Where is Anhui Located on a Map?

Anhui, a province located in the eastern part of China, is situated between the Yangtze River to the south and the Huai River to the north. To understand its location better, let's delve into the geographical and political aspects of Anhui.

1. Geographical Overview: Anhui is bordered by the provinces of Jiangsu to the east, Jiangxi to the south, Zhejiang to the southeast, Henan to the northwest, and Shandong to the northeast. Its geographical coordinates are approximately 31.8° N latitude and 117.3° E longitude. Anhui covers an area of around 139,600 square kilometers (53,900 square miles), making it a relatively large province by Chinese standards.

2. Map Position: On a map of China, Anhui is centrally positioned within the eastern region. To visualize its exact location:

   • Eastern Border: Anhui lies to the west of Jiangsu, which is situated along the Yangtze River Delta.
   • Southern Border: The province extends down to the northern parts of Jiangxi and Zhejiang.
   • Northern Border: Anhui's northern boundary reaches up to Henan and Shandong, with the Huai River forming a natural boundary in the northern region.
   • Western Border: Anhui's western side meets parts of Jiangxi, where the terrain becomes more rugged and mountainous.

3. Major Cities and Landmarks: Anhui is home to several major cities, including Hefei (the provincial capital), Wuhu, and Ma'anshan. Hefei, located in the central part of the province, serves as the political, economic, and cultural center of Anhui. Wuhu, a significant port city on the Yangtze River, and Ma'anshan, known for its steel production, are also important urban centers.

4. Geographical Features: Anhui features a diverse landscape with a mix of plains, hills, and mountains. The province's terrain is predominantly hilly and mountainous in the south and flat in the north. The Yangtze River and its tributaries, such as the Huai River, provide vital water resources and transportation routes.

5. Climate: Anhui experiences a subtropical monsoon climate, characterized by hot, humid summers and cold, damp winters. The average temperature ranges from 0°C (32°F) in winter to 35°C (95°F) in summer. Rainfall is relatively abundant, particularly during the summer months when the monsoon season occurs.

6. Economic and Cultural Significance: Anhui is known for its rich cultural heritage and historical sites. It is famous for the Huangshan (Yellow Mountain), a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its stunning natural scenery and unique granite peaks. The province also plays a significant role in agriculture, particularly in the cultivation of rice, tea, and wheat.

7. Transportation: Anhui's transportation infrastructure includes a network of highways, railways, and waterways that connect it to other regions in China. Major highways and expressways link Anhui to neighboring provinces, while high-speed rail services provide efficient travel options within the province and to major cities like Shanghai and Beijing.

8. Administrative Divisions: Anhui is administratively divided into 16 prefecture-level divisions, including 11 cities and 5 autonomous prefectures. These divisions are further subdivided into counties and districts.

9. Tourism: In addition to Huangshan, Anhui offers various other tourist attractions, including historical towns such as Hongcun and Xidi, which are known for their well-preserved ancient architecture and traditional Anhui-style houses.

10. Cultural Heritage: Anhui has a rich cultural heritage that includes traditional Chinese arts such as Huizhou cuisine, Huizhou architecture, and Anhui opera. The province is also known for its contributions to Chinese literature and philosophy.

In summary, Anhui is centrally located in eastern China and is distinguished by its diverse landscapes, significant historical sites, and vibrant cultural heritage. Whether you're exploring its natural beauty, historical landmarks, or modern cities, Anhui offers a unique glimpse into the heart of China.