A time trap, stepping into Cuandixia is like entering an era bygone, more specifically the Ming Dynasty. The village is cradled by stunning mountains reminiscent of Chinese paintings, and paired with worn cobblestoned pathways. Uniquely fashioned to suit its surroundings, the houses here have Beijing-styled courtyards with notable ones such as the Guangliang Courtyard and the Goddess Temple, famed for the delicate carvings of flowers and birds.

Stay in a village inn to immerse yourself fully in the rustic charm of Cuandixia or visit during festive seasons such as the Chinese New Year or Mid-Autumn Festivals and celebrate with the locals just like they had done so for centuries. Besides the tonnes of photographs that you will take, do not leave Cuandixia without stocking up on some of the local specialties such as lanterns, paper cut, wood carvings, walnut, honey and camellia tea.