About Huainan
Huainan calls itself the birthplace of tofu, and the claim says a lot about this city on the south bank of the Huai River in northern Anhui. Local tradition credits the invention to Liu An, the Western Han Prince of Huainan, whose court of scholars compiled the philosophical classic known as the Huainanzi. In modern times the city grew up around coal mining, and its districts still stretch out along the river and the hills.
The main draw for visitors is history. Bagong Mountain, with its legends of eight immortal scholars, overlooks the old battlefield of the Fei River, and Liu An's tomb lies at its foot. Nearby Shou County keeps a complete walled town, once the last capital of the Chu state, and the ancient Anfeng Pond reservoir still waters the fields after some 2,600 years.
Closer to the centre, Shungeng Mountain offers city views and the Huainan Museum displays regional finds, while Jiaogang Lake is a broad wetland for boat trips and birdwatching. Do not leave without a bowl of Huainan beef soup and a tofu feast.
Best seasonSpring and autumn, when the hills and lakes are pleasant for walking.
Ideal stayTwo days: one for Bagong Mountain and Shou County, one for the city and Jiaogang Lake.
ArrivingHigh-speed trains stop at Huainan South Station; Hefei Xinqiao International Airport is the nearest major airport.
