Tongling Night Rain Ancient Charm - Anhui Tongling Enhanced Guide

Geography & Location

Tongling is situated in the south-central part of Anhui Province, on the southern bank of the lower reaches of the Yangtze River. As one of the 27 central cities in the Yangtze River Delta region, it borders Hefei to the north, Chizhou to the south, Wuhu to the east, and Anqing to the west. Located at a crucial node of both the Yangtze River Economic Belt and the Wanjiang City Belt, the city enjoys significant transportation advantages with the golden waterway of the Yangtze River flowing through its urban area.

History & Name Origin

With a long history tied to copper, Tongling earned its name and prosperity from this metal, bearing the titles "Ancient Copper Capital of China" and "Modern Copper Base". Copper mining and smelting began as early as the Shang and Zhou dynasties. During the Han Dynasty, a copper official was established here, and by the Tang and Song periods, it had become a nationally important copper smelting center. The name "Tongling" originated in the Southern Tang Dynasty and persists today, making the city one of the important birthplaces of Chinese bronze culture.

Industrial Characteristics

• Copper Industry: As Tongling's pillar industry, it boasts a complete copper industrial chain from mining and smelting to processing and new copper-based material R&D, with leading technological capabilities that make it a key national copper production base.

• Other Industries: In recent years, Tongling has seen steady development in chemical, electronic, and building material industries while actively promoting emerging industries and green economy to optimize and upgrade its industrial structure.

Natural & Cultural Landscapes

• Tianjing Lake Park: The city's landmark park centers around Tianjing Lake, featuring a small island with a remarkable "heavenly well" whose water level remains higher than the lake surface year-round. With picturesque pavilions and towers, it's a favorite leisure spot for locals.

• Fushan Mountain: Also called Fudu Mountain, this national geopark is renowned for its unique volcanic rock formations and rich cultural heritage, featuring numerous ancient temples and cliff carvings that blend natural beauty with cultural depth.

• Datong Ancient Town: Once a vital commercial port along the Yangtze River, its well-preserved historic architecture including old streets, docks, and churches showcases past prosperity, now serving as a scenic spot to experience Yangtze culture and ancient town charm.

Local Delicacies

• Tongling Ginger: A national geographical indication product known for "large size, thin skin, abundant juice, minimal residue, tender texture, and rich aroma". Often pickled or made into sauce, it's a distinctive local side dish.

• Datong Tea Dried Tofu: With a long history, this traditional snack is made from premium soybeans, offering firm texture and savory flavor.

• Shun'an Crisp Candy: A beloved traditional Tongling pastry featuring flaky layers with sweet, crisp texture.