Complete Travel Guide to Hefei, China

Hefei Hefei is the capital of Anhui province, China. A prefecture-level city, it is the political, economic, and cultural center of Anhui. Its population was 9,369,881 as of the 2020 census. Its built-up area is made up of four urban districts plus Feidong, Feixi and Changfeng counties being urbanized, and was home to 7,754,481 inhabitants. Located in the central portion of the province, it borders Huainan to the north, Chuzhou to the northeast, Wuhu to the southeast, Tongling to the south, Anqing to the southwest and Lu’an to the west. A natural hub of communications, Hefei is situated to the north of Chao Lake and stands on a low saddle crossing the northeastern extension of the Dabie Mountains, which forms the divide between the Huai and Yangtze rivers. Positioned at coordinates 31.86389°N, 117.28083°E, Hefei occupies a geographically significant location that has influenced its historical development and contemporary importance. The precise geographic coordinates of Hefei place it within a region characterized by diverse landscapes and strategic transportation routes that have shaped settlement patterns for centuries. At an elevation of 37.0 meters above sea level, Hefei benefits from unique topographic advantages that influence local climate, agriculture, and scenic beauty. The elevation of Hefei creates distinctive environmental conditions that support specific ecosystems and agricultural practices while providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Home to 9369881 residents, Hefei maintains a community scale that balances urban amenities with traditional social structures and cultural continuity. The population of Hefei represents a diverse community that has adapted to changing circumstances while preserving essential cultural traditions and local knowledge. Community life in Hefei reflects the resilience and adaptability that characterize populations throughout China, demonstrating successful integration of traditional values with contemporary opportunities. Within the broader context of Anhui province, Hefei contributes to the cultural and economic diversity that defines China’s regional character. The role of Hefei in regional development extends beyond its municipal boundaries, encompassing influences on transportation networks, economic activities, and cultural preservation efforts. Visitors to Hefei discover a destination that embodies the authentic character of China while offering unique local perspectives and experiences unavailable in more commercialized locations.

Historical Heritage of Hefei

History Old Hefei Map with wall From the 8th to the 6th centuries BC, Hefei was the site of many small states, later a part of the Chu kingdom Many archaeological finds dating from this period have been made The name ‘Hefei’ was first given to the county set up in the area under the Han dynasty in the 2nd century BC.

In the 3rd century AD, the Battle of Xiaoyao Ford was fought at Xiaoyao Ford (逍遙津) in Hefei Zhang Liao, a general of the Wei state, led 800 picked cavalry to defeat the 200,000-strong army from Wei’s rival state Wu Several decades of warring in Hefei between Wu and Wei followed this battle.

During the 4th to the 6th centuries AD, this crucial border region between northern and southern states was much fought over; its name and administrative status were consequently often changed During the Sui (581–618) and Tang (618–907) periods, it became the seat of Lu prefecture—a title it kept until the 15th century, when it became a superior prefecture named Luzhou.

The present city dates from the Song dynasty (960–1126), the earlier Hefei having been some distance farther north In the 10th year of Xining (熙宁, 1077 AD), the taxes collected from the Luchow Prefecture were 50315 Guan, approximately 25 million today’s Chinese Yuan, with a ranking of the amount of taxes was the 11th(following Kaifeng, Hangzhou, Qinzhou, Chuzhou, Chengdu, Zizhou, Xingyuan, Mianzhou, Zhenzhou, Suzhou) among all the prefectures of Song Dynasty.

During the 10th century, it was for a while the capital of the independent Wu kingdom (902–938) and was an important center of the Southern Tang state (937–975) After 1127 it became a center of the defenses of the Southern Song dynasty (1126–1279) against the Jin (Jurchen) invaders in the Jin–Song wars, as well as a flourishing center of trade between the two states.

When the Chinese Republic was founded in 1911, the superior prefecture was abolished, and the city took the name of Hefei The city was known as **Luchow** or **Liu- tcheou** (庐州, p _Luzhou_) during the Ming and Qing dynasties (after the 14th century to the 19th century).

Hefei was the temporary capital for Anhui from 1853 to 1862 It was renamed as Hefei County in 1912 Following the Chinese victory in the Second Sino-Japanese War in 1945, Hefei was made the capital of Anhui Before World War II, Hefei remained essentially an administrative center and the regional market for the fertile plain to the south.

It was a collecting center for grain, beans, cotton, and hemp, as well as a center for handicraft industries manufacturing cloth, leather, bamboo goods, and ironware The construction in 1912 of the Tianjin–Pukou railway, farther east, for a while made Hefei a provincial backwater, and much of its importance passed to Bengbu.

In 1932–36, however, a Chinese company built a railway linking Hefei with Yuxikou (on the Yangtze opposite Wuhu) to the southeast and with the Huai River at Huainan to the north While this railway was built primarily to e.

The historical trajectory of Hefei demonstrates the complex interplay between local agency and external influences that has characterized regional development throughout successive historical periods. Understanding this historical context provides essential background for appreciating the depth and authenticity of contemporary cultural expressions.

Historical preservation efforts in Hefei reflect community commitment to maintaining connections with ancestral heritage while adapting to contemporary circumstances. These preservation activities create opportunities for visitors to experience authentic historical environments and traditional practices.

The legacy of historical development in Hefei remains visible in architectural styles, urban planning patterns, cultural traditions, and social organizations that provide continuity between past and present while supporting future community development.

Geographic Environment and Natural Setting

Geography This section **needs expansion**. You can help by adding to it. _( May 2013)_ Hefei is located 130 kilometres (81 mi) west of Nanjing in south-central Anhui. Chao Lake, a lake 15 km (9 mi) southeast of the city, is one of the largest fresh water lakes in China. Though the lake has unfortunately been polluted with nitrogen and phosphorus in recent decades, the situation is improving due to efforts by both the government and the people. Wang, Yan-Ping; Xu, Wei-Wei; Han, Chao; Hu, Wei-Ping (8 February 2021). “[Distribution of Nitrogen and Phosphorus in Lake Chaohu Sediments and Pollution Evaluation]”. _Huan Jing Ke Xue = Huanjing Kexue_. **42** (2): 699–711.

The topographic characteristics of Hefei result from complex geological processes that have created distinctive landscape features supporting diverse ecosystems and human activities. These natural features provide both opportunities and constraints that have influenced settlement patterns and economic development throughout history.

Hydrological systems in the Hefei region play crucial roles in supporting natural ecosystems and human communities through provision of water resources, transportation routes, and agricultural irrigation. Understanding these water systems helps explain historical settlement patterns and contemporary development opportunities.

Soil composition and agricultural potential in the Hefei area reflect the interaction of geological substrate, climatic conditions, and human management practices that have created productive agricultural systems supporting local food security and economic development.

Natural resource availability in Hefei has historically influenced economic activities and settlement patterns while continuing to provide opportunities for sustainable development that balances economic needs with environmental conservation.

The relationship between geographic features and human settlement in Hefei demonstrates sophisticated adaptation strategies that maximize advantages while minimizing risks associated with natural hazards and environmental constraints.

Seasonal variations in the geographic character of Hefei create changing opportunities for agricultural production, outdoor recreation, and transportation that influence the rhythm of community life and economic activities throughout the year.

Climate Patterns and Environmental Conditions

Climate Hefei features a humid subtropical climate (Köppen _Cfa_) with four distinct seasons. Hefei’s annual average temperature is 16. Temperature patterns in Hefei influence agricultural cycles, tourism seasons, and daily life rhythms throughout the year. Its annual precipitation is just slightly over 1,000 millimetres (39 in), being heavier from May through August. Rainfall patterns in Hefei determine water availability and agricultural productivity, shaping economic activities and settlement patterns. Winters are damp and cold, with January lows dipping just below freezing and January averaging 2. The city sees irregular snowfalls that rarely turn significant. Occasional cold spells from Siberia that usually happen during winter months such as December, January, February. Sometimes November and March which can bring snow and heavier snowfall. (Springs are generally relatively pleasant if somewhat erratic. Summers are hot and humid, with a July average of 28. In the months of June, July, August, and often September, daily temperatures can reach or surpass 37 °C (99 °F) with high humidity levels being the norm. Temperature patterns in Hefei influence agricultural cycles, tourism seasons, and daily life rhythms throughout the year. Autumn in Hefei sees a gradual cooling and drying. With monthly percent possible sunshine ranging from 35 percent in March to 50 percent in August, the city receives 1,868 hours of bright sunshine annually. Extremes since 1951 have ranged from −20. 6 °C (−5 °F) on 6 January 1955, to 41. 1 °C (106 °F) on 27 July 2017. Climate data for Hefei, elevation 50 m (160 ft), (1991–2020 normals, extremes 1951–present) Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year Record high °C (°F) 20. 0) Mean daily maximum °C (°F) 7. 1) Daily mean °C (°F) 3. 8) Mean daily minimum °C (°F) −0. 1) Record low °C (°F) −20. 1) Average precipitation mm (inches) 47. Rainfall patterns in Hefei determine water availability and agricultural productivity, shaping economic activities and settlement patterns. 07) Average precipitation days (≥ 0. Rainfall patterns in Hefei determine water availability and agricultural productivity, shaping economic activities and settlement patterns. 9 Average snowy days 4. 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0. 5 10 Average relative humidity (%) 75 74 71 70 71 77 80 81 77 74 75 73.

The climatic regime of Hefei reflects the complex interaction of geographic location, topographic features, and regional weather patterns that create distinctive seasonal characteristics influencing both natural ecosystems and human activities throughout the year.

Temperature variations in Hefei create distinct seasonal periods that influence agricultural cycles, energy consumption patterns, and outdoor activity opportunities while requiring adaptive strategies for housing, clothing, and food preservation.

Precipitation patterns in Hefei determine water availability for agricultural production, urban consumption, and natural ecosystem maintenance while influencing the timing of traditional festivals and seasonal economic activities.

Seasonal weather patterns in Hefei create varying opportunities for different types of economic activities, recreational pursuits, and cultural celebrations that contribute to the distinctive rhythm of community life throughout the year.

The interaction between climate and human adaptation in Hefei demonstrates sophisticated traditional knowledge systems for managing seasonal variations while taking advantage of favorable conditions for agriculture, construction, and outdoor activities.

Climate considerations for visitors to Hefei include understanding seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, and daylight hours that influence the availability of different activities and the appropriate preparation for outdoor exploration and cultural participation.

Cultural Heritage and Community Traditions

Administrative divisions and demographics #Demographics Historical populationYearPop. The demographic composition of Hefei reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. ±% 1953 183,570— 1964 431,490+135. 1% 1982 535,681+24. 1% 1990 714,242+33. 3% 2000 1,549,476+116. 9% 2010 3,098,727+100. 0% 2020 5,055,978+63. 2% Source: Census in China The majority of the population in Hefei are Han Chinese. The demographic composition of Hefei reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. There are a comparatively small number of Hui Chinese living in the city, for whom a few mosques have been constructed. Of the more than five million people in the city, some are migrant workers from other parts of Anhui. #Administration The prefecture-level city of Hefei administers 9 county-level divisions, including 4 districts, 1 county-city and 4 counties. Hefei subdivisions area (km2), population (According to 2010 Census) and population density (per km2). The demographic composition of Hefei reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. Map _Chao Lake_ **Yaohai** **Luyang** **Shushan** **Baohe** **Changfeng County** **Feidong County** **Feixi County** **Lujiang County** **Chaohu (city)** Division code English Chinese Pinyin Area in km2 Seat Postal code Subdivisions Subdistricts Towns Townships Ethnic townships Residential communities Villages 340100 Hefei 合肥市 _Héféi Shì_ 11434. 25 Shushan District 230000 45 65 19 1 736 1102 340102 Yaohai District 瑶海区 _Yáohǎi Qū_ 142. 90 Mingguang Road Subdistrict (明光路街道) 230000 13 2 1 118 18 340103 Luyang District 庐阳区 _Lúyáng Qū_ 139. 32 Bozhou Road Subdistrict (亳州路街道) 230000 11 1 84 14 340104 Shushan District 蜀山区 _Shǔshān Qū_ 261. 36 Sanli’an Subdistrict (三里庵街道) 230000 8 2 92 17 340111 Baohe District 包河区 _Bāohé Qū_ 294. 94 Luogang Subdistrict (骆岗街道) 230000 7 2 77 38 340121 Changfeng County 长丰县 _Chángfēng Xiàn_ 1928. 45 Shuihu (水湖镇) 231100 8 6 80 193 340122 Feidong County 肥东县 _Féidōng Xiàn_ 2205. 92 Dianbu (店埠镇) 231600 10 4 95 249 340123 Feixi County 肥西县 _Féixī Xiàn_ 2082. 66 Shangpai (上派镇) 231200 12 6 1 90 241 340124 Lujiang County 庐江县 _Lújiāng Xiàn_ 2347. 48 Lucheng (庐城镇) 231500 17 38 194 340181 Chaohu 巢湖市 _Cháohú Shì_ 2031. 22 Woniushan Subdistrict (卧牛山街道) 238000 6 11 1 62 138 1. Spatial Data Lab (2020). “China County Map with 2000-201o Population Census Data”. The demographic composition of Hefei reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. Retrieved 6 January 2024. (in Chinese) Compilation by LianXin website. Data from the Sixth National Population Census of the People’s Republic of China Archived 25 March 2012 at the Wayback Machine 3. The demographic composition of Hefei reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 国家统计局统计用区划代码 (in Chinese (China)). National Bureau of Statistics of the People’s Republic of China. Archived from the original on 5 April 2013. Retrieved 2 January 2018. 《中国民政统计年鉴2011》 *[Pop. ]: Population *[±%]: Percent change. The demographic composition of Hefei reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life.

The cultural landscape of Hefei represents a living repository of traditions, customs, and social practices that have evolved over centuries while maintaining essential characteristics that define community identity and provide continuity between generations.

Social organization in Hefei reflects sophisticated systems for maintaining community cohesion and mutual support that have enabled the population to preserve cultural traditions while adapting to changing economic and political circumstances.

Traditional arts and crafts in Hefei continue to flourish as expressions of cultural identity and sources of economic opportunity, providing visitors with authentic opportunities to observe skilled artisans practicing techniques transmitted through family and community networks.

Religious and spiritual practices in Hefei provide insights into the values and beliefs that guide community decision-making and social interaction while creating frameworks for cultural continuity and adaptation to contemporary circumstances.

Language use and cultural expression in Hefei demonstrate the dynamic relationship between tradition and innovation as communities maintain linguistic heritage while adapting to contemporary communication needs and educational opportunities.

Cultural festivals and community celebrations in Hefei provide opportunities for visitors to experience authentic traditional practices while participating in community life and supporting local cultural preservation efforts.

Economic Activities and Development Patterns

Economy Swan Lake CBD area As of 2021, the GDP of Hefei is CN¥1,141. The GDP per capita of the city is ¥121,187 (US$18,784), ranking within the top 20 of cities in China. As of 2023, the GDP of Hefei is CN¥1,267. #Investments and state-owned enterprises Hefei’s city government is highly engaged in business, both through state- owned enterprises and investment. : 128 This approach has helped drive economic growth and re-structure the cities economic base. : 128 In 2008, the local government spent US$3. 5 billion for a controlling ownership stake in BOE Technology (Jingdongfang). : 185 BOE Technology subsequently grew to be one of the world’s leading manufacturers of semiconductor products for telecommunications. : 185 It is also the world’s largest manufacturer of liquid crystal displays, organic light-emitting diodes, and flexible displays. : 128 As of at least 2024, BOE has three production lines in Hefei, and its presence has helped Hefei attract further business in the electronics supply chain and contributed to Hefei’s development as one of the main centers for the optoelectronic industry in China. : 121 In 2008, Hefei invested heavily in iFlytek, a voice-recognition technology firm spun off from USTC. : 128 The local government invested heavily in NIO in order to integrate it with Hefei Changan Automobile, a legacy enterprise from the Third Front construction. : 185 NIO was on the brink of bankruptcy in 2020 when Hefei obtained a 25% stake in the company in exchange for RMB 7 billion. : 101 NIO moved its headquarters to Hefei, where the government helped it obtain loans from local banks to expand its supply chains. : 101 As of 2022, NIO is China’s most successful electric vehicle manufacturer. : 184 #Analysis of growth Hefei has been identified by the Economist Intelligence Unit in the November 2010 Access China White Paper as a member of the CHAMPS (**C** hongqing, **H** efei, **A** nshan, **M** a’anshan, **P** ingdingshan and **S** henyang), an economic profile of the top 20 emerging cities in China. Hefei was identified by _The Economist_ in December 2012 as the world’s No. 1 fastest growing metropolitan economy. Hefei has supported the growth of the chip industry in the city and has become one of the biggest sites for the manufacture of memory chips (DRAM). National Bureau of Statistics of China 2. [_permanent dead link_] 3. ^ _**a**_ _**b**_ _**c**_ _**d**_ Cite error: The named reference `:02` was invoked but never defined (see the help page). ^ _**a**_ _**b**_ _**c**_ _**d**_ Cite error: The named reference `:92` was invoked but never defined (see the help page). ^ _**a**_ _**b**_ Lan, Xiaohuan (2024). _How China Works: An Introduction to China’s State-led Economic Development_. Translated by Topp, Gary. Palgrave Macmillan. 1007/978-981-97-0080-6. ISBN 978-981-97-0079-0. ^ _**a**_ _**b**_ Jin, Keyu (2023).

The economic structure of Hefei reflects a complex balance between traditional livelihoods and contemporary opportunities that enables the community to maintain economic stability while preserving cultural values and environmental sustainability.

Traditional economic activities in Hefei often center around sustainable resource management practices that have been refined over generations to maximize productivity while maintaining environmental balance and community welfare.

Local markets and commercial activities in Hefei serve as important centers of community life where economic transactions intersect with social interaction and cultural exchange, providing visitors with opportunities to observe traditional trading practices.

Agricultural production in Hefei demonstrates sophisticated adaptation to local environmental conditions while maintaining traditional crop varieties and farming techniques that support both food security and cultural continuity.

Service sector development in Hefei has evolved to accommodate external economic connections while maintaining authentic community character and traditional approaches to hospitality and customer service.

Economic development opportunities in Hefei focus on sustainable approaches that build upon existing community strengths while creating new opportunities for education, employment, and cultural preservation.

Transportation and Regional Connectivity

Transportation Hefei South Railway Station Hefei has been the provincial capital since 1945 (before it was Lihuang, which is today’s Jinzhai) and is a natural center of transportation, being situated to the north of Chao Lake and standing on a low saddle crossing the northeastern extension of the Dabie Mountains, which form the divide between the Huai and Yangtze rivers. From Hefei there is easy water transport via the lake to the Yangtze River opposite Wuhu. #Rail There are two main train stations in Hefei. The newest one is Hefei South railway station (Hefeinan station, 合肥火车南站) where most high-speed trains pass through. The alternative station is Hefei railway station (合肥火车站) which is smaller and older. There are some small stations such as Feidong Station (肥东火车站), Feixi Station (肥西火车站), Shuijiahu Station (水家湖火车站), Chaohu Station (巢湖火车站), Chaohu East railway station (Chaohudong station; 巢湖火车东站), Hefeibeicheng Station (Hefei Northtown Station 合肥北城火车站), Lujiang Station (庐江火车站) and so on. These stations are mostly located in small towns and connect commuters with the main city. #Air Hefei Xinqiao International Airport replaced the old Hefei Luogang International Airport and started its operation on 30 May 2013, 00:00. This new domestic aviation hub is located in Gaoliu Village situated in the northwestern part of Hefei City. The first arriving flight was China Eastern Airlines flight MU5172 from Beijing Capital International Airport. The first departing flight was China Eastern Airlines MU5468 to Shanghai Pudong International Airport. Hefei Xinqiao International Airport provides scheduled passenger service to major airports in China and other international cities. Destinations include Hong Kong, Macao, Singapore, Taipei (Taoyuan, Songshan), Kaohsiung, Taichung, Seoul, Cheongju, Yangyang, Jeju, Osaka, Nagoya, Shizuoka, Okayama, Boracay Island, Bali Island, Frankfurt, Siem Reap, Bangkok, Phuket Island and Krabi Island. #Subway Main article: Hefei Metro Entrance to Hefei South Railway South Square Station Hefei Metro is a rapid transit rail network under construction that will eventually serve both urban and rural areas of Hefei. As planned, Line 1 covers a total distance of 24 kilometres (15 miles) starting from Hefei Railway Station. It was inaugurated in December 2016. In February 2013, Metro Line 2 also began its construction. It is being built alongside the Changjiang Dong Road, Changjiang Zhong Road and Changjiang Xi Road, which is a major passenger corridor in the east–west direction. It will pass through the city center area and connect to a transit point where passengers will be able to take the shuttle bus to Hefei Xinqiao International Airport. The Line 2 was opened on 26 December 2017. In November 2015, Metro Line 3 construction began. Line 3 was opened on 26 December 2019. Line 3 connects the New Station Exploitative-experimental Zone and the Economic Technology Development District, from the vocat.

Transportation infrastructure serving Hefei reflects the balance between accessibility and preservation of community character that characterizes regional development throughout China. Road networks, public transportation options, and traditional travel methods create multiple approaches for reaching and exploring Hefei.

Regional connectivity from Hefei provides access to broader transportation networks while maintaining the authentic character that distinguishes this destination from more commercialized locations. Understanding transportation options helps visitors plan efficient and respectful approaches to exploration.

Planning Your Visit to Hefei

Successful visits to Hefei require preparation that extends beyond typical travel planning, as this destination rewards visitors who approach it with cultural sensitivity, environmental awareness, and genuine interest in learning from local communities and traditions.

The most meaningful experiences in Hefei often emerge from patient observation, respectful participation in community activities, and willingness to adapt expectations to local customs and environmental conditions rather than imposing external standards or expectations.

Practical considerations for visiting Hefei include understanding seasonal variations in weather and activity availability, respecting local customs and social protocols, and supporting community-based economic activities that contribute to cultural preservation and sustainable development.

The rewards of visiting Hefei extend far beyond the duration of your stay, as the insights gained from experiencing authentic traditional culture often influence perspectives and values long after returning home, providing new understanding of human potential and community cooperation.

---

Source: This article incorporates material from the Wikipedia article “Hefei”.