Hefei

Hefei is the capital of Anhui province and has rapidly emerged as one of central China's leading centers for science and higher education. With a metropolitan population of around nine million, it is a fast-growing city built around several large lakes and home to some of the country's top research universities. The climate is humid subtropical, with hot, humid summers and cold, damp winters. Attractions include Lord Bao Memorial Park honoring the famous ancient judge, the scenic Swan Lake district, and the nearby water town of Sanhe. Anhui cuisine features rich, savory dishes such as Li Hongzhang hotchpotch and stinky mandarin fish. A modern metro network, Xinqiao International Airport, and high-speed rail connect Hefei to Nanjing, Shanghai, and Wuhan. For an international student, Hefei offers affordable living, a strong academic reputation especially in science and technology, and a manageable, less crowded city environment.