Huichang Ancient Trail

　　    The Huichang Ancient Trail starts in Fuling Town, Jixi County, Huizhou in the west and extends to Maxiao Township, Lin’an City, Zhejiang Province in the east. It lies on the northern side of the Qingliang Peak National Nature Reserve, bordered by Huangshan Mountain to the north and Tianmu Mountain to the south. Spanning 25 kilometers, it was an important historical link between Huizhou and Hangzhou. The best-preserved section is the stone-paved mountain path within Jixi County, which represents the essence of the trail. Historical records indicate that this ancient route was built as early as the Tang Dynasty. The Huichang Ancient Trail served as a crucial trade corridor for merchants from Huizhou and Zhejiang in history. Notable attractions near the Huichang Ancient Trail include the Zhangshan Grand Canyon, the Hu Clan Ancestral Hall, the Qingliang Peak National Nature Reserve, and the First Pass in the South of the Yangtze River.

　　    “If you’re not blessed in a past life, you’ll be born in Huizhou; by the age of thirteen or fourteen, you’re sent away to make your way.” Huangshan City, formerly known as Huizhou, due to its geographical constraints and dense population, destined the people of Huizhou to seek opportunities beyond their homeland. As early as the Eastern Jin Dynasty, Huizhou residents ventured far and wide, achieving success in commerce. Hence the saying: “No Huizhou, no market; no Jixi, no street.” Most Huizhou merchants started small, known especially for their hard work and perseverance. Therefore, the vast majority traveled by boat or on foot. Generation after generation of Huizhou people transported salt, tea, and mountain goods, forging rugged trade routes—among them, the Huichang Ancient Trail. It is the third renowned ancient trail in China, following the “Silk Road” and the “Tea-Horse Ancient Road.”

　　    Hu Xueyan, a prominent Qing Dynasty businessman, also carried goods on his back and trekked along this ancient trail in his youth, struggling to survive. He had to cross the mountain and deliver his goods to Hangzhou to fetch a good price; once that load was sold, there would be a second, a third... more and more goods flowed out continuously. The young man’s business grew larger and larger—not only in Huizhou but even in Shanghai and the capital, he established branches, becoming the foremost merchant in the nation.

　　    Before the Hangzhou–Huizhou Highway was completed, the Huichang Ancient Trail was the shortcut for people from Huizhou, especially those from Jixi, to reach Shanghai and Hangzhou, saving nearly a hundred li compared to taking the detour through Yukou Pass. Along the Huichang Ancient Trail, a teahouse was set up every five li for travelers to rest. In the past, residents of Changhua, adjacent to Jixi, would bring their handwoven cotton goods along the trail to exchange for grain and cotton in Jixi—the trail became a lifeline for both communities. Even today, it remains an important transportation route for local residents.

　　    The Zhangshan Grand Canyon is a key scenic spot along the trail. In ancient times, Zhangshan was known as Santianzidu, Sanwangshan, or Zhangfeng. During the Spring and Autumn Period, it marked the boundary between the states of Wu and Yue, and in the Qin Dynasty, the Zhang Commandery was established, named after the mountain. The Zhangshan Grand Canyon features a unique geographical climate and is one of the few United Nations-recognized plant gene banks, home to 43 rare and precious species. The valley boasts crystal-clear streams, twin waterfalls, and colorful pools scattered throughout, resembling 108 fairies dancing gracefully, adding to the enchantment of the canyon’s waters. The over 50 scenic spots within the area each possess unique features and legendary tales, showcasing the distinctive spirituality of Huizhou’s landscapes and the profound heritage of Huizhou culture. Among them, the Leader’s Portrait, Hundred-Zhang Cliff, Gourd Pool, and Flower-Crowned Summit are hailed as the “Four Wonders.” Nature’s miraculous craftsmanship has made it a natural backyard garden for the “Suzhou–Hangzhou–Shanghai” region. The Hundred-Zhang Cliff is a massive single rock, 460 meters high and standing at a sheer 85-degree angle. Its surface is smooth as a mirror, like an upside-down giant bell reaching toward the sky—an extraordinary sight. On May 16, 2002, the Guinness headquarters in Shanghai approved the application for the Hundred-Zhang Cliff to be recognized as the “World’s Largest Single Rock,” and it has since been verified by geological authorities.

　　    The Longchuan Hu Clan Ancestral Hall is another must-visit highlight along the ancient trail. With its strong Huizhou architectural style, it stands proudly among China’s ancient buildings. Its rich cultural significance in architecture is truly astounding. In January 1988, the Longchuan Hu Clan Ancestral Hall was designated by the State Council as a Major Historical and Cultural Site Protected at the National Level. As the renowned architect Mr. Zheng Xiaoxie remarked after visiting the site: “It’s a pity I didn’t come sooner—this place is fascinating, truly worthy of being a national treasure.”

　　    Address: Jixi County, Xuancheng City

　　    Type: Ancient Trail

　　    Recommended Visit Duration: About 2 days

　　    Phone: 0563-8155795

　　    Official Website: http://www.huxueyan.org/

　　    Opening Hours:

　　    6:00–18:00

　　    Ticket Information:

　　    Full-price ticket: 68 RMB. Children aged 6–18 (inclusive), and full-time university undergraduate students or below, enjoy half-price admission with valid ID. Free entry for individuals under 1.2 meters (inclusive) in height and seniors aged 70 and above.