Anhui Province: A Land of Rich Culture and Beautiful Scenery
Nestled in the heart of Eastern China, Anhui Province is a region rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. With a population of over 63 million people, Anhui is one of the most populous provinces in China. Its capital and largest city is Hefei, a vibrant metropolis with a population of over 8 million people.
| Anhui Fact Sheet | |
| Anhui Population | 63.2 million |
| Anhui Area Size | 139,600 km² |
| Ethnic Diversity | Han (99.4%), Hui, She, Miao, and others |
| Anhui Major Cities | Hefei, Wuhu, Bengbu, Huainan, Anqing, and Ma’anshan |
| Anhui Major Airports | Hefei Xinqiao International Airport, Huangshan Tunxi International Airport |
| Anhui is Famous For | Huangshan (Yellow Mountain), Hongcun Ancient Village, Huizhou Architecture, Maojian Tea |
History of Anhui Province
Anhui has a long and storied history that stretches back over 2,000 years. The region was first inhabited by the Baiyue people, who were conquered by the Han Dynasty in the second century BCE. During the Tang Dynasty, Anhui was known as Yangzhou, and it was a center of art, literature, and scholarship. Anhui was also an important military base during the Ming Dynasty, and many of the province’s famous mountains and temples were built during this period.
Anhui played a major role in the Taiping Rebellion, a civil war that lasted from 1850 to 1864. The rebellion was led by Hong Xiuquan, a self-proclaimed messiah who claimed to be the younger brother of Jesus Christ. The Taiping Rebellion was one of the bloodiest conflicts in human history, with estimates of the death toll ranging from 20 to 70 million people.
Anhui Cuisine: A Culinary Delight
Anhui cuisine is one of China’s eight great culinary traditions and is known for its bold, rich flavors and use of local ingredients. The cuisine of Anhui Province is heavily influenced by the region’s climate, geography, and cultural history. One of the most famous dishes in Anhui cuisine is “stewed soft shell turtle with ham,” a savory and flavorful dish that is often served at banquets and special occasions. Other popular dishes include “smoked mandarin fish,” “braised pork belly with preserved vegetables,” and “pigeon stewed with chestnuts.”
Anhui cuisine also includes a variety of unique snacks and street food, such as “Anhui beef soup,” “stinky tofu,” and “pork liver dumplings.” Visitors to Anhui Province should not miss the opportunity to try these delicious and distinctive local specialties.
Living in Anhui
Today, Anhui is a bustling province that is home to a diverse range of people and cultures. The province is known for its beautiful scenery, including the Huangshan Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is considered one of the most beautiful mountains in China. Anhui is also home to the Huizhou architecture, a unique style of traditional Chinese architecture that is characterized by its elegant simplicity and use of local materials.
The people of Anhui are known for their warm hospitality and friendly demeanor. Visitors to the province are often struck by the kindness and generosity of the locals, who go out of their way to make visitors feel welcome. The cuisine of Anhui is also famous throughout China, with its emphasis on fresh ingredients and bold flavors.
Anhui For Foreigners
For foreigners living in Anhui Province, life can be both challenging and rewarding. While Anhui is not as internationally oriented as some of China’s larger cities, such as Beijing or Shanghai, there are still many opportunities for foreigners to immerse themselves in Chinese culture and make lasting connections with local people.
Foreigners in Anhui can expect to encounter some cultural differences. These include a more hierarchical social structure and a greater emphasis on family values. However, these differences can also be a source of fascination and enrichment, as foreigners learn to navigate the complex and multifaceted culture of Anhui Province.
Hefei: The Vibrant Capital of Anhui Province
Most foreigners will choose to live in Hefei, the capital city of Anhui Province and a vibrant metropolis. You will find a city has a population of over 8 million people and is known for its modern infrastructure and bustling shopping districts.
One of the most popular attractions in Hefei is the Anhui Museum. This state-of-the-art facility showcases the province’s rich history and cultural heritage. Other notable attractions in Hefei include the Xiaoyaojin Park, a beautiful green space that is perfect for picnics and outdoor recreation. The Baohe Temple, a historic Buddhist temple that dates back to the Tang Dynasty, is another popularspot.
Hefei is also home to many excellent restaurants, shopping centers, and nightlife venues. The city’s central business district is a hub of activity, with high-end hotels, luxury shopping malls, and international restaurants.
For foreigners living in Hefei, the city offers many opportunities for cultural exchange and personal growth. With its welcoming local people and dynamic economy, Hefei is an exciting and rewarding place to call home.
