
Huainan, located in north-central Anhui Province, straddles both sides of the Huai River. It's known as the "throat of Zhongzhou, the barrier of Jiangnan," and the "Colorful Huainan." Liu An, a prominent figure in the Bagong Mountains, recruited talented individuals, wrote books, compiled the ancient Chinese encyclopedia "Huainanzi," and invented the Chinese delicacy tofu.
Huainan is a city of industry and mining, as well as a city of landscapes and gardens. It boasts breathtaking natural beauty, a rich history and culture, and diverse folk customs. The three mountains of Bagong, Shungeng, and Shangyao stand in a triangular formation within the city, while the Huai River, Gaotang Lake, and Wabu Lake surround it, creating a unique cityscape where the beauty of lakes and mountains complement each other and the mountains, water, and city blend seamlessly.
Suitable for all seasons, best in spring and autumn
Huainan is home to numerous scenic spots and historical sites, including the ancient battlefield of the "Battle of Feishui", and the ancient tombs of famous historical figures such as Huang Xie, Lord Chunshen, one of the "Four Gentlemen" of the Warring States Period, Lian Po, a general of the State of Zhao, and Liu An, the King of Huainan; the ruins of the "Ancient Shouzhou Kiln", a national key cultural relic protection unit; and the "Maoxian Ancient Cave", one of the earliest Buddhist temples and one of the earliest Taoist temples in my country, dating back more than 2,100 years.
Recommended number of days for visiting: 1-2 days
Huainan is an industrial city in Anhui Province, historically known for its coal mining and energy production. It also has cultural significance with local temples and historic sites reflecting traditional Anhui culture.
Huainan is located in central Anhui Province. Visitors can reach it by train, bus, or taxi from nearby major cities such as Hefei. Within the city, taxis and walking are convenient for getting around central areas.
Main attractions like parks and museums are typically open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is spring or autumn when the weather is mild and comfortable.
Many parks and public areas are free. Museums and some scenic spots may charge small fees, usually payable at the entrance. Online ticketing is limited, so offline purchase is common.
Advance booking is generally not required, except for special exhibitions or guided tours, which can be booked 1–2 days ahead if needed.
A full day is sufficient to explore main attractions and nearby parks. For a deeper experience including cultural and industrial sites, 2 days is recommended.
Guided tours are mainly available in Chinese. English tours or audio guides are limited and may require prior arrangement.
Start at Tianjiao Lake Park, then visit the Coal Mining History Museum. Walk through the city center and temples, then take a short trip to Panji Lake for scenic views.
Night visits to parks and city streets are possible. Special events and festivals may include cultural performances or light displays during holidays.
Huainan is moderately busy. Weekdays and non-holiday periods are less crowded, while weekends and public holidays attract more visitors.
Facilities include public restrooms, cafes, restaurants, street food vendors, resting areas, and small souvenir shops near major attractions.
Most parks and city areas are accessible. Some older buildings or temples may have limited accessibility for disabled visitors.
Cash is accepted, and mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used in shops, restaurants, and some attractions.
Vegetarian options are available. Halal options may be limited and should be confirmed in advance.
Visitors can use trains, buses, or taxis to reach nearby cities such as Hefei or Bengbu for further travel within Anhui Province.