Chengkan Village

Introducing Chengkan Village
Chengkan Village is a remarkable heritage site with over 1,800 years of history. Chengkan Village is known as “Bagua Village” or “Fengshui Village”. Its design adheres to the Bagua (Eight Trigrams) philosophy from the I Ching (Book of Changes), a philosophy emphasizes the harmony between humanity and nature. The village’s layout reflects this principle through its integration with the natural landscape: eight surrounding mountains symbolically correspond to the eight trigrams of the Bagua, representing the fundamental principles of the universe. The Longxi River, flowing through the village center in an “S” shape, is said to represent the dividing line between Yin (Kan, representing Water) and Yang (Li, representing Fire).

This enduring legacy of Bagua influence is evident in the village’s impressive collection of over 180 ancient structures, including houses, ancestral halls, pavilions, and bridges, dating primarily from the Yuan (1271–1368), Ming (1368–1644), and Qing (1644–1912) dynasties. These diverse architectural styles, characteristic of the historical Huizhou prefecture (a six-county area in Anhui Province, centered around modern-day Huangshan City), further enhance the unique charm that captivates visitors to Chengkan.

Chengkan Village Fast Facts
• AKA: Chengkan Scenic Area, Bagua Village
• Chinese Name: Chéng Kǎn Cūn 呈坎村
• Best Time to Visit: March to April; October to November
• Recommended Visiting Hours: About 2 to 3 hours
• Things to Do: Photography, Architecture, Culture and History
• Opening Hours: 8:00 – 17:00
• Entrance Fee: CNY107
• Address: Huizhou District, Huangshan, Anhui Province

What to Expect at the Chengkan Village
Though less renowned than Hongcun and Xidi Ancient Village, Chengkan village, whose name itself whispers promises of a life free from hardship, holds a near-sacred atmosphere. For those seeking prosperity, a visit becomes a pilgrimage.

Luo Dongshu Ancestral Hall
Located in the north of the village, the 3,000-square-meter Luo Dongshu Ancestral Hall houses a collection of 34 surviving plaques, dating from the Yuan Dynasty to the Republican era, earning Chengkan Village the reputation of “home of ancient plaques.” The most striking is an enormous plaque inscribed with the characters “彝倫攸敘” (Yi Lun You Xu – meaning “Ethical Principles Properly Ordered”) by prominent Chinese calligrapher Dong Qichang, which hangs high in the main hall. Measuring 2.15 meters (7.05 ft) high and 5 meters (16.9 ft) wide, it is considered the largest known ancient plaque.

South of the main hall lies the smaller Inner Precepts Hall (also known as the Women’s Shrine), notable for its ground-breaking inclusion of remarried women among those honored—a practice rarely seen at the time.

Longxing Bridge
The Longxing Bridge, also known as New Bridge, stands as a remarkable example of Ming Dynasty engineering prowess. This impressive stone structure stretches 46.6 meters (153 ft) long and 6.6 meters (21.6 ft) wide, rising 8 meters (26.2 ft) above the ground. Its most significant feature is its single arch, a testament to the sophisticated construction techniques of the era, and this architectural marvel holds the prestigious title of the largest preserved single-arch stone bridge in the Jiangnan region (south of the Yangtze River).

Baolun Pavilion
Baolun Pavilion evokes a sense of dignity and sternness. Its narrow, deep courtyard provides a stark contrast to the open, bright courtyards typical of the surrounding village. Ten large stone pillars line the corridor, while forty-six wooden pillars support the main hall. Intricate carvings of birds and beasts, believed to ward off evil, adorn twenty-six black marble slabs at the front. Cloud, vase, and floral motifs are elaborately carved into the wooden components, including the arches, sparrow braces, and beam heads. The painted designs on the roof beams, remarkably vibrant after more than four centuries, are recognized as rare and precious examples of Chinese folk art.

How to Get to Chengkan Village
• The Chengkan Village is located approx. 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) northwest of Huangshan.
• Charter a car/bus from GGC to enjoy a hassle-free transfer to the Chengkan Village.