Anhui

Anhui is a province of the People’s Republic of China located in eastern China. Its capital is Hefei. It borders Jiangsu to the east, Zhejiang to the southeast, Jiangxi to the south, Hubei to the west, and Henan to the northwest. The Yangtze and Huai rivers run through the province, which contains both plains and mountains.

Geography and climate: The southern part includes the Huangshan mountains and the Dabie Mountains, while the north features fertile plains. The climate is humid subtropical with four distinct seasons and ample rainfall, supporting diverse agriculture and ecosystems.

History and culture: Anhui is associated with the historic Huizhou culture, known for merchant heritage, distinctive architecture, and porcelain. The southern villages of Hongcun and Xidi are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Anhui cuisine, or Hui cuisine, emphasizes slow braising and local ingredients such as mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and ham.

Economy and education: Anhui has a developing economy with agriculture (rice, wheat, tobacco, tea), manufacturing, and energy sectors. Hefei is a major center for education and research, hosting institutions such as the University of Science and Technology of China and numerous research facilities. The province is expanding high-tech industry and logistics infrastructure.

Tourism and notable sites: In addition to Huangshan, notable attractions include the ancient villages of Hongcun and Xidi, scenic areas along the Yangtze and Huai rivers, and various mountain and nature reserves. Anhui’s cultural heritage and landscapes attract visitors and influence regional arts and cuisine.