Huaibei

Understand

History

Huaibei's history dates back to ancient times, making it one of the important regions for the southward expansion of Central Plains civilization in China. Humans inhabited the area thousands of years ago, and its strategic location along transportation routes gradually led to the formation of villages and markets. During the Sui and Tang dynasties, the Grand Canal passed through the surrounding area, bringing trade and cultural exchange. Although modern Huaibei is a relatively young city, its rapid development stemmed from coal mining that began in the mid-20th century, transforming it from a rural area into a vital energy base in northern Anhui in a short period. As coal resources gradually dwindled, Huaibei, once a "resource city," began its transformation, increasingly focusing on ecology, urban renewal, and cultural tourism. Therefore, the Huaibei you see today is a city constantly evolving between history and modernity.

Geography Huaibei was a crucial node in the Sui and Tang dynasties' Grand Canal, and also a convergence point for Chu and Han cultures, canal cultures, and wine cultures. Huaibei City is also known as Xiangcheng. It sits along the Sui River, at the junction of Shandong, Jiangsu, Henan, and Anhui provinces, and has a population of 2.1 million. It administers three urban districts and one county: Duji District, Xiangshan District, Lieshan District, and Suixi County.

Climate

Huaibei City is located in the mid-latitude region and belongs to the warm temperate semi-humid monsoon climate zone. Its main climatic characteristics are distinct monsoons, four distinct seasons, mild climate, moderate rainfall, variable spring temperatures, clear and crisp autumn, distinct winter, and concentrated summer rain.

Getting there

By plane Huaibei City is about 90 km away from Xuzhou Guanyin International Airport.

By train

1 Huaibei Station. (updated Oct 2025) The Huaibei-Suzhou-Bengbu Intercity Railway, located in northern Anhui Province, connects Huaibei, Suzhou, and Bengbu. The line starts from Huaibei North Station on the Huaibei-Xiaoxian Link Line, and stops at Huaibei West Station, Suzhou West Station, Shuangduiji Station, and Guzhen South Station along the way, ending at Bengbu South Station. Huaibei North Station and Bengbu South Station are existing stations. The price of a second-class seat on the G1565，G325 high-speed train from Beijing South Station to Huaibei Station is ¥354, a first-class seat is ¥592, and a business-class seat is ¥1145, as of Nov 2025. The G7764 high-speed train from Shanghai to Huaibei departs from Shanghai Songjiang Station at 10:20 and arrives at Huaibei Station at 14:42.

Getting around

By bus If you're new to Huaibei, taking the bus is a more convenient way to get around. Most buses cost only 2 yuan, and if you get a transportation card, it will be cheaper and more convenient than cash. Students and seniors also get additional discounts. If you transfer to another bus within 40 minutes after swiping your card, you don't need to pay again.Huaibei is not a large city, so public buses can basically reach the city center, train station, new urban area, hospitals, universities, and there are also some "health special lines" for convenient access to hospitals. Payment can be made by scanning a QR code using WeChat Pay or Alipay, or by cash. Exact exact change is usually required, as drivers typically don't give exact change. Bus displays or announcements are usually not in English, and route information is primarily in Chinese, so translation apps or assistance from locals may be necessary. Hotel staff and younger passengers are generally willing to help.

By taxi In Huaibei, like many Chinese cities, taxis are a very convenient option for residents and tourists traveling short distances. Taxis can usually be hailed on the street or booked through mobile ride-hailing apps such as Didi or Gaode.The starting fare is generally around 6 RMB (approximately US$0.80), covering a distance of about 2.5 kilometers (approximately 1.5 miles). Beyond this initial distance, the fare is calculated per kilometer (km ≈ 0.62 mph). Waiting fees may also apply if the vehicle is moving slowly or in congested traffic. Nighttime taxi rides may be slightly more expensive than daytime rides due to a nighttime surcharge.

By bicycle Huaibei City offers a public bicycle rental service, similar to the bike-sharing systems in many large cities. Simply scan a QR code to rent a bike; it's very convenient. You can park anywhere you like, and use your mobile phone to check nearby stations and available bikes.

See

1 Shishanzi Site (it is 10–12 km from the city center, a drive of about 20–30 min). Neolithic site, a national key cultural relic protection unit.The site is of extremely high value in the study of Neolithic culture in northern Anhui and the Huai River basin. It is considered to be "large in area, thick in deposits, rich in content, and significantly earlier than Neolithic cultural sites in neighboring areas." For tourism and cultural heritage preservation, it is an important cultural asset for the Huaibei region, "enhancing the historical and cultural landscape and elevating the profound cultural essence of Huaibei."Comfortable shoes are recommended, as the ground may be uneven. A daytime visit is preferable for a clearer view of the stone formations. Please bring your own water and snacks, as facilities at the site are limited. It is advisable to familiarize yourself with the opening and protection regulations before your visit to avoid accidentally entering restricted areas. This tour can be combined with other cultural attractions in Huaibei for a full-day cultural trip. (updated Oct 2025) 2 Xiangshan Park. A national 4A-level tourist attraction, Xiantong Temple is a cultural relic protection unit in Anhui Province. Every year on the 18th day of the third lunar month, the Xiangshan Temple Fair is a very lively event and an important local folk activity. (updated Oct 2025) 3 Tomb of Gong Ji, Xiangshan District. Anhui Provincial Cultural Relics Protection Units (updated Nov 2025) 4 Han Dynasty gate tower ruins and shuiniu tombs, Xiangshan District. Anhui Provincial Cultural Relics Protection Units.If you are interested in Han Dynasty architecture, burial customs, ancient rituals, and archaeological sites, this is a place worth visiting. The site is not a large theme park, but rather focuses on "seeing relics and understanding history." A visit may involve walking and observing stones, remains, and inscriptions. (updated Nov 2025) 5 Xuji Xu Family Ancestral Hall (Hengshan Hall), Xiangshan District (you can take a bus from downtown Huaibei to Qugou Town/Xuji Village in Xiangshan District). Anhui Provincial Cultural Relics Protection Units. The building is well-preserved and reflects the characteristics of Qing Dynasty ancestral hall architecture: a rigorous layout, uniform roof style, and clear inscriptions on the stone tablets. The inscriptions are original records of the year the ancestral hall was built, and are valuable for studying the migration of the Xu clan and local family history.If you are interested in clan culture, ancestral hall architectur

Do

1 Huaibei Sui‑Tang Grand Canal Ancient Town, near the intersection of Nanli Road and Changshan Road, Xiangshan District. Visit in the late afternoon for better nighttime views and a more enjoyable photo opportunity. This can be included as a stop on other canal/historical site tours in Huaibei City, such as the Liuzi Canal Site. Wear comfortable shoes, as there will likely be a lot of walking and exploration of ancient alleys. For a more in-depth experience, please check for scheduled performances or cultural events (night markets, light shows, etc.).Some attractions or areas may require additional fees or reservations; it is recommended to check and confirm before your trip. (updated Nov 2025) 2 Xiangshan Park, No. 1 Xiangshan Road, Xiangshan District. All day. It has a children's playground, a zoo, and an ice skating rink, making it suitable for family trips and parent-child trips.You can take bus routes 733, 833, 714, 360, 318, 904, 331, etc. to reach the destination. (updated Nov 2025) 3 Nanhu National Urban Wetland Park (Nanhu Park), Changshan South Road, Lieshan District,~5 km from city center. Wide water areas, reeds, and migratory birds; excellent for photography, strolling, and relaxing. (updated Nov 2025) 4 Leyou Sports Park (Outdoor Activity Park), No. 171, Dongshan Road, Duji District. If you'd like to do some exercise, let your kids play, or take an evening walk, this is a good option. (updated Nov 2025) 5 Huaibei City Museum (淮北市博物馆), No. 1, Museum Road, Xiangshan District (from the city center, take bus route 10 to the "Municipal Agricultural Commission" stop, then walk about 100 meters east to the museum; or, take bus routes 8, 12, or 16 to the "Municipal Procuratorate" stop, then walk about 100 meters southeast). Tu-Su 08:30-11:30 and 14:30-5:30 ; closed Monday (excluding national holidays).. Plan 1-2 hours for your visit, which will allow you to focus on the two main exhibition halls: the "Grand Canal Heritage Hall" and the "Han Dynasty Stone Relief Hall." The lighting in these halls is usually soft, but please refrain from using flash photography to capture the artifacts.It showcases the rich connections between the Huaibei region and ancient canal transportation, porcelain production, and Han Dynasty pictorial stone tomb culture. The architecture and exhibition design blend history and modernity, integrating the industrial city background, canal civilization, and regional archaeological discoveries. Admission is free, making it ideal for a half-day trip: adding cultural depth to your itinerary without taking up too much time.The museu

Buy

Kouzi Liquor. This is a strong-aroma baijiu. Kouzi baijiu has a long history of brewing. Legend has it that during the Warring States period, the State of Song moved its capital to Xiangshan and began brewing large quantities of baijiu. With a history of over a thousand years, Kouzi baijiu is renowned as "famous throughout northern Hebei and the best in Jiangnan." Kouzi baijiu has a sweet and delicious taste, leaving one feeling refreshed and invigorated after drinking it. It is also known as "intoxicating to a thousand neighbors, its fragrance travels ten miles when opened." (updated Nov 2025) Liuxiang Pavilion Calligraphy Brushes. The calligraphy brushes produced by Huaibei Liuxiangge Brush Factory are made of high-quality materials and are crafted to a soft and supple consistency. They come in more than 200 varieties and are classified as Xuan brushes. They are exported to Hong Kong, Macau, Japan, Thailand and other places. (updated Nov 2025)

Eat

Wang Hanzi Oil Tea, 100 meters east of the intersection of Xihe Road and Pinganli Lane, ☏ +86 15756125021. Wang Hanzi's original name was Wang Xincong. Oil tea is a nourishing delicacy among Suixi snacks. At street food stalls, a large pot is displayed, wrapped in cotton cloth to keep it warm, and inside is prepared oil tea. When eating, vinegar, soy sauce, and sesame oil are added. (updated Nov 2025) Suixi pickled melon. Founded during the Tongzhi period of the Qing Dynasty, it has a production history of over 120 years. Suixi pickled cucumbers are made with carefully selected ingredients and meticulous craftsmanship, resulting in a unique flavor. High-quality locally grown cucumbers are used as the main ingredient. The manufacturer is Anhui Yuanchangzhai Sauce Factory, China. (updated Nov 2025) Ding Family Zhuangmo. Dingjia Zhuangmo has a history of over 200 years. It is round, about 35 centimeters in diameter and 3 centimeters thick. It is golden in color, crispy on the outside and fragrant on the inside, and has a chewy texture. (updated Nov 2025) Linhuan sesame seed cake. "Linhuan Baked Cake" is a popular traditional food that is available year-round. There's a beautiful legend about its origin. A gentle and kind village girl married into a craftsman's family in the market town of Zhicheng. According to the feudal customs of the time, women were not allowed to eat at the table, so the girl often ate only leftovers for her three meals a day. Her husband, a kind and loving man, couldn't bear to see her eating so much. Later, while his father wasn't looking, he secretly slipped a large steamed bun into his sleeve and brought it to his wife. By the time he gave it to her, the bun was cold and hard. The two of them lit a fire together and toasted the sliced bun over it. Gradually, the girl discovered that adding some seasonings made the toasted bun taste even better. To make a living, the village girl and her husband set up a stove on the street and started selling sesame seed cakes. People on the street tasted these cakes and applauded them, and the couple's business flourished. The sesame seed cake was not only a famous delicacy, but it also witnessed the feudal customs of that time and the virtue of a loving husband and a virtuous wife. (updated Nov 2025) Dazhuang grapes. The cultivation of grapes in Dazhuang has a history of over 300 years. The production area is located in Duanyuan Town, Huaibei City, and the products are sold to Hefei, Xuzhou, Shanghai, Beijing, Shandong and other places. (updated Nov 2025) 1 Old Mom's Noodles, 80 m southwest o

Sleep

1 Atour Hotel, Intersection of Mengshan North Road and Huiyuan Road, Xiangshan District. (updated Nov 2025) 2 Hampton by Hilton Huaibei Donghu, No. 38 Huaihai East Road, Duji District, ☏ +86 561 707 9999. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. Convenient access to shopping and entertainment. Modern smart-room features (smart curtains, voice control, etc.). It's in central Duji District, close to Longxi Outlets Plaza, Wuyue Plaza, and Red Star Macalline Mall, providing easy access to shopping and entertainment. It is about 5 kilometers from Huaibei Railway Station, a 10-minute drive; and about 12 kilometers from Huaibei High-speed Railway Station (Huaibei North Station), a 20-minute drive. (updated Nov 2025) 3 Lanou Hotel (Huaibei Municipal Government Branch), Building 9, Nanxiang Yunji Street, No. 162, Renmin Middle Road, Xiangshan District (near Huaibei Railway Station), ☏ +86 561 3366333. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. There are plenty of snacks and shopping options nearby. The rooms are spacious, clean, and fully equipped, and free parking is available. (updated Nov 2025) 4 Bright Hotel Huaibei, No. 207 Longshan Road, Xiangshan District, ☏ +86-561-333 7777. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. The hotel features a conference center with a total area of about 2,500 m², suitable for large-scale conferences and banquets. It has 21 private dining rooms and around 1,800 dining seats, making it ideal for banquets or group gatherings. Facilities include an indoor swimming pool, fitness center, and other leisure amenities. Free parking is available, including several EV charging spots.Note: Gym and pool opening hours may vary seasonally — confirm availability when booking. (updated Nov 2025) 5 Huaibei Kouzi International Hotel, Middle section of Renmin Road, Xiangshan District, ☏ +86 0561-3069824. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. It is close to the Greenland Ecological Park and west of the Municipal Government, Sports Center and Museum.It's about 2.9 kilometers from Huaibei Railway Station, a 10-minute drive. It's about 1.8 kilometers from the city center, a 4-minute drive. The surrounding area has convenient commercial facilities and restaurants, making travel relatively easy.The hotel offers meeting rooms, a gym, a swimming pool, and guest rooms with scenic views.If you are coming from the train station, taking a taxi or ride-hailing service is more convenient; if you are taking public transportation/intercity transport, it is recommended to check the specific routes in advance, because although the hotel is close to the city center, public transportation

Go next

Xuzhou — northeast of Huaibei, Xuzhou is a major transportation and historical and cultural center in Jiangsu Province. It's easily accessible by high-speed rail or regular train, with a journey time of approximately 1–1.5 hours. Recommended experiences include: Xuzhou Museum, ancient battlefield ruins, and the lake park. Bozhou — a renowned city for traditional Chinese medicine culture, boasting numerous medicinal herb markets and historical sites. It can be reached by long-distance bus or car, taking approximately 1-1.5 hours from Huaibei. Recommended experiences: experiencing traditional Chinese medicine culture, and strolling through the old town. Bengbu — south of Huaibei, it's a transportation hub with a major train station and numerous commercial areas. High-speed rail/train journeys take approximately 1–1.5 hours, making it suitable as a transfer point. Recommended experiences: Riverside park, local cuisine, and city night tours. Bagongshan — with its natural landscapes, historical sites, and geological relics, this area is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy hiking. You can first take a bus to Huainan City, then transfer to a public bus or hire a car to reach the scenic area. Mount Langya — the area boasts 5A-level scenic spots in Anhui Province, featuring historical trails, temples, and water features. Take the high-speed rail or regular train to Chuzhou, then transfer to local transportation. Mount Jiuhua — one of China's four sacred Buddhist mountains, it boasts temples, Buddhist culture, and stunning mountain scenery.