Live Your Best Lives
The Footprint Pond was originally a pond on a small island in the Bao River. It forms a T-shape with the Bao River and lies across the river. The Footprint Pond is nearly 20 meters long and 8 meters wide, resembling a deep footprint left by a giant.
Legend has it that Bao Zheng often visited this spot during his childhood as a student in Xianghuadun. At that time, there was no "Jade Belt Bridge" on the north side of the island. One day, Bao Zheng was enjoying himself here and wanted to cross to the other side. Although the water was narrow, there was no bridge or boat, so he suddenly jumped forward. Since Bao Zheng was said to be the reincarnation of the celestial star Wenqu, this jump left a deep, large footprint on the island. Over time, a small pond formed, giving rise to the name "Footprint Pond." This legend, somewhat mythical, reflects the reverence that the people of Hefei hold for Bao Zheng.
Subtropical monsoon climate; suitable for travel in all four seasons.
It is recommended to play for 1-2 hours
Free and open
Summer 8:00-18:00, Winter 8:00-17:30
Footprint Pond is a peaceful natural site in Hefei, Anhui, valued for its tranquility and scenic beauty. The pond is associated with local folklore and serves as a popular spot for relaxation and reflection.
Footprint Pond is located in Hefei, Anhui. It can be accessed by taxi or private car from the city center. Public transport options may include buses, though they are less frequent.
Footprint Pond is open year-round. The best times to visit are in the early morning or late afternoon to enjoy the serene atmosphere and avoid crowds. It is open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily.
There is no entrance fee for Footprint Pond. Visitors can access the site freely without needing to purchase tickets. Donations may be appreciated.
No booking is required for entry to Footprint Pond as it is an open-access site.
A visit to Footprint Pond typically takes around 1 to 2 hours, allowing time to explore the walking paths, enjoy the scenery, and relax by the water.
Guided tours or audio guides are generally not available at Footprint Pond, but local staff can provide information in Chinese if needed.
Start at the entrance and take a walk along the pond’s path, moving around its circumference to capture different perspectives. Pause at scenic spots for photos and enjoy the peaceful environment before completing your circle around the pond.
Night visits and light shows are not available at Footprint Pond. The site is best experienced during the day when the natural beauty is most apparent.
Footprint Pond can be relatively quiet during weekdays, especially in the early mornings and late afternoons. Weekends may see more visitors, so visiting during weekdays is ideal for a peaceful experience.
The site has basic amenities, including toilets and rest areas. There are no large food outlets, but visitors can bring their own snacks or purchase from small vendors nearby.
The paths around Footprint Pond are mostly accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, but some areas may have uneven surfaces. It is advisable to check the terrain before visiting.
Cash is not required for entry, and mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are accepted for purchases at nearby vendors. Cards may not be accepted widely around the pond itself.
There are small local eateries around the pond offering basic meals and snacks. For more dining options, visitors can head to Hefei city center.
Vegetarian options are available in nearby restaurants, but vegan and halal choices may be limited. It's recommended to check in advance.
There are several hotels in Hefei city center, which is about a 20-minute drive from Footprint Pond. Options range from budget accommodations to mid-range hotels.
There are small souvenir shops near the pond selling items like postcards, local crafts, and snacks.
