Fuyang Travel Guide
Introduction
Fuyang, a millennium-old city nestled in northern Anhui Province, blends the vastness of the Huanghuai Plain with the profound heritage of Chu-Han culture.
From the azure waters of Yingzhou West Lake to the lantern-lit charm of Guanzhong Old Street, from the steaming aroma of gelatiao noodles to the artistry of paper-cutting, this city holds countless surprises waiting to be uncovered.
Whether you’re a history buff, a food explorer, or a seeker of tranquility, Fuyang offers unexpected delights.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with Fuyang
Fuyang’s magic lies in its details. Morning mists drift over the Ying River as fishermen glide past in boats. Afternoons in old teahouses unfold with a pot of tea and a plate of crispy sazi snacks, where time seems to slow. Far from the clamor of big cities, Fuyang pulses with authentic local vibes. Walking on slate-paved paths, you’ll witness history conversing with modernity—the reflection of ancient bridges, newly built trails, and street-side artisan stalls weaving a vivid tapestry of life.
6 Reasons to Visit Fuyang
- Millennium Heritage: Birthplace of statesman Guan Zhong, where Ouyang Xiu penned “The West Lake in Light Boats is Charming.”
- Natural Wonders: Yingzhou West Lake’s seasonal beauty and Bahli River Scenic Area, named a “Global Top 500 Eco-Destination” by UNESCO.
- Living Traditions: Fuyang paper-cutting, Jieshou colored pottery, and Yingshang flower-drum lantern dancing—intangible cultural treasures.
- Food Paradise: From gelatiao noodles to pillow-sized buns, from satang soup to fenji chicken—a carb-lover’s dream.
- Easy Access: High-speed rail connects Hefei (1 hour) and Zhengzhou (2 hours); airport links major cities.
- Budget-Friendly: More affordable than neighboring hotspots, with purer experiences.
Things to Do in Fuyang
- Morning at Yingzhou West Lake: Cruise in a painted boat amidst lotus blooms, retracing Ouyang Xiu’s “West Lake charm.”
- Night in Guanzhong Old Street: Wear Hanfu for photos, savor roasted pear desserts, and watch sugar paintings made.
- Craft Workshops: Try paper-cutting or mold Jieshou pottery clay.
- Cycling Bahli River: Glass walkways offer wetland views where egrets and ducks roam.
- Farm Experiences: Pick strawberries at eco-farms or learn traditional tofu-making.
Where to Eat in Fuyang
| Dish Name | Recommended Venue | Special Features |
|---|---|---|
| Gelatiao | Lao Hu Gelatiao | Thick wheat noodles in sesame paste, topped with bean sprouts |
| Pillow Bun | Yingshang Wang’s Bun Shop | Palm-sized, stays fresh for months |
| Satang Soup | Fuyang Hotel Breakfast | Chicken broth with egg flower, served with fried dough sticks |
| Fenji Chicken | Yingquan Ma’s Fenji | Chicken coated in sweet potato starch, tender and smooth |
| Taihe Noodles | Anhui Noodle King | Wide noodles in spicy broth, with braised eggs and bean curd |
Pro Tip: Don’t miss “youcha” (sesame soup) with “shuilaomo” (steam-baked pancake)—a local breakfast staple!
Best Time to Visit Fuyang
- Mar-May: Peach blossoms at Yingzhou West Lake; tulip festivals at Bahli River.
- Sep-Nov: Crisp autumn air for cycling; red leaves at Yingshang Digou Eco-Park.
- Dec-Feb: Winter calm with Lantern Festival vibes at Guanzhong Old Street; paper-cutting markets.
- Avoid: Jul-Aug (humid), though swimming in Ying River and night market barbecues offer unique fun.
Getting to Fuyang
- High-Speed Rail: Fuyang West Station (Beijing-Hong Kong line), 1 hour to Hefei, 2 hours to Zhengzhou.
- Air: Fuyang Airport (flights by JU/MU/CZ), direct to Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou.
- Driving: 2.5 hours from Hefei, 3 hours from Zhengzhou, 4 hours from Nanjing.
- Local Transport: Buses cover major attractions; taxis start at 6 CNY; shared e-bikes everywhere.
Where to Stay in Fuyang
- Downtown: Yingzhou District, near Wanda Plaza—ideal for shoppers.
- West Lake Area: Guesthouses with lake views.
- Old Town Vibe: Inns within Guanzhong Old Street (Yingshang County) for easy night strolls.
- Luxury: Resort hotels at Bahli River Scenic Area with hot springs.
Popular Areas to Stay
- Yingzhou Wanda Area: Modern hotels for business travelers.
- Yingshang County: “Shencheng Inn” offers antique-style rooms steps from Guanzhong Old Street.
- Bahli River Town: Lake-view rooms with morning bird songs.
- Jieshou City: “Colored Pottery Theme Hotel” with handicrafts displayed in rooms.
Getting Around Fuyang
- 1-Day Classic: Morning Yingzhou West Lake → Gelatiao lunch → Afternoon Bahli River → Evening Guanzhong Old Street.
- 2-Day Deep Dive: Day 1: Fuyang Museum → Yingshang Digou Bamboo Temple → Overnight in Old Street. Day 2: Jieshou Pottery Museum → Taihe Shaying River Wetland → Return.
- Transport Tips: 2 CNY all-day bus pass; taxis cost ~12 CNY for 5km; shared e-bikes at 1.5 CNY/15 mins.
Cost of Living in Fuyang
- Dining: Breakfast 5-10 CNY; meals 30-50 CNY/person; gelatiao bowl 8 CNY.
- Accommodation: Budget hotels 100-200 CNY/night; guesthouses 150-300 CNY; luxury resorts 400+ CNY.
- Transport: 2 CNY/bus ride; taxis ~12 CNY for short trips; e-bikes affordable for sightseeing.
- Attractions: Free entry to Yingzhou West Lake; Bahli River 50 CNY; Digou Bamboo Temple 30 CNY (discounted combo tickets available).
Conclusion
Fuyang’s beauty lies in its unhurried grace—a city that doesn’t chase trends but thrives in authenticity. Here, you won’t find staged “Instagram spots,” but the warmest local vibes: evening breezes along the Ying River, the calls of street vendors, and the poetry of a millennium-old culture. Pack this guide and embark on a journey where Fuyang’s timeless charm awaits to embrace you.