Top best things to do in Anhui, strolling, hiking, etc.

Anhui, located in eastern China, is renowned for its spectacular mountain scenery, UNESCO World Heritage villages, and the rich legacy of Huizhou culture. Prepare to be inspired as you explore the majestic Huangshan Scenic Area, wander through the ancient villages of Hongcun and Xidi, admire the historic Huizhou Ancient City, and experience the tranquil beauty of Jiuhua Mountain. Relax in natural hot springs, stroll along Tunxi Ancient Street, savor authentic Huizhou cuisine, and discover traditional arts that have been passed down for centuries.

Come to Anhui and immerse yourself in its breathtaking landscapes, timeless architecture, and living cultural heritage. Every journey promises unforgettable memories and authentic experiences.

Top 1: Hiking on the Yellow Mountain-Steps into the Sky

Experience the charm of Huangshan Mountian

Huangshan, also known as the Yellow Mountain, is famous for its stunning natural beauty, including strange-shaped peaks, hot springs, and seas of clouds. Hiking on the trails of the Yellow Mountain and taking in the breathtaking views from the peaks is definitely a must-do adventure.

Beyond the popular Bright Summit (Guangmingding), thrill-seekers can challenge themselves with a climb up the steep Heavenly Capital Peak (Tiandu Peak), reached by ascending the dramatic "Hundred-Step Ladder." This peak is considered one of the most precipitous on the mountain. Another must-visit is Lotus Peak, the highest of all, often crowned with spectacular winter scenery. Huangshan in winter becomes a surreal wonderland: cloud seas and rime ice conjure the illusion of walking above the clouds, each step ascending a stairway to the sky.

Top 2: Visit Huizhou-Style Ancient Villages-Hongcun and Xidi

Hongcun Ancient Village

Learning about the region's history and architecture by visiting ancient villages like Hongcun and Xidi. Both of them are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and two of the most famous ancient villages in China. Located near Huangshan, they are known for their well-preserved Huizhou-style architecture, peaceful alleyways, and rich cultural heritage. A visit offers a glimpse into traditional village life and the legacy of Huizhou merchants.

Top 3: Learning about Tea Culture in Huangshan

Tea Culture

There are plenty of otherworldly mountains in China, and Huangshan can nudge its way easily into the top five. As an old Chinese saying goes, “Famous mountains produce famous tea.” Grown mainly in and around the Huangshan Scenic Area, Maofeng green tea is one of the top ten most famous teas in China. Once offered as a tribute tea to emperors and foreign dignitaries, Huangshan Maofeng is deeply rooted in Chinese tea culture. In a city where nearly 80% of local shops sell green tea, joining a tea ceremony at a local tea house is a must-do experience that belongs on your travel list. It’s a relaxing and insightful way to explore the story behind each fragrant cup and better understand the region’s long-standing tea tradition.

Top 3：Ride the Cable Cars at Mount Jiuhua

Ride the cable cars of Mount Jiuhua to enjoy breathtaking mountain scenery from above while reaching some of the mountain's most famous temples with ease. One of China's Four Sacred Buddhist Mountains, Mount Jiuhua has three cableways serving different scenic areas: the Tiantai Cableway, Huatai Cableway, and Baisui Palace Cable Car.

The Baisui Palace Cable Car, located in the Jiuhua Street Scenic Area, runs from Zhiyuan Temple to Baisui Palace. The 452-meter ride takes about 5–6 minutes, passing Feilai Guanyin Peak and cliffside temples. From Baisui Palace, visitors can take a short walk to Dongyan Chan Temple, where the famous Natural Sleeping Buddha rock formation can be viewed.

The Tiantai Cableway extends 1,244 meters from Dajue Temple in Minyuan to Muyu Peak in the Tiantai Scenic Area. During the ride, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of bamboo forests and deep mountain valleys before reaching Tiantai Temple, Pengri Pavilion, and the majestic Shiwang Peak. On fortunate days, the spectacular waterfall cloud phenomenon can also be seen.

The Huatai Cableway is the longest on the mountain, stretching 2,908 meters from the foothills to the Huatai Scenic Area. The ride takes approximately 20 minutes, gliding above dramatic granite peaks, forested valleys, and steep cliffs. In summer, visitors are often rewarded with breathtaking seas of clouds, uniquely shaped rocks, and ancient pine trees, creating scenery reminiscent of a traditional Chinese landscape painting.

Top 4: Wander Through Sanhe Ancient Town

The breathtaking majesty of the West Sea Grand Canyon in Huangshan can only be truly appreciated through personal experience.

Spring and autumn are the best seasons to explore the canyon. It is also hailed as a paradise for hiking enthusiasts, as every step reveals a new and stunning view. After entering the Huangshan Scenic Area, take the Yungu Cableway up the mountain to reach White Goose Ridge (Bai'eling). From there, it’s about a one-hour walk to the entrance of the West Sea Grand Canyon. At the bottom of the canyon lies a hidden gem: the funicular railway. You can ride the funicular to tour the area effortlessly, saving both time and energy.

Top 5: Join a Cooking Experience in Nanping Village

Nanping Village

Participating in a local cooking class to learn about Anhui cuisine, known for its delicate flavors and unique cooking techniques. 47.3km away from city area, Nanping is a village has yet completely restored. Hills rolling into panorama on the far end, fields of yellow cola flowers surrounding white-washed Hui style buildings, there is no better way to know the life of Huizhounese than to experience it by yourself. You can visit the old traditional houses in the village, pick organic vegetables from farm, get water from old well and experience healthy and authentic local cuisines. Dip your chopsticks into the dishes you have prepared with guidance from a local, and get a taste of Huizhou life.

Top 6: Discover the Southern Anhui Scenic Highway ("Southern Anhui Sichuan-Tibet Highway")

Discover the Southern Anhui Scenic Highway – Popularly known as the "Southern Anhui Sichuan-Tibet Highway" or the "Heavenly Road of Jiangnan," this 120-kilometer scenic touring route connects Ningguo and Jing County, winding through mountains, forests, reservoirs, and traditional villages while offering some of the most spectacular scenery in southern Anhui.

Along the way, you can admire the crystal-clear waters of Qinglongwan Reservoir, navigate the dramatic Taoling Six Hairpin Bends, stroll through the picturesque Bald Cypress Wetland, explore the lush valleys of Shuimo Tingxi, and enjoy the tranquil bamboo forests of Moon Bay. The highway winds through pristine forests and striking karst landscapes, making it one of eastern China's most scenic mountain routes. The scenic highway can be enjoyed as either a full-day trip or an overnight getaway, with a good selection of boutique guesthouses and countryside resorts along the route.

Top 7: Admire Tiantangzhai's Waterfalls

The Waterfall Group Scenic Area is the highlight of Tiantangzhai, featuring more than 100 waterfalls of different sizes. You can admire the Five Signature Waterfalls—Jiuying Waterfall, Lovers' Waterfall, Xieyu Waterfall, Shunv Waterfall, and Yinggong Waterfall—as they cascade down towering cliffs into crystal-clear pools. Follow the well-maintained forest trails and suspension bridges, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. If you hike to Baima Peak, the highest point in the park at 1,480 meters, you will be rewarded with sweeping views of the mountains and, on clear mornings, a spectacular sea of clouds.

Top 8: Step Inside China’s Oldest Ink Factory: A 200-Year Craftsmanship Journey

Inkstick is one of the “Four Treasures of Study”, and Huizhou inkstick is considered the best of its kind in China. Hu Kaiwen Ink Factory in Huangshan, with more than 200 years of history, is the oldest constantly operating ink factory in China. Visit this factory not far from Tunxi Old Street in the city area of Huangshan. You can visit four different workrooms in the factory: the soot collection room, raw material mixing room, inkstick cellar, and painting room.

Watch the whole process of how those traditional Chinese ink sticks are made by professional craftsmen. The whole process begins by burning either pine or oil over the fire to get the soot. You will gain an understanding of the history of the inkstick through each step of its production.

Top 9: Kayaking Adventure on Taiping Lake

Experience the tranquility and natural beauty of Taiping Lake from a unique perspective—with a kayak beneath you and endless mountain views ahead. Paddle at your own pace through calm, mirror-like waters, winding past forested hills, hidden coves, and small fishing villages along the shore. As you glide across the lake, you’ll enjoy a sense of peace and freedom, far from the crowds.

Whether you're an experienced paddler or a beginner, kayaking here is easy and rewarding. You can stop along the way to take photos, rest at scenic viewpoints, or simply float in silence and soak in the serenity. In the early morning or late afternoon, the light is especially magical, casting golden reflections on the water.

Top 10: Relaxing at Huangshan Hot Spring

After a long day of hiking or sightseeing, unwind at the Huangshan Hot Spring, one of the "Five Wonders of Huangshan." Also known as Zhusha Spring (formerly called Tang Spring), it is one of 15 natural hot springs found in the area. The spring emerges from the southern foot of the mountain at an elevation of around 1,000 meters and is located just 3 kilometers from the South Gate of the scenic area.

Surrounded by lush pine forests, the hot spring offers a serene and soothing experience. The mineral-rich waters, primarily composed of bicarbonate, are perfect for relieving fatigue and rejuvenating the body. Let the gentle warmth melt your stress away as you soak in the peaceful embrace of nature.

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