Perched high up in the village of Ping’an, the views from Li-An Lodge over the region’s idyllic mountainsides stretch out as far as the eye can see. In keeping with ancient Chinese building traditions, the property was built entirely out of wood without the use of a single nail, adopting instead the traditional ‘tongue and groove’ technique. Designed by renowned Chinese photographer Keren Su, whose extensive collection of art objects adorn the interiors of the lodge, Li-An sits in total harmony with its natural surroundings.

Each of the 16 rooms comes individually decorated and themed after a different aspect of Chinese culture, but the best enjoy sweeping views over Longji’s spectacular ‘Dragon Spine’ rice terraces. The area is a dream hiking and photography destination, with easy access from the lodge to various walking trails leading to remote villages and scenic viewpoints.