Anhui

What are the most recommended things to do in Anhui?

  • Hike and explore Huangshan (Yellow Mountain) for stunning landscapes and sunrise views.
  • Visit ancient villages like Hongcun and Xidi for traditional Anhui architecture.
  • Experience Tunxi Old Street for local culture and shopping.
  • Enjoy scenic rivers, tea plantations, and bamboo forests.
  • Explore historic temples and museums in Hefei and other cities.

Introducing Anhui

Beautiful Anhui, welcoming guests from all over the world

Anhui, also known as "Wan" for short, with Hefei as its capital, is located in eastern mainland China, part of the East China region. It is a key cradle of prehistoric Chinese civilization, boasting four major cultural zones: Huaihe River Culture, Luzhou Culture, Wanjiang Culture, and Hui Culture. Hui merchants were one of the three major merchant groups in ancient China. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, Anhui merchants expanded their trade to Southeast Asia, Japan, and Europe, earning the reputation of "no business without Hui culture."

 Anhui, home to renowned mountains and rivers, is one of China's most abundant provinces in tourism resources. It boasts five national scenic spots: Huangshan, Jiuhuashan, Tianzhushan, Langyashan, and Qiyunshan. It also boasts three national historical and cultural cities: Bozhou, Shouxian, and Shexian. It also boasts the ruins of Fengyang Zhongdu and the Ming Dynasty Mausoleum.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Huangshan

Huangshan has been one of China's most famous mountains since ancient times. Its unique pines, peculiar rocks, sea of ​​clouds, and hot springs are known as its "Four Wonders." Furthermore, rime, snow, and sunrise are also must-see sights. The ancients said, "After visiting the Five Sacred Mountains, one should not look at any other mountain; after visiting Huangshan, one should not look at any other mountain."

Hongcun

Hongcun, a representative of the ancient villages of the Hui style, is known as the "Village in a Chinese Painting." A visit to Hongcun is primarily to admire the waterscapes created by its irrigation system, with Nanhu Lake and Yuezhao as the highlights. Second, admire the three types of Hui-style carvings on its buildings: brick, stone, and wood carvings, each as intricate as a paper-cut. The art students who come here to sketch create another scene.

Jiuhua Mountain

Jiuhua Mountain is located 50 kilometers southeast of Chizhou City. Prince Jin Qiaojue of Silla (South Korea) once came here to practice Buddhism. Because the various signs he showed during his lifetime and after his death were very similar to those of Ksitigarbha, he was believed to be the incarnation of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva and was revered as Golden Ksitigarbha. Jiuhua Mountain then became the place of practice for Ksitigarbha and became one of the four famous Buddhist mountains together with Putuo Mountain, Wutai Mountain and Emei Mountain.

Hefei

Hefei is renowned as the "old site of the Three Kingdoms period and the hometown of Bao Zheng." The Fei River flows through the city, and the Ring City Park resembles a jade necklace. The Xiaoyao Ancient Ferry, the Jiaonu bell, the beautiful scenery of the Baohe River, and the spring dawn on the Shu Mountains—a place where one can reminisce about the past and discuss the present—are all truly captivating. The establishment of the University of Science and Technology of China in Hefei has further enhanced the reputation of this "millennium-old city" as a "China Science and Technology City."


Recommended number of days for a visit: 3-5 days


Most Popular FAQs for Anhui

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Anhui is historically rich, known for its traditional Huizhou culture, ancient villages, and natural landscapes like Huangshan, which influenced Chinese art and architecture.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Located in eastern China. Major cities like Hefei have airports and train stations. Travel within Anhui is by bus, taxi, or local trains; Huangshan Scenic Area is accessible via Huangshan North Railway Station and shuttle buses.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Huangshan: 7:00–17:30. Villages and museums: 8:00–18:00. Best seasons: spring and autumn for pleasant weather and clear views.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Huangshan: ~230 CNY (cable car extra). Ancient villages: 80–150 CNY. Tickets available online or at entrances.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Advance booking recommended 1–3 days ahead, especially during weekends and holidays.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

3–5 days for Huangshan and nearby villages; 1–2 days for urban areas and cultural sites.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

  • Huangshan peaks, hot springs, and clouds
  • Hongcun and Xidi ancient villages
  • Tunxi Old Street
  • Hefei museums and historic sites
  • Tea plantations and riverside areas

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours available in Chinese and limited English; some attractions offer printed maps or audio guides.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • Sunrise and sunset points on Huangshan
  • Ancient village courtyards
  • Hot springs and mountain peaks
  • Rivers, bridges, and tea terraces

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at Tunxi Old Street, proceed to Huangshan via cable car, visit Hongcun and Xidi villages, and explore local tea plantations.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night tours are limited; some festivals or cultural performances occur in villages or cities.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Weekdays are less crowded. Avoid Chinese holidays and national holiday periods for fewer crowds.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Facilities include toilets, restaurants, snack stalls, souvenir shops, and rest areas in major scenic areas and villages.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Main urban areas and villages are accessible; Huangshan mountain trails can be strenuous for elderly or disabled visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cards and mobile payments widely accepted; small cash recommended in rural areas.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Local Anhui cuisine restaurants, teahouses, and cafes are available in towns, villages, and near scenic areas.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are common; halal options limited to urban areas.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Hotels range from budget inns to luxury resorts in Huangshan City, Tunxi, and near villages.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Hongcun, Xidi, Shexian County, and local tea plantations are nearby and can be combined in a single day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenirs include local teas, handicrafts, Huangshan stones, and traditional art from villages.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

High-speed trains, buses, or taxis connect Anhui cities to neighboring provinces; private tours are convenient for scenic areas.