Where deities dwell

Shenxianju scenic area in Xianju county, Zhejiang province, which boasts terrain shaped by unique igneous rhyolite formations, is called the abode of the immortals. [Photo by Xu Lin/Erik Nillson/China Daily]

The county has constructed nearly 500 km of green hiking trails, some of which can also be explored on two wheels.

Visitors to Danzhu Leisure Valley can stroll through bamboo thickets to enjoy rich biodiversity, cascades and brooks. Villagers there also sell honey.

About 26 kilometers away is the thousand-year-old Potan town, where ancient architecture lines cobblestone streets.

Historic sites include ancestral temples, a private school, a casino, a pawnshop and a brothel.

Cobblestones in the brothel's courtyard form the shape of an ancient Chinese coin. The message is clear－this is a place where you must spend money.

A secret back door offers discretion.

Nearby, Shanghengjie village offers a laidback feel.

It's a place to go slow.

The houses' white exteriors sport murals of such folk themes as mountains and flowers rendered in traditional wash-painting styles.

Large jars decorated by primary school students flank the streets.

They add color to the community, in every sense.