Huainan

Huainan is an understated small city full of everyday warmth, great food, history, and culture. Two days and one night is just enough to cover the classics. Here is a detailed itinerary and food guide for you, so you can simply follow along.

Two-Day, One-Night Itinerary

• Day 1 Urban Culture and Local Life: In the morning, visit the Huainan Museum to see relics of Chu culture. In the afternoon, take a walk in Longhu Park and get a feel for local life. Around dusk, take the 1-yuan ferry at Huaishang Ferry Crossing to catch the sunset. In the evening, explore Qianfeng Food Street or Jinyuan Fashion Street for night-market snacks.
• Day 2 In-Depth Tour of Shouxian Ancient City: In the morning, head to Shouxian and visit the Chu Culture Museum. In the afternoon, stroll along the Shouxian ancient city wall and through its old streets and lanes. In the evening, enjoy a specialty tofu banquet, then return.

Must-Visit Attractions

Must-Eat Food List

You absolutely come to Huainan for the food! Local breakfast shops are more authentic than the scenic areas, and you can eat your fill for about 15-30 yuan per person.

Transportation and Accommodation Tips

• Transportation: For high-speed rail, Huainan South Station is recommended because it is relatively close to the urban area. Huainan Station is right in the city center. There is no metro in the city, so taxis or buses are recommended. Most urban attractions can be reached in about 20 minutes. To get to Shouxian, you can drive or take a coach.
• Accommodation: It is recommended to stay near the commercial district or around Huainan Station. Both are convenient for getting around, with plenty of food nearby. Prices are around 150-300 yuan per night.

Pitfalls and Things to Note

• Opening Hours: Many authentic beef soup shops close as early as 9 a.m. If you want the first batch of soup, get up early. Snack streets usually open only after 4 p.m., so do not go too early and find everything closed.
• Be Careful with Wild Scenic Spots: Huainan Tianmu Lake, also known as “Little Maldives,” is an undeveloped mining-pit lake. The roads are steep, the water is deep and contains heavy metals, and entering the water is strictly forbidden. It is only suitable for viewing from a distance, so pay attention to safety.
• Parking Tip: Motor vehicles are not allowed inside Shouxian Ancient City from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., with stricter enforcement during holidays. It is recommended to park in a nearby parking lot and enter on foot.