancient stone inscriptions |
| Taibai Building | A historic structure linked to Huizhou's literary heritage |
Cultural Highlights
•Huizhou Merchants' Legacy – Ancient Yuliang Port was the launching point for Huizhou merchants, who built vast trading networks and shaped China's economy for three centuries.
•Unique Architecture – The Xuguo Stone Memorial Archway stands as a rare masterpiece, with its four connected arches and eight-pillar design unmatched in China.
•Living History – Doushan Street preserves the authentic atmosphere of ancient Huizhou, with original residences, streets, and sculptures intact.
•Three Carvings of Huizhou – Huiyuan Garden masterfully displays the region's famous brick, wood, and stone carvings, alongside Song dynasty memorial archways, old residential houses, and ancestral temples.
Why Visit Ancient Huizhou Town?
For travelers interested in Chinese merchant history, classical architecture, and authentic ancient towns near Huangshan, Ancient Huizhou Town offers an unparalleled cultural experience. It is less crowded than larger tourist sites yet rich with historical depth and artistic beauty.
Whether you're tracing the rise of the Huizhou merchants, admiring the three carvings, or simply strolling through Doushan Street, this ancient town brings China's feudal-era elegance to life.
