Live Your Best Lives
Visit the Shuiximen Ruins to explore the remnants of an ancient water gate and its historical significance in Hefei. The site offers a glimpse into the city's past, with opportunities to appreciate the old architecture and surrounding landscape. It's an ideal spot for photography, walking tours, and learning about the area's cultural heritage.
Shuixi Gate, Feining Bridge, and Xishuiguan in Hefei, Anhui Province have all disappeared in the dust of history. The remains of Shuixi Gate are located on the Ring Road where the Bozhou Road Bridge and Ring Road intersect.
Because the city gate was located northwest of the Jindou River, it was called "Shuiximen." Even the elderly have lost their memories of it. Only in a small grove beside Bozhou Road Bridge can one find a monument shaped like a book. The three large characters "Shuiximen" carved on it reveal this as a relic.
South of Shuixi Gate, there once stood a water gate through which the Nanfei River entered and passed through the city. This was the Xishui Pass, which played a significant role in Hefei's history. The Xishui Pass profoundly influenced Hefei's prosperity and decline. When water gathers, wealth gathers. Because the Xishui Pass channeled water from the Fei River into the city, it not only irrigated rice fields but also facilitated commerce, leading to the flourishing of shops along the Jindou River.
Today, next to the Shuixi Gate ruins, willows sway on both sides of the Nanfei River. The Hefei Library stands on the south side of the Fei River, with bright windows and clean desks, making it the best choice for readers to while away the afternoon. On the north side, a cafe reflects the city's fashion atmosphere, and two modern bridges welcome the vehicles coming and going.
Subtropical monsoon climate; suitable for travel in all four seasons.
It is recommended to play for 1-2 hours
free
All day
The Shuiximen Ruins are remnants of an ancient water gate in Hefei, historically significant for controlling access to the city. The site is part of Hefei's historical architecture and serves as a symbol of the region's strategic importance in ancient times, particularly during the Ming and Qing Dynasties.
The Shuiximen Ruins are located in the center of Hefei. You can reach the site by taxi or public bus. The nearest metro station is about a 20-minute walk from the ruins, making it easily accessible by walking or local transport.
The Shuiximen Ruins are open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds, especially during weekends and public holidays.
The entrance to the Shuiximen Ruins is free of charge, but it is advisable to check for any special exhibitions or tours that may require tickets. No online booking is needed for general entry.
Since the site is free to visit, there is no need to book tickets in advance. However, for special events or guided tours, booking in advance may be recommended.
You will need around 1 to 1.5 hours to fully explore the Shuiximen Ruins, depending on your interest in the historical elements and photography.
Key highlights include the ancient water gate remnants, surrounding walls, and the peaceful water features in the vicinity. The site also offers an interesting perspective of Hefei's old city architecture and urban development.
Guided tours may be available in Chinese. It is recommended to check in advance for availability. Audio guides or pamphlets in English may not be provided, but basic signage in English is typically available.
The best photography spots are around the water gate area, where you can capture the reflections in the water, as well as the surrounding traditional architecture. The old city walls in the background also provide a great backdrop for photos.
Start at the main gate and explore the surrounding water features, then walk along the ancient walls and admire the preserved ruins. Take time to read the informative plaques and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the area.
Night visits are not available at the Shuiximen Ruins. There are no light shows, but special tours may be offered during certain times of the year, depending on local events.
The Shuiximen Ruins can be crowded during weekends and holidays. The least crowded times to visit are early mornings on weekdays, particularly outside of peak tourist seasons.
The site has basic facilities, including public toilets and rest areas. However, there are no food or beverage vendors on-site, so it's recommended to bring water and snacks. Shops may be available nearby in the city for additional provisions.
The Shuiximen Ruins are generally accessible, but the terrain may be uneven in certain areas. Elderly or disabled visitors may need assistance, as some paths are not ideal for wheelchairs or strollers.
Cash is accepted for any small purchases nearby. Mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted, but it's still a good idea to carry some cash in case of payment issues.
There are no restaurants or cafes inside the Shuiximen Ruins, but nearby Hefei city has a wide variety of dining options, including traditional Chinese eateries and international restaurants.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in Hefei city, but halal food options may be limited. It's best to check with local restaurants for specific dietary requirements.
Several hotels are located in the vicinity of the Shuiximen Ruins, ranging from budget to mid-range options. Nearby areas like the Hefei city center offer more accommodations suitable for tourists.
Other nearby attractions include the Hefei Swan Lake, Anhui Museum, and the Memorial Temple of Lord Bao. These sites can be easily combined in a day trip from Shuiximen Ruins.
There are no souvenir shops at the Shuiximen Ruins itself, but nearby Hefei city offers shops selling local handicrafts, tea, and souvenirs related to the region's culture and history.
After visiting the Shuiximen Ruins, taxis or local buses are available to continue your trip. The Hefei metro system is also a good option for getting to other parts of the city.
