Li Keng, a small water town nestled among mountains, is a haven of natural beauty and historical charm. Located 12 kilometers from the county town of Wuyuan, this ancient village has long been a cradle of culture and talent, primarily inhabited by the Li surname.
In spring, a vast field of rapeseed flowers lies just in front of the village, their golden yellow hues blanketing the surrounding hills and fields. The village itself is a treasure trove of Hui-style ancient architecture, with grey walls and white tiles that exude an air of ancient simplicity. Among these structures, the former residence of Li Zhicheng, the military top scholar of the Southern Song Dynasty, stands preserved as a testament to the village’s rich history.
As one follows the path behind the village and ascends the mountain, a breathtaking panoramic view of Li Keng unfolds. The village is adorned with arched bridges, pavilions, temples, and courtyards, each contributing to its timeless appeal. Upon entering, streets lined with shops greet visitors, offering a variety of local specialties such as Hui-style wood carvings and Longwei inkstones.
For those seeking accommodation and dining, numerous ‘agritourism’ homes are available, serving up special local dishes like Flower Mushroom Stone Chicken, Braised Lotus Carp, and Li Keng Steamed Chicken. Along the riverbank, tea houses and hotels invite visitors to savor Bayberry Wine and Li Keng Glutinous Rice Wine, both particularly delicious local beverages.
Scattered among the residences are many ancient dwellings dating back to the Ming and Qing dynasties, featuring exquisite carvings that speak to the village’s artistic heritage. A river meanders through the village in sections, providing an opportunity for visitors to embark on a leisurely bamboo raft ride, adding to the tranquil experience of exploring Li Keng.
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From the Song to the Qing dynasties, hundreds of officials and wealthy merchants, as well as the village’s literati, have left behind a legacy of 29 works that have been passed down through the ages. During the Southern Song period, a military top scholar named Li Zhicheng emerged, and visitors can explore his former residence located in the village. The site is open from 07:00 to 23:59 all year round.
Admission优惠政策 include the following:
– Children under 1.2 meters (not included) enter for free.
– Those between 1.2 meters (included) and 1.5 meters (not included) receive a discount.
– Elderly people aged 65 and above with valid identification enter for free.
– Those aged between 60 and 65 with valid identification receive a discount.
– Full-time undergraduate students (included) and below with a student ID receive a discount.
– People with disabilities with valid identification enter for free.
– Active duty military personnel with valid identification enter for free.
– Tour guides with a team leader certificate, Wuyuan County tour guide certificate (interpretation certificate), or a valid national tour guide IC card (national guide certificate) enter for free.
– Those with a nationally issued travel agency general manager qualification certificate enter for free.
– Journalists with a press card issued by the provincial or higher level of the Press and Publication Bureau or the State Administration of Radio and Television enter for free.
– Drivers with an A1 class driver’s license for passenger transport enter for free.
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