
Xiaoyaojin Park, located in the northeast corner of Hefei's old city, was once a private garden for bureaucrats and landlords during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Within the park are Zhang Liao's cenotaph and tomb, as well as a children's playground. The park's most distinctive feature is its lake, an island within it, and a pavilion on the island, creating a truly romantic atmosphere. The park is particularly captivating during misty days or when the sun is shining brightly.
Xiaoyaojin, also known as Xiaoyaojin, has a long history and is renowned as an ancient battlefield during the Three Kingdoms period. For 32 years, Cao Wei and Sun Wu fought for the control of Hefei, with the most famous battle taking place near the ancient Xiaoyaojin. This is the origin of the story of " Zhang Liao's Might at Xiaoyaojin " in the famous novel "Romance of the Three Kingdoms ." A mound still exists among the three islands in the center of Xiaoyao Lake, believed to be Zhang Liao's cenotaph.
Xiaoyaojin Park is evergreen, offering an elegant and tranquil environment. Its winding paths, lifelike rockeries and rocks, and asymmetrical garden layout create distinct layers and a well-proportioned layout. The park combines the simple elegance of northern gardens with the graceful grace of southern gardens, like a graceful, stylishly dressed village girl.
Stepping into Xiaoyaojin Park, the long history and legends will evoke nostalgia, while the captivating natural landscapes and man-made structures will make you feel relaxed and happy, leaving you reluctant to leave. Here, you can imagine the smoke of ancient battlefields and appreciate the splendor of the magnificent mountains and rivers of our motherland.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended play time: 2-3 hours
free
6:00-22:00
Xiaoyaojin Park has historical significance as it was originally a military training ground during the Three Kingdoms period. It was later transformed into a public park and now serves as a cultural and recreational hub for the people of Hefei.
Xiaoyaojin Park is located in the heart of Hefei. It can be easily reached by taking a taxi, bus, or metro. The park is within walking distance from several major landmarks in the city.
The park is open daily from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM. The best times to visit are early mornings and late afternoons when the weather is cooler and the park is less crowded.
Entry to Xiaoyaojin Park is free of charge. No tickets are required to enter, and you can simply walk in to enjoy the park's natural beauty and amenities.
No tickets are needed, as the park is free to enter. No advance booking is required.
A visit typically takes about 1-2 hours, depending on whether you wish to explore the entire park or simply enjoy a relaxing stroll.
Guided tours are not typically available, but there are informational plaques around the park in Chinese. Audio guides are not commonly provided, but the park is simple enough to navigate without one.
The best photography spots include the lake with its tranquil waters, the lush greenery along the walking paths, and the Xiaoyaojin Garden. The park offers numerous scenic spots ideal for photography throughout the day.
Start by exploring the Xiaoyaojin Garden, then walk along the lakeside paths, where you can enjoy a peaceful boat ride or relax by the water. Finish with a visit to the central open area where you can see locals engaged in outdoor activities.
Night visits are allowed, and the park has beautiful lighting in the evenings. However, light shows or special tours are not typically offered.
The park can get crowded on weekends and holidays, especially in the afternoon. The least crowded times to visit are early in the morning or later in the evening during weekdays.
The park has public restrooms, drinking water fountains, and several rest areas with benches. There are no major food outlets inside, but nearby restaurants and street food stalls are easily accessible.
The park is wheelchair accessible with ramps and paved paths. It is also family-friendly, with plenty of open spaces and safe areas for children to play.
Since the park is free to enter, there is no need for cash. For nearby shops or food vendors, mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are commonly accepted. Cash may be required in some small stalls.
There are no major restaurants or cafes inside the park, but there are several local eateries and cafés around the park's perimeter where you can enjoy traditional Anhui cuisine or a quick snack.
Nearby restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options, but halal food might be limited. It’s best to check local listings for specific dietary options.
There are several hotels within a short distance from Xiaoyaojin Park, ranging from budget to mid-range accommodations. For a more luxurious stay, consider hotels in the city center of Hefei.
There are no souvenir shops directly inside the park, but you can find small shops around the area offering local crafts, Anhui tea, and other regional products.
Public transport options such as buses and the metro are available nearby. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Didi are also convenient for getting around Hefei.