Nestled in the heart of China, Huangshan is more than just a scenic mountain range. It's where natural beauty and cultural history converge, offering an experience that touches the soul. Recently, a group of international bloggers embarked on a fascinating journey, exploring the hidden gems of Huangshan. Their mission was simple: to uncover this majestic destination's cultural richness and heritage, and along the way, they discovered more than they ever imagined.
As they explored, these travellers—hailing from the United States, France, Russia, Egypt, and Tunisia—began their journey from Shanghai. Their destination wasn't just the iconic Yellow Mountain but a broader region known as "Greater Huangshan," encompassing cities like Chizhou (池州), Anqing (安庆), and Xuancheng (宣城). From towering peaks to ancient villages, this area holds a wealth of cultural treasures that have attracted visitors from across the globe.
One of the first stops on the journey was the famous Yellow Mountain itself. This visit was a long-awaited dream for Sana, a blogger and host from Tunisia. She first heard of Huangshan during her Chinese studies, where it became a symbol of natural beauty and cultural significance. Huangshan, or the Yellow Mountain, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of China's ten most incredible scenic wonders.
Sana was especially drawn to Huangshan's iconic feature: the "Welcoming Pine." With its branches stretching out like an open hand, this ancient tree seems to beckon visitors with a warm invitation. "It looks as if it's waiting for you, ready to embrace everyone who comes here," Sana marvelled. The mountain's mystical scenery, from seas of clouds to bizarre rock formations, left her in awe. The beauty of the landscape was matched by the poetic names given to these formations, a tradition rooted in Chinese romanticism.
Savoring Local Flavors
For Morgan, a French chef living in Shanghai, the journey to Huangshan offered something entirely different—exploring Anhui cuisine, known as Huizhou (徽州) cuisine. This culinary tradition is famous for its robust flavours and unique preservation techniques, a product of the region's historical trade routes. One particular dish stood out to Morgan: "smelly mandarin fish," an iconic dish of Huizhou that requires a meticulous fermentation process. At first, the dish's pungent smell was puzzling, but after learning about the art of balancing flavours, Morgan came to appreciate it as a masterpiece of culinary ingenuity.
But the surprises didn't stop there. Morgan discovered that local restaurants experimented with fusions, blending traditional Anhui flavours with modern Western dishes. One such creation was a pizza topped with the regional specialities of smelly fish and tofu. The combination was a delightful discovery, sparking new ideas for his restaurant back in Shanghai.
As they travelled deeper into the region, the group arrived at the ancient village of Wenzong (文宗古村), located at the foot of Jiuhua Mountain (九华山). Here, American actor and host Steven had the chance to experience the charm of traditional Hui-style architecture firsthand. Once on the verge of abandonment, the village had been transformed into a haven of cultural heritage. These restored buildings, made of wood and stone, are a testament to the craftsmanship of ancient China, with intricate wooden structures connected by sophisticated mortise and tenon joints.
Staying in one of these traditional homes gave Steven a profound sense of stepping back in time. "The entire environment—the architecture, the mountain views, the peaceful atmosphere—made me feel as though I was living in a historical moment, removed from the hustle and bustle of modern life," he reflected. The serenity of the village, paired with the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains, left an indelible impression on him.
For Sasha, a Russian blogger, the trip was not just about sightseeing; it was a chance to immerse herself in one of China's most iconic art forms: Huangmei opera (黄梅戏). In the city of Anqing, she is dressed in traditional costume and is taken to the stage to perform a short scene from the classic opera "The Marriage of Heaven and Earth (天仙配)." Under the guidance of professional actors, Sasha learned the graceful movements and lilting melodies that have captivated audiences for centuries.
Huangmei opera is often compared to Western folk music, with its simple, heartfelt tunes and stories rooted in rural life. Sasha found a deep connection to this "Chinese countryside music," as she called it, and was touched by the way the performance conveyed a sense of community and shared history.
Mastering the Art of Chinese Calligraphy
Before the journey ended, the group stopped in Xuancheng, the birthplace of the "Four Treasures of Study"—the essential tools for Chinese scholars: ink, inkstone, paper, and brush. Basma, an Egyptian cross-border e-commerce specialist, was particularly fascinated by the craftsmanship behind Xuan paper and brushes. She even attempted to make her sheet of paper, though the delicate process of scooping and layering the fibres proved to be more challenging than it looked.
In the end, Basma found herself captivated by the artistry of these traditional crafts and eager to share them with the world. "I never realized how much history and technique went into making these items," she said. "I want to bring this part of Chinese culture to a global audience."
The journey through Huangshan was more than just a travel experience—it was a deep dive into the heart of Chinese culture. From the breathtaking landscapes to the flavours of ancient cuisine and the rich traditions of opera and calligraphy, the region offers a unique blend of history and modernity that continues to captivate visitors worldwide. For those who seek adventure, culture, and inspiration, Huangshan is a destination that promises endless discoveries.
