Experience the best of Hefei

Hefei has grown rapidly in recent decades into a large city of research and new industry. The University of Science and Technology of China has its main campus here, and the Anhui Provincial Museum holds collections on the province's history and art. Bao Zheng, the Song dynasty magistrate remembered in popular tales as an incorruptible judge, was born in the area, and a park and memorial hall recall him.

Lake Chaohu, one of China's largest freshwater lakes, lies to the south-east of the city, with fishing villages along its shores. Mount Huangshan, with granite peaks and old pines, is a few hours' drive further south.

Anhui cooking is one of the traditional eight great cuisines of China, with braised dishes, river fish, bamboo shoots and wild herbs. Summers are hot and humid, with a rainy plum season in June and July, and winters are cold. Spring and autumn are the most pleasant times to visit.