Hefei's Little Jiangnan | The Ultimate Guide to Sanhe Ancient Town

|The ultimate guide to Sanhe Ancient Town. You simply must visit Sanhe Ancient Town to experience the charm of a water town and encounter a glimpse of the past in its ancient streets and alleys🎞. Today, I'm sharing my personal guide with you all, so save it now! 📍Location Sanhe Ancient Town is located in Feixi County, Hefei City. It gets its name from the three rivers that run through it: Fengle River, Hangbu River, and Xiaonan River. With a history of over 2,500 years, it's a true historical and cultural town! 🚗Transportation 1. By car: Navigate directly to "Sanhe Ancient Town." There is a parking lot in the scenic area, but remember to arrive early during holidays to avoid parking headaches🅿️. 2. By bus: From downtown Hefei, take subway lines 1, 4, or 5 and transfer to bus route 811; if you take subway line 3, transfer to bus route 699. This is an economical option, but pay attention to operating hours⏰. 3. By coach: Direct coaches are available from Hefei Xinya Bus Station, South Gate Transfer Center, and Mingzhu Square. Ticket prices range from 12 to 18 yuan, making it very convenient. 🎫Tickets Entry to the scenic area is free🎫. However, some smaller attractions inside, such as the former residence of Yang Zhenning and Liu Tongxing Longzhuang, charge separate entrance fees ranging from 10 to 20 yuan. Choose according to your interests. 🌟Must-See Attractions 1. Former Residence of Yang Zhenning: This typical Hui-style building offers a glimpse into the childhood environment of physicist Yang Zhenning, showcasing a blend of history and culture. 2. Liu Tongxing Longzhuang: This attraction recreates the commercial landscape of central Anhui during the late Qing Dynasty. Its antique charm makes it a great photo spot📸. 3. Wangyue Pavilion: Also known as the National Essence Building, this seven-story pavilion offers panoramic views of Sanhe Ancient Town from its top floor. Inside, you'll find a variety of ancient art treasures. 4. Quezhu Covered Bridge: Adorned with lanterns that light up at night, this bridge creates a magical atmosphere, perfect for photos and transporting you back in time. 5. Ancient West Street: The heart of the ancient town, this street is filled with antique charm and unique shops selling local snacks like niupi tang (peanut brittle) and su tang (flaky sugar). 🍱Food Recommendations 1. Sanhe Rice Dumplings: A must-try in Sanhe! These dumplings are made with indica rice flour wrappers filled with pork, white rice shrimp, and dried tofu. After being deep-fried, the skin becomes crispy, and each bite is bursting with flavor. We recommend Guzhen Rice Dumpling Shop and Dongji Rice Dumplings—you can't go wrong with either! 2. Sanhe Rice Wine: Brewed using traditional methods with high-quality glutinous rice from the shores of Chaohu Lake, this wine has a rich, mellow flavor and a fragrant aroma. It makes a great souvenir or gift. 3. Sanhe Local Cuisine: Sanhe stir-fry, shrimp paste, crispy duck, dry pot river mussels, shepherd's purse rolls… every dish is full of local flavor. Any local restaurant will offer a delicious and satisfying meal. 4. Dried Tofu: Savory, slightly spicy, and chewy, this dried tofu is a perfect snack to enjoy while exploring the town. It also makes a great souvenir. 📸Photography Tips 1. Clothing: Hanfu is a perfect match for the ancient town setting. Many shops offer Hanfu rentals and makeup services for around 50 yuan for the outfit and 20 yuan for makeup. Wearing Hanfu while strolling through the ancient streets and alleys enhances the atmosphere! 2. Locations: The ancient bridges along Xiaonan River, such as Duiyue Bridge and Xiangui Bridge, as well as One Person Alley, Wangyue Pavilion, and the ancient city walls, are all excellent photo spots for capturing both people and scenery. 3. Timing: Early mornings offer fewer crowds and a chance to capture the quiet, ancient charm of the town. Evenings, with the lights just coming on, present a different kind of enchanting scene, with stunning night views🌆. ⚠️Important Notes 1. If you plan to take a boat tour, pay attention to the operating hours and safety instructions. Night boat tours cost around 60 yuan and operate from 5:30 pm to 10:00 pm. Expect queues during holidays. 2. Some of the roads in the scenic area are paved with stone slabs, so be careful when wearing high heels to avoid twisting your ankle. 3. Weekends and holidays can be crowded. Arrive early if you want to enjoy a leisurely stroll and take photos.