Known as “the most beautiful countryside in China,” Wuyuan is a paradise for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and culture seekers. This three-day itinerary takes you through picturesque villages, fields of blooming rapeseed flowers, ancient architecture, and historical landmarks. Experience the charm of Wuyuan in spring, when golden flower fields transform the landscape into a breathtaking masterpiece.
Day 1: Moon Bay → Likeng → Jiangling → Qingyuan
Morning:
Begin your Wuyuan adventure with a stop at Moon Bay (月亮湾), a small island en route to Likeng. While no ticket is required, this serene spot is a favorite among photographers. The best time to visit is at dawn, around 5 a.m., when mist blankets the water, creating an ethereal scene. The reflection of white-walled, black-tiled houses, golden flowers, and green waters looks like a traditional Chinese ink painting come to life.
Next, head to Likeng, a charming village known for its well-preserved Huizhou-style architecture. Wander through its narrow lanes and admire the unique bridges, ancient houses, and flowing streams.
Afternoon:
After lunch, visit Jiangling, one of Wuyuan’s most iconic spots for viewing rapeseed flowers. From the mountaintop observation deck, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of terraced fields covered in golden blooms, interspersed with traditional villages. It’s the perfect place to capture the essence of Wuyuan’s idyllic countryside.
Evening:
End your day at Qingyuan, a quaint and peaceful village surrounded by flower-filled fields in spring. The rustic charm of the ancient village makes it a popular destination for painters and photographers. Stroll through the village and take in the serene atmosphere as the golden fields glow under the evening light.
Day 2: Upper and Lower Xiaoqi → Wangkou
Morning:
After enjoying Qingyuan’s morning tranquility, make your way to Upper and Lower Xiaoqi, two connected villages located in the middle of Wuyuan’s eastern route. The villages are linked by a 500-meter ancient path and are home to historical landmarks such as Bairentang Hall in Lower Xiaoqi and Jinshi Di Mansion in Upper Xiaoqi. Be sure to visit the famous Sacred Camphor Tree behind Lower Xiaoqi. This ancient tree is so massive that it takes two people to encircle its trunk.
Afternoon:
Continue to Wangkou, a relatively untouched village that retains its original simplicity and charm. Unlike more commercialized spots, Wangkou offers an authentic look into Wuyuan’s heritage. A highlight here is the Yu Ancestral Hall, built during the Qianlong reign of the Qing Dynasty. The hall’s exquisite carvings and well-preserved architecture are a testament to the craftsmanship of the time.
Day 3: Sixi-Yancun → Rainbow Bridge → Wuyuan Museum
Morning:
Begin your final day at Sixi-Yancun, two adjacent villages that boast some of Wuyuan’s finest Huizhou-style architecture. These villages were home to many successful merchants during the Ming and Qing Dynasties, leaving behind grand mansions adorned with intricate stone, wood, and brick carvings. Their artistic details stand out as some of the best examples in the region. Sixi-Yancun has also served as a filming location for popular productions such as the 1987 adaptation of Strange Tales from a Chinese Studio and the drama Blue and White Porcelain.
Midday:
Next, visit Rainbow Bridge, an iconic landmark and the oldest covered bridge in the ancient Huizhou region. Spanning the river with its elegant arches and wooden pavilions, the bridge has earned the reputation of being “the most beautiful covered bridge in China.” The reflection of the bridge in the water, set against the backdrop of lush hills and fields, is a photographer’s dream. It was also featured in the classic movie Sparkling Red Star.
Afternoon:
Conclude your trip at the Wuyuan Museum, an impressive cultural institution often referred to as the “No. 1 County Museum in China.” The museum houses a wide range of artifacts, including Shang Dynasty pottery, Western Zhou bronzeware, Han Dynasty ceramic cups, Tang Dynasty mirrors, Song Dynasty porcelain, and calligraphy and paintings from the Ming and Qing Dynasties. Highlights include the Panlong Jade Belt, White Jade Crown, and other national treasures. The museum provides a comprehensive look at Wuyuan’s rich history and culture, making it the perfect ending to your trip.
