Anqing

Anqing is a seriously underrated little gem in Anhui. It has the grandeur of the Yangtze River, the lyrical charm of Huangmei Opera, and a deep historical heritage, making it perfect for a slow-paced city walk. Here is a 3-day, 2-night travel guide for you to follow directly!

Three-Day, Two-Night Itinerary

• Day 1: Old-City Everyday Life and Yangtze River Charm

Arrive in Anqing in the morning and head to Anqing Museum (advance reservation required) to learn about the city’s history. In the afternoon, stroll along Daobashi Pedestrian Street and Guohuo Street, check in at century-old shops, and visit Qianyan Houji Bookstore for vintage-style photos. At dusk, go to No. 9 Pier and take the ferry across the river (4 yuan one way) to experience local riverside life. In the evening, watch the twilight at Yingjiang Temple and climb Zhenfeng Pagoda for a night view over the Yangtze River.

• Day 2: Cultural Traces and Neighborhood Wandering

Start the morning with a bowl of Jiangmao Dumplings, then visit the Former Residence of Zhao Puchu (Shitai Shidi). In the afternoon, head to Dananmen Cultural Block, try the juicy beef pan-fried buns, and stop by the Reading Place of Chen Yannian and Chen Qiaonian. At dusk, take a walk in Linghu Park. In the evening, watch an authentic Huangmei Opera performance at Zaifen Huangmei Opera Mansion and immerse yourself in the charm of this hometown of opera.

• Day 3: Climb Mount Tianzhu or Escape the Heat Nearby

Option A (hiking): Get up early and head to Mount Tianzhu. Take the cable car for an easy hike, admire the strange peaks, rock formations, and sea of clouds, then return in the afternoon. Option B (summer retreat): Drive to Niucao Mountain in Yuexi, see the vast windmill meadows, chase a spectacular sunset at dusk, and have farmhouse-style local dishes in Yuexi County in the evening.

Must-Visit Attractions

Anqing’s attractions are mainly concentrated in the urban area and the surrounding mountains. The city is ideal for relaxed strolling and food hunting, while the mountains are best for natural scenery.

Must-Eat Food List

Anqing’s food combines the hearty, homestyle richness of Anhui cuisine with the fresh, lively flavors of a riverside city. Its carbs and snacks are absolutely not to be missed.

Practical Transport and Pitfall-Avoidance Tips

• Transport Tips: Attractions in downtown Anqing are very concentrated, so walking plus taxis is the main approach. Taxi starting fares are cheap and save time. If you are going to Mount Tianzhu, you can take a high-speed train from Anqing Station to Qianshan Station, then share a ride or take a bus to the scenic area.
• Where to Stay: It is recommended to stay near Renmin Road Pedestrian Street or Daobashi Street, where the core attractions are within walking distance and it is convenient for eating and exploring. If you are going to Mount Tianzhu, consider staying at a hotel near the visitor center.
• Pitfall Reminders: The Mount Tianzhu cable car is usually closed for maintenance on Mondays, so be sure to check in advance. Do not easily trust cheap guides soliciting customers by the roadside in the city. When buying specialties such as Huyumei broad bean paste, stick to supermarket counters. Be especially careful when climbing Zhenfeng Pagoda, as the handrails on the outside of the pagoda are relatively low.