Nestled within the verdant landscapes of Anhui Province, Lu’an City, also known as “Gaocheng” and “Western Anhui”, is a prefecture-level city with a rich historical and cultural heritage. Its name, originating from the Han Emperor Wu, was derived from the first characters of counties such as Liu, Anfeng, and Anfeng within the former Hengshan Kingdom, symbolizing the aspiration for perpetual peace and loyalty. The city’s association with Gaocheng dates back to the ancient times when Shun bestowed the title to Gaotao, thus earning Lu’an the moniker of Gaocheng.
As a revolutionary old area, Lu’an is renowned as the cradle of the Red Army and the hometown of generals. Its natural and humanistic environments are reflected in its unique geographical features, embracing the Yangtze River and Huai River, its strategic location bridging the east and west, and its scenic beauty encircled by the majestic mountains of Ying and Huo. The city administers three districts and four counties, offering a diverse tapestry of landscapes and cultures.
The tourist attractions in Lu’an City are abundant, boasting numerous natural and cultural landscapes such as Tiantangzhai and Wanfo Lake. A recommended two-day itinerary would commence with a visit to Wanfo Lake Scenic Area in the morning, where one can admire the scenic beauty of numerous islands dotting the lake. This locale serves as an important cradle for experiencing Chinese dragon culture, Zhou Yu culture, tea culture, and wine culture. After a local specialty lunch, the afternoon would be dedicated to exploring West Anhui Grand Rift Valley, a scenic spot that integrates canyon landforms and cave landscapes. Stretching approximately 1,500 meters, the rift valley boasts steep slopes and depths of tens of meters, inviting exploration of sites like Yixiantian, Dawangjing, and Xiongqi Yan.
The second day would commence with a visit to Tiantangzhai Scenic Area, a national 5A-level tourist attraction located on one of the main peaks of the Dabie Mountains. Here, one can ascend to the summit and gaze out at the breathtaking panoramas of mountains and rivers. Following a lunch at a nearby restaurant, the journey would come to a conclusion with a return trip.
Lu’an City, a testament to the intersection of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, offers an immersive experience for travelers seeking to explore the essence of Anhui Province.
