Huangyao Ancient Town in Zhaoping, Guangxi | A Thousand-Year Dream, A Poetic Dwelling.

Nestled in the mountains and waters of Hezhou, Guangxi, lies a tranquil ancient town called Huangyao. Like a sleeping beauty of a thousand years, this town remains untouched by time, preserving its original simplicity and serenity. 🌅Impression of the Ancient Town Huangyao Ancient Town is located in the northeast of Zhaoping County, Hezhou, Guangxi, 40 kilometers from Hezhou. It originated during the Song Dynasty and was named "Huangyao" due to the predominance of residents with the surnames Huang and Yao. Compared to Guilin and Yangshuo, it's more like a sheltered maiden, quiet and elegant. ✨Town Features Ancient Architecture: The town preserves over 300 Ming and Qing Dynasty buildings. The ancient streets are paved with bluestone slabs, transporting visitors back to a bustling era of the past. Natural Scenery: Surrounded by mountains and encircled by green waters, the town embodies all elements required by Southeast Asian feng shui theory. The ancient banyan trees, unique rocks, and flowing streams create "a perfect blend of human and nature in an artistic palace." History and Culture: The town's tangible architectural heritage, including archways, ancient theaters, streets, wells, residences, ancestral halls, temples, bridges, pavilions, and plaques, especially as an integral ancient settlement environment, holds high historical and artistic aesthetic value. 🏞Main Attractions and Features 1️⃣Bailong Bridge Location: On the Xiaozhu River east of the town. Features: Built during the Wanli period of the Ming Dynasty, it's a semi-circular stone arch bridge. Its reflection in the water, along with the surrounding green mountains and waters, creates a picturesque scene. It's a popular spot for photographing the iconic image of an elderly person leading an ox across the bridge. The best lighting is on clear mornings or evenings. 2️⃣Immortal's Ancient Well Location: In the town center. Features: This ancient well has multiple functional pools for drinking, washing vegetables, and laundry. The well water is clear, sweet, and constantly flowing, serving as the town's lifeline. 3️⃣Dragon Claw Banyan Location: Under an ancient tree within the town. Features: This 800-year-old banyan tree has twisted branches resembling dragon claws and a dense canopy. It's one of the town's symbols. 4️⃣Ancient Theater Location: In the cultural center of the town. Features: The beautifully constructed ancient theater is a cultural landmark. Traditional operas are performed here annually. 5️⃣Stone Slab Street Location: Runs east to west through the town. Features: Built during the Shunzhi period of the Qing Dynasty, this street is over 300 years old. It's lined with numerous Ming and Qing Dynasty buildings and bustling shops. Walking here feels like stepping back in time. 🆓Other Attractions Guo Family Mansion: A well-preserved Ming and Qing Dynasty mansion showcasing the town's past prosperity. Sima Residence: An ancient official's residence with exquisite architecture and grand presence. Tianran Pavilion: An ancient pavilion at the town entrance, a must-pass spot for visitors. 📸Photography: The ancient architecture and natural scenery of Huangyao are excellent subjects for photography. The changing light during early mornings and evenings makes it a paradise for photography enthusiasts. Note that the river water turns yellow during heavy rain. 🚶Recommended Itinerary Morning: Upon arrival, visit Bailong Bridge and Immortal's Ancient Well. Enjoy the scenery and take photos at the bridge; experience the history and culture at the well. Noon: Taste local specialties like Yang Jinji's award-winning douci powder, stuffed tofu, and stuffed squash blossoms. These unique and affordable dishes are must-tries for visitors. Afternoon: Continue to Dragon Claw Banyan, Ancient Theater, and Stone Slab Street. Rest under the banyan tree, enjoy opera performances at the theater, and stroll along Stone Slab Street to experience the town's bustling atmosphere. Evening: Stay overnight in the town to experience its nighttime charm. The town is particularly beautiful at night with its soft lights and tranquil atmosphere. Take a walk and enjoy the night scenery. It's recommended to spend more time in the town, especially during early mornings and evenings when the town has a unique charm. If time allows, visit other attractions like Guo Family Mansion and Sima Residence. 🍜Food Recommendations Douci Powder: A local specialty combining the rich flavor of douci with tender beef. Stuffed Tofu: Crispy outside and tender inside, with a rich taste. Stuffed Squash Blossoms: A unique dish made with pork and tofu stuffed in squash blossoms. Sour Beef Intestines: A local Hezhou snack, very affordable at CNY 1 per skewer. Other specialties: Huangyao rice noodles, Huangyao douci, Huangyao crispy cakes, and Huangjing wine are also worth trying. ‼️Things to Note Parking: Parking in the town is limited. Plan your parking in advance or use public transportation. If driving, park near the town and walk in. Hot Water Supply: Some guesthouses may have unstable hot water supply. Check in advance and be prepared. 💴Tickets and Transportation Tickets: Adult tickets are CNY 88, discounted tickets are CNY 44. Free entry after 18:00 Monday to Thursday, after 22:00 Friday to Sunday, and before 7:30 daily. Transportation: Self-driving visitors can follow navigation software or maps. Public transportation includes buses or taxis from Hezhou city center. Bus fare is about CNY 20 per person, with a journey time of about 1.5 hours. Taxis are more expensive but more convenient.