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Xuancheng, Anhui, offers a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural heritage. Visitors can explore:
Xuancheng, located in the Jiangnan region, has long been known as "Xuancheng in the South and He in the North." Established as a prefecture in the Western Han Dynasty, it boasts a history of over 2,000 years. Xuancheng has been a major prefecture in Jiangdong since the Western Han Dynasty. During the Yongjia period of the Jin Dynasty, it experienced a period of cultural prosperity, continuing through the Six Dynasties. Xuancheng is known as the "Hometown of the Four Treasures of the Study," "China's Crocodile City," "Jiangnan's Metropolitan City," "Jiangnan's Land of Fish and Rice," and a member of the Yangtze River Delta Urban Agglomeration. It has been awarded the titles of National Historical and Cultural City, National Sanitary City, National Garden City, National Forest City, and National Civilized City.
Xuancheng is a city in southeastern Anhui Province, China, known for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. It is famous for the production of Xuan paper, a traditional Chinese paper used in calligraphy and painting, which has been recognized as an intangible cultural heritage. The city is also home to several historical sites, including ancient temples, towers, and scenic areas that reflect its long history and cultural significance.
Xuancheng is located in southeastern Anhui Province, China, bordering Zhejiang and Jiangsu provinces. To reach Xuancheng, visitors can take high-speed trains to Langxi South or Wuhu North railway stations, which are connected to major cities like Hefei and Hangzhou. From the railway stations, taxis or local buses can be used to reach various attractions within the city.
Most attractions in Xuancheng are open daily, typically from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) months when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its peak. Autumn, in particular, offers beautiful foliage and pleasant temperatures.
Entrance fees vary by attraction. For example, Jingting Mountain has an entrance fee of approximately ¥50. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance of each site. Some attractions may offer online booking options through local tourism websites or travel platforms.
Booking tickets in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons (spring and autumn) to avoid long queues. It is advisable to book at least 1-2 days in advance, especially for popular attractions like Jingting Mountain and Taiji Cave.
To fully explore Xuancheng's main attractions, allocate 2-3 days. This allows time to visit Jingting Mountain, Guangjiao Temple, Xie Tiao Tower, Taiji Cave, and Jixi County, as well as enjoy the local cuisine and culture.
Key highlights include:
Guided tours are available at most major attractions, and some sites offer audio guides in Chinese. English-speaking guides may be available upon request, but it's advisable to book in advance if you require one.
Recommended photography spots include:
A suggested itinerary is:
Night visits are available at some attractions, such as Jingting Mountain, where visitors can enjoy the night view of the city. Light shows and special tours may be offered during festivals or peak tourist seasons; it's best to check with local tourism offices for availability.
Xuancheng can be crowded during national holidays and weekends. To avoid large crowds, visit on weekdays during the off-peak seasons, such as late autumn or early spring.
Most major attractions are equipped with basic facilities, including toilets, food vendors, and rest areas. Larger sites may have souvenir shops selling local handicrafts, such as Xuan paper products.
Many attractions in Xuancheng are accessible to elderly and children, with paved paths and rest areas. However, some sites, like Jingting Mountain, involve hiking and may be challenging for visitors with mobility issues. It's advisable to check the accessibility of each site before visiting.
Cash is widely accepted, but mobile payments through platforms like Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly used and preferred in most places.
Local restaurants offer Anhui cuisine, including dishes like stewed fish, bamboo shoots, and Xuan paper-based snacks. In Jixi County, visitors can enjoy traditional Hui-style meals in ancient residences.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in many restaurants, especially those catering to tourists. Halal food may be found in areas with Muslim communities; it's advisable to inquire locally.
There are various accommodations ranging from budget hotels to boutique guesthouses. In Jixi County, visitors can stay in traditional Hui-style residences that have been converted into guesthouses.
Nearby attractions include:
Souvenir shops are available at major attractions, offering items like Xuan paper products, traditional calligraphy brushes, and Hui-style handicrafts.
After visiting Xuancheng, visitors can take high-speed trains from Langxi South or Wuhu North railway stations to other cities in Anhui Province, such as Hefei or Huangshan. Local buses and taxis are also available for further travel within the region.
