Huangshan's Yixian: A digital nomad haven

Nestled in Huangshan, Yixian county has emerged as an ideal destination for digital nomads seeking a life where work and travel become one. Its allure lies in a unique mix of scenic beauty, functional convenience, and a welcoming community.

A group photo of digital nomads in Yixian. [Photo/Huangshan Daily]

Home to UNESCO sites Xidi and Hongcun, Yixian boasts 46 traditional villages and 1,684 immovable cultural relics, offering ancient architecture as a backdrop for remote work — 82 percent of surveyed nomads cite its historic landscapes as their top reason for choosing Yixian.

With a forest coverage rate of 84.8 percent and good air quality on 98 percent of days, it's a natural wellness retreat. Rich traditional cultural activities, from ink-making to wood carving, let nomads connect with local traditions.

Backed by supportive policies for digital nomads - including three "1 million yuan ($138,000)" funds - Yixian simplifies long-term stays. It provides eight free nomad communities, shared workspaces, and benefits like free access to scenic spots via digital services.

The 2nd digital nomad conference presents brilliant creative exchanges. [Photo/Huangshan Daily]

Nomads aren't just visitors - they contribute: creating local guidebooks, promoting history and culture online, and even winning global awards for blending Huizhou's water wisdom with modern design. Their projects have boosted local sales by over 3 million yuan.

As dawn lights up Huizhou-style courtyards and evening laughter fills village cafes, Yixian proves work can be meaningful and life poetic.