A historic city in southwestern Anhui known for the stunning Tianzhu Mountain, its role as the birthplace of Huangmei Opera, and a key industrial base along the Yangtze River.
Anqing is a historic prefecture-level city in southwestern Anhui Province, nestled along the northern bank of the Yangtze River. With a population of approximately 3.8 million and an area of 13,538 square kilometers, it serves as a cultural, industrial, and transportation hub for the surrounding region.
The city is most famous as the birthplace of Huangmei Opera, one of China's most beloved and widely performed opera styles. Originating from folk songs and dances in the neighboring Huangmei County of Hubei, the art form was nurtured and developed in Anqing into the sophisticated theatrical tradition it is today. The Huangmei Opera Art Museum in Linghu Park chronicles this evolution.
Anqing's natural centerpiece is Tianzhu Mountain (Pillar of Heaven), a UNESCO Global Geopark renowned for its spectacular granite peaks, sea of clouds, and ancient Taoist heritage. The mountain rises dramatically from the plains, its main peak reaching 1,489 meters. For over two millennia, it has been a sacred site attracting pilgrims, poets, and painters.
The city also holds a significant place in modern Chinese history as the hometown of Chen Duxiu, a leading intellectual and co-founder of the Chinese Communist Party. His former residence and memorial hall are important historical sites in the city.
Anqing's economy is diversified across petrochemicals, textiles, machinery manufacturing, and the burgeoning tourism industry driven by Tianzhu Mountain. The deep-water port on the Yangtze River connects Anqing to major economic centers along China's longest waterway.
Anqing's economy is driven by a mix of heavy industry, manufacturing, and growing tourism. The petrochemical sector is the largest industrial pillar, anchored by the Anqing Petrochemical Company, one of the major refining and chemical complexes along the Yangtze River. Textile and garment manufacturing is another key industry, building on Anqing's long tradition in textile production.
Machinery manufacturing, automotive parts, and new energy equipment have emerged as growth sectors in recent years. The city's industrial parks along the Yangtze River benefit from deep-water port access and convenient logistics.
Tourism is the fastest-growing sector, centered on Tianzhu Mountain, which attracts over 2 million visitors annually. The mountain's UNESCO Global Geopark status has boosted international visibility. The city government is investing in tourism infrastructure, including hospitality upgrades and transportation improvements.
Agriculture in the surrounding counties produces rice, tea, cotton, and aquatic products from the Yangtze River. The Qianshan area is known for high-quality tea, while Tongcheng produces traditional handicrafts. In 2025, Anqing's GDP reached approximately 280 billion yuan.
Discover the culinary treasures of Anqing, from traditional street food to imperial cuisine.
Anqing Tianzhushan Airport (AQG) - domestic flights to Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Chengdu
High-speed rail to Hefei (1h), Nanjing (1.5h), Shanghai (3h), Wuhan (2h), Beijing (4.5h)
City buses connect all urban districts. Direct tourist buses to Tianzhu Mountain from the city center.
Available throughout the city
Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) offer the best weather for most destinations in China.
Spend a full day on Tianzhu Mountain — take the cable car up and hike down.
Climb Zhenfeng Pagoda at sunset for stunning Yangtze River views.
Catch a Huangmei Opera performance at the Anqing Huangmei Opera Theater.
Try Tongcheng Shui Wan — it is the quintessential local banquet dish.
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