2025 Anhui Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in October)

Anhui (In Chinese: 安徽) is a mountainous province in the eastern part of the country. You can plan a five to seven days holidays in this beautiful province to enjoy some good hikes. The surrounding area is commonly referred as Huangshan (黄山), which translates to Yellow Mountain. This place is best known for its impressive lush green tea plantations in fact it is one of China's main black tea producing regions. Most of attractions and activities are closely related to nature. Waterfalls, relaxed or demanding hiking, Viewpoints, etc. #createwithtrip #china #holidays #exploring #createwithtrip

That moment when your hiking 🥾 trip has turned out to be a cloudy one, but there comes one moment when the sunshines so bright and you can see everything so clearly; such a dopamine effect isn't it ?! I too had the same. After I've already booked the hotel and train 🚂 tickets, through trip.com to go to Huangshan with all my hiking gears ⚙️ in place the day isn't really pleasant. Thankfully, I chose the right hotel because of nice comments from trip.com to Baiyun hotel🛍️. My two complete days of hiking involved not only sightseeing, but also interacting with lot of people, sign 🪧 boards and maps. To be honest, after a long time I did a solo tour like this and I feel so lucky for the convenience of booking, arrangement and especially the remainder about things to do in Trip.com🥸. Totally a nice one, and I had a good trip at Huangshan. #tripcom #summervacation#hikingtrails

March / April are the best times to see the bright yellow fields of rapeseed flowers surrounding villages in Anhui - and Lucun is one of those villages you can explore to enjoy an escape into nature. From Shanghai, you can take a high speed train to Huangshan North Train Station, which is only around 2.5-3 hours. Then, to reach Lucun Village, you can either take a bus from Huangshan North or hire a driver for the day. We decided to hire a driver for a day, at 350 RMB per day, to take us around a number of villages in the area. Lucun is located near Hongcun Village, so you could easily schedule in a visit to at least two or three villages in one day if you’re pressed for time. Lucun is one of the smaller villages, charming and tranquil, and is said to be around 1,000 years old. while strolling through, we saw locals simply getting about their day prepping meals, washing clothes or heading out into the fields to work. The surrounding areas was beautiful - with bright yellow fields surrounding the immediate area around the village, and huge rolling hills in the distance. 📍Lucun Village, Anhui Province, China Ticket Price: 50 RMB #unforgettableexperiences#historicculture#loveflowers#urbanexplorer#qingmingtravel

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#hellohalloween Rising proudly around Swan Lake, the Shushan District skyline shows Hefei’s transformation into a vibrant, modern city. Sleek glass skyscrapers mirror the water below, especially stunning at sunset when golden light glows off the towers. By night, colorful reflections from the Anhui Broadcasting Center and Financial Center dance across the lake, creating one of the city’s most photogenic spots. It’s the perfect place for an evening walk, cityscape photos, or simply soaking in Hefei’s new energy. 📍 Where: Around Swan Lake, Shushan District, Hefei 🕘 Best Time: Sunset to evening for the best skyline views 💡 Tip: Capture the skyline from the south side of Swan Lake for the most balanced reflections. #SwanLakeHefei #SkylineViews #HefeiHighlights #TravelChina

#hellohalloween Beyond the skyline views, Swan Lake hides plenty of quiet corners and surprises. Stroll the lakeside trails to find peaceful bridges, art sculptures, and shaded benches perfect for a sunset pause. The Swan Lake Park on the east side offers flower gardens and mirrored water views away from the crowds, while the Hefei Grand Theatre area glows beautifully at night. If you’re lucky, catch a street musician or light show reflected across the water — Hefei’s charm is in these small, calm moments. 📍 Where: Swan Lake Scenic Area, Shushan District, Hefei 🕘 Best Time: Late afternoon to night 💡 Tip: Head behind the Hefei Grand Theatre — it’s quieter and offers one of the best hidden reflection spots. #SwanLakeHefei #HefeiHighlights #TravelChina

#hellohalloween Start your day with a calm stroll around Swan Lake, where glass towers reflect in the still morning water and locals jog along the scenic paths. By midday, enjoy the nearby cafés and parks, perfect for relaxing in the shade or watching swans glide across the surface. As evening falls, the skyline comes alive with colorful lights and fountain shows, turning the area into one of Hefei’s most photogenic night spots. Whether you’re here for peace, pictures, or people-watching, Swan Lake captures the city’s modern charm beautifully. 📍 Where: Swan Lake Scenic Area, Shushan District, Hefei 🕘 Best Time: Morning for calm views, evening for city lights 💡 Tip: Don’t miss the illuminated Swan Lake Bridge at night — it’s a local favorite photo spot. #SwanLakeHefei #HefeiHighlights #TravelChina

#hellohalloween At the heart of Hefei’s new district, Swan Lake offers stunning views that blend nature and modern architecture. Surrounded by shimmering towers, landscaped parks, and walking paths, the lake reflects the skyline like a giant mirror. Visit by day for peaceful strolls and photo-perfect fountains, or come at night when colorful lights dance across the water. It’s a favorite spot for joggers, couples, and photographers chasing that perfect city-lake reflection. 📍 Where: Swan Lake Scenic Area, Shushan District, Hefei 🕘 Best Time: Sunset to evening for reflections and city lights 💡 Tip: Head to the north side near the concert hall for the best panoramic lake views. #SwanLakeHefei #HefeiHighlights #TravelChina

#hellohalloween Set beside the shimmering waters of Swan Lake, this urban beach brings a touch of coastal calm to Hefei’s modern skyline. Locals come here to unwind, stroll the boardwalk, or enjoy the soft sand under glowing evening lights. With the city’s skyscrapers reflected on the lake, it’s the perfect spot for sunset photos, summer vibes, and casual evening walks. Families, joggers, and couples all find a little slice of peace by the water. 📍 Where: Swan Lake Scenic Area, Shushan District, Hefei 🕘 Best Time: Late afternoon to evening 💡 Tip: Stay for sunset — the mix of lake reflections and city lights is one of Hefei’s most photogenic scenes. #BeachDay #SwanLakeHefei #TravelChina

#hellohalloween Discover the elegance of Xin’an Painting School at the Anhui Museum, where traditional Chinese landscape and ink wash techniques take center stage. The exhibition highlights masterpieces of mountains, rivers, and village life, showcasing the region’s unique blend of natural beauty, brushwork precision, and artistic philosophy. Perfect for art lovers and photographers seeking inspiration from centuries-old Anhui traditions. 📍 Where: 268 Dongliu Road, Baohe District, Hefei 🕘 Hours: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm (closed Mondays) 🎟️ Entry: Free (ID registration required) 💡 Tip: Take time to appreciate brush details and compositions — each painting tells a story of Anhui’s landscape and culture. #MuseumDays #HefeiHighlights #TravelChina

#hellohalloween The final chapter of the Huizhou Vernacular Architecture series at Anhui Museum showcases modern adaptations and preservation efforts of traditional Huizhou architecture. Explore restored facades, reconstructed courtyards, and decorative motifs, alongside displays explaining conservation techniques. It’s a fascinating look at how heritage is maintained while integrating with contemporary life. 📍 Where: 268 Dongliu Road, Baohe District, Hefei 🕘 Hours: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm (closed Mondays) 🎟️ Entry: Free (ID registration required) 💡 Tip: Focus on the conservation stories — they show the care taken to keep Huizhou architecture alive for future generations. #MuseumDays #HefeiHighlights #TravelChina

#hellohalloween Continue your journey into Huizhou’s architectural legacy at the Anhui Museum’s Exhibition II, where the focus shifts to interior design, decorative arts, and functional spaces of traditional homes. See elaborate wooden carvings, ancestral halls, furniture, and everyday tools, all revealing the artistry, social customs, and lifestyle of Huizhou communities. This exhibition deepens your understanding of how architecture intertwined with culture and daily life. 📍 Where: 268 Dongliu Road, Baohe District, Hefei 🕘 Hours: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm (closed Mondays) 🎟️ Entry: Free (ID registration required) 💡 Tip: Pay attention to the carvings and layouts — they showcase both aesthetic beauty and practical design. #MuseumDays #HefeiHighlights #TravelChina

#hellohalloween Step into the Huizhou Vernacular Architecture Exhibition I at Anhui Museum to explore the region’s distinctive architectural heritage. From black-tiled roofs and whitewashed walls to elaborate wooden carvings and traditional courtyard layouts, the exhibition reveals how Huizhou communities blended functionality with artistry. Scale models, detailed drawings, and household artifacts showcase the timeless charm and ingenuity of Anhui’s historical homes. 📍 Where: 268 Dongliu Road, Baohe District, Hefei 🕘 Hours: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm (closed Mondays) 🎟️ Entry: Free (ID registration required) 💡 Tip: Take your time examining the intricate carvings and miniature models — they reflect centuries of local craftsmanship and daily life. #MuseumDays #HefeiHighlights #TravelChina

#mytraveldiary ⭐ Scenic / Tourist Attractions Mount Huangshan (Yellow Mountain) — iconic for its jagged granite peaks, “sea of clouds,” pine trees and hot springs. Villages like Hongcun and Xidi — very well-preserved traditional villages with Hui-style architecture. They're UNESCO World Heritage sites. Mount Tianzhu (Tianzhu Mountain) — lots of peaks, caves, natural scenery. Taiji Cave (Taiji Dong) — a large karst cave, divided into wet and dry layers; scenic and geological interest.

#SeptemberDestinations2025 Anhui from the Sky: Ink Paintings and Golden Strategies Beneath the White Clouds ✈️ Overlooking Anhui from the cabin, your vision is immediately captivated by vast expanses of green—the wheat fields of northern Anhui spread like a golden carpet, the tea plantations of southern Anhui resemble meticulously combed green velvet, and villages with pink walls and black tiles are interspersed here and there, like ink spots accidentally spilled by an ink painter, full of charm 🌾. After the rain, the peaks of Huangshan are crowned with white clouds, the mist of Lushan flows through the valleys, and even Chaohu Lake becomes a sapphire set in the earth. Every frame is a breathtaking sight. Here are three key tips to keep in mind: 1. When choosing a window seat, prioritize the port side. This morning flight allows you to avoid backlight and take in the stunning mountain scenery. 2. Witness the vibrant green of tea plantations in spring and the vibrant color of maple leaves in autumn, maximizing the sense of season. 3. Don't be distracted for 30 minutes before landing at Hefei or Huangshan Airport—this is prime time to capture the "land art." Remember to fully charge your phone so you're ready to capture the stunning scenery. 📸

#mytraveldiary Not only can you climb the Fairy Mountain and admire the sea of clouds during the day, but you can also experience the intangible cultural heritage of fireworks at the foot of the mountain at night. There are 20 intangible cultural heritage performances, including iron flower making, fish lantern parades, and fireworks. It's simply the ultimate night tour destination! Best of all, the crowds are minimal and the experience is great! ✅A must-see intangible cultural heritage feast at night 1️⃣ Fish Lantern Parade: A night of fish and dragon dances guides the crowds toward the fireworks display 2️⃣ Golden Dragon Dance: Dozens of bamboo rafts connect to form a giant golden dragon. You don't have to go to Guilin to see the Golden Dragon Parade! 3️⃣ Iron Flower Show: Absolutely stunning, the combination of fish lanterns and fireworks is breathtakingly beautiful. Head to the center of the Visitor Center Plaza early for the best viewing area.

The Anhui Provincial Museum in Hefei City is a place where you can fully experience the history and culture of Anhui! A must-see is the recreated ancient residence exhibit, which will make you feel like you've wandered into Hongcun! From the white-walled, black-tiled buildings and courtyards to the intricate woodcarvings, you can get a close-up look at ancient life and architectural beauty. ✨ Whether you're a history buff or an architecture enthusiast, this museum is sure to be a photogenic one. 📷 🕰️Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM) Closed: Mondays (except public holidays) 💰Price per person: Permanent exhibitions are free, special exhibitions are charged separately #AsiaTravel #China #AnhuiProvince #Museum #MuseumTour #ChinaTravelGuide8 #ChinaTravelGuide8 #SummerCampaign

Hiking Gear: ID card (children without ID cards should bring their household registration book, and middle and high school exam candidates should bring their admission ticket) Power bank Hiking shoes Trekking poles (these are essential for climbing) Patella strap (descending is tough on the knees) Climbing gloves (for gripping ropes) Windbreaker (temperatures are low on the mountain) Sun hat Sunglasses Water bottle/thermos; there is 40°C hot water on the mountain that you can drink directly, it tastes better than any other water Bring your own water and snacks Raincoat (it rained intermittently throughout our trip) Huangshan Delicacies: Stinky mandarin fish, Huangshan sesame seed cake (freshly baked is the best), fermented tofu, dried tea curd, tea leaves, and a delicious rib dish whose name I can’t recall "After visiting the Five Great Mountains, no other mountains are worth seeing; after visiting Huangshan, no other peaks compare." This time, I climbed Huangshan with friends. The weather was uncooperative, with light rain on and off all the way. Clouds and mist danced with the wind through the mountain valleys, complementing the pines, rocks, and peaks, appearing and disappearing like ink wash paintings, vast and ethereal. Rafting: Not the thrilling kind, actually just boating and water fights, which suited me perfectly and was a lot of fun. Tips: 1. Don’t hike alone; you are very small in the face of nature. 2. Adults should keep a close eye on their children.

Visit before May 2025. If you identify yourself as a Taiwanese compatriot, you can purchase a half-price foreign guest ticket to enter the park for just 52 yuan (this promotion seems to last until the end of 2025, but it's uncertain if it will continue next year). The entire village feels less commercialized compared to Hongcun, and there are fewer people, but it's still convenient with food and drinks available. I particularly liked a fried chicken stall near the entrance. During the day, the traditional Anhui-style architecture is quite beautiful. There's a hill behind the village, and climbing it offers a great view of the entire village. However, the light installation art in the fields at night is rather baffling. Honestly, it feels a bit out of place and detracts from the overall experience.

#chinatravel Once called the “Along the River During the Qingming Festival” of Huizhou! 📍Wan’an Ancient Town, one of the four major ancient towns of Huizhou, is a forgotten gem where crowds are 10x thinner than Hongcun. Located in Xiuning County, Huangshan, this ancient water-land port thrived during the Ming and Qing dynasties thanks to the rise of Huizhou merchants. It’s famed for its ancient wharfs, compass culture, and tea heritage. The historic Wan’an Street still echoes with old merchant tales, and the Hongjiang Wharf once welcomed boats from distant provinces. ✨ Top Photo Spots: • Wan’an Old Street – cobblestones, arches, traditional shops • Shuinan Bridge – scenic water views • Hengjiang Wharf – must-see sunrise/sunset spot 💰Entrance: Free 🕒Opening Hours: All day 📸 Still untouched by tourism—come before it goes viral! #anhui #wanantown #underratedchina #huizhouculture #quietplaces #ancienttown #oldstreetvibes #travelchina

#chinatravel Zuyuan Village is a breathtaking, secluded gem tucked deep within the mountains of southern Anhui. Surrounded by misty terraces, ancient trees, and seas of bamboo, the village feels like walking straight into a traditional Chinese ink painting. With origins tracing back to the Song dynasty, Zuyuan features classic Hui-style architecture, stone-paved alleys, and historic ancestral halls that echo the prosperity of the Huizhou merchants. It’s also the hometown of Ming strategist Zhu Sheng, and the “Sixian Ridge” trail tells of Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang’s legendary visit. Untouched by mass tourism, this ancient village offers both serenity and a deep sense of history.

#chinatravel Explor Hongcun in Anhui Province offers a peaceful journey into one of China’s most beautifully preserved ancient villages. Nestled at the foot of the Yellow Mountains, Hongcun is known for its classic Huizhou architecture, tranquil canals, and graceful stone bridges. The layout of the village resembles an ox, with waterways flowing like veins through narrow lanes and around traditional white walled homes. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hongcun blends natural beauty with historic charm. Visitors can stroll beside the Moon Pond, explore centuries old courtyards, and admire delicate wood carvings and ancestral halls that reflect the region’s refined aesthetic. The quiet pace and scenic setting make it feel almost like stepping into a painting. Explor Hongcun is ideal for travelers seeking authenticity, harmony, and history. Whether for photography, culture, or calm exploration, this ancient village leaves a lasting impression of elegance and tradition.

#chinatravel Explor Huangshan City in Anhui Province offers a perfect blend of cultural depth and natural beauty. As the main access point to the famous Yellow Mountains, or Huangshan, the city serves as both a restful base and a destination in its own right. Traditional Huizhou architecture, white walled homes with dark tiled roofs, fills the old town with charm and history. The city is rich in local culture, with museums, ancestral halls, and markets that showcase regional art, tea, and cuisine. Tunxi Ancient Street, the heart of old Huangshan, is ideal for an evening stroll, lined with shops selling handmade goods and local snacks. Surrounded by rivers and hills, Huangshan City reflects a slower pace while remaining well connected and welcoming. Explor Huangshan City is a great starting point for nature lovers and culture seekers alike, offering insight, comfort, and scenic beauty in equal measure.

#chinatravel Like walking into a Chinese painting. Morning • Arrive early and start at South Lake — perfect for mirror-like photos. • Stroll through ancient alleys, visit Moon Pond and Chengzhi Hall. Afternoon • Try a local Hui-style lunch. • Walk up Leigang Hill for village views. • Enjoy the calm vibe, water reflections, and timeless architecture. 📸 Every corner is photo-worthy. A must-visit for peace and beauty lovers. #chinatravel #travelchina #chinatrip #china #malaysiatochina #myitinerary #beijing #travel #安徽 #宏村

#chinatravel So I rolled into Hongcun not really knowing what to expect and it legit felt like stepping into an ancient painting. The whole place is just narrow stone lanes, peaceful canals, and these old school houses with curved roofs that are somehow still standing strong after like a thousand years. Total chill spot. I wandered around with some street snacks and just got lost in the alleys. Every corner looks like it’s begging for a photo. There’s even this little lake right in the center that mirrors the old buildings when it’s calm. Super photogenic. Also caught some painters doing their thing by the water and it just fit the whole vibe. It’s not a big town so you can explore it slowly and really soak it in. Some locals sell handmade stuff and snacks and they’re super friendly too. If you’re into peaceful old villages that make you feel like you’re in a kung fu movie this place is perfect.

#chinatravel Huangshan Mountain in Anhui is the kind of place that makes you feel like you walked into a painting. Jagged granite peaks, twisty pine trees growing out of cliffs, and those famous cloud seas rolling in, it’s seriously next level. The hikes can be a bit of a workout with all the stone steps, but the views are 100 percent worth it. There are cable cars if you’re not feeling super sporty, and even then you still get insane scenery. Sunrise is a big deal here too, people actually get up at 4am just to catch that glow over the peaks. Totally worth losing a little sleep. The vibe is peaceful even when it’s busy. There’s something about being that high up surrounded by clouds that just makes you feel calm. If you’re into mountains that are dramatic without being too wild, Huangshan delivers. Bring comfy shoes, a light jacket and a good camera. Then just follow the stone paths and enjoy the ride.

#chinatravel Mount Hui Ancient Town in Anhui is one of those places that just feels like a step back in time but in the best way. It’s quiet super walkable and packed with those classic white walled black roof buildings that give old school Chinese vibes. The streets are narrow and winding with little tea shops hidden in the corners and old locals just doing their thing. There’s not a ton of flashy stuff but that’s kind of the charm. You get to just wander around check out old architecture and maybe sip some tea by a slow moving stream. It’s peaceful and super photogenic without feeling too touristy. You can feel the history in the air but it’s not heavy or boring. Just calm and kind of poetic. If you’re into slow travel and mellow towns with pretty views and chill energy Mount Hui Ancient Town is definitely worth a stop. Bring your camera and take your time.

#chinatravel Exploring the ancient villages around Huangshan was like stepping straight into a painting. Seriously, think cobblestone streets, white walled houses with those iconic black roofs, little canals, and red lanterns swinging in the breeze. Places like Hongcun and Xidi are so well preserved, but still totally alive and buzzing with charm. I wandered through alleyways, popped into teahouses, and even watched some locals making traditional snacks right on the street. Everything felt super laid-back and authentic, not overly touristy. The slow pace, mountain views in the background, and peaceful vibe made it one of the most relaxing days of my trip. If you’re into photography, this place is heaven, every corner is a postcard. And the sunsets? Unreal. Golden light reflecting off old stone bridges and rippling water... total zen. Whether you're doing Huangshan Mountain or just nearby, don’t skip the villages. They’re calm, beautiful, and full of character. History, vibes, and aesthetics all rolled into one. Loved every second.