Hangshan City has a history of over 2200 years. Its two oldest counties, Shexian and Yixian, were established during Qing Dynasty when the system of prefecture and county took shape. Huangshan City was formerly called Xin'an Prefecture, and later Huizhou Prefecture until it got current name in 1987.
Situated in a remote and picturesque mountainous area, Huizhou escaped many wars and battles throughout history. Refugees from the Central Plains came into this area and brought with them the Han culture starting from the Sui and Tang Dynasties. Many refugees were famous for their achievements in art, medicine, architecture and craftsmanship. Under their influences, Huizhou has become known as a remarkable place for producing great scholars, painters, artists and merchants.

The contributions of these talented and industrious people, together with the 2200-year history, have brought about the glorious and magnificent Huizhou Culture (also known as Xin'an Culture) which can be represented by Xin'an Philosophy, Xin'an Medicine School, Xin'an Painting School, Huizhou School of Woodblock, Huizhou Seal School, Huizhou Commerce, Huizhou Opera, Huizhou Cuisine, Huizhou Sculpture and Huizhou Style Architecture. This culture, originated mainly from the Central Plains (an area which comprises the middle and lower reaches of the Huanghe River) and integrated with traces of Shan'yue Culture, is an important part of Chinese Civilization. As a matter of fact, Huizhou Culture has become one of the three main fields of the Chinese Culture (Han) Study, the other two being Dunhuang and Tibetan Cultures. This is why more and more scholars form home and abroad turn their attention to Huizhou Culture, and many visitors have come to this area to examine the historical sites and relics. So far, more than 4900 sites and relics were found, among which, 57 sites are listed as key units under the state or provincial protection. The best known sites are the Qiankou Ancient Residence (in Huizhou District), Xugou Memorial Archway and Tangyue Archway Group (in Shexian County), Xidi Village and Hongcun Village (in Yixian County), just to name a few. The classic, elegant design of the buildings and the ingenious, magnificent layout of the landscapes are outstanding in its own way.

Huangshan City is not only noted for its charming natural landscapes but also celebrated for its ancient history and culture. In fact, Huangshan City is a national park and a museum where you can enjoy natural beauty and explore its centuries-old history and glorious culture.