Xuancheng in Southern Anhui, Visited by Li Bai 7 Times—A Poetic Ink-Wash Jiangnan

DAY 1️⃣ ➢ First, Xuancheng is vast. The urban Xuanzhou District mainly features Jingting Mountain, but the real gems lie in its counties—Ningguo, Jixi, Jingde, and Jingxian—boasting Southern Anhui landscapes and culture rivaling Yixian and Shexian. Thus, exploring Xuancheng requires a car; only self-driving/rentals work. ➢ Second, the Southern Anhui "Tibetan Line" gets jammed during holidays, but Xuancheng shines even without it. My route covers ancient villages, museums, and landscapes, with endless layered mountains and lush greenery en route. ➢ Spend most of Day 1 driving. If renting a car at Xuancheng Station after a high-speed rail trip, grab a cup of Anhui’s local milk tea "Cawacca" 🥺. ➢ Then head to Longchuan in Jixi. Depending on time, stop by Kantou Ancient Village or Hu Village—both niche spots—before driving to Longchuan and staying nearby. DAY 2️⃣ ➢ Arrive at "Longchuan Village" by 7 AM today to dodge crowds. Fewer tourists mean better vibes. The ¥65 ticket is worth it for the "Hu Clan Ancestral Hall" and waterscapes. Fans of *The Great Ming Dynasty*? This is Hu Zongxian and his mentor’s hometown, with exquisite wood carvings. ➢ At noon, dash through "Jixi Museum" in Jixi town. Though small, its architecture intrigues. As the birthplace of Hui cuisine, the museum displays a replica feast; pick a nearby restaurant for lunch. ➢ Cool off at "Daixia Village"—rustic but sparkling with gorgeous, relaxing streams. Perfect for a dip. ➢ Time it right: reach "Luxi Village Tea Plantation" by 4 PM. This hidden aerial tea farm lets you drive up. By then, locals leave, making sunset strolls serene. Stay overnight in Jingde town. DAY 3️⃣ ➢ Morning drive to Jingxian’s "Huangtian Village" (¥50). It feels like a hidden *Peach Blossom Spring*, blending old/new homes with nature. A must for Hui-style village lovers. ➢ Next, "Xuan Paper Cultural Park" (¥60)—the trip’s busiest spot. Hongxing Xuan Paper Factory (maker of luxury "thousand-dollar paper") built this museum showcasing xuan paper craft. Stunning architecture, but packed in peak season; visit off-hours for photos. ➢ Proceed to "Zhaji Ancient Town" (¥65). More commercialized than before, which is a letdown, and crowded in peak season. Yet, its deeper alleys retain charm. ➢ End the day by driving straight to Taohuatan in Jingxian for overnight stay. DAY 4️⃣ ➢ Rise early for "Taohuatan (Peach Blossom Pool)". Weather-dependent, but I hit the jackpot—misty drizzle and drifting clouds made it surreal. Spent the whole morning there; the trip’s highlight. Five stars 👍. ➢ Head home.