Founded in 1667, Anhui Province is located in the eastern part of China. It is an integral part of the country’s most economically dynamic region—the Yangtze River Delta. Positioned at a a strategic juncture of national economic development and several multiple economic sectors in China, Anhui has deep historical and natural connections with the rest of the Delta in terms of economy and culture. 

 

The province covers a total area of 140,100 square kilometers, with a permanent population of 71.1 million by the end of 2024. Anhui boasts a long history, rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and a prime geographical location. Its unique topography blends the distinct features of northern and southern China, making it a microcosm of the country’s natural beauty.

 

Anhui’s land is adorned with picturesque scenery and abundant cultural relics, ranking it among China’s most resource-rich provinces for tourism. It is home to five national-level scenic areas: Huangshan (Yellow Mountains), Jiuhua Mountain, Qiyun Mountain, Tianzhu Mountain and Langya Mountain. Among them, Huangshan is the crown jewel of Anhui’s landscapes, inscribed on the UNESCO World Natural and Cultural Heritage List in 1990, drawing global acclaim.

 

Mount Huangshan (Yellow Mountains)	Hongcun Ancient Village
(Photo source: Huangshan Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism)

 

 

Hefei, the capital of Anhui Province, is located in east China and the central area of Anhui, between the Yangtze and Huaihe Rivers, bordering Chaohu Lake to its south. Known as Luzhou or Luyang in ancient times, it boasts a history of more than two thousand years, and now serves as a sub-central city of China’ s Yangtze River Delta urban agglomeration. 

 

Hefei Location Map

 

Hefei covers a total area of 11445 km² (1339 km² for urban area), with a population of 10.002 million (8.638 million in urban area). In the past 40 years, the city has taken the lead in creating cutting-edge industries empowered by sci-tech innovation. Hefei built up from the home appliance industry in the late 1970s, and has since closely followed the trends of industrial transformation and technological revolution. Over time, it has developed its own strengths in new leading industries, such as chips, display panels, new-energy vehicles, intelligent connected vehicles, smart manufacturing, and artificial intelligence (AI).

 

Night Scene of Hefei Swan Lake (Photo source: Hefei Daily)

 

Hefei is also a city rich in history and culture, offering a range of attractions that reflect its ancient past and modern-day charm. From tranquil parks and historic residences to charming ancient towns, Hefei is a destination where history comes alive.

 

 

Located at the northeastern corner of Hefei old urban area, is a multi-function park with various service facilities, pleasant environment and beautiful scenery. It was an ancient battlefield in the Three Kingdoms period and regarded one of the top scenic spots in Hefei. 

 

Bird View of Xiaoyaojin Park (Photo source: Hefei News Photo Agency)

 

Covering an area of 550 hectares, Shushan Mountain Forest Park is based on Dashu Mountain (also called Shushan Mountain). Dashu Mountain, neighboring the Irrigation Channel of Pi River in the south and adjacent to Dongpu Reservoir in the north, is in the shape of an oval with the southeast part higher than the northwest. The mountain is also characterized by its rough terrain and thick soil. 

 

Shushan Mountain Forest Park (Photo source: Hefei Municipal Government Release)

 

Lord Bao Park, established in 1066 during the Northern Song Dynasty, was built to honor the renowned and upright official, Bao Zheng. The park covers an area of 34.5 hectares, including 15 hectares of water. Bao Zheng, also known as Bao Gong, was born in 999 in Hefei. Lord Bao’s legacy as a just and incorruptible official remains celebrated in Chinese history, and this park stands as a testament to his enduring influence.

 

Lord Bao Park (Photo source: ctrip.com)