Anhui Travel Guide (South-central China/China/East Asia/Asia)

Introduction to Anhui

Anhui is a province in South-central China. It is blessed with magnificent natural landscapes, rich cultural history, and delectable cuisine that few other destinations can match. The province is home to more than 62 million people, and it borders six provinces, including Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Jiangxi, Hubei, Henan, and Shandong.

Anhui is known for its Yellow Mountains (Huangshan), which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, beautiful tea gardens, ancient villages, and numerous cultural landmarks. The cuisine is another highlight of Anhui, famous for its unique flavors and locally produced ingredients.

Whether you are a nature lover, a history buff, a foodie, or a culture enthusiast, Anhui has something to offer that will make your trip unforgettable.

List of Places to Visit in Anhui

Here are some of the top tourist destinations and must-see attractions in Anhui that should be on every traveler’s itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Hefei Meiling Palace: This palace is a fascinating symbol of Anhui’s rich cultural history. It is located on Mt. Dashu in Hefei and has a stunning view of the city. The palace was built in the 1930s by Generalissimo Chiang Kai-shek and his wife, Madam Chiang Kai-shek, as their residence.
Huangshan (Yellow Mountains): Huangshan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its breathtaking scenery, including jagged peaks, oddly shaped rocks, and towering ancient trees. In addition, visitors can experience traditional Chinese ink paintings firsthand by immersing themselves in the natural wonders of this awe-inspiring place.
Hongcun Ancient Village: Hongcun is a charming village that has retained its traditional Chinese architectural style for centuries, and the village is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The village’s streets are lined with ancient buildings that have been preserved in their original form, making it a perfect destination for history lovers.
Mount Jiuhua: Mount Jiuhua is one of the sacred mountains of Buddhism in China. It has many temples and monasteries that attract pilgrims from all over the world. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful natural scenery while learning about Buddhism’s history and philosophy.
Yinan County Museum: A fascinating museum in Yinan County, it showcases the region’s customs, culture, history, and archeology.

Natural Attractions of Anhui: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Tunxi Old Street: Located in the city of Huangshan, this street is one of the most ancient streets in China. It offers a glimpse into old-world China with its traditional shops, tea houses, and centuries-old architecture.
Qimen Hongcha Plantation: Qimen Hongcha (Keemun Black Tea) is a famous Chinese tea that is grown in this region. Visitors can learn about tea’s history and brewing technique, and also sample some of the best locally produced tea.
Xidi Ancient Village: Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Xidi Ancient Village in the Huizhou region of Anhui offers a glimpse into the traditional way of life in China’s old villages. The ancient buildings feature Huizhou architecture, a unique style that blends the beauty of wood carving, brick carving, and stone carving.
Fuling Tomb: Located in Shouxian County, the tomb is the burial place of Liu An, King of Huainan, who died during the Han Dynasty (202 BC-220 AD). It features underground palaces, halls, and tunnels and is a remarkable architectural work from ancient China.
Sanyan Scenic Area: The Sanyan Scenic Area near Huangshan is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. The area features three peaks, each offering exceptional views of the surrounding scenery, including waterfalls, caves and natural hot springs.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Anhui

Anhui has some of the most stunning landscapes in China, and hiking/biking through these areas is an excellent way to enjoy the province’s natural beauty. Here are some of the best hiking/biking routes in Anhui:

Huangshan Circuit Route: This hiking route is famous for its spectacular views of the Yellow Mountains. The 40-kilometer circuit starts from Cloud Dispelling Pavilion and consists of several scenic spots, including the Lotus Flower Peak, Heavenly Sea Peak, Jade Screen Peak, etc. The hiking route requires around 3 to 4 days to complete.
Chaohu Lakeline: This 100-kilometer biking route follows the perimeter of Chaohu Lake, the fifth-largest lake in China. The path is flat and mostly smooth, making it easy for beginners to navigate. The route starts from Hefei at the north end of the lake and takes you through several picturesque villages.

Best Things to Do in Anhui: Activities and Tours

Anhui offers various activities that visitors can enjoy as they explore the province. Here are some of the best things to do in Anhui:

Tea Tasting: Anhui is famous for producing some of the best teas in China, including Keemun Black Tea, Huangshan Maofeng, Qimen Hongcha, and many others. Visitors can take tea-tasting tours where they can learn about the production process and savor the different tea flavors.
Fishing in Chaohu Lake: Chaohu Lake is an excellent place for fishing enthusiasts. The lake has numerous species of fish, including silver carp, grass carp, and bighead carp, which provide an exciting fishing experience.
Kung Fu Demonstrations: Many ancient Chinese kung fu schools are found in Anhui, offering visitors a chance to see demos or even take martial arts lessons.
Cormorant Fishing: Cormorant fishing at night in Guniujiang Nature Reserve is a unique experience in Anhui. Visitors can watch the cormorants catch fish and also try traditional Chinese fishing techniques.
Hot Spring Bathing: Anhui has several hot springs, providing visitors an opportunity to relax after a long day of exploring. The region boasts many natural hot springs, including the Hot Springs of Chaohu, Tangshan Hot Springs, and Huangshan Hot Springs.

Week-Long Itinerary for Anhui

Here’s a one-week itinerary that you can use to explore Anhui:

Day 1: Arrive in Hefei, visit Hui Garden and Bao Zheng Memorial Hall.

Day 2: Travel to the Huangshan area, explore the Hongcun Ancient Village.

Day 3: Hike on the Yellow Mountains and enjoy the breathtaking views.

Day 4: Visit Xidi Ancient Village and learn about Huizhou culture.

Day 5: Take a tea-tasting tour in Qimen and immerse in the tea culture of Anhui.

Day 6: Explore the Fuling Tomb and learn about China’s ancient history.

Day 7: Relax in the Hot Springs of Huangshan before departing for your next destination.

This itinerary is flexible and can be adapted to suit your preferences and interests.

Food and Drink Scene of Anhui

Anhui’s cuisine is known for its unique flavor and locally-sourced ingredients. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Stinky Tofu: This iconic street food is a popular snack in Anhui. It’s made from fermented tofu with a strong odor, but it’s delicious when fried and served with spicy sauce.
Guzheng Rou (Gu Zheng Pork): It’s a dish featuring thinly sliced pork marinated with ginger, cinnamon, and other spices.
Li Hongzhang Hotchpotch: A hotpot-style meal that features a variety of meat, seafood, and vegetables.
Huizhou Dried Turnip: A specialty dish featuring dry sliced turnips cooked with sliced pork.

Local Beverages

Huoshan Huangya: This tea has been famous in China for over 1000 years. It’s known for its flowery fragrance and smooth flavor.
Bamboo Leaf Green: This tea originates from the Yellow Mountain, and the handpicked tea leaves are wrapped in fresh bamboo leaves before baking. The tea has a delicate and refreshing flavor.
Huangjiu: Also called yellow wine; it’s a traditional Chinese alcoholic beverage made from fermented grains. Anhui is known for producing some of the best Huangjiu in China.

Where to Stay in Anhui: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Anhui has numerous places to stay that cater to every budget, from high-end hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Some of the best places to stay in Anhui are:

InterContinental Resort Jiuhua Shan: This hotel near the Mount Jiuhua scenic area offers great views and luxurious amenities.
Crowne Plaza Huangshan: Located near the Huangshan scenic area, this hotel features modern amenities and excellent services.
Xidi Chunghua Guest House: If you prefer a quieter and more traditional experience, this guesthouse in Xidi Ancient Village will take you back in time.
Huangshan Baiyun Hotel: Located at the foot of Huangshan Scenic Area, this hotel offers a comfortable stay with stunning mountain views.

What to Buy in Anhui: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Anhui is rich in culture, and there are many things that you can buy as souvenirs, such as:

Ink slabs and brushes: Anhui is famous for producing ink slabs that are used for calligraphy and painting. These items make excellent souvenirs for art enthusiasts.
Huizhou inksticks: These inksticks contain a unique fragrance that’s attributed to their production process.
Anhui Tea: Anhui province produces some of the finest teas in China, including Keemun Black Tea, Maofeng Tea, and Qimen Hongcha.
Chinese medicinal herbs: Anhui province has a rich history of traditional Chinese medicine, and there are many local shops selling a variety of traditional remedies.

Local Culture and Customs of Anhui

Anhui is known for its traditional Chinese culture. The culture and customs reflect the province’s long history and rich heritage. Anhui culture is characterized by:

Traditional cuisine that uses locally-sourced ingredients
Ancient villages and stunning architecture
Tea culture
Calligraphy and painting
Kung Fu

Best Time to Visit Anhui

Anhui has a monsoon-influenced humid subtropical climate, with four distinct seasons. The best time to visit Anhui is from April to October, when the weather is temperate, and the scenery is at its most magnificent.

Spring is an excellent time to visit Anhui as the mountains are bathed in a sea of blooming flowers. Summer is a peak season with many cultural festivals and plenty of outdoor activities. Autumn is cool and comfortable, with beautiful red leaves adorning the scenery. Winter is gentle and tranquil with fewer tourists, but the views become frosty and clear.

Do’s and Don’ts of Anhui

Do:

Be respectful towards the local culture and traditions of Anhui.
Try local foods, especially those unique to Anhui.
Dress appropriately when visiting temples and other places of worship.
Sample different types of tea and learn about the tea culture.

Don’t:

Don’t litter or damage the environment.
Don’t disrespect the local culture, traditions, or religious beliefs.
Don’t take pictures of people or things that they don’t want you to photograph.
Don’t forget basic manners and respect in public areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Anhui

Anhui is a relatively safe travel destination, and crime rates are low. However, visitors should be cautious when walking alone at night and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuable items.

It’s also essential to keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas or tourist hotspots, as petty theft can occur.

Health in Anhui

Anhui is a generally healthy place, but it’s essential to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen during the warmer months. Visitors should also be cautious when trying new foods and stick to trusted restaurants or vendors.

Getting to Anhui: Transportation Options and Logistics

Anhui is well-connected to other major cities in China via different transportation modes, including planes, trains, and buses. Here are some of the best ways to get to Anhui:

Airports Near Anhui

Hefei Xinqiao International Airport: This airport is located in the provincial capital, Hefei, and serves many domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Anhui

Hefei South Bus Station: This is the main long-distance bus station in Hefei, offering buses to major cities in China, including Beijing, Shanghai, and Hangzhou.
Huangshan Tunxi Bus Station: This station offers buses to other cities in Anhui, such as Huangshan, Xidi Ancient Village, and Hongcun Village.

Other Options

Train: Anhui is well-connected to China’s high-speed rail network, with major stations located in Hefei, Huangshan, and the Yellow Mountain Scenic Area.
Car: Many visitors rent a car to explore Anhui, but it’s essential to have a valid driver’s license and insurance.

How to Get Around in Anhui

Anhui has an extensive network of buses and trains that are relatively cheap and easy to use. There are also taxis and ride-hailing apps like Didi, which are convenient for short trips. Bikes are also available for rent in many cities and are a great way to explore the region at a slower pace.

Where to Go Next from Anhui: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Anhui is a perfect base for exploring other regions in China. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions that you can visit:

Hangzhou: Known for its beauty and splendor, Hangzhou is a city in the neighboring Zhejiang Province. It has a lot to offer, including the West Lake World Heritage Site, the delicious Hangzhou cuisine, and the Lingyin Temple, a Buddhist temple that’s over a thousand years old.
Shanghai: Shanghai is China’s largest city, located nearby in the eastern part of China. With its cosmopolitan vibe, unique culture, and modern architecture, it’s a must-see destination for any traveler to China.
Jiangsu: Jiangsu Province is located to the north of Anhui and offers a variety of attractions, including the iconic Yangtze River, the Suzhou Garden, and many historical sites.

Conclusion

Anhui is a vibrant and underrated travel destination in China that offers something for everyone. From scenic natural landscapes to unique cultural experiences and delectable cuisine, there’s plenty to discover and explore.

This comprehensive travel guide highlights some of the province’s top attractions, best places to stay, and dos and don’ts to help you plan your trip to Anhui efficiently. Start planning your trip today, and get ready to have an exciting and unforgettable experience in one of China’s most beautiful provinces.

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