Anhui Sheng / 中华人民共和国
Anhui Sheng
Explore the Misty Peaks and Heritage of Anhui
Anhui Province, nestled in eastern China, is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, ancient villages, and deep-rooted culture. The province is home to the iconic Huangshan (Yellow Mountain), a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its granite peaks, sea of clouds, and twisted pine trees, drawing artists and travelers for centuries. Beyond its natural wonders, Anhui boasts charming historical towns like Hongcun and Xidi, which showcase classic Anhui architecture and preserve the region's rich traditions. Anhui's fertile plains and rivers, including the mighty Yangtze and Huai, have supported vibrant communities for millennia. The province is celebrated as the cradle of Hui culture, marked by unique local cuisine, traditional opera, and distinctive merchant heritage. Whether you’re wandering through ancient alleys, sampling famed teas, or hiking mist-laden mountains, Anhui offers a blend of scenic beauty and cultural depth that is quintessentially Chinese.
Safety
Anhui is generally a safe province for travelers, with low violent crime rates. Like elsewhere in China, petty theft can occur in crowded places, so take standard precautions with belongings. Natural areas such as Huangshan can present risks due to weather or terrain—follow local advice and stay on marked paths.
Visas
Travelers to Anhui must comply with standard Chinese visa requirements; most foreign nationals need to arrange a visa in advance. Ensure your visa allows travel to all intended destinations within the province.
Customs regulations
Remove shoes before entering someone’s home and address elders with respect. In rural areas, photography of people or religious sites may require permission. Tipping is not customary but appreciated for exceptional service.
Prices
Travel costs in Anhui are moderate compared to China’s coastal cities. Budget accommodations and local eateries are plentiful, while entrance fees for top attractions like Huangshan can be higher. Meals, transport, and lodging in rural areas are especially affordable.
People and nationalities
Anhui is predominantly Han Chinese, but also home to Hui, She, and other minority groups. Locals take pride in Hui culture, notable for its literature, art, and opera. Traditional values such as hospitality and respect for elders are deeply observed.
Weather
Anhui experiences a humid subtropical climate, with hot, rainy summers and cold, damp winters. The best time to visit is in spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November), when temperatures are mild and skies are usually clear. Summers can be humid and crowded, especially in popular spots like Huangshan. Winters are less busy but can be chilly, especially in the mountains.
Health
Medical facilities are widely available in cities like Hefei and Huangshan, with pharmacies in most towns. Travelers should have travel insurance and bring any necessary prescription medications.
Food
Stinky Mandarin Fish (Chou Guiyu)
A signature Anhui dish, this freshwater fish is marinated, fermented, and then deep-fried or braised, resulting in tender flesh and a pungent aroma that belies its delicious, savory flavor.
Hairy Tofu (Mao Doufu)
A unique Hefei specialty, tofu is fermented until it grows a furry white coating, then deep-fried and served with chili sauce, yielding a crispy shell and creamy interior.
Li Hongzhang Hotchpotch
Named after the Qing dynasty statesman from Anhui, this rich soup blends seafood, meats, and vegetables in a thick, savory broth, reflecting the province’s culinary creativity.
Steamed Stone Frog (Qingshi Wa Zheng)
A delicacy from Huangshan, stone frogs are steamed with ginger and herbs, prized for their tender texture and delicate taste.
Huangshan Maofeng Tea
One of China’s most famous green teas, grown on the slopes of Huangshan, features delicate leaves, a floral aroma, and a refreshing, slightly sweet flavor.
Transport
High-Speed Rail
Anhui’s major cities, including Hefei, Wuhu, and Huangshan, are well-served by China’s extensive high-speed rail network, making intercity travel fast and efficient.
Long-Distance Buses
Buses connect all towns and scenic spots, offering budget-friendly options to reach rural areas and mountain villages.
Local City Buses and Metro
Hefei and other large cities have comprehensive bus networks and a growing metro system for convenient urban travel.
Car Rental
Car rental is available in major cities and can be useful for exploring remote sites, though roads in mountainous areas may be challenging for inexperienced drivers.
Regions
Anhui Sheng
Province
Beijing Shi
Municipality
Chongqing Shi
Municipality
Fujian Sheng
Province
Gansu Sheng
Province
Guangdong Sheng
Province
Guangxi Zhuangzu Zizhiqu
Autonomous Region
Guizhou Sheng
Province
Hainan Sheng
Province
Hebei Sheng
Province
Heilongjiang Sheng
Province
Henan Sheng
Province
Hong Kong
Special Administrative Region
Hubei Sheng
Province
Hunan Sheng
Province
Jiangsu Sheng
Province
Jiangxi Sheng
Province
Jilin Sheng
Province
Liaoning Sheng
Province
Macao
Special Administrative Region
Nei Mongol Zizhiqu
Autonomous Region
Ningxia Zizhiiqu
Autonomous Region
Qinghai Sheng
Province
Shaanxi Sheng
Province
Shandong Sheng
Province
Shanghai Shi
Municipality
Shanxi Sheng
Province
Sichuan Sheng
Province
Taiwan
Tianjin Shi
Municipality
Xinjiang Uygur Zizhiqu
Autonomous Region
Xizang Zizhiqu
Autonomous Region
Yunnan Sheng
Province
Zhejiang Sheng
Province
What to visit?
History
Anhui's territory is integrated into the Qin Dynasty, laying the foundation for its administrative divisions.
During the Sui Dynasty, Anhui’s boundaries begin to take shape as administrative regions are reorganized.
Under the Song Dynasty, Anhui becomes a vital cultural and economic center, famous for Hui merchants and scholars.
The Ming-Qing transition brings upheaval but also prosperity to Anhui, with the rise of influential Hui merchant families.
Hefei and other Anhui cities open to foreign trade following the Treaty of Wanghia with the United States.
Anhui officially becomes a province of the People’s Republic of China after the communist victory in the Chinese Civil War.
Rapid economic development begins in Anhui, with cities like Hefei emerging as industrial and educational hubs.
Huangshan and ancient villages such as Xidi and Hongcun are declared UNESCO World Heritage sites, boosting tourism and cultural preservation.
Activities
Hiking Huangshan (Yellow Mountain)
Ascend the legendary granite peaks, walk the cloud-kissed trails, and marvel at sunrise vistas in one of China’s most beautiful mountain ranges.
Exploring Hongcun and Xidi Villages
Wander cobbled lanes lined with white-washed Hui-style houses and tranquil ponds in these UNESCO-listed villages.
Sampling Local Teas in She County
Visit tea plantations around Shexian and taste Huangshan Maofeng, learning about traditional tea production.
Hefei Science and Technology Museum
Discover interactive exhibits and cutting-edge innovations in Hefei, a city at the forefront of China’s science and education.
Trekking in Jiuhua Mountain
Experience the spiritual ambiance and ancient temples of one of China’s four sacred Buddhist mountains.