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Hefei is named for the confluence of the Dongfei and Nanfei Rivers. Hefei is not only a site of the Three Kingdoms period but also the hometown of the renowned official Bao Zheng. A visit to Hefei offers a chance to explore places steeped in history and stories. This region boasts a rich history, numerous notable figures, and boasts a strategic position as the "throat of the Huai River and the lips and teeth of the Yangtze River Delta," making it a frequent battleground for military strategists.
Hefei is an ordinary Jianghuai city, but that doesn't mean it's boring. There are stories about Lord Bao that we've heard since childhood, the Three Kingdoms ruins known to all Chinese, the ancient town of Sanhe, steeped in millennia of ancient charm; the world-renowned and awe-inspiring Xiaoyaojin; the Zipeng Mountain Forest Park, with its verdant pines and cypresses and flocks of auspicious birds; the Ring City Park, embracing the old city and blending into the new; and the vast, shimmering Chaohu Lake...
Suitable for all seasons, best in spring and autumn
Bao Zheng Temple
The Bao Zheng Temple, a restored and rebuilt temple dedicated to Bao Zheng, a renowned upright official and political reformer in ancient China, is located on the west bank of Bao Zheng Lake in Kaifeng City, Henan Province. The temple's main buildings include the main hall, secondary halls, east and west side halls, a half-wall corridor, a stele pavilion, and a majestic gatehouse. Its layout is orderly and solemn. The lacquer and colorful paintings, all in the Song Dynasty style, feature elegant tones, further enhancing its beauty.
Crossing the Yangtze River Memorial Hall
The Yangtze River Crossing Campaign was the first campaign of the Chinese People's Liberation Army's strategic pursuit offensive and the grand starting point for its nationwide offensive. The General Front Committee for the Yangtze River Crossing Campaign, headed by Comrade Deng Xiaoping, was stationed in Yaogang Village, Cuzhen Town, Feidong County. The Yangtze River Crossing Campaign Memorial Hall is a first-class national memorial hall on a par with the Liaoshen, Pingjin, and Huaihai Campaign Memorial Halls.
Huiyuan
Located at No. 276 Fanhua Avenue, Shushan District, Hefei City, Anhui Province, Huiyuan Garden features landmark buildings representing the cultural characteristics of each of the province's 17 cities. These buildings stand out as both independent and complementary to adjacent gardens and the entire park. It is a large, comprehensive commemorative and tourist park integrating Anhui tourism, sightseeing, and entertainment.
Recommended number of days for visiting: 1-2 days
Hefei is the capital city of Anhui Province, located in eastern China. The city has a long history dating back to the Three Kingdoms period and is known for its role in Chinese politics, culture, and industry. Today, it is a growing metropolis that blends traditional culture with modern development.
Hefei is located in eastern China, about 450 kilometers west of Shanghai. You can reach the city by train, high-speed rail, or flight. Once in Hefei, public transportation like the metro, buses, and taxis are convenient for getting around.
The attractions in Hefei generally open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are from April to October when the weather is mild, though spring and autumn are especially pleasant for outdoor activities.
Entrance fees vary by attraction. For example, the Anhui Museum has free admission, while places like Swan Lake or Baohe Park may charge small entrance fees. Tickets can usually be purchased on-site or through local online platforms.
Booking tickets in advance is not typically required, except for special events or peak travel seasons. It’s advisable to book a few days ahead if visiting during holidays or festivals.
To fully explore Hefei, plan for about two to three days to visit the main attractions and experience the city's culture and nature.
Guided tours are available in major attractions like the Anhui Museum and Swan Lake, often in Chinese and sometimes in English. Audio guides are available in some locations as well.
A good itinerary includes visiting the Anhui Museum in the morning, followed by a stroll in Baohe Park, then heading to Swan Lake for a boat ride or relaxing in the afternoon. Finish with a walk around Xinhua Gate in the evening.
Yes, certain attractions like Swan Lake host evening light shows. Baohe Park is also a lovely spot for evening walks, and the city offers cultural performances during festivals.
Hefei can be crowded during holidays and weekends. The least crowded times are typically weekdays outside of peak tourist seasons, especially in the winter months.
Most attractions in Hefei, such as parks and museums, are accessible for elderly visitors, children, and those with disabilities, with ramps and elevators available in most places.
Both cash and mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay and Alipay) are widely accepted in Hefei, especially in major tourist areas and shopping centers.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in many local restaurants. Halal food can be found in areas with Muslim communities, although it may be more limited compared to larger cities.
Souvenir shops in Hefei offer local handicrafts such as Anhui-style tea sets, Chinese calligraphy, and silk products. You can also find traditional snacks and tea.
