The Most Beautiful Villages and Towns in China

China boasts a wealth of picturesque villages and towns, each offering a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and traditional way of life. Here are some of the most beautiful villages and towns in China:

Lijiang Old Town (Yunnan Province)

Known for its cobblestone streets, wooden houses, and ancient waterways, Lijiang Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist destination.

Pingyao Ancient Town (Shanxi Province)

Renowned for its well-preserved city walls, traditional courtyards, and Ming and Qing dynasty architecture, Pingyao Ancient Town offers a glimpse into China’s imperial past.

Hongcun Village (Anhui Province)

Famous for its charming architecture, tranquil ponds, and surrounding countryside, Hongcun Village is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a favorite destination for photographers.

Fenghuang Ancient Town (Hunan Province)

Nestled along the banks of the Tuojiang River, Fenghuang Ancient Town is known for its well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty buildings, picturesque bridges, and rich ethnic culture.

Wuzhen Water Town (Zhejiang Province)

Divided into East and West sections by the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal, Wuzhen Water Town is famous for its traditional architecture, stone bridges, and tranquil canals.

Shuhe Ancient Town (Yunnan Province)

Located near Lijiang, Shuhe Ancient Town is known for its peaceful atmosphere, ancient stone pathways, and Naxi ethnic culture.

Xitang Water Town (Zhejiang Province)

With its winding canals, stone arch bridges, and well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty buildings, Xitang Water Town is often referred to as the “Venice of the East.”

Shaxi Ancient Town (Yunnan Province)

Situated along the Ancient Tea Horse Road, Shaxi Ancient Town is known for its historic market square, traditional Bai architecture, and surrounding mountains.

Tongli Water Town (Jiangsu Province)

Featuring ancient bridges, tranquil canals, and well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty residences, Tongli Water Town offers visitors a peaceful retreat from bustling city life.

Yangshuo Town (Guangxi Province)

Surrounded by karst mountains and the Li River, Yangshuo Town is famous for its stunning natural scenery, outdoor activities, and vibrant arts scene.

These villages and towns showcase the beauty and diversity of China’s cultural and natural landscapes, attracting visitors from around the world with their unique charm and timeless appeal.

Zhouzhuang Water Town (Jiangsu Province)

Renowned as one of the most famous water towns in China, Zhouzhuang features picturesque canals, traditional wooden houses, and charming stone bridges, offering a serene atmosphere.

Jiuzhaigou Valley (Sichuan Province)

Though primarily known for its breathtaking natural scenery, Jiuzhaigou Valley also features traditional Tibetan villages nestled among stunning lakes and waterfalls, providing a unique cultural experience.

Dazhai Village (Guangxi Province)

Famous for its terraced rice fields, Dazhai Village showcases the stunning agricultural landscapes of the Zhuang people and offers opportunities for hiking and photography.

Fanjingshan Town (Guizhou Province)

This small town is located near Fanjingshan Mountain, known for its striking landscapes and rich biodiversity, as well as its cultural significance to the local Miao and Bouyei ethnic groups.

Chengkan Village (Anhui Province)

A well-preserved ancient village, Chengkan features beautiful Huizhou-style architecture, narrow alleys, and serene ponds, offering a glimpse into the traditional way of life in Anhui.

Ping’an Village (Guangxi Province)

Set amidst the Longji Rice Terraces, Ping’an Village is famous for its stunning views, wooden stilt houses, and the culture of the Zhuang and Yao ethnic minorities.

Xijiang Miao Village (Guizhou Province)

Known as the largest Miao village in China, Xijiang Miao Village offers a vibrant display of Miao culture, traditional wooden architecture, and stunning mountain scenery.

Huangling Village (Anhui Province)

This ancient village is famous for its well-preserved architecture and beautiful surrounding landscapes, making it a popular destination for those interested in traditional Chinese culture.

Fengjing Ancient Town (Shanghai Province)

Fengjing boasts ancient canals, traditional architecture, and a rich history dating back to the Song Dynasty, providing visitors with a charming and historical atmosphere.