Anhui China Travel Guide
Spring (March - May) sees temperatures from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). This is a pleasant period, with flowers in bloom and fresh greenery returning. Expect frequent fog and rain, which can obscure views. However, these conditions also contribute to the famous "sea of clouds" phenomenon. Humidity begins to rise.
Summer (June - August) brings Huangshan City temperatures of 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F). On the mountain, temperatures are cooler, generally 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). This period brings high humidity and regular, often heavy, rainfall. Thunderstorms pose a risk, notably in the afternoons.
Winter provides snowscapes and spectacular light. Visit early morning after rain for the highest chance of seeing the sea of clouds.
Hiking is comfortable during Spring and Fall. Winter hiking suits experienced individuals with proper cold-weather gear. Hot Springs are best enjoyed in cooler months.
April-May, Sep-Oct, National Holidays
Ideal for general sightseeing and photography.
Significant crowds, higher prices, lengthy waits.
March, June, November
Fewer crowds, mid-range prices, good chance for pleasant weather.
Weather can be variable (fog/rain), some facilities reduce hours.
Dec-Feb, Jul-Aug
Very few crowds (except CNY), lower prices, unique snowy scenery in winter.
Cold and icy in winter (some trails may close), warm and muggy with frequent rain in summer.
Winter temperatures on the mountain drop under freezing. Warm, insulated layering clothes is important. Summer can be humid and warm, requiring light, airy clothes.
This phenomenon, where peaks rise above a blanket of mist, forms a major highlight of a Huangshan visit. Looking forward to the clouds to break frequently brings sudden, breathtaking scenery.
Avoid Chinese national holidays. Immense domestic tourism brings extreme crowding.
If traveling during holidays, book well in advance. Prepare for congestion.
Frequent fog and clouds sometimes obscure distant views. Embrace the atmospheric charm.
Rain can make trails slippery. Frozen surfaces in winter require careful movement.
Pack layers for sudden temperature changes, notably on the mountain.
Most foreign nationals need a visa to enter mainland China.
This is the primary common visa for individuals traveling to China for tourism or family visits. You apply at of Chinese origin embassy or consulate in your home country country or country of residence before your trip.
China offers this policy at particular airports, including Huangshan Tunxi International Airport (TXN). Eligible nationalities may transit for up to 72 or 144 hours without a visa.
Ensure all visa and entry requirements are met well in advance of your departure. Travel documents must be up-to-date and correctly completed.
Costs vary significantly based on your travel style.
The official currency of China is the Chinese Yuan Renminbi (CNY), symbolized by ¥. The exchange rate fluctuates; approximately 7.2 CNY equals 1 USD (check current rates before your trip).
Main financial institutions in Huangshan City (Tunxi) offer currency exchange. ATMs are widely available. Credit cards have acceptance in larger hotels, upscale restaurants, and major shops. Mobile payment apps, WeChat Pay and Alipay, dominate transactions.
Daily costs: ¥200-¥400 / $28-$55. Prioritize hostels, street food, and public buses. Limit cable car use.
Accommodation: ¥80-¥150 (dorm/basic guesthouse)
Food: ¥70-¥150 (street food/local eateries)
Daily costs: ¥400-¥800 / $55-$110. Stay in hotels with good amenities, mix local and nicer dining, take cabs.
Accommodation: ¥200-¥400 (mid-range hotel)
Transportation: ¥30-¥80 (taxis/ride-hailing)
Daily costs: ¥800+ / $110+. Opt for 4-5 star hotels, fine dining, personal drivers, and high-end activities.
Accommodation: ¥500+ (4-5 star hotels)
Transportation: ¥100+ (personal vehicles)
| Category | Item | Price Range (CNY) |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (per night) | Hostel dorm / Budget hotel / Mid-range / Luxury | ¥80-¥150 / ¥150-¥300 / ¥300-¥600 / ¥600-¥2000+ |
| Meals (per person) | Street food / Local restaurant / Mid-range / Fine dining | ¥15-¥40 / ¥40-¥100 / ¥100-¥200 / ¥200+ |
| Transportation & Attractions | City bus / Taxi (short) / Tunxi-Tangkou bus / Cable car (one way) / Huangshan Entry / Hot Springs / Villages | ¥2-¥5 / ¥10-¥30 / ¥20-¥25 / ¥80-¥90 / ¥190-¥230 / ¥298 / ¥100-¥120 |
Preparation for common concerns helps manage any situation.
Ensure measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella (chickenpox), polio, and flu shots are current.
Hepatitis A and Typhoid are commonly recommended. Consult a travel health professional 4-6 weeks before your trip.
Tap water is generally not safe for direct consumption. Rely on Bottled water, boiled water, or a reliable water filter bottle. Eat at establishments with a good reputation; observe where residents eat.
Prevention Methods
Gastrointestinal Issues: Practice good food and water hygiene. Eat well-cooked food. Avoid unpeeled fruits and vegetables.
Respiratory Issues: Air quality varies. Consider a face mask if you have sensitivities. Altitude Sickness: Huangshan''s highest summit is not very high altitude; mild symptoms are rare.
Sunburn/Heatstroke: Use Sun protection (hat, High SPF sunscreen, Sunglasses) and drink plenty of water. Injuries: Wear strong shoes; Trekking poles are useful. Move carefully on wet or icy surfaces.
Huangshan City has modern hospitals (e.g., Huangshan City People's Hospital). Basic first-aid stations are on the mountain. Severe cases may need evacuation to a city hospital.
Pharmacies (yao dian) are widely available in Huangshan City, stocking common over-the-counter and some prescription medications.
Police: 110 | Fire: 119 | Ambulance: 120. These numbers are free to call from any phone.
Huangshan is a safe destination with low crime rates. Petty theft might happen in busy tourist spots; maintain situational consciousness and safeguard your things. Violent crime against tourists is rare.
Huangshan City (Tunxi) and the Huangshan Scenic Area are considered safe for visitors.
Low, but petty theft can occur in crowded areas. Be aware of your surroundings.
Be cautious when crossing roads. Road laws and pedestrian rights may contrast with your home country.
Learning basic emergency phrases in Mandarin (e.g., "Help!" - Jiùmìng! "I need a doctor" - Wǒ xūyào yīshēng) is helpful.
