There is no better way to experience the extravagant villas of the Huizhou merchants than to spend a few days living in one, waking for breakfast overlooking the courtyard, and spending a rainy afternoon in the wood-panelled study. At this nine-room boutique hotel, inside a Qing dynasty home masterfully restored by Shanghai artist Li Guoyu, you can do exactly that.
Along with exquisite original wood carvings, the inn is decorated with antiques and artwork. There are numerous nooks and crannies to explore and several dining areas, so even when it's full, it still feels intimate. In-house meals are fantastic, making use of produce from the organic farm that is part of the estate.
English is limited, but staff have a translator on speed-dial. Reservations necessary and there's a two-night minimum stay.