Jiangling

Shicheng Village

Shicheng Village is home to a remarkable collection of ancient trees, with groves of rare species. Its more than 100 maple trees are especially striking. From mid-to-late November, when the maple leaves begin to turn red, photography enthusiasts arrive at dawn and stay until dusk. The vivid colours set against black-and-white ancient houses form a natural giant palette. In autumn in Wuyuan, Shicheng and Changxi are two villages not to be missed.

2–3 hours

Likeng Village (Ikeng)

Ikeng Village was founded in the early Southern Song dynasty. Its villagers are well-educated and courteous to their neighbours. The village preserves many Ming and Qing official residences, such as the Shangshu Residence, the Tianguan Shangqing Residence and Jiamu Hall. All are exquisitely crafted, with bracketed eaves and upturned roof corners. Pine trees and bamboo set off the black-tiled, white-walled houses, while ancient paths, stone bridges and rushing streams complete a picture of remarkable harmony.

¥60 · 2 hours

Huangling

Huangling is located in the hometown of Jiang Zemin. Surrounded by mountains, its houses are packed in tiers and its terraced fields are stacked one above another, making for beautiful scenery. The Tianjie Nine Lanes (天街九巷) link the village like a jade belt, creating a moving scene reminiscent of the painting 'Along the River During the Qingming Festival.' Huangling's 'autumn drying' (晒秋) tradition is famous far and wide. Villagers spread their crops on bamboo trays on wooden racks outside their lookout windows, creating a distinctive folk landscape. In Huangling you can also experience folk activities such as walking a cable bridge, zip-lining and riding hot-air balloons.

¥145 · 0.5–1 day

Wolong Valley

Wolong Valley is a pristine forest gorge. Its greatest attractions are the clusters of flying waterfalls and the emerald, crystal-clear streams, which together look like a natural ink-wash landscape painting. It is the Shangri-La from Jin Yong's novels and is ideal for escaping the summer heat. As you hike uphill, you will pass many sights. Take your time, stop often and enjoy the waterfalls. Near the summit is Konghou Bridge (箜篌桥), a suspension bridge that thrills timid visitors as they cross it.

Entrance ¥55; cable car ¥50 one way, ¥100 round trip · 3–4 hours

Upper and Lower Xiaoqi

Upper and Lower Xiaoqi are the two most beautiful villages in Wuyuan. This area preserves some of the best-kept natural scenery in Wuyuan and best embodies the region's pastoral theme. The key is to set aside time and savour them slowly. Upper Xiaoqi is known for its hillside farmland. From here you can continue up to Jiangling, where the views of fields and countryside make it one of the most beautiful spots in Wuyuan. Lower Xiaoqi is distinguished by the water that winds around the village. When travelling from Wangkou Town toward Duanxin (段辛), turn onto a dirt road. Lower Xiaoqi, surrounded by ancient trees, sits where two streams meet.

Sixi and Yancun Villages

Located on the southwest side of the town, Sixi Yancun backs onto hills and faces water, nestled in a natural setting of brocade-like peaks and clear streams. Its clusters of houses blend skilfully with the environment, so that mountains and water merge into one. Poetic and picturesque, the village has deep artistic appeal. Because the TV series Strange Tales of Liaozhai was filmed here, it is known as the 'Liaozhai Film and TV Village.' The mysterious 'Liaozhai Cottage' from the series is tucked away among the ancient residences.

¥55 · 2–3 hours