Complete Travel Guide to Wuhu, China

Wuhu Wuhu is a prefecture-level city in southeastern Anhui province, China. Sitting on the southeast bank of the Yangtze River, Wuhu borders Xuancheng to the southeast, Chizhou and Tongling to the southwest, Hefei City to the northwest, Ma’anshan city to the northeast, Jiangsu to the east, and is approximately 90 km (56 mi) southwest of Nanjing. With ongoing urbanization in the southern part of Nanjing, a conurbation is forming between Nanjing, Maanshan and Wuhu, comprising over 10.66 million inhabitants. Positioned at coordinates 31.33728°N, 118.37351°E, Wuhu occupies a geographically significant location that has influenced its historical development and contemporary importance. The precise geographic coordinates of Wuhu place it within a region characterized by diverse landscapes and strategic transportation routes that have shaped settlement patterns for centuries. At an elevation of 8.0 meters above sea level, Wuhu benefits from unique topographic advantages that influence local climate, agriculture, and scenic beauty. The elevation of Wuhu creates distinctive environmental conditions that support specific ecosystems and agricultural practices while providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Home to 3644420 residents, Wuhu maintains a community scale that balances urban amenities with traditional social structures and cultural continuity. The population of Wuhu represents a diverse community that has adapted to changing circumstances while preserving essential cultural traditions and local knowledge. Community life in Wuhu 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, Wuhu contributes to the cultural and economic diversity that defines China’s regional character. The role of Wuhu in regional development extends beyond its municipal boundaries, encompassing influences on transportation networks, economic activities, and cultural preservation efforts. Visitors to Wuhu 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 Wuhu

History A heritage building: the St James’ School (No 11 Middle School), Lion Hill, Wuhu Wuhu is known to have been inhabited since at least 570 BCE Present-day Wuhu evolved out of a settlement known as Jiuzi (Chinese: 鸠兹; pinyin: _Jiūzī_), located on the southern bank of the Shuiyang River, about 20 kilometres (12 mi) southeast of Wuhu’s contemporary urban core.

Jiuzi was a site of conflict prior to 670 BCE between the Chu and the Wu during the Spring and Autumn period In 473 BCE, the Yue took Jiuzi from the Wu In 306 BCE, the Chu took Jiuzi from the Yue During the time of the Qin dynasty, Jiuzi was placed under the jurisdiction of the Zhang Commandery (Chinese: 鄣郡; pinyin: _Zhāng Jùn_).

In 109 BCE, Zhang Commandery was renamed to Danyang Commandery [zh] During this time, the area of Juizi was reorganized as Wuhu County (simplified Chinese: 芜湖县; traditional Chinese: 蕪湖縣; pinyin: _Wúhú Xiàn_) In 223 CE, under the reign of Sun Quan of the Eastern Wu, the county seat was moved from the site of Jiuzi to the highlands along the north banks of the Qingyi River, to the southeast of contemporary Wuhu’s urban core.

Xuancheng Commandery [zh] was carved-out of Danyang Commandery in 281 CE, with the headquarters of Danyang Commandery moved to Nanjing The area of contemporary Wuhu remained under the jurisdiction of Danyang Commandery During the Eastern Jin period, the area saw an influx of people migrate to the area from the Central Plains.

The area was placed under the jurisdiction of Xuancheng Commandery in 363 CE, and the commandery’s headquarters were moved to the area During the late 4th Century, the area underwent a number of other administrative changes Part of the area would fall under the jurisdiction of Huainan Commandery [zh].

Both Xuancheng Commandery and Huainan Commandery were abolished early on during the Sui dynasty, in 589 CE In 627 CE, under the Tang dynasty, the area was re-organized as Xuan Prefecture (Chinese: 宣州; pinyin: _Xuān Zhōu_), and placed under the jurisdiction of Jiangnan Circuit.

In 733 CE, it became part of the newly created Jiangnanxi Circuit In 758 CE, it was transferred to be part of Sheng Prefecture [zh], in Jiangnandong Circuit [zh] Three years later, it would return to Xuan Prefecture in Jiangnanxi Circuit In 787 CE, Xuan Prefecture was transferred to Jiangnandong Circuit.

In 937 CE, upon the creation of the Southern Tang during the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period, Wuhu County was established, and placed under Jiangning Fu [zh] Since then, Wuhu went uninterrupted as an administrative unit throughout the remainder of dynastic China.

During the Song dynasty, Wuhu County belonged to Jiangnan Circuit, and later Jiangnandong Circuit In 1277, during the Yuan dynasty, Wuhu County was placed under the jurisdiction of Taiping Circuit [zh] In 1355, Taiping Circuit was replaced by Taiping Fu, and Wuhu County was placed under its jurisdiction.

Taiping Fu was under the jurisdiction of Zhongshu Shen.

The historical trajectory of Wuhu 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 Wuhu 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 Wuhu 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

The topographic characteristics of Wuhu 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 Wuhu 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 Wuhu 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 Wuhu 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 Wuhu demonstrates sophisticated adaptation strategies that maximize advantages while minimizing risks associated with natural hazards and environmental constraints.

Seasonal variations in the geographic character of Wuhu 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 Climate data for Wuhu, elevation 10 m (33 ft), (1991–2020 normals, extremes 1981–present) Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year Record high °C (°F) 21. 8) Mean daily maximum °C (°F) 7. 5) Daily mean °C (°F) 3. 7) Mean daily minimum °C (°F) 1. 6) Record low °C (°F) −7. 7) Average precipitation mm (inches) 65. Rainfall patterns in Wuhu determine water availability and agricultural productivity, shaping economic activities and settlement patterns. 42) Average precipitation days (≥ 0. Rainfall patterns in Wuhu determine water availability and agricultural productivity, shaping economic activities and settlement patterns. 1 Average snowy days 3. 2 Average relative humidity (%) 77 75 74 72 72 78 78 79 78 76 77 75 76 Mean monthly sunshine hours 106. 5 Percentage possible sunshine 33 35 37 42 42 35 46 47 41 45 43 40 41 Source: China Meteorological Administration 1. 中国气象数据网 – WeatherBk Data (in Simplified Chinese). China Meteorological Administration. Retrieved September 24, 2023. “Experience Template” 中国气象数据网 (in Simplified Chinese). China Meteorological Administration. Retrieved September 24, 2023.

The climatic regime of Wuhu 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 Wuhu 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 Wuhu 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 Wuhu 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 Wuhu 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 Wuhu 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

Demographics Historical populationYearPop. The demographic composition of Wuhu reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. ±% 1953 242,143— 1964 333,465+37. 7% 1982 456,219+36. 8% 1990 441,999−3. 1% 2000 641,259+45. 1% 2010 1,108,087+72. 8% 2020 1,598,165+44. 2% Source: Census in China #Population As of the 2020 Chinese census, Wuhu had a total population of 3,644,420 inhabitants, of whom 1,622,799 lived its built-up (or metro) area: Jiujiang District, Jinghu District and Yijiang District. The demographic composition of Wuhu reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 75% of Wuhu’s population is 14 years old or younger, 65. The demographic composition of Wuhu reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 60% is 15 to 59 years old, and 20. 65% is 60 years old or older. 89% of Wuhu’s population is 65 years or older. The demographic composition of Wuhu reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. The city is home to 47 recognized ethnic minorities, the largest of which are the Hui, Miao, and Zhuang. Other ethnic minorities with over 500 inhabitants in the city include the Yi, the Tujia, the Miao, the Zhuang, and the Manchu. [_citation needed_] #Language Wuhu dialect [zh], a variety of Jiang-Huai Mandarin, itself a branch of Mandarin Chinese, is commonly spoken in urban areas. Linguistic diversity in Wuhu demonstrates the region’s role as a crossroads of cultural interaction and historical influence. _Putonghua_ , or Standard Mandarin, was commonly used in this area. [_citation needed_][_clarification needed_] In some areas, Wu Chinese is spoken instead. Spatial Data Lab (2020). “China County Map with 2000-201o Population Census Data”. The demographic composition of Wuhu reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. Retrieved January 6, 2024. ^ _**a**_ _**b**_ 2022年芜湖市国民经济和社会发展统计公报 [2022 Wuhu Municipal Economic and Social Development Statistical Bulletin] (in Chinese). Wuhu Municipal Statistics Bureau. Archived from the original on July 9, 2023. Retrieved July 8, 2023. ^ _**a**_ _**b**_ _**c**_ 行政区划 [Administrative Divisions]. cn_ (in Chinese). Wuhu Municipal People’s Government. Archived from the original on June 12, 2023. Retrieved July 8, 2023. ]: Population *[±%]: Percent change. The demographic composition of Wuhu reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life.

Culture The acclaimed poet Li Bai spent his late life in Wuhu, it is said, due to its striking landscape. Li Bai was born in Suyab, an ancient Silk Road city in Central Asian, and raised in southwestern China. Xie Tiao, one of the most distinctive Six Dynasty poets whom he greatly admired, left many poems when holding positions here. During the Tang dynasty (619–907), the poet Du Mu wrote a famous poem _Thoughts on Staying Again at Wuhu_. A factory in Wuhu carries on the local craft of making wrought iron pictures. Other local handicrafts are embossed lacquerware and rice straw pith patchwork. A famous stone tablet in Wuhu recording local events of the Song dynasty period (ca. 1000 AD) is considered to be a masterpiece of the renowned calligrapher Mi Fu. #Folklore An itinerant blacksmith named Tang Tianchi is reputed to have invented the wrought-iron picture in Wuhu, when a painter whom he admired chided him, “You will never make pictures by beating iron. ” Another blacksmith of the Spring and Autumn period (770–476 BC) named Gan Jiang was famous for sword making. Zhe Shan (Reddish Brown Hill) is said to get its colour from the flames of Gan Jiang’s furnace. Shen Shan (Sacred Hill) is the legendary location of his sword grinding rock and tempering pool. #Cuisine Wuhu and Anking are noted centers of the Yanjiang cuisine. It specializes in freshwater fish and poultry, and features special techniques of chopping, shaping, and colouring. The flavour of Yanjiang dishes is often enhanced by sweetening and smoking. #Religion/Medicine The New York Methodist Mission Society’s Superintendent Virgil C. Hart arrived in Wuhu in 1881, intent on purchasing a piece of property to build the city’s first Methodist Church and Western-style hospital. Hart was able to secure the Yichisan Hill before the British, who wanted the property to build a consulate and naval base[_citation needed_]. The Yichisan Hospital is Anhui’s oldest/continuous western hospital. Hart’s eldest son) became the hospital’s Director in 1895 and continued at that capacity until his death in April 1913. Caroline Maddock arrived in Wuhu in October 1904, to serve as the General Hospital’s Head Nurse. Caroline Maddock married Dr. Edgerton Hart in October 1907. In 1909, Caroline and four other nurses founded the Nurses Association of China and she served as its first president; this association still represents China’s Nurse profession. “Man On A Mission” by Stanley Crawford 2. “About Yijishan Hospital”. _First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College_. Archived from the original on November 25, 2022. Retrieved May 14, 2022. Crawford Green, Cathleen; Crawford, Stanley; Maddock Hart, Caroline (May 1, 2014). _Wuhu Missionaries_. ISBN 9780991608232.

The cultural landscape of Wuhu 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 Wuhu 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 Wuhu 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 Wuhu 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 Wuhu 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 Wuhu 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 The city is the second largest economy in Anhui, after Hefei, the provincial capital. [_citation needed_] Like elsewhere in China, Wuhu was seen rapid economic growth in the 21st Century, with its GDP nearly doubling from 2014 to 2022 alone, and its GDP per capita nearly doubling from 2012 to 2019 alone. As of 2022, Wuhu has a gross domestic product (GDP) of 450. 213 billion renminbi (RMB). Per 2022 data, the city’s primary sector of the economy accounts for 17. 925 billion RMB of the city’s GDP (3. 98% of total GDP), the secondary sector accounts for 213. 558 billion RMB (47. 43%), and the tertiary sector accounts for 218. 730 billion RMB (48. As of 2019, Wuhu’s GDP per capita was 96,154 RMB. The city’s statistics bureau reported an annual per capita disposable income of 43,145 RMB in 2022 (+6. The city’s urban residents have a per capita disposable income of 51,481, while this stands at 29,518 among rural residents. In 2022, Wuhu exported 9. 468 billion United States dollars (USD) worth of goods and services, and imported 4. 142 billion USD worth of goods and services. Major industrial products in Wuhu include automobiles, HVAC units, plate glass, cement, steel, and copper. Wuhu Economic & Technological Development Area in the north of the city launched in 1993 is one of the first state-level economic and technological development area in Anhui province. [_citation needed_] It has the only export processing zone in the province. [_page needed_] Chery Automobile and Anhui Conch Cement Company are headquartered in this development area. Wuhu is the fifth largest port alongside Yangtze River. [_citation needed_] Yuxikou Pier is the largest inland river coal harbor in China. [_citation needed_] 1. ^ _**a**_ _**b**_ “GDP: Anhui: Wuhu”. Retrieved July 9, 2023. ^ _**a**_ _**b**_ “GDP: per Capita: Anhui: Wuhu”. Retrieved July 9, 2023. ^ _**a**_ _**b**_ _**c**_ _**d**_ _**e**_ _**f**_ Cite error: The named reference `:1` was invoked but never defined (see the help page). Archived from the original on September 4, 2011. Retrieved September 6, 2011. 联系我们 [Contact Us]. cn_ (in Chinese). Retrieved June 11, 2023. 公司资料 [Company Profile]. cn_ (in Chinese). Anhui Conch Cement. Retrieved June 11, 2023.

The economic structure of Wuhu 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 Wuhu 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 Wuhu 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 Wuhu 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 Wuhu has evolved to accommodate external economic connections while maintaining authentic community character and traditional approaches to hospitality and customer service.

Economic development opportunities in Wuhu 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 #Bus and taxi The city is served by Wuhu Bus (Chinese: 芜湖公交; pinyin: _Wúhú Gōngjiāo_), a municipal bus services and taxi services provider. Wuhu Bus runs 157 different routes, serviced by more than 1,300 vehicles. About 200,000 passengers use the service daily. #Airport The city is served by the Wuhu Xuanzhou Airport which opened on April 30, 2021. #Bridge the Wuhu Yangtze River Bridge Wuhu has one Yangtze River crossing—the Wuhu Yangtze River Bridge, opened in 2000, carries the G5011 Wuhu–Hefei Expressway and Huainan Railway. [_citation needed_] #Train Wuhu is served by the Anhui–Jiangxi, Nanjing–Tongling and Huainan Railways. [_citation needed_] It only takes 2. 5 hours from Shanghai to Wuhu by high-speed train. [_citation needed_] #Monorail system Main article: Wuhu Rail Transit Wuhu Rail Transit consists of two lines (Lines 1 and 2) which opened on November 3 and December 28, 2021. ^ _**a**_ _**b**_ _**c**_ 关于我们 [About Us]. com_ (in Chinese). Archived from the original on July 9, 2023. Retrieved July 8, 2023. “Wuhu driverless monorail line opens”. PEOPLEMOVERS & MONORAILS. November 4, 2021. Retrieved January 10, 2022. “The first phase of Wuhu Rail Transit Line 2 opened for operation”. December 30, 2021. Retrieved January 10, 2022.

Transportation infrastructure serving Wuhu 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 Wuhu.

Regional connectivity from Wuhu 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.

Educational Institutions and Learning Opportunities

Education Universities and Colleges * Anhui Normal University * Anhui Polytechnic University * Wannan Medical College * Wuhu Radio and TV University (芜湖广播电视大学) * Wuhu Institute of Technology (芜湖职业技术学院) * Anhui Business College of Vocational Technology (安徽商贸职业技术学院) * Anhui Technical College of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering (安徽机电职业技术学院) * Anhui college of Chinese traditional medicine (安徽中医药高等专科学校) * Anhui vocational college of information technology (芜湖信息职业学院) High Schools * Wuhu City No. 1 High School (芜湖市第一中学) * High School Affiliated to Anhui Normal University (安徽师范大学附属中学) * Wuhu County No. 1 High School (芜湖县第一中学) * Wuhu City No. 12 High School (芜湖市第十二中学) * Fanchang County No. 1 High School (繁昌县第一中学)

Educational institutions in Wuhu serve as important centers of learning and cultural preservation that contribute to community development while maintaining connections to traditional knowledge systems and contemporary educational standards.

Visitor Attractions and Cultural Experiences

Heritage and Tourism Several sites in Wuhu have been included on the China’s List of Major National Historical and Cultural Sites. They include the Barren Hill Temple (Guangji Temple 广济寺), a Buddhist temple originally dating back to the Tang dynasty that contains The Barren Hill Pagoda (Zhe Pagoda), an edifice from the Northern Song dynasty. The Barren Hill Pagoda in Barren Hill Temple (Guangji Temple), dating to the Northern Song dynasty Other listed monuments date back to the 19th and 20th century, when Wuhu was a former treaty port. These include the St. Joseph Cathedral and St. Aloysius Technical School, school (Yuhong), the British Consulate Office (Fanluoshan) and Residence (Yugengshan), the Wuhu Bund including the Wuhu Customs House(Yangtze Riverside Park) (滨江公园), Advent Church and houses, the Methodist residence houses and Wuhu Girls’ School in Qingshan, the Advent Church and Disciples of Christ’s Wuhu Union Academy, the Asiatic Petroleum Company house (Tieshan Hotel), the Wuhu Foreign Cemetery (Zheshan-Tieshan) and other sites dating back to Wuhu’s treaty port era. Other touristic sites in Wuhu: * Zhongshan Road (Damalu) * Changjie * Erjie * Mirror Lake (镜湖) (Taotang) * Jiuzi Plaza (鸠兹广场) * Zheshan (Barren Hill) (Wuhu Park) * Fantawild Adventure, one of the largest theme parks in the Chinese Mainland (方特乐园-四座) * Longwo Lake (龙窝湖) * Maren Qifeng Scenic Area (马仁奇峰风景区) * Macrolink Beluga Ocean Park (新华联大白鲸海洋公园) * Wuhu Olympic Stadium (奥林匹克体育馆) * Yangtze River Bridge Crossing (长江大桥)

Tourism opportunities in Wuhu emphasize authentic cultural experiences and meaningful interaction with local communities rather than commercialized attractions, providing visitors with genuine insights into traditional ways of life.

Planning Your Visit to Wuhu

Successful visits to Wuhu 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 Wuhu 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 Wuhu 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 Wuhu 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 “Wuhu”.