In Season, a platinum-level homestay in Deqing county, Huzhou, East China's Zhejiang province. [Photo/hz66.com]

Deqing, nestled approximately 180 kilometers from Shanghai, is a hidden gem awaiting avid travelers seeking to elevate their journey beyond the ordinary.

While towering branded hotels have long been the go-to choice for many, the allure of homestays in Deing county in Huzhou offers a truly exceptional and unforgettable experience.

Mount Mogan is a renowned scenic attraction in Deqing and has been recognized as one of the "45 places in the world worth visiting" by the New York Times. In their quest for an enriched stay during their trip to the mountain, an increasing number of visitors forgo luxury hotels and instead opt for boutique homestays conveniently located nearby.

Among the various homestays available, In Season stands out. In 2017, it became the first homestay in Huzhou to receive a platinum level rating from provincial authorities. This is the highest level of recognition in the grading system for homestays in Zhejiang. 

Upon entering In Season, guests are greeted with a unique blend of aesthetics and artistic ambiance. The rooms are adorned with repurposed old wood from the original house, exuding a rustic and natural charm. Throughout the homestay, carefully placed tea sets create an atmosphere that reflects the essence of tea culture, infused with Zen principles.

Consisting of two buildings − one with nine rooms and the other with six − each room offers panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows that provide breathtaking views of the lush green bamboo forest.

Visitors not only have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the beauty of the changing seasons but also indulge in local delicacies and rejuvenate their spirits with a bath.

Regardless of the time of year, the homestay's chef sources seasonal ingredients from Mount Mogan, ensuring exceptional flavors that showcase the best of local produce. To further enhance the experience, In Season has built two bathhouses amidst the bamboo forest, supplied with natural spring water from deep underground sources.