Live Your Best Lives
Located on Gu Nan Street in Sanhe, Crane House is the former residence of Liu Bingzhang, the Governor-General of Sichuan and a general of the Huai Army. He once owned hundreds of residences in Sanhe, but this is the only one that has survived and been renovated. The name is said to evoke the idea that idle clouds and cranes choose good trees to roost. The street where Crane House is located is paved with small stone slabs and is relatively quiet. There are no shops, but only old-style houses with blue bricks and black tiles, many of which have their doors closed. Upon entering Crane House, the walls are covered with graphic panels depicting Liu Bingzhang's life and deeds, as well as some of the weapons and equipment left over from his time. While the house lacks a main hall, it is a one-story building with five courtyards, each with 12 rooms in the front and back.
After the founding of the People's Republic of China, many of Sanhe's ancient dwellings suffered damage, with some being rebuilt or demolished. Pan Dingxin's Pan Dafang and Liu Bingzhang's Zhang Dafang, though remarkably resilient, were also demolished after the 1991 flood, representing the greatest loss to Sanhe's ancient dwellings. Currently, only Liu Bingzhang's "Helu" remains intact.
Helu faces east and west. Because it abuts the Xiaonan River to the east, expansion space is limited, resulting in only two rows of houses, front and back. However, the front hall, facing the street, is exceptionally large, almost the size of a volleyball court. Even more peculiar is the central courtyard, framed by wooden lattice windows, surrounded by enclosed corridors. This type of house structure is truly rare. A couplet hangs by the entrance: "In the tiger tent, I wave my tassels; in the cloud hut, I let my crane heart loose." The first line praises Liu Bingzhang's heroic spirit as a Huai Army general, while the second line celebrates the relaxed and unrestrained nature of Helu's owner. Liu Bingzhang was the only Jinshi (Jinshi) among the Huai Army, besides Li Hongzhang, a man of both literary and military skill. This couplet seems quite apt.
Subtropical monsoon climate; suitable for travel in all four seasons.
It is recommended to play for 1-2 hours
10 yuan/person
08:00-17:30 (Monday-Sunday, January 1st-December 31st)
Helu is a well-known historical park in Hefei, Anhui. It is famous for its natural beauty and tranquil environment, offering visitors a glimpse of local culture and traditional Chinese landscaping. The park has long been a popular leisure spot for both locals and tourists.
Helu is located in Hefei, Anhui. You can reach the park by taking a taxi or bus from the city center, which takes about 15-20 minutes by car. If you're staying nearby, walking is also an option as the park is centrally located.
The park is open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are in the early morning or late afternoon, avoiding midday crowds and enjoying cooler weather.
The entrance fee is generally around 20-30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or through online platforms during busy seasons.
Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory but recommended during public holidays or weekends. Booking 1-2 days in advance is usually sufficient.
It typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours to explore the park fully, depending on your pace and whether you choose to take a boat ride.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides may be offered, but availability should be confirmed before the visit.
The best photography spots include the lake, particularly during sunrise or sunset when the reflections are stunning. The walking paths and traditional pavilions also offer picturesque views.
Start by walking around the lake, enjoy the boat ride, and then explore the pavilions and surrounding greenery. End your visit by relaxing by the lake or having a break at one of the rest areas.
Night visits are not commonly available. There are no light shows, but the park's beauty is still worth visiting during the evening when it's quieter.
The park can be crowded during weekends and public holidays. Weekdays, especially early mornings, are less crowded and provide a more peaceful experience.
The park has public toilets, water fountains, and some rest areas. Small food vendors may be available, though larger dining options are outside the park.
The park is accessible to children and elderly visitors, though some areas may have uneven paths. It is not fully accessible for those in wheelchairs due to the park's terrain.
Cash, as well as mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay, are accepted throughout the park. Credit cards may not be accepted at all locations.
There are several local restaurants and cafes around the park, offering Anhui-style cuisine. For a wider range of options, head to the city center, which is nearby.
Vegetarian options are available, though vegan and halal food options may be limited. Check with local vendors for specific dietary needs.
Small souvenir shops around the park offer local crafts, such as Anhui-style teas, pottery, and traditional handicrafts.
