Hefei: Top Attractions and Fair events in 2025

Hefei in Anhui Province is a metropolis that blends ancient history with modern innovation. As the political, economic, and cultural center of Anhui, this dynamic city offers visitors a unique experience away from the more crowded tourist hubs of China.

In this guide, we’ll introduce you to Hefei’s fascinating background, walk you through its top attractions and popular landmarks, provide essential travel tips, and finish with a friendly list of important expos you won’t want to miss.

1. A Brief Introduction to Hefei

Hefei is the capital of Anhui Province, located strategically between the mighty Yangtze and Huaihe rivers. The city is surrounded by notable neighbors—Huainan to the north, Wuhu to the southeast, and Tongling to the south—making it a natural hub for regional communications and commerce. According to the 2020 census, Hefei is home to nearly 9.4 million people, with its rapidly growing urban area showcasing a blend of traditional charm and modern development.

Historically, Hefei dates back to the Song dynasty and served as an important administrative and military center for centuries. Its rich history is interwoven with legendary figures such as Bao Zheng (Lord Bao), whose legacy is still celebrated in local heritage sites today.

2. Top Attractions and Must-See Landmarks

Bao Zheng’s Ancestral House & Cemetery

Bao Zheng’s Ancestral House & Cemetery in Hefei honors Bao Zheng (999–1062), a revered Song Dynasty official known for his integrity and justice. The ancestral house features traditional architecture, historical artifacts, and calligraphy reflecting his legacy. The cemetery, surrounded by stone tablets and greenery, serves as his final resting place. This site offers a direct glimpse into the life and impact of one of China’s most respected historical figures.

Anhui Museum

Anhui Museum in Hefei offers a comprehensive look into the province’s rich history and culture. Established on November 14, 1956, the museum operates across two sites: the original Soviet-style building at No. 268 Anqing Road, and the newer Huizhou-style architecture at No. 87 Huaining Road, near Swan Lake. Visitors can explore diverse exhibits, including ancient bronze ware, Han Dynasty stone reliefs, Ming and Qing Dynasty calligraphy and paintings, and Huizhou carvings. The museum also houses nearly 220,000 cultural relics, such as Pan Yuliang’s artworks. Admission is free, with operating hours from Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM). The museum is closed on Mondays, except during legal holidays.

Parks and Public Spaces

Xiaoyaojin Park

Located in central Hefei, Xiaoyaojin Park is a historic urban park known for its scenic lake, traditional architecture, and recreational facilities. The park offers boat rides on the lake, amusement rides for children, and seasonal botanical exhibitions. The best time to visit is from April to October, when the weather is pleasant and the flora is in full bloom. The park is situated right behind HuaiHe Lu BuXingJie pedestrian road, making it easily accessible for visitors.

Hefei Swan Lake Park

Located in Hefei’s Shushan District, Swan Lake Park is a public space centered around a man-made lake, featuring walking paths, a beach area, and city skyline views. The park is open year-round, 24/7, with free entry. Visitors can enjoy walking trails, a man-made beach, and various sculptures. The best times to visit are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) for mild weather and vibrant scenery.

Hefei Botanical Garden

Located at 123 Huanhu East Road in Hefei’s Shushan District, the Hefei Botanical Garden spans approximately 108 hectares and features over 3,000 plant species across 15 themed sections, including the Plum, Bamboo, and Osmanthus Gardens. The garden offers a peaceful retreat from urban life. The best time to visit is from April to May, during peak bloom. The garden operates daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM between June 1 and October 7, and from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM between October 8 and May 31. Admission is 20 RMB. For nature enthusiasts, the Hefei Botanical Garden provides a serene and enriching experience.

Science and Technology Hub

The Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak (EAST), an experimental fusion reactor operated by the Hefei Institutes of Physical Science under the Chinese Academy of Sciences. EAST aims to conduct fundamental research on advanced tokamak fusion reactors, focusing on achieving steady, safe, and high-performance operations. On January 20, 2025, EAST set a world record by maintaining a high-confinement plasma for 1,066 seconds, marking a significant milestone in fusion energy research.

3. Hotels

• InterContinental Hefei is located adjacent to Swan Lake and the Hefei Theater, featuring 405 contemporary guest rooms and suites with impressive lake views.
• Hilton Hefei provides comprehensive amenities, including multiple indoor pools and a full-service spa, ensuring a relaxing stay.
• Crowne Plaza Hefei offers upscale accommodations and excellent facilities, catering to both business and leisure travelers.
• The Langham, Hefei combines refined luxury with timeless elegance, complemented by their legendary hospitality.

4. What to Prepare When Visiting Hefei

A successful trip to Hefei starts with the right preparation. Here are some essential tips:

• Clothing and Weather:
  Hefei experiences a humid subtropical climate with distinct seasons. Pack comfortable walking shoes and layers—you may need a light jacket in the spring and fall, and breathable clothing for the warmer summer months. An umbrella or rain jacket is also advisable during the rainy season.
• Travel Essentials:
  Bring a universal travel adapter and a portable charger to keep your devices powered while exploring. A reusable water bottle is handy for staying hydrated during long days of sightseeing.
• Local Currency and SIM Card:
  Ensure you have some Chinese Yuan (RMB) on hand for small purchases. Consider purchasing a local SIM card for reliable mobile data and to make use of navigation apps like Google Maps or Baidu Maps.
• Language Tools:
  While many signs and tourist information are available in English, learning a few basic Mandarin phrases or having a translation app ready can enhance your experience and help you connect with locals.
• Travel Insurance:
  As with any international travel, having travel insurance is a smart precaution to cover unforeseen events during your journey.

5. Important Expos in Hefei: A Friendly Guide

Hefei isn’t just about history and parks—it also hosts a range of important expos and trade events that reflect its status as a modern economic hub. Here are some key expos to keep an eye out for:

Hefei International Machine Tool Expo 2025

Hefei International Machine Tool Expo 2025 is scheduled from March 13 to 16, 2025, at the Hefei Binhu International Convention and Exhibition Center. Spanning an exhibition area of 40,000 square meters, the event will showcase the latest advancements in metal cutting, CNC machine tools, laser sheet metal processing, metal forming, machine tool accessories, mold processing, and intelligent manufacturing solutions.

Hefei International Rural Development Innovation Expo 2025

Hefei International Rural Development Innovation Expo 2025 will be held from March 27 to March 29, 2025, at the Hefei Binhu International Convention and Exhibition Center. The event will cover sectors such as digital villages, smart agriculture and farming, agricultural product processing, rural infrastructure, cultural tourism, renewable energy, environmental governance, and resource recycling. Spanning an exhibition area of 40,000 square meters, the expo will feature over 500 exhibitors and is expected to attract more than 30,000 attendees..

Hefei Equipment Manufacturing Expo 2025

Hefei Equipment Manufacturing Expo 2025 (CCEME) is scheduled from May 23 to May 25, 2025, at the Hefei Binhu International Convention and Exhibition Center. The expo focuses on various themes, including CNC machine tools, laser processing equipment, industrial automation, robotics, industrial internet, logistics technology, intelligent warehousing, smart and new energy vehicle technology, welding automation, industrial energy conservation, environmental protection equipment, hardware tools, and electromechanical products.

World Radar Expo 2025

The 11th World Radar Expo 2025 will be held from May 17 to 19 at the Hefei Binhu International Convention and Exhibition Center in Hefei. Spanning 60,000 square meters Showcasing the latest advancements in radar technology.

China Modern Fisheries and Fisheries Technology Expo 2025

China Modern Fisheries and Fisheries Technology Expo will take place from November 21 to 22, 2025, at the Hefei Binhu International Convention and Exhibition Center. Spanning 20,000 square meters, it will feature over 300 exhibitors showcasing cutting-edge aquaculture systems, intelligent fisheries equipment, biotechnology, marine resource conservation, and water quality management solutions.

Tip for Expo Visitors:
Plan your visit by checking event schedules in advance, and consider booking tickets online to avoid long queues. Many expos offer guided tours and interactive sessions, so be sure to participate and get the most out of your experience!