Guanlu

Guanlu

The most famous attraction in the ancient village is the group of eight historic houses known as the “Eight Residences of Guanlu.” These “Eight Great Houses” were built in the mid-Qing Dynasty and served as residences for eight brothers from the Wang family, who were Huizhou merchants. Though the eight mansions stand independently, they are interconnected as one cohesive complex.

Guanlu is located two kilometers west of Nanping. It lies at the foot of Wuting Mountain and at the base of Xiwuling. The village gets its name because Xiwuling is known as the “Majestic Pass of Xiwu,” and the village is situated on the eastern foothills of this grand pass. The ancient buildings in the village are densely packed yet well arranged, exuding a somewhat desolate charm. Yet, perhaps it is precisely this sense of melancholy that adds to its authenticity and memorability.

The eight historic houses known as the “Eight Residences of Guanlu” were built in the mid-Qing Dynasty and served as residences for eight brothers from the Wang family, who were Huizhou merchants. Though the eight mansions stand independently, they are interconnected as one cohesive complex. Each mansion has its own courtyard, hall, garden, and small yard, but the rooms and floors are all connected by doorways and corridors, forming a unified whole.

Most of the names of these eight mansions are related to scholarship, reflecting the scholar-merchant character of the Huizhou businessmen. Leading the way is the former residence of the renowned Qing Dynasty painter and calligrapher Wang Shu, called “Wuting Mountain Residence.” From north to west, the others are: “Han Yuan Lou” (Far-Reaching Tower), “Wu Ai Wu Lu” (Study — My Study, My Love), “Chun Man Ting” (Spring Fills the Courtyard), “Shuang Gui Shu Shi” (Twin Osmanthus Study), “Men Qu Shu Shi” (Gate Stream Study), “An Ya Shu Wu” (Elegant and Peaceful Study), and “Rong Xi Yi An” (A Humble Study Offering Peace).

The old houses feature exquisite wood carvings and typical Huizhou-style furnishings. Although some of the facial features on the carved figures have been damaged, the remaining artistry is still captivating, making it well worth a visit.

Transportation:

1. It is about 8 kilometers from Yixian County to Guanlu. There are private minibuses available (7:00–9:00), with fares ranging from 2 to 3 yuan. A taxi ride costs around 15–20 yuan, or you can hire a motorized tricycle from local villagers for 5–10 yuan.

2. From Huangshan City Railway Station, Bus Station, or Airport (64 kilometers): Take a bus from Huangshan City to Yixian County Bus Station (every 20 minutes), then transfer to a bus from Yixian County Bus Station to Guanlu Scenic Area (every 20 minutes), or take a taxi directly to the scenic area.

3. From Tangkou Town Bus Station (50 kilometers): Take a bus from Tangkou to Yixian County (two buses in the morning, one in the afternoon), then transfer to a bus from Yixian County to Guanlu Scenic Area (every 20 minutes).