Anhui's hidden gems! Drive along the Sichuan-Tibet Highway and experience the art of papermaking—this Xuancheng trip is even crazier than you might think.

#SeptemberDestinations2025 Who says you have to visit Huangshan Mountain to see the natural beauty, or Huizhou to experience culture? Hidden in Xuancheng, Anhui, lies a "double-surprise route" that will captivate road-goers and captivate culture lovers alike—on one hand, stunning scenery along the winding mountain road, and on the other, the awe-inspiring experience of a millennium-old civilization at your fingertips. This journey offers a depth unknown to others! Let's start with the "Southern Anhui Sichuan-Tibet Highway," a road that has captivated countless road enthusiasts. Don't let the name scare you; there's no altitude sickness here, only breathtaking scenery that will make you want to brake. This route stretches approximately 120 kilometers, starting on the banks of the Dongjin River in Ningguo City and ending in Caicun Town, Jingxian County. The most essential section lies within Xuancheng. Starting at Gangkouwan Reservoir, the car winds along the lakeshore. The turquoise waters resemble a palette overturned by God. In the distance, the mountains rise in layers, creating a picturesque scene. The occasional fishing boat sails by, creating a truly moving landscape painting. Don't miss the "Taoling Six Bends." This stretch of road winds like a silver belt through the mountains, each bend holding a unique surprise. It's recommended to start early. The morning mist hasn't yet dissipated, and as you drive through the mist and peak, the scenery before you shimmers and shimmers, creating a fairyland. Be sure to get off at the Hongxing Bridge parking lot. Standing on the bridge, you'll gaze over the valley. The cascading terraces and white-walled, black-tiled villages nestle against the backdrop of lush greenery—a snap of the shutter will create a wallpaper-worthy photo. Driving tips: The road is narrow and winding, so slow down when passing other vehicles. There are few gas stations along the way, so be sure to fill up your tank before departure. Bring snacks and water, as restaurants are hard to find along the way. If the Southern Anhui-Tibet Highway is a visual feast, then the "China Xuan Paper Culture Park" is a spiritual retreat. Don't just look at exhibitions; here you can personally experience the secrets of papermaking, a technique that promises a millennium of life. Upon entering the park, the first scent hits you: the delicate aroma of straw and paper mulberry bark. A craftsman in a blue cloth shirt is swinging a bamboo curtain by the pond. Gently swaying the curtain in the water, the delicate paper fibers are evenly spread across the curtain. This is the crucial step in papermaking: "making paper." Don't miss the interactive activities! Under the guidance of a craftsman, you can try making paper with your own hands using the bamboo curtain. While seemingly simple, the movements require precise force and speed. It took me three attempts to create a complete sheet. You can also try dyeing and inscription techniques, using traditional dyes to color your own paper and then writing a favorite poem. This unique souvenir is more meaningful than any other souvenir from a tourist attraction. Don't miss the Chinese Xuan Paper Museum in the park, which houses ancient paper from the Ming and Qing dynasties. Through the glass display, you can see the fine fibers of the paper, as if you can touch a thousand years of time.