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One-person Lane is a narrow, historical alley in Hefei known for its unique charm. Visitors can enjoy walking through this quiet, atmospheric lane, admiring the old buildings, taking photos of the rustic architecture, and exploring small shops along the way. It’s also a great spot for local street food and soaking in the local ambiance.
Yiren Lane is located in Sanhe Ancient Town, Feixi County, Hefei City, Anhui Province, across from the Old Building Teahouse in the middle section of South Street. The lane is so narrow, only one person can pass through, and two people must step sideways to pass. The tall, ancient brick gables separate the buildings on either side, hence the name.
Sanhe Ancient Town has ten streets and 26 alleys, but one of them is the oldest, longest, and most famous. This is "One Person Alley," so named because it's so narrow it can only accommodate one person, and because it's home to a famous figure: Yang Zhenning, the 1957 Nobel Prize winner in Physics.
The origin of Yiren Lane in Sanhe Ancient Town is still unclear, but what it leaves us is the hazy mystery of its origin and the intriguing ancient streets and scenery.
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One-person Lane is a cultural and historical site in Hefei, representing traditional Chinese architecture and local urban life. Its significance lies in its preservation of historical architecture and providing insight into the old ways of life in Hefei. The narrowness of the alley and its age make it a unique feature in the city.
One-person Lane is located in the downtown area of Hefei. It is accessible by taxi, bus, or on foot. The nearest metro station is around a 10-15 minute walk away, and it is well-connected by public transportation in the city.
One-person Lane is open to the public at all times, though the best time to visit is during the daytime for a leisurely walk. Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for avoiding crowds, as it can become busier during peak hours in the afternoon.
There is no entrance fee for One-person Lane, as it is a public space. Visitors can freely explore the area without the need for tickets.
There is no need to book tickets in advance, as the site is open to the public without any entry fees.
A visit to One-person Lane typically takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how much time you spend exploring the alley and stopping at shops or taking photos.
The must-see highlights include the traditional architecture of the lane, the old-fashioned shops, and the local street food vendors. The charm of the lane lies in its simplicity and atmosphere, so be sure to take time to appreciate the details.
Guided tours or audio guides are generally not available at One-person Lane. However, you can easily explore the lane on your own as it’s a relatively small area. Local guides may offer informal tours, but these are not officially organized.
Photography enthusiasts will enjoy capturing the lane's narrowness and unique architecture. Great spots for photos include the entrance, the view down the alley, and the old buildings that line both sides of the lane.
The best route is to enter from the main entrance, walk down the lane at a leisurely pace, explore the shops and food stalls, and then exit at the opposite end. Take your time to enjoy the historic atmosphere and stop for photos along the way.
There are no night visits or light shows at One-person Lane. However, the lane has a charming atmosphere at night, especially with the lights from street vendors and the calmness of the area.
The lane can be quite crowded during weekends and holidays. The best times to visit for a more relaxed experience are weekday mornings and late afternoons.
There are no formal rest areas or water stations inside the lane. However, small local shops and street food vendors offer a variety of snacks and refreshments. Toilets may be found in nearby public areas.
The narrowness of the lane and its cobbled streets may make it difficult for elderly or disabled visitors to navigate. It is more suitable for visitors who are able to walk on uneven surfaces. Children can enjoy exploring the lane, though supervision is recommended due to its crowded nature.
Cash is commonly used in small local shops and street food stalls, but mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted in the area.
There are several small restaurants and cafes nearby, offering local Chinese dishes and snacks. Some street food vendors within the lane offer traditional snacks like dumplings, buns, and skewers.
Vegetarian and vegan options can be found at local eateries, though choices may be limited. Halal food is also available in some of the nearby restaurants, catering to the local Muslim population.
There are a variety of hotels and guesthouses near One-person Lane, ranging from budget accommodations to mid-range options. Visitors can find accommodations within walking distance of the lane.
Nearby attractions include the Hefei Science and Technology Museum, the Anhui Provincial Museum, and the famous Baohe Park. These sites can easily be combined in a day trip.
Small souvenir shops in the area sell local handicrafts, traditional Chinese items, and snacks. Popular souvenirs include local teas, handmade crafts, and Xinjiang-style clothing.
From One-person Lane, visitors can take a taxi or use public transportation (bus or metro) to continue their trip to other parts of Hefei or neighboring cities. The transportation network in Hefei is well-developed, making it easy to get around the city.
