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Visit Xiaonan River to enjoy a peaceful river walk, boat rides, and scenic views. It’s an ideal location for photography, bird watching, and appreciating local flora and fauna. You can also engage in a relaxed picnic along the banks or take a leisurely stroll along the riverside pathways.
Sanhe Ancient Town derives its name from the confluence of three rivers: Xiaonan River, Fengle River, and Hangbu River. Xiaonan River, the mother river of Sanhe, runs through the ancient town and was historically its most prosperous area. Stretching over 2,900 meters, it stretches from Wangyue Bridge to Erlong Bridge, crossing Sanxian Bridge and Quezhu Bridge. The riverbanks are lined with numerous historical sites and taverns.
The banks are dominated by spectacular Hui-style architecture, a harmonious blend of ancient and modern styles. White horse-head walls and dark ridge tiles are staggered and arranged in a staggered pattern, with high eaves and towering eaves, built in accordance with the terrain. Teahouses, taverns, pavilions, and towers line the waterside, shaded by numerous small bridges.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended play time: 1-2 hours
free
All day
Xiaonan River is known for its serene natural beauty and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike in Hefei. The river has historical significance as it has been part of the region’s agricultural development, playing a role in irrigation and local livelihoods. It is now a key recreational area that reflects the city's balance of nature and urban life.
Xiaonan River is located in Hefei, Anhui. It can be accessed by taking a taxi or local bus from the city center. The river is within walking distance from several local parks and residential areas, making it a convenient destination for a short outing.
The area around Xiaonan River is open to visitors year-round. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild, and the scenery is most vibrant. Early morning or late afternoon is ideal to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere.
There is no entrance fee to visit Xiaonan River, making it an affordable destination for nature lovers and tourists. Visitors can simply walk around or enjoy the riverbank without any ticketing requirements.
No, there is no need to book tickets in advance as Xiaonan River is a public area with no charge for entry. You can visit any time during the day without prior reservations.
A visit to Xiaonan River can take anywhere from 1 to 3 hours, depending on how much time you spend walking along the river, enjoying the scenery, or engaging in activities such as boating or photography.
The river itself, surrounded by lush greenery, is the main highlight. The walking paths along the river offer scenic views of the water and nearby nature. There are also several small bridges and viewing points that provide excellent spots for photography.
Currently, no guided tours or audio guides are available at Xiaonan River. It is a self-guided attraction, and visitors can explore at their own pace.
The best viewpoints are along the walking paths by the riverbanks. The bridges over the river offer beautiful views, especially during sunset when the sky and water are reflected. You can also find a few quiet spots near the edge of the water for peaceful moments and great photos.
Start by entering from the main access point near the river's edge. Follow the designated walking paths that wind through the natural surroundings. Stop at the various viewpoints along the way to take in the view. Finish your visit at one of the riverside parks where you can relax and enjoy a meal or snack.
There are no night visits or light shows at Xiaonan River. However, the area is still open for visitors after dark, providing a calm atmosphere for evening walks.
Xiaonan River is generally not too crowded, but weekends and public holidays can bring more visitors. For a quieter experience, visit during weekdays or early mornings before noon.
Basic facilities such as public toilets are available. There are no food or water shops directly along the river, so it's advisable to bring your own snacks and drinks. There are rest areas with benches where you can sit and enjoy the surroundings.
The walking paths along Xiaonan River are mostly flat and accessible to elderly visitors and children. However, some areas near the water may have uneven surfaces. It may not be fully accessible for people with disabilities due to the lack of ramps and some narrow walkways.
Cash is not typically needed at Xiaonan River as there are no fees to enter. Mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted in the nearby area for any small purchases like snacks or souvenirs.
There are no restaurants directly along Xiaonan River, but there are several restaurants and cafés nearby in Hefei’s city center, offering local Anhui dishes and refreshments. Popular spots include local eateries offering steamed buns, rice dishes, and noodles.
Vegetarian options are commonly available in Hefei's local restaurants. Vegan and halal food options may be limited but can be found with a bit of searching in the city center.
There are a variety of hotels close to Xiaonan River, ranging from budget options to mid-range hotels. Popular choices include Hefei’s local hotels near the city center, such as Holiday Inn Hefei and other budget-friendly guesthouses.
Other nearby attractions include the Anhui Provincial Museum, Baohe Park, and the Hefei Swan Lake. These can be easily combined in a day trip for a well-rounded exploration of Hefei’s cultural and natural attractions.
There are small souvenir shops in the vicinity of Xiaonan River, offering local handicrafts, traditional tea, and other small gifts such as postcards and books about Hefei.
After visiting Xiaonan River, you can easily continue your trip by taking a taxi or public bus to nearby attractions such as Baohe Park or Hefei’s city center. The transportation network is convenient and efficient.
