Longnan township, nestling in the mountainous area of Longquan – in Lishui city in East China's Zhejiang province – is a cool and scenic retreat that offers a refreshing escape from the heat and noise of the city.

With an average annual temperature of around 20 C, Longnan boasts fresh air, gurgling streams and dense forests. It is also rich in cultural and natural heritage – such as shiitake mushroom cultivation, Huizhou-style architecture and the Fengyang Mountain nature reserve.

Here are three iconic villages in Longnan that you should not miss:

The sun pours forth in a burst of gold over Xiatian village. [Photo by Pan Shiguo/WeChat account: zjlqtour]

Xiatian village is one of the key villages in the area where the cultivation of shiitake mushrooms first began. As such, it has many shiitake mushroom cultural relics and a rich shiitake mushroom culture. The houses, corridors, temples in the village have preserved the traditional style and historical pattern of Huizhou, Zhejiang-Fujian-Jiangxi architectural skills.

Some locals go for a walk in Dazhuang village. [Photo by Wang Yehe/WeChat account: zjlqtour]

Dazhuang village is located in the southwest of Longnan, adjacent to Fengyang Mountain, a national nature reserve. The village has an altitude of 994 meters and enjoys a pleasant climate all year round. It is surrounded by green hills and clear waters, creating tranquil scenery.

An idyllic view of Jiaoyang village. [Photo by Zhang Luming/WeChat account: zjlqtour]

Jiaoyang village is the seat of Longnan town, located at the junction of Longquan, Qingyuan and Jingning counties. The north of the village has undulating mountains, shaped like a dragon. The village has a long history and a rich culture. It is famous for its ancient stone bridges, wells, ancient buildings and pavilions.