Shexian
Ancient Huizhou heart with timeless architecture
Shexian at a Glance
Everything you need to know before you go.
Shexian County, under Huangshan City in Anhui Province, is a cradle of Huizhou culture. It is home to the well-preserved Huizhou Ancient City and remarkable memorial archways. Visitors can explore historic streets, ancestral halls, and traditional dwellings that reflect centuries of merchant prosperity.
Where to Stay
Choose the neighborhood that fits your style.
Huizhou Ancient City Area
Stay near the ancient city to walk through historic streets, see the Xuguo Stone Archway, and experience local Huizhou architecture.
Best for history and culture loversTangyue Archway Group Area
Located near the famous Tangyue Memorial Archways and Bao Family Garden, offering a quieter rural setting with easy access to scenic countryside.
Best for heritage and photographyShexian Highlights
The city's essential experiences, grouped by what you love most.
One of China's four best-preserved ancient cities, featuring the Xu Guo Stone Archway and Huizhou Government Office.
A group of seven Ming and Qing dynasty stone archways, unique for their scale and carvings.
An ancient water conservancy project dating back over 1,300 years, still in use today.
A classical Huizhou-style garden renowned for its bonsai collection and exquisite landscaping.
A well-preserved ancient village with numerous Ming and Qing dynasty ancestral halls and residences.
A historic village known for its Zhushan Academy and traditional Huizhou architecture.
An ancient village with over 800 years of history, featuring ancestral temples and old streets.
A classic wooden corridor bridge from the Ming dynasty, still used by local villagers.
A scenic waterway flanked by Huizhou-style villages, ideal for boat tours and photography.
A mountain village famous for spring rapeseed flowers and sea of clouds, a popular photography spot.
A high-altitude village offering panoramic views of cloud seas and terraced fields.
Best Time to Visit
Each season offers a different side of the city.
Spring · Mar–May
Mild weather and blooming landscapes — comfortable for exploring.
Summer · Jun–Aug
Warm days; highland areas stay cool while lowland cities get hot and humid.
Autumn · Sep–Nov
The best season in most of China — crisp air, clear skies, and golden light.
Winter · Dec–Feb
Cold in the north, mild in the south. Fewer crowds and lower prices outside holidays.
Suggested Itineraries
Three carefully-paced plans for your trip.
1-Day Express
Start at Huizhou Ancient Town to explore Xuguo Stone Archway, Hui Garden, and Doushan Street. Then visit Yuliang Dam, an ancient water conservancy project, and enjoy local snacks in the evening.
2-Day Classic
Day 1: Explore Huizhou Ancient Town in depth, then visit Tangyue Memorial Archways and Bao's Garden. Day 2: Cruise along Xin'an River Scenic Corridor or visit Shitan Village for countryside views. Try local dishes like stinky mandarin fish and hairy tofu.
Local Tips
Insider knowledge for a smoother trip.
Wander the well-preserved Ming and Qing streets, gates and courtyards of Shexian's historic core, once the heart of Huizhou culture.
See the remarkable series of seven stone arches honouring local families' virtues, set among fields near the town.
Take a scenic boat trip along the Xin'an River to enjoy karst hills, ancient villages and tranquil water views.
Shexian is famed for She inkstones and Hui ink; visit workshops to watch craftsmen and buy authentic souvenirs.
Plan your visit in spring or autumn for mild weather and comfortable walking between sights.
FAQs About Shexian
Quick answers to common questions.
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