Ink wash fantasy in the morning mist: Chujia Tan, the forgotten fairyland on the Southern Anhui Sichuan-Tibet line

Not Guilin, yet better than Guilin; not Sichuan-Tibet, yet gathering the essence of the Southern Anhui Sky Road On the eastern section of the Southern Anhui Sichuan-Tibet line lies a secret realm known as "Little Guilin of Jiangnan"—Chujia Tan. This is not an ordinary tourist spot, but a living ink painting, a fairyland where time slows down. Chujia Tan is most beautiful at dawn, with mist rising gently from the Xijin River, draping the lake like a light veil. Bamboo rafts glide softly across the mirror-like water, creating subtle ripples. In the distance, Hui-style white walls and black tiles appear faintly through the mist, a few egrets skim low over the water, and wild ducks play in the lake. This dreamlike scene is thanks to Chujia Tan’s unique geographical location: situated between two hydropower stations, the cold water discharged upstream and the temperature difference with the air create this daily mist spectacle. A landscape gallery, a photographer’s paradise Chujia Tan is located downstream of Qinglong Bay, just 12 kilometers from Ningguo city center. Nestled by mountains and water, the lake covers 90,000 square meters with crystal-clear water and surrounding peaks rising in layers. "Not Guilin, yet better than Guilin"—Chujia Tan boasts the beauty of Guilin’s landscape but with an added touch of Jiangnan’s grace and haziness. This is a creative haven for photography enthusiasts. Whether it’s the misty lake at dawn or the sunset glow in the evening, every shot is a masterpiece. Along the lake, there are attractions such as double swings, the Qingliao Wind Viewing Pavilion, fishing platforms, and bamboo art corridors, adding cultural charm to the natural scenery. Seasonal charm, each with its own delight Chujia Tan’s allure remains throughout the year, each season offering unique scenery: · Spring: Mountains bloom with wildflowers, fresh greenery dyes the shores, and the spring breeze brings vibrant life · Summer: Morning mist swirls over the river, egrets dance gracefully, and afternoons invite you to cool off by the water · Autumn: Trees on both banks blaze with colors, reflected in the clear river like a richly painted oil painting · Winter: The river is shrouded in thin mist, trees adorned with sparkling ice crystals glitter in the sunlight, surrounded by serene quiet Leisure experiences, poetic living At Chujia Tan, joyful experiences last day and night. By day, you can enjoy bamboo raft drifting, feeling the poetry of "a boat gliding on emerald waves, a person traveling within a painting." Or stroll along the wetland boardwalk to birdwatch and relax at the campsite. In the evening, take a leisurely walk with friends and family by the lake under the setting sun, perfectly ending your day. At night, the barbecue plaza fills the air with delicious aromas, mingled with the fresh scent of mountain grass and wildflowers. Looking up at the starry sky, countless stars sparkle like diamonds set against a black velvet curtain, with a few playfully winking at you. Practical information Chujia Tan is located in Longge Village, Qinglong Township, Ningguo City, Xuancheng, Anhui Province. Admission is free, but some activities like bamboo raft drifting require a fee (about 80-100 RMB per person). Best visiting time: Early morning from 7 to 9 AM is best for viewing the morning mist; suitable year-round, with spring and autumn being the most comfortable. Transportation: · Self-driving: Navigate to "Ningguo Chujia Tan," about a 20-minute drive from Ningguo city center · Public transport: Take the "Ningguo-Qinglong" shuttle bus from Ningguo Bus Station Accommodation recommendations: Choose from high-end options like Qinglong Bay Resort or Zhuyin Valley Homestay, or cost-effective farm stays (standard rooms around 150 RMB). Outdoor enthusiasts can also bring tents for camping (about 50 RMB per person). Embark on a fairyland journey Chujia Tan is not just a beautiful place, but an experience and a state of mind. Here, you can temporarily escape the city’s hustle and bustle, feel the magical charm of nature, and enjoy the peaceful beauty of Jiangnan’s water towns. Morning mist drifts, bamboo rafts gently sway, landscapes like paintings, culture touches the heart—this is Chujia Tan, a unique experience not to be missed on the Southern Anhui Sichuan-Tibet line. Plan your trip to Chujia Tan! Remember to choose the early morning hours for a better chance to encounter that dreamlike mist spectacle. Bring your camera and prepare for a feast for your eyes and soul.