Hefei, the capital of Anhui Province, is 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. This 2-day itinerary will guide you through some of the city’s must-see locations, complete with local culinary delights and convenient accommodation options.
Day 1: Explore Hefei’s Historical and Cultural Gems
Start your Hefei journey by visiting Xiaoyaojin Park (逍遥津公园), located in the northeast corner of the city’s old town. It is one of the “Top Ten Scenic Spots in Hefei” and was the site of a famous ancient battlefield during the Three Kingdoms period. It’s an excellent spot for a relaxing stroll while immersing yourself in Hefei’s rich history.
After exploring the park, cross the street to Li Hongzhang’s Former Residence (李鸿章故居), located on Hefei’s famous pedestrian street. Li Hongzhang, one of the most prominent statesmen of the late Qing Dynasty, lived here, and the residence is an architectural masterpiece, boasting grandiosity in the traditional late Qing style. The residence is one of the best-preserved and largest celebrity homes still standing in China, offering visitors a glimpse into the life and legacy of this important historical figure.
Next, head to Bao Gong Park (包公园), named after the legendary Song Dynasty judge, Bao Zheng. The park features several attractions, including the Bao Gong Temple (包公祠), Bao Gong’s tomb, the Qingfeng Pavilion (清风阁), and the Floating Villa (浮庄). These sites are dedicated to Bao Zheng’s life and his reputation for justice, making the park a fascinating stop for history buffs.
Dining: Hefei’s culinary offerings are an essential part of the experience. Don’t miss out on the city’s famous Bao Gong Fish (包公鱼), Cao Cao Chicken (曹操鸡), and Grape Fish (葡萄鱼). For dessert, try the four famous local snacks: Ma Bing (麻饼), Huang Gao (烘糕), Cun Jin (寸金), and Bai Qie (白切). You can find these delicacies at local restaurants, including the century-old Zhang Shunxing (张顺兴号), known for its famous snacks.
Accommodation: In Hefei, you’ll find plenty of comfortable accommodations. For a more luxurious stay, head to the areas around Huaihe Road (淮河路) and Changjiang Road (长江中路), which are near landmarks like Mingjiao Temple (明教寺) and Xiaoyaojin Park. There are also many affordable hotels with great service, ranging from 100 to 300 RMB per night.
Day 2: A Day Trip to Sanhe Ancient Town
On your second day, take a trip to Sanhe Ancient Town (三河古镇), a scenic destination famous for its well-preserved ancient architecture and tranquil atmosphere. The town, often called “Little Nanjing,” is renowned for its ancient streets, bridges, and houses, which have stood the test of time for centuries.
Start your tour at the Liu Tongxing Long Village (刘同兴隆庄), the former residence of Liu Jintang, a prominent local businessman. You can also visit the Yang Zhenning Former Residence (杨振宁旧居), where the Nobel Prize-winning physicist spent his childhood years. Don’t miss the Quezhu Lang Bridge (鹊渚廊桥), which is over 1,500 years old and one of the oldest bridges in the area. Explore the He Lu (鹤庐), the former residence of the Governor of Sichuan, Liu Bingzhang, as well as the Sun Liren Former Residence (孙立人故居) and One-Person Alley (一人巷).
Dining: While in Sanhe, be sure to try Sanhe Rice Dumplings (三河米饺) and Sanhe Rice Noodles (三河米粉). The rice dumplings are stuffed with delicious fillings like river shrimp, shiitake mushrooms, and cabbage, while the rice noodles are known for their smooth texture and delightful chewiness.
Accommodation: In the evening, you can choose to return to Hefei city for a night’s stay, or you can opt for a more immersive experience by staying overnight in Sanhe Ancient Town. The town offers peaceful accommodations, where you can enjoy the beautiful night views of the water town. Prices for accommodations in Sanhe range from 80 to 150 RMB per night.
