Looking for a highly authentic slab of traditional village life in the southeast of China? If so, you should certainly head for Zhejiang Province where there are an abundance of options. 

Visit Fudewan Ancient Village.

In terms of getting away from it all, Fudewan Ancient Village is an excellent choice for the intrepid wanderer. In fact, most foreign visitors don’t even know about it. This is hardly surprising when you factor in its location on the side of a mountain an hour’s drive from Cangnan Train Station.

However, a trip here is absolutely worth the effort! After arrival, just wander through the village’s ascending country lanes until you reach the peak. Along the way, you’ll come across an ancient Tea Academy, the world’s sleepiest post office and local vendors selling traditional snacks and locally sourced alum. It really is another world, as they say. 

As far as I know, my articles are the only English language pieces online about this curious Chinese village. So, without further ado, why not dive into my travel reports:

Fudewan Ancient Village Part I

Fudewan Ancient Village Part II

Check out the Leighton Travels interview on Ericotrips.