Nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of Northern Guilin, the ancient villages offer a captivating glimpse into China’s rich history and cultural heritage. Each village boasts unique architectural styles, traditional customs, and scenic surroundings that reflect the essence of local life over centuries. From the well-preserved stilted wooden houses of Longji Ancient Zhuang Village to the historical significance of Guyan Pass Village, these ancient settlements invite visitors to explore their fascinating stories, breathtaking scenery, and vibrant local cultures. Join us as we embark on a journey through these hidden gems, uncovering the charm and beauty of Northern Guilin’s ancient villages.
Longji Ancient Zhuang Village (龙脊古壮寨)
Located in Longsheng County, Longji Ancient Zhuang Village is home to numerous well-preserved historical sites, including winding stone-paved paths and beautifully carved stone bridges. The village features the largest and most complete collection of traditional Zhuang stilted wooden houses in Guangxi and even nationwide.
Qinjia Courtyard (秦家大院)
Also known as Aotou Village (鳌头村), Qinjia Courtyard is situated in Xing’an County, nestled within the Dupanling mountain range. The village boasts well-preserved ancient architecture from the Ming and Qing dynasties, with its ancient buildings reflecting the rustic charm of local customs and traditions.
Guyan Pass Village (古严关村)
Guyan Pass (严关), located in Xing’an County, served as the first line of defense for Guilin and has historically been a key transit route between the north and south. Many renowned figures have passed through, leaving behind inscriptions, including a notable one by Guangxi’s official Fang Xinru (方信孺), whose large, ancient-style calligraphy is considered a precious piece of art.
Cui Family Village (崔家村)
Adjacent to the ancient Xianggui Commercial Road, Cui Family Village (湘桂古商道) is part of the shortest trade route from Daxu (大圩) through Changgangling (长岗岭) to Gaoshang (高尚) and Haiyang (海洋), eventually reaching Xing’an. The village retains a relatively intact collection of ancient buildings from the Ming and Qing dynasties.
Bangshang Ancient Village (榜上古村)
Situated in the Mocuan Township (漠川乡) of Xing’an County, Bangshang is a typical mountainous cultural village with a history of over a thousand years. In 1637, the famous ancient geographer Xu Xiake (徐霞客) visited this village and praised its beauty.
Yueling Village (月岭村)
Located in Guanyang County (灌阳县), Yueling Village’s ancient residences date back to the late Ming and early Qing dynasties, giving it over 700 years of history. The village features traditional Southern Hunan-style architecture and has a long cultural history, having established a theater troupe as early as the late Song dynasty, making it the birthplace of Guilin opera.
Xiong Village (熊村古村)
Founded during the Song dynasty and positioned alongside the ancient Xianggui Commercial Road, Xiong Village is known for its unique architectural layout, with ancient streets built on slopes and stone steps throughout. The village is home to several historic bridges, including the legendary Jiulong Bridge (九龙桥), reputed to have been traversed by the Qianlong Emperor (清乾隆帝).
Changgangling Ancient Residences (长冈岭古民居)
Located in Lingchuan County (灵川县), this village was renowned as “Little Nanjing” (小南京) during the Ming and Qing dynasties. It contains old residences, ancient tombs, and historical sites such as the ancient trail on March Ridge (三月岭) in the northeast of the village.
Jiangtou Ancient Residences (江头(洲)古民居)
This ancient village in Lingchuan County boasts over 1,000 years of history and is recognized for its well-preserved architectural styles from the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties. The village is also notable as a descendant village of Zhou Dunyi (周敦颐), the founder of Neo-Confucianism in the Northern Song dynasty, featuring unique “Imperial Examination Culture” and “Lotus Culture” specific to Jiangtou.