Trip to Songyang County, China — Complete Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Songyang County means discovering one of China's best-kept secrets. Located in Zhejiang Province, Songyang is famous for its ancient villages, lush tea plantations, and traditional wooden architecture, offering a peaceful retreat into rural China.

Trip to Songyang County China
Trip to Songyang County China


Quick Facts About Songyang

  • Location: Zhejiang Province, China
  • Famous for: Ancient villages, tea terraces, bamboo forests, cultural heritage
  • Best Time to Visit: March to May (spring) or September to November (autumn)
  • Currency: Chinese Yuan (CNY)

Top Things to Do in Songyang

  1. Visit Ancient Villages – Explore villages like Huangling, Damushan, and Damu with well-preserved Ming and Qing architecture.
  2. Walk Through Tea Plantations – Stroll scenic tea terraces and learn about local tea-making traditions.
  3. Hike Bamboo Forests – Discover peaceful bamboo groves and forest trails.
  4. Experience Songyang Academy – A historic Confucian academy from the Song dynasty.
  5. Visit Stone Arch Bridges – Admire centuries-old bridges blending with the natural landscape.
  6. Try Local Cuisine – Sample traditional dishes like Songyang noodles, tofu, and mountain vegetables.

Best Time to Visit Songyang

The best times to visit are spring (March to May) for blooming flowers and fresh greenery, and autumn (September to November) for mild weather and golden rice fields.

How to Get to Songyang

Songyang is accessible by high-speed train to Lishui City, then a bus or taxi (about 1 hour). The nearest airports are in Hangzhou and Wenzhou, each around 3–4 hours away by car or train.

Where to Stay in Songyang

  • Traditional Guesthouses: Stay in beautifully restored wooden houses within ancient villages.
  • Eco Resorts: Nestled in tea fields or forests offering scenic views and tranquility.
  • City Hotels in Lishui: For modern amenities with easy transport to Songyang.

Map of Songyang County

Frequently Asked Questions About Songyang

Is Songyang County tourist-friendly?

Yes, though it’s less commercialized, Songyang offers well-maintained guesthouses and friendly locals accustomed to visitors.

Do I need to speak Chinese to visit?

English is limited in rural areas, but basic translation apps and helpful locals make it manageable.

Is Songyang crowded?

No, it’s a peaceful alternative to China’s larger tourist cities, ideal for travelers seeking authenticity.

Is it easy to visit from Hangzhou?

Yes, take a high-speed train to Lishui, then transfer by bus or taxi to Songyang.

Conclusion

Songyang County is a hidden gem offering rich culture, stunning landscapes, and a glimpse into traditional Chinese rural life. Perfect for travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path destinations in China.