Independent travel and view of the city of Hefei! History of Hefei Town Antiquity and the birth of the city Th...
Antiquity and the birth of the city
The area where Hefei now stands has been inhabited since ancient times. Several thousand years ago there were settlements of farmers and hunters. In the Western Zhou era (XI-VIII centuries BC), this region was influenced by the powerful Chu kingdom, which controlled the vast lands of the middle Yangtze current.
The name "Hefei" (translated: "confluence of rivers") appeared in the Western Han period - about the II century BC. Then in this area formed a county with this name, located at the confluence of two rivers - Feishui and Nanfeihe. Even then, the area began to acquire strategic importance: it controlled the crossings between the northern and southern territories of China.
The Age of Fragmentation and the Three Kingdoms
During the Three Kingdoms (III century AD), Hefei became the scene of fierce battles between the kingdoms of Wei and Wu. It hosted the famous Battle of Xiaoyaojin, one of the most famous battles in Chinese history. Wei’s commander, Zhang Liao, with a small army defeated the vastly superior forces of the Kingdom of Wu, which brought the city military glory.
Due to its position on the border between the north and the south, Hefei has long remained a fortified point and military base. The city has been repeatedly destroyed and rebuilt, but it has always maintained its strategic importance.
Middle Ages: Tang, Song and the Mongol Conquest
During the Sui and Tang dynasties (VI-IX centuries), Hefei became the administrative center of Luzhou Prefecture. It was a period of stability and economic growth: agriculture, river trade, and crafts developed.
During the North and South Song (X-XIII centuries), Hefei became an important defensive frontier. South Song, defending against the Jurchen, fortified the fortresses in the north, and Hefei proved to be a key point on the defense line. During this period, the city is overgrown with walls, temples, warehouses, government buildings are built.
With the Mongol conquest of China and the formation of the Yuan dynasty (XIII-XIV centuries), the city did not lose administrative significance and remained the center of the region.
Imperial China (Ming and Qing)
During the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644), Hefei became a major county center. The city flourished thanks to agriculture - the surrounding lands were considered fertile, rice, wheat and cotton were grown. Crafts developed - especially the production of silk and ceramics.
In the Qing era (1644–1911), Hefei was part of Luzhou Prefecture and remained an important administrative hub. However, like many cities in central China, it suffered periodic floods and uprisings. Despite this, Hefei continued to be the cultural center of the region.
It was during this era that Bao Zheng (999-1062) lived, a famous official, a symbol of honesty and justice, originally from Hefei. His image became legendary: he is still considered the embodiment of the righteous judge, and in the city there is a temple of Bao-gun dedicated to his memory.
Transition to a new time
After the fall of the Qing Dynasty and the formation of the Republic of China (1912), Hefei became the administrative center of the county. At the beginning of the XX century, the city gradually began to develop: roads, schools, commercial enterprises appeared. However, it remained relatively small, with a population of about several tens of thousands.
During World War II and the Sino-Japanese conflict (1937–1945), the city was destroyed, but quickly recovered after the war.
Modern history: XX-XXI century
After the formation of the People’s Republic of China in 1949, in 1952 Hefei officially became the capital of Anhui Province. This event radically changed his fate: the active construction of factories, administrative buildings, housing began.
In the 1950s and 70s, Hefei developed as an industrial center. There were enterprises of mechanical engineering, chemical and textile industries, factories for the production of household appliances and fertilizers. The city grew rapidly and became one of the strongholds of industrial development in Central China.
Since the late 1970s, in an era of reform and opening-up, Hefei began the transition to a scientific and technological economy. In 1970, the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) was moved here - one of the most prestigious universities in the country. This decision has turned the city into a major center of science, research and innovation.
Hefei today.
In the XXI century, Hefei became one of the leading technological centers of China. Clusters of electronics, robotics, the automotive industry (including electric cars), solar panels and artificial intelligence are developing here.
The city is actively modernizing: high-speed railways, metro, business districts and university campuses are being built. Hefei has become one of the country’s fastest growing metropolises, a symbol of the combination of science, innovation and traditional culture.
The history of Hefei is a path from a small ancient county at the intersection of rivers to a dynamic world-class metropolis. Its development reflects China’s common destiny: from an ancient agricultural society through wars and empires to a modern technological power.
Welcome to Hefei (с), a city where ancient legends come to life amid shining skyscrapers, and the silence of ancient gardens coexists with the noise of innovative laboratories.
Located in the heart of China, between the flowing lines of rivers and the mirrored surface of lakes, Hefei is a place where past and future came face to face and learned to live in harmony.
Hefei – the heart of Anhui Province and the city of the future
Hefei is an amazing combination of ancient history, scientific achievements and Chinese harmony with nature. It is located in the heart of China, between the Yangtze River and Lake Chaohu, and is considered not only the capital of Anhui province, but also one of the fastest growing technological capitals of East Asia.
This city fascinates with contrasts: ancient temples and stone bridges coexist with skyscrapers of glass and steel, and modern campuses and innovative parks are immersed in the greenery of gardens and lakes.
Historical charm
Hefei is a city with a history of more than two thousand years. Its ancient walls and legends preserve the memory of great commanders and wise rulers.
Bao Gong Temple is the heart of historic Hefei. It is dedicated to the famous judge Bao Zheng, a symbol of honesty and justice in Chinese culture. The territory of the temple, decorated with gardens, bridges and pavilions, is a real journey in the Song era.
Xiaoyaojin Park is the site of the famous Battle of the Three Kingdoms. Today, peace reigns here: shady alleys, artificial ponds and ancient gates create the atmosphere of ancient China.
Sanxianjing Street is an old quarter with tea houses, craft shops and street snacks. Walking here is like traveling into the past.
City of water and greenery
Hefei is called the “city of lakes and parks”. Despite its rapid growth, it retained an abundance of green spaces and clean air.
Chaohu Lake is one of the five largest freshwater lakes in China. It is an ideal place for boat trips, fishing and picnics. On the shores of the lake there are ecological trails, cozy cafes and observation platforms.
Lushan Park and Hefei Botanical Garden are corners of natural silence within the metropolis, where lotuses bloom, birds sing and peace reigns.
Mount Da Shushan is a favorite place for walking and playing sports. From its tops opens a magnificent panorama of the city.
Modern Hefei – City of Innovation
Today, Hefei is known throughout the world as the scientific and technological capital of China. It is home to the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), as well as numerous research institutes and start-up centers.
The city is proud of its innovative cluster, where electronics, robotics, electric vehicles and solar technology are developed. Walking through Binhu New District, you can see futuristic buildings, technology museums and modern art spaces.
Kitchen and colour
Hefei is a paradise for lovers of Chinese cuisine. Here the aromas and tastes of northern and southern traditions are mixed.
Try it.
Hefei tofu with soy sauce ( ) - crispy outside, gentle inside, with a rich taste of spices;
Duck and bamboo soup ( ) is a light, fragrant dish perfect for a cool evening.
Pelmeni Bao-gun (нь) is a tribute to the legendary judge and a visiting card of local cuisine.
And in the evening, be sure to look at the night market of Huaihe Road Night Market - there life boils until late at night: music, food, souvenirs, neon lights.
Culture and leisure
Hefei carefully preserves the cultural traditions of Anhui Province:
Here you can hear the opera Huangmei, one of the oldest Chinese musical traditions.
The museums of the city have the richest collections of archaeological finds and art objects.
Lantern festivals, spring fairs and flower exhibitions are often held in parks and squares.
Hefei is a large and modern city where you can find accommodation for every taste and purse: from luxurious five-star hotels to simple but comfortable hostels. Thanks to the active development of tourism and business trips, there is a wide range of hotels of all categories.
Luxury and premium hotels
For those who appreciate comfort, style and high level of service, Hefei has some truly impressive options.
InterContinental Hefei is one of the most famous and beautiful hotels in the city. It is located on the shore of the picturesque Swan Lake and amazes with its panoramic views. Spacious rooms, exquisite restaurants, swimming pool, spa area and attentive staff make it an ideal choice for those who want to enjoy a holiday in an atmosphere of refined luxury.
No less famous is The Langham Hefei - a modern premium hotel with an elegant interior, impeccable service and an excellent location near the business center. Travelers arriving for work and tourists who prefer international comfort often stop here.
The Hilton Hefei is a hotel with a high level of amenities, spacious rooms, a fitness room and restaurants serving both local and international cuisine.
Comfortable average level
If you are looking for comfort, but without excessive luxury, Hefei has many excellent mid-range hotels. They are suitable for business trips and leisurely tourism.
There are popular chains like Novotel Hefei Wanda and Mercure Hefei Sunac, which combine reasonable prices, quality service and modern design. Rooms are equipped with everything you need - air conditioning, Wi-Fi, a buffet breakfast and a convenient location near the metro or shopping centers.
Such hotels are especially convenient for travelers who want to live in a good area without overpaying for brand and luxury.
Inexpensive and economical options
For budget tourists, Hefei offers a wide range of inexpensive but cozy places to stay.
The popular local hotel chains GreenTree Inn and Jinjiang Inn are simple, clean and reliable hotels designed for short trips. They have everything you need: comfortable beds, air conditioning, TV, bathroom, sometimes breakfast. They are often close to transport hubs or university districts.
Those who prefer a more informal atmosphere will enjoy Three Cats Youth Hostel and Makerhouse Hostel. These are modern hostels with a cozy design, common recreation areas, free Wi-Fi and a friendly atmosphere. Young travelers and students often stay here, and in the evenings you can meet people from all over the world.
Alternatives
If you want more comfort and personal space, you can choose apartments or guest houses. In Hefei, renting apartments for a short time is actively developing: on local services you can find cozy studios in the city center or apartments with a view of the park. This is a convenient option for family tourists and those who plan to stay longer.
Hefei is a city where history, nature and modernity are amazingly intertwined. Here you can walk through the places of ancient battles, visit ancient temples and relax at beautiful lakes without leaving the city limits.
Xiaoyaojin Park (Xiaoyaojin Park)
One of the most popular historical parks in Hefei. Once there was a battle of the Three Kingdoms, now it is a quiet place for walks: there are ponds, bridges, green alleys, recreation areas. Great for relaxing after a walk around the city center.
Chaohu Lake (Chaohu Lake)
The largest freshwater lake in Anhui Province. There you can enjoy nature, landscapes, sunsets, tranquility. Along its banks there are small villages, observation decks, moorings.
Mingjiao Temple (or Iron Buddha Temple)
Atmospheric Buddhist temple in the area of Luyang. The history of the temple dates back many centuries, it was destroyed and restored several times; the architecture is typical of Buddhist temples, there is a beautiful gate, the main hall.
City God Temple (Chenghuang Temple)
Traditional Taoist temple, historical complex associated with culture and folk beliefs. One of the central religious and historical sites, which is often included in tourist routes.
Anhui Museum (Anhui Museum)
For those who want to learn about the culture, history and art of the region. The museum has collections of ancient artifacts, writing, painting, sculpture, objects of folk art.
Former Residence of Li Hongzhang (former residence of Li Hongzhang)
A good example of late Qing Dynasty architecture, large high-ranking houses. The attraction is interesting for those who love history and ancient manors.
Scientific and technological sites / heritage park "Three Kingdoms Heritage Park"
There are places in Hefei dedicated to the history of the Three Kingdoms, ancient battles, reconstructions, parks with themed objects.
Promenades, parks and walk streets – Swan Lake Park is a pleasant area with a lake, sculptures, walkways, especially in the evening. Hefei Botanical Garden is a place where you can retire among nature, see many plants, flowering gardens. Huaihe Road Pedestrian Street is a shopping area, a street for walking, shopping, cafes, street food.
Shushan and Mountain Views
An area with hills and parks, from where panoramic views of the city open. Suitable for walks, photos, rest from the city turmoil.
Transport accessibility
How to get there and move around:
Metro: Hefei has a subway line that covers the main areas of the city. Metro is a quick way to get to the center, shopping areas, train stations and some tourist sites.
Bus: An extensive network of city buses, they reach many parks, temples and attractions. For example, Xiaoyaojin Park can be reached by bus from central bus stations.
Taxi / DiDi: Convenient option especially at night or if the place is a little far from the subway / buses. The price is moderate. There are also options to rent a car with a driver or order through the app.
Airport: The main air service is via Luogang International Airport, which is located about 12 km south of the center of Hefei. You can get to the center by public buses, taxis.
Railway connections between cities: High-speed trains connect Hefei with major cities in China - Nanjing, Shanghai, Wuhan, etc. This is convenient if the tourist wants to visit the surroundings or use Hefei as a base for trips to the region.
Hefei lives all year round - there is no "bad" season. Each of them reveals the city in its own way: spring through flowers, summer through energy, autumn through harmony, and winter through the warmth of human traditions. Hefei lives all year round - there is no "bad" season. Each of them reveals the city in its own way: spring through flowers, summer through energy, autumn through harmony, and winter through the warmth of human traditions.
spring
The festival of cherry blossoms and peaches - the parks of the city are filled with flowers, exhibitions and photo zones are arranged.
Qingming (Day of Remembrance of Ancestors) - traditional rituals, visiting cemeteries and temples, decorating them with live flowers.
Flower exhibitions and botanical shows are especially vivid in the Hefei Botanical Garden.
Summer.
Lotus festival - lotuses bloom on the lakes, exhibitions and folk festivals are held.
Night markets and street food festivals are popular in the city center and on the waterfronts.
Outdoor concerts and musical evenings - especially in parks and waterfronts, such as near Swan Lake.
autumn
Mid-Autumn Festival (Moon Festival) is a moon festival, family gatherings, traditional moon gingerbread, decorated lanterns.
Harvest festivals and craft fairs - local products, tea, fruits, products of folk craftsmen.
Cultural festivals and theater performances - concerts and exhibitions in the fresh air.
Winter
Chinese New Year (Spring Festival) is the largest holiday in China, with fireworks, processions, festive lights.
Lantern Festival – thousands of lanterns light up the streets and parks, creating a magical atmosphere.
Winter fairs, concerts and exhibitions – museums and concert halls offer cultural programs for tourists.
Hefei is located in central China and is characterized by a subtropical humid climate with four distinct seasons: mild spring, hot humid summer, warm autumn and cool winter.
Spring (March-May)
Air temperature: 12-23 ° C, gradually warming.
Water temperature: in rivers and lakes about 15-20 ° C, still cool for swimming.
Weather: Sunny days alternate with rainy, often light wind.
Features: flowering of trees and flowers, fresh greenery in parks and on embankments.
Recommendations: a great time to walk, visit temples, parks and lakes. Spring is considered one of the best seasons to travel in Hefei.
Summer (June - August)
Air temperature: 27–35 °C, sometimes above 35 °C in July.
Water temperature: about 25-28 °C, comfortable for swimming and boating.
Weather: hot and humid, frequent short-term rains and thunderstorms.
Features: a season of active festivals, night markets, street concerts and outdoor activities.
Recommendations: if you tolerate the heat, summer is a time of busy city life and lake walks.
Autumn (September-November)
Air temperature: 18-28 °C in September, by November 10-15 °C.
Water temperature: decreases to 18-22 °C.
Weather: dry, sunny, cool evenings; the air is fresh and clear.
Features: autumn foliage paints parks in gold and red shades, harvest festivals and cultural events take place.
One of the best seasons for tourism is a comfortable temperature and picturesque nature.
Winter (December to February)
Air temperature: 0-10 °C, sometimes below 0 °C at night.
Water temperature: about 5-10 ° C, the water is cold.
Weather: dry, sometimes sunny, a little snow is possible.
Features: fewer tourists, the city is decorated for the Chinese New Year, winter fairs, lantern festival.
For those who are not afraid of the cold and want to see the winter holidays, this is a quiet time with fewer crowds.
Language of communication
In Hefei, the official and main language is Mandarin Chinese.
Local dialect: In everyday life, many residents speak Ankhoan, which is different from the standard Mandarin, but tourists usually have enough basic Mandarin to communicate in shops, restaurants and public transport.
English: In tourist destinations, major hotels, restaurants and museums, staff often understand English, but knowing at least basic Chinese phrases makes communication easier and shows respect for the local culture.
Tip: you should learn a few simple phrases: hello, thank you, how much is it?, where is the toilet?
Traditions and cultural characteristics
Welcome and respect
In China, it is customary to nod your head or bow when greeting.
Direct physical contact (such as shaking hands) is not required but is allowed in a business environment.
Visiting temples and religious places
Shoes are not always required, but some Buddhist or Taoist temples do.
It is necessary to behave quietly in the temple, do not interfere with worshipers and do not photograph shrines without permission.
Do not touch statues and altar objects with your hands.
Etiquette in public places
Lines are observed, but sometimes in crowded places tourists need to be attentive and patient.
Do not talk loudly on public transport and on the streets, try to respect others.
Smoking is allowed only in designated areas.
Restaurants and meals
It is customary to use common dishes on the table and eat them together.
Do not insert sticks vertically into rice - this symbolizes an offering to the dead.
Tipping in China is optional, but is sometimes welcome in tourist destinations.
Laws and regulations
Documents
Always carry your passport with you or have a copy. In China, document checks can take place in hotels, transport stations and under police control.
Conduct in public places
The licensing rules cover smoking, alcohol, noise and street trading. Violation can result in a fine.
Photography of military installations, police buildings and some government offices is prohibited.
Road traffic
It is important for pedestrians to cross the road only at the permitted traffic light signal.
Bicycles and electric scooters often move on sidewalks, be careful.
Environment
It is forbidden to throw garbage on the street. Separate waste collection is actively observed in Hefei.
In nature and in parks it is forbidden to damage plants or start a fire.
Tourist advice
Be polite and respectful: to culture, traditions, and older people.
Try to learn basic Chinese expressions – locals appreciate it.
Follow the rules in temples, museums and on excursions – this will help to avoid awkward situations.
Keep an eye out for official directions and signs on the streets and in transport.
Greetings and courtesy
) (n) h)o) - Hello / Hello
у (nín hуo) - Hello (politely, to the elders or the waiter)
) (z)o shang h)o) - Good morning
) (xià wù h)o) - Good afternoon
) (w)n shang h)o) - Good evening
) (zài jiàn) - Goodbye
) (xiè xiè) - Thank you
) (bú kè qì) - Please (in response to thank you)
) (duì bù q)) - Excuse me / Excuse me
го (méi guān xì) - No big deal / It's okay
Communication and basic phrases
) (q)ng wèn) - Excuse me, may I ask...?
? (duō sh o qián?) - How much is it?
) (tài guì le) - Too expensive
(kě y pián yí yī di n ma?) - Can I get a little cheaper?
(cè su zài n l ?) - Where's the toilet?
) (w) bù d)ng) - I don't understand
(q,ng màn yī di,n shuō) - Please speak more slowly
)人 (w) shì è luó sī rén) - I am Russian
? (n huì shuō yīng yù ma?) - Do you speak English?
Transport and orientation
(dì tiě zhàn zài n l ?) - Where's the subway station?
? (zhè ge zěn me z u?) - How do I get here?
... (q ng sòng w dào...) - Take me to... (taxi)
По/ По (zu По zhu Поn/yòu zhu Поn) – Turn left/right
) (zhí z)u) - Go straight
ка (tíng chē) - Parking/stop
) (chū zū chē) - Taxi
с (gōng jiāo chē) - Bus
Restaurant and café
) (cài dān) - Menu
(w xi ng di n...) - I want to order...
? (y u sù shí ma?) - Are there any vegetarian dishes?
) / ) / ) (bù là / wēi là / hěn là) - Not sharp / slightly sharp / very sharp
С (m Сi dān) - Bill, please
A glass of water (yī bēi shu))
) (h)o chī) - Delicious.
) (bù h)o chī) - Not delicious
In shops and markets
) / ) (shì chuān / shì dài) - Try on clothes / shoes / accessory
) (w) yào zhè ge) - I want it
? (kě y shuā k ma?) - Can I pay with a card?
? (y u líng qián ma?) - Do you have any change?
At the restaurant:
(N men h o! Y u cài dān ma?) - Hello there! Can I have a menu?
W xi ng di n gōng b o jī dīng. - I want to order "Gongbao Chi" (chicken with nuts).
(M i dān, xiè xiè.) - Check, please.
In a taxi:
Q ng sòng w dào Héféi Bówùgu n. Please take me to the Anhui Museum.
(H o de, q ng shàng chē.) - Okay, sit down.
(Duō sh o qián?) - How much will it cost?
In the store:
? (Zhè ge duō sh o qián?) - How much is this?
(Tài guì le, kě y pián yí yī di n ma?) - Too expensive, can it be cheaper?
(H o de, xiè xiè!) - All right, thank you!
A trip to Hefei is not only an opportunity to get acquainted with the history and culture of the city, but also a chance to discover its unique tastes and traditional crafts. Here you can try unusual dishes, buy useful herbal remedies and choose beautiful souvenirs that will remind of the trip for many years to come. This city offers tourists a variety of options for gastronomic discoveries and gifts that cannot be found elsewhere in China.
Food and gastronomic souvenirs
Anhui Tea (Anhui Tea)
The region is famous for high-quality teas, especially green and yellow teas such as Huangshan Maofeng or Junshan Yiwu Cha.
Perfect as a gift for home tea.
Tips: choose fresh leaves in branded stores or in markets where there is a sealed packaging.
Local sweets and snacks
Meat rolls and candies (from sesame, dates, nuts).
Mooncakes are especially popular for the Mid-Autumn Festival, often with a variety of fillings: legume paste, lotus seeds, nuts.
Tofu snacks are crispy, spicy and popular with locals.
Spices and sauces
Hefei chili sauce, spicy pastes for cooking local dishes.
Dry herbs and seasonings from the Anhui region that are rare outside of China.
Medicinal and useful remedies
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
Herbal mixtures, balms and tinctures: often used for colds, fatigue or muscle pain.
Popular options: ginseng balm, patches with menthol, herbal teas to improve digestion.
Tips: Buy only from official pharmacies or TCM stores to avoid counterfeiting.
Herbal-based cosmetics and care
Creams, oils and masks with extracts of medicinal herbs.
Local products combine natural ingredients and modern technologies.
Souvenirs and crafts
Ceramics and porcelain
Hefei and Anhui province are famous for fine ceramics and handmade porcelain.
You can find cups, kettles, dishes with traditional patterns and symbols of the region.
Crafts made of bamboo and wood
Baskets, candlesticks, boxes, miniature figures.
Excellent gift with local color and durability.
Traditional jewelry and amulets
Small pendants, Buddha statues or Taoist symbols.
A beautiful and symbolic souvenir reflecting the local culture.
Textiles and clothing
Silk scarves, handkerchiefs and embroidered products.
Often there are products with traditional Chinese patterns or Hefei motifs.
Safety is one of the key aspects of a comfortable journey, and Hefei is no exception. The city is considered calm and convenient for tourists, but compliance with some rules and the availability of necessary documents will help make the trip even more comfortable and carefree. This section contains information about what documents to have with you, what insurance to issue, what emergency services to contact, as well as tips on mobile communication and terms of stay for foreign guests.
Holiday safety in Hefei
Hefei is considered a relatively safe city for tourists. Crime rates are low, major tourist areas are well patrolled, and locals are friendly and willing to help foreigners.
Recommendations for safe rest:
Do not leave things unattended in public places.
Avoid crowded streets at night.
Keep an eye on bags, documents and wallets in markets and transportation.
Always observe local laws and traditions, especially in temples, parks and government offices.
Documents
Citizens of most countries need a valid passport and tourist visa to enter China.
The passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry.
A tourist visa (L-visa) is usually issued for 30-60 days of stay in the country.
Always carry your passport with you or have a copy, and keep the original in a safe place in the hotel.
Health insurance
It is recommended to issue tourist health insurance covering illness, injury, hospitalization and transportation.
Check that insurance is valid in China and includes emergency situations, including hospitalization and repatriation.
Emergency services phones
Police: 110
Ambulance: 120
Fire service: 119
Background information and tourist assistance: you can contact the hotel or the local tourist police.
Mobile and Internet
The main Chinese mobile operators operate in Hefei: China Mobile, China Unicom, China Telecom.
Tourists can purchase a prepaid SIM card for calls and mobile Internet.
Please note that access to some foreign services (Google, Facebook, WhatsApp) is limited – you can use a VPN if necessary.
Wi-Fi is often available in hotels, restaurants and large shopping centers.
Period of stay without departure
Usually a tourist visa allows you to stay for 30 days, sometimes 60 days, depending on the type of visa and the country of issue.
Visa renewal is possible through local immigration services, but must be done before the end of the original period.
For citizens of countries with which China has a visa-free regime (for example, for some regional transits), the period can be limited to 72 hours or 144 hours in certain cities, but for Hefei, a tourist visa is standard.
Create a query and local guides will offer you the best options
