Ye·Small Garden Dongjiang Academy
Tucked away just next to the entrance to the Misty Little Dongjiang, there's a house like no other.
In 2019, the owner, Old Gu, returned to his hometown from Guangdong to start a guesthouse. He bought this villa by the river. A man who treasures books above almost anything else, on moving day, he transported his entire study from Guangdong—over three thousand private volumes, taking several carloads.
In the living room, he built a six-meter-high bookshelf that stretches all the way to the ceiling. Sunlight pours in through the glass windows, falling perfectly onto the spines of the books. Guesthouses with a library theme like this are rare in China. You could call it a guesthouse, but it feels more like a reading room built by a book lover, using a lifetime's savings, for himself and for those passing through.
There are twelve rooms, each with its own character. Some have a small balcony where you can push open the window and gaze out at the Little Dongjiang River. Others are quiet and introverted, perfect for curling up with a book alone. The design doesn't chase luxury; it simply wants every room to have its own little temperament.
You won't find all sorts of trendy, gimmicky items here. What you will find are books Old Gu has collected from everywhere, and an atmosphere that whispers, "This is the life I wanted."
If you love books too, or if you're just looking for a quiet place to be—feel free to come and sit awhile. Steep a pot of tea, flip through a book, watch the river flow.
The good life should be just like this.
"This homestay is really worth recommending! 📍 Ye Xiaoyuan·Dongjiang Academy is on the edge of Xiaodongjiang, with beautiful mountains and clear waters and a great environment. As soon as I entered the door, I was attracted by the high-quality books in the house, and the book was full of fragrance. The room was very clean and the details were well done. The service is even more intimate, the staff takes the initiative to help with luggage, the living room is always equipped with fresh fruit, as warm as going home. Next time you come to Dongjiang, you must still live here! 🍃📚🍊"