Nestled in the southernmost reaches of East China's Anhui province, the city of Huangshan is a living portrait of China's cultural and natural grandeur.
Its ancient streets echo with centuries of history, while mist-veiled plantations yield some of the world's finest teas like Maofeng and Qimen (Keemun) teas.
Exploring Huangshan is like delving into a rich tapestry of history, art, and holistic well-being, and witnessing the sublime harmony between human craftsmanship and the natural world.
Tunxi Old Street: A tapestry of history and flavor
Stepping into Tunxi Old Street, visitors are transported back in time to a bustling marketplace that has thrived for centuries. Cobbled streets lined with traditional archways and historic shops tell stories of merchants and artisans who once traded in silk, tea, and ceramics. The air is filled with the aroma of local delicacies — steaming bowls of braised chicken, fragrant stinky mandarin fish, and sweet osmanthus pastries.
The street is also a treasure trove of local craftsmanship. Ink stones, crafted from distinctive Shexian slate, are prized not only for their utility in calligraphy but also as collectible artworks. Learning about the meticulous process of making ink stones reveals a deep respect for tradition and artistry. Nearby shops display exquisite lacquerware, featuring intricate carvings and brilliant finishes that reflect centuries of Chinese craftsmanship. These artifacts are more than mere souvenirs; they embody the cultural spirit passed down through generations.
Joe Burns from the United Kingdom experiences a pulse diagnosis at Xin'an Wellness Center, Huangshan, East China's Anhui province, on April 22. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]
Xin'an Wellness Center: A journey into traditional Chinese medicine
Huangshan is renowned for traditional Chinese medicine and that reputation is deeply rooted in the ancient Xin'an medicine practice, a healing tradition deeply woven into the region's history. At the Xin'an Wellness Center, visitors can immerse themselves in healing arts refined over centuries. Expert practitioners offer sessions tailored to individual needs, providing a holistic approach to health and well-being.
Visitors can experience the gentle yet profound effects of acupuncture, complemented by herbal teas and therapeutic massages. The practitioners emphasize the importance of harmony within the body and mind, echoing Taoist philosophy. This holistic approach aligns with modern wellness trends, offering a pathway to relaxation, healing, and balance through time-honored methods.
International visitors pick tea at a tea plantation in Qimen county, Huangshan, East China's Anhui province, on April 21.[Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]
Qimen black tea: The art of tea picking and processing
No journey to Huangshan is complete without savoring the world-famous Qimen black tea. The plantations surrounding the region are a living testament to China's centuries-old tea culture. Amid verdant bushes, visitors like us can pick fresh leaves, a hands-on experience that deepens appreciation for this revered tea.
Local masters explain the meticulous process behind producing Qimen black tea — from hand-plucking the tender leaves to the careful fermentation and roasting that develop its rich aroma and mellow taste.
Russian content creator Anzhelika Romanovskaia admires a fish lantern in Zhanqi village, Shexian county, Huangshan, East China's Anhui province, on April 21. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]
Zhanqi fish lantern: A glimpse into cultural celebrations
Forget city lights. In Zhanqi village of Shexian county, prosperity swims through the night sky. Zhanqi fish lanterns have gained national recognition, with their inclusion in the 2026 Spring Festival and Lantern Festival galas underscoring their cultural significance. The local tradition not only celebrates local artistry but also reflects the community's hopes for prosperity in the coming year. It's a rare, living piece of China's cultural soul, preserved not in museums, but in celebration.
As China reshapes its global identity, Huangshan stands out as a place that honors its past without freezing in time. Visitors leave with more than souvenirs — they carry a deeper sense of the city's cultural soul.
In essence, Huangshan is more than a scenic mountain range; it is a living mosaic of history, culture, and health — a place where nature's grandeur and human artistry come together in perfect harmony. For those seeking to explore China's rich heritage, Huangshan offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of Chinese civilization's enduring spirit.