Ma'anshan Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to stay, and where to eat in Ma'anshan. Plan your trip with our comprehensive travel guide.


Ma’anshan, located in Anhui province, is a hidden gem in East Asia. With a history dating back thousands of years, this city is full of cultural and natural attractions, making it a perfect destination for history buffs, adventurers, and foodies alike.

Introduction to Ma’anshan

Ma’anshan is nestled along the Yangtze River and its name means “horse saddle mountain”. The city has been developing rapidly and is now an industrial powerhouse, but it still offers a glimpse into China’s ancient past with its rich history.

List of Places to Visit in Ma’anshan

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Yushan Lake - A scenic lake surrounded by parks and scenic spots.
  2. Caishiji - A historic site with stonework from the Qin Dynasty.
  3. Zhuran Park - A park with ancient pavilions and well-manicured gardens.
  4. Ma’anshan Zhuran Museum - A museum showcasing the history and culture of Ma’anshan.
  5. Dongpo Park - A park dedicated to Du Fu, a famous Chinese poet.

Natural Attractions of Ma’anshan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Dangtu Golden Beach - A beautiful stretch of sand with clear waters and stunning views of the small islands dotting the coast.
  2. Hua Shan Scenic Area - A mountainous area with stunning views, hiking trails, and rock climbing opportunities.
  3. Guichi Wetland Park - A scenic park with a large lake and wetlands filled with birds and other wildlife.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ma’anshan

  1. Dangtu Golden Beach Hiking Trail - A scenic beach trail surrounded by beautiful views of the ocean.
  2. Hua Shan Scenic Area Hiking Trail - A mountainous area with beautiful views and challenging hiking trails.

Best Things to Do in Ma’anshan: Activities and Tours

  1. Ma’anshan Hot Springs - A relaxing way to unwind and enjoy the beautiful views of the city.
  2. Night Markets - A must-visit for foodies! The markets offer an array of local food, snacks, and souvenirs to take home with you.
  3. Zhuran Park Sightseeing Cruise - A peaceful way to see the beautiful landscapes and greenery of Zhuran Park.
  4. Bamboo Rafting on the Yangtze River - A thrilling and adventurous way to experience the beauty of the Yangtze River.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ma’anshan

Day 1: Explore the city and its historical sites, such as Yushan Lake and Caishiji. Day 2: Take a trip to Dangtu Golden Beach and enjoy the sun, sand, and beautiful views. Day 3: Visit the Hua Shan Scenic Area and explore the beautiful mountainous area. Day 4: Relax in one of Ma’anshan’s hot springs and end the day with a night market. Day 5: Visit the Zhuran Park and Museum and take a sightseeing cruise on the park’s lake. Day 6: Go on a bamboo rafting adventure on the Yangtze River. Day 7: Shop for souvenirs at local markets and try some of the local cuisine before leaving Ma’anshan.

Food and Drink Scene of Ma’anshan

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Tofu with 1000 Layers - A dish made of layers of tofu and topped with soy sauce and chili oil.
  2. Huangshan fish - A local fish dish served with fragrant bamboo shoots and other vegetables.
  3. Ma’anshan Fried Rice - Special fried rice prepared with a variety of fresh ingredients.

Local Beverages

  1. Maotai - A famous Chinese liquor made in the Maotai town of Guizhou province.
  2. Huoshan Huangya Tea - A yellow tea grown in Huoshan County, Anhui province.

Where to Stay in Ma’anshan: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. Laimei Boutique Hotel - A luxury hotel with beautiful views of the city and surrounding areas.
  2. Holiday Inn Express - A budget-friendly hotel with comfortable rooms and a convenient location in the city center.
  3. Rujia Hotel - A guesthouse with clean, affordable rooms and a friendly staff.

What to Buy in Ma’anshan: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Ma’anshan Inkstones - Hand-carved inkstones made in Ma’anshan, prized by calligraphers and artists.
  2. Ma’anshan Stamps - A unique and affordable souvenir of the city’s history.
  3. Ma’anshan Tea - The region offers a variety of teas, including Huoshan Huangya Tea, Anhui Keemun Black Tea, and Yellow Mountain Mao Feng Tea.

Local Culture and Customs of Ma’anshan

Ma’anshan is known for its rich culture and customs, including local festivals and traditional dance performances. Visitors can also participate in local calligraphy and inkstone-making workshops.

Best Time to Visit Ma’anshan

The best time to visit Ma’anshan is in the spring and autumn seasons when temperatures are mild, and the city is decorated with beautiful flowers and foliage. Winter can be cold and snowy, making it less ideal for exploring outside.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ma’anshan

Do:

  1. Respect local customs and traditions.
  2. Try the local cuisine and beverages.
  3. Visit the historical sites and natural attractions.

Don’t:

  1. Disrespect the local culture and customs.
  2. Litter or vandalize any of the attractions.
  3. Speak loudly or disturb others in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ma’anshan

Ma’anshan is generally a safe city, but visitors should still exercise caution by not leaving their valuables unattended and being aware of their surroundings.

Health in Ma’anshan

Visitors should make sure they have all necessary vaccinations before traveling to Ma’anshan. It is recommended to bring personal medication, and health facilities in the city provide basic medical services.

Getting to Ma’anshan: Transportation Options and Logistics

Ma’anshan has several transportation options, including air, train, and bus.

Airports Near Ma’anshan

  1. Nanjing Lukou International Airport - 85 km away from Ma’anshan, providing international and domestic flights.
  2. Hefei Xinqiao International Airport - 150 km away from Ma’anshan, providing domestic flights.

Bus Stations Near Ma’anshan

Ma’anshan has several bus stations throughout the city that connect to destinations in nearby provinces, including Shanghai, Wuhu, and Hefei.

Other Options

Ma’anshan Railway Station provides easy access to cities throughout China, making it a convenient way to get around if you plan to visit other areas.

How to Get Around in Ma’anshan

Ma’anshan has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses and taxis. It is recommended that visitors use a taxi or ride-sharing app to get around, as this can be more convenient than navigating public transportation, especially for first-time visitors.

Where to Go Next from Ma’anshan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Huangshan - Famous for its stunning mountains and hiking trails, Huangshan is a popular destination for adventurers and nature enthusiasts.
  2. Wuhu - A historic and scenic city with museums, temples, and beautiful landscapes.
  3. Nanjing - The capital of Jiangsu province, Nanjing has a rich history and culture, with several historical sites and world-class museums to explore.

Conclusion

Ma’anshan is a perfect place for travelers who want to immerse themselves in Chinese culture and history while also enjoying natural scenic beauty. With its rich heritage, cultural attractions, and delicious cuisine, Ma’anshan is a hidden gem in China that is just waiting to be discovered.