First, profound historical and cultural heritage: Xidi and Hongcun
Xidi and Hongcun are ancient villages with a history of more than 900 years. Their ancestors were Hu and Ye families in the early Tang Dynasty. Although their historical backgrounds are similar, they have their own characteristics in details.
Xidi: This place is called "China Ancient Architecture Museum", which has preserved a large number of Ming and Qing architecture and antique sculptures. You can walk in the Gu Xiang and feel the precipitation of history. The Hu family here has also inherited an ancient opera called "Hui Opera", which can be enjoyed if you have the opportunity.
Hongcun: This place with the reputation of "village in Chinese painting" is the representative of Huizhou architecture. You can enjoy tea and enjoy the scenery beside the water features such as South Lake and Moon Marsh, and feel the tranquility and serenity between ink and wash. The "Chengqi Building" in Hongcun is a treasure of Huizhou architecture, and its exquisite wood carving and stone carving are amazing.
Second, natural scenery: Hongcun and Xidi
If we talk about natural scenery, Hongcun and Xidi also have their own characteristics.
Hongcun: Located at the southern foot of Huangshan Mountain, it is surrounded by mountains and waters with pleasant scenery. From any corner of Hongcun, you can see the surrounding landscape paintings, which is a gift from nature and the pride of Hongcun people. Especially in spring, the rape flower sea in Hongcun is even more beautiful.
Xidi: Although the natural scenery is slightly inferior to Hongcun, there are many scenic spots around Xidi, such as Taohuayuan and Jiuhuashan. Not only that, Xidi's Hui Opera performance can't be missed, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful scenery and feel the cultural atmosphere in the mountainous areas of southern Anhui.
Third, food: Xidi and Hongcun.
In terms of food, Xidi and Hongcun also have many similarities. They all have delicious Anhui dishes, such as steamed chicken, stewed meat, tofu brain and so on. But they also have some unique dishes.
Xidi: Here you can taste some local dishes, such as "local stewed chicken" made with local chicken, "chicken mushroom rice wine soup" made with home-brewed rice wine, and "sweet and sour pork ribs" with crisp outside and tender inside.
Hongcun: What you can't miss here are "bamboo shoot stew" and delicious "hot and sour soup" made of fresh bamboo shoots and pork. Especially in spring, you can also taste the delicious "Toona sinensis scrambled eggs".
Fourth, handicrafts: Xidi and Hongcun.
Handicrafts are a major feature of ancient villages in southern Anhui. In this regard, Xidi and Hongcun have many choices.
Xidi: The handicrafts here are mainly wood carving, stone carving and bamboo weaving. You can buy these handicrafts at the local handicraft store, or take some handicraft making experience courses to feel the charm of traditional handicrafts.
Hongcun: The handicrafts here are mainly paper-cutting, embroidery and weaving. Most of these handicrafts reflect the local customs and people's feelings, which is very memorable.
Verb (abbreviation of verb) summary and suggestion
Generally speaking, Xidi and Hongcun have their own unique charms. If you want to find a heavy feeling in history and culture, then Xidi may be more suitable for you; If you like to enjoy natural scenery and taste delicious food, Hongcun may be a good choice.
Of course, you can also choose to visit both places, so that you can enjoy two different experiences at the same time. No matter where you choose, please respect the local culture and customs and let these ancient villages keep their original beauty and harmony.