Hidden Gem in Zhejiang: Xinye Ming Dynasty Ancient Houses

Geographical Location

Nestled in the southwestern corner of Jiande City, Hangzhou, Xinye Ming Dynasty Ancient Houses is a living museum of traditional Chinese architecture. Perched in Daciyan Town (311612), this ancient village feels worlds away from bustling cities, yet it’s just a 90-minute drive from Hangzhou. Surrounded by rolling hills and lush rice paddies, the village blends seamlessly into its natural backdrop, creating a serene escape for history lovers and culture seekers.

Getting There

  • By Car: Rent a car in Hangzhou and follow the scenic G56 highway. The winding mountain roads offer glimpses of tea fields and reservoirs, making the journey part of the adventure.
  • Public Transport: Take a bus from Hangzhou West Bus Station to Jiande, then transfer to a local shuttle toward Daciyan Town. The trip takes around 2 hours but offers a chance to chat with friendly locals.
  • Tip: Visit on a weekday to avoid crowds and soak in the tranquility of this timeless spot.

Natural Scenery

Xinye Ming Dynasty Ancient Houses isn’t just about old buildings—it’s framed by nature’s beauty. The village hugs a gentle slope, with terraced fields and forests forming a green blanket in the distance. A small stream meanders through the heart of the village, where women still wash clothes on stone banks, and ducks paddle by. In spring, cherry blossoms and wildflowers add splashes of color, while autumn paints the landscape in golden hues. It’s a perfect mix of human history and nature’s rhythm.

Cultural Heart of Ancient Architecture

This is where Xinye Ming Dynasty Ancient Houses truly shines. Wander through 15 Ming-era houses and over 150 Qing-era structures, each one a masterclass in traditional design. Unlike sterile museums, these buildings are lived-in, with families still raising children and cooking meals in centuries-old kitchens.

  • Layout & Symbolism: The houses are arranged like a puzzle, following Feng Shui principles. Narrow lanes zigzag between courtyards, symbolizing “yin and yang” balance. Tall doors for wealthy families and smaller ones for commoners reflect hierarchy, while carved roof beams showcase stories from mythology.
  • Artisanal Details: Look closely at wooden windows, doors, and lintels. Intricate carvings of dragons, phoenixes, and lotus flowers highlight craftsmanship from the Ming and Qing dynasties. Locals say these designs weren’t just for beauty—they were believed to bring luck and ward off evil.
  • Living History: Some houses have secret rooms for storing grain or hiding during turmoil. Others feature “reading halls,” nodding to the village’s motto: “Plow by day, read by lamplight.” This blend of farming and scholarship shaped its unique identity.

Local Life & Amenities

Don’t expect luxury resorts here—Xinye Ming Dynasty Ancient Houses is about immersion. Stay in a restored guesthouse run by villagers, where breakfast might include steamed buns and homemade pickles. For dining, try Nongjia Le (Farmer’s Joy), a family-run restaurant serving rice wine, bamboo shoots, and river fish caught nearby.

  • Guided Tours: Hire a local guide (Chinese/English speaking) to unlock stories behind the walls. They’ll share tales of ancestors, festivals, and how the village survived modernization.
  • Workshops: Join a calligraphy or paper-cutting class to craft souvenirs while learning about traditions.
  • Pro Tip: Bring cash—ATMs are rare, and many places prefer WeChat Pay.

Immersive Experience

Strolling through Xinye Ming Dynasty Ancient Houses feels like stepping into a historical film. Children chase each other down stone paths, elders smoke pipes on doorsteps, and laundry flaps in the breeze. Climb the Pan Family Compound for a bird’s-eye view of the village’s layout. At dusk, the soft glow of lanterns transforms the place into a magical time capsule.

For photography fans, morning light is perfect for capturing dew-kissed rooftops, while sunset bathes the village in warm hues. Avoid midday summer visits (it gets hot!), and don’t miss the night sky—minimal light pollution means stars shine brightly over these centuries-old roofs.

Why It’s Worth a Detour

Xinye Ming Dynasty Ancient Houses isn’t just a sightseeing stop—it’s a window into China’s rural soul. Unlike overcrowded water towns or commercialized ancient cities, this village stays true to its roots. Whether you’re fascinated by carpentry, intrigued by Confucian ideals, or simply craving quiet, it’s a destination that leaves a lasting impression. Pack comfy shoes, curiosity, and an appreciation for slow-paced travel—this living museum rewards every visitor who takes the road less traveled.