Resting between the Feishui River and Chaohu Lake, Hefei is known as central China’s “City of Gardens”. Peaceful parks and tranquil temples are sprinkled throughout the city, while ancient water villages and cultural museums offer a glimpse into Anhui’s centuries-old traditions.

Things to do

Visit the Memorial Temple of Lord Bao, built in honor of Bao Zheng, a well-respected and honest official in feudal China. The temple lies in Baohe Park, guarded by the stone gate. Wander through the central courtyard and explore the palace and it’s five elaborately decorated halls.

Take a day trip to Sanhe Ancient Town, a typical floating village set across the Fengle, Hangfu and Xiaonan rivers. Explore the smooth bluestone streets lined with Ming and Qing dynasty-style houses, cross traditional stone bridges and browse the local markets where you can sample the local specialty of rice flour dumplings.

Discover the region’s rich and varied heritage at the Anhui Provincial Museum. The museum has a vast collection of historical relics, ranging from the Neolithic Age to the Qing dynasty. Admire precious porcelains, jade and gold ornaments, bronze wares and weapons.

Leave the city behind in the expansive Caho Park, home to one of the five largest freshwater lakes in China, backed by the picturesque Yinping Mountains. Take a ferry to Mushan Island to see the seven-story Wenfeng Buddhist temple and marvel at the bright-red Zhongmiao Temple set atop a rocky outcrop.

Getting around

Xinqiao International Airport is 40 minutes by taxi and bus from Hefei. Inter-province trains and buses arrive at Hefei Railway Station and South Railway Station. Once in Hefei, buses and trains provide convenient transport.