Bai Juyi, also known as the Hermit of Xiangshan, described Qingzhicun in his poem “Inscription on Yuquan Temple” as follows: “The jade-like spring water shines bright; floating clouds drift with carefree light.” The poet’s longing for serene mountains and waters stirs the imagination every time one reads his words. This place, renowned since the Jin Dynasty for its picturesque scenery and frequented by literati and artists, has become a model of poetic Jiangnan. Today, Qingzhicun has gracefully transformed into a synonym for fresh and artistic living. Being here, what remains unchanged is the embrace of lush greenery and the interspersed tea plantations and farmhouses. Compared to the bustling West Lake, this is truly where the heart finds its home. Staying in a small villa in Qingzhicun feels like stepping back into a Southern Song Dynasty painting—offering not only sensory delight but also a spiritual resonance with the poetic essence of Jiangnan.
A Rich Mountain Retreat Lifestyle
A fulfilling life stems from enthusiasm and dedication, and life in the Qingzhi Villas mountain retreat is wonderfully diverse. Practice your golf swing on the driving range atop the mountain-view terrace, and experience a unique twist on the golf course experience amidst nature. Don’t miss out on the many activities provided by the hosts—such as a private Hangzhou-style cooking class. The oversized kitchen is like a treasure trove, fully equipped with both Chinese and Western appliances, giving you the chance to unleash your inner chef. The walls display an array of quirky cookware, truly reflecting the host’s thoughtful effort—no doubt collected over considerable time. Freshly picked flowers adorn a long tablecloth adorned with blue-and-white patterns, evoking the feeling of a countryside kitchen in Provence. Yes, the ingredients here are organic as well. Or, make some snacks together with the kids, then savor the fruits of your labor—guaranteed to lift your spirits. Perhaps after staying here for a while, you’ll understand why Peter loved Provence so much—and why the book “A Year in Provence” isn’t moving because of fancy prose, but because of that rare sense of leisure, and the true essence of life attained through the courage to let go. In this way, you too will fall in love with the mountain retreat lifestyle of Qingzhicun.