Hefei: Dynamic blend of innovation, culture and green living

BEIJING, Sept. 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- A news report from chinadaily.com.cn:

Hefei, the capital of East China's Anhui province, is rapidly establishing itself as a global hub for technology and innovation, while embracing its profound cultural heritage and advancing sustainable development.

A group of young international influencers from the United States, France, Canada, and Yemen took part in a three-day immersive tour of the city from Aug 27-29.

Luogang Park, one of the world's largest urban parks, impressed the influencers with its vast scale. After visiting a helicopter base here, some expressed a desire to view the park from the air someday.

Hefei's ecological progress has touched the influencers a lot. Visits were made to Shibalianwei Ecological Wetland, Hefei Binhu National Forest Park, Hefei Thermal Power Binhu Science City Energy Station and Hudaying Sewage Treatment Plant, where environmental protection efforts are strengthened and advanced pollution control measures are implemented.

''I'm super impressed by Hefei's natural beauty. The air is so fresh, and there's greenery all around,'' said Alexandra Ogden, a Canadian travel blogger with 200,000 followers.

Bradley Johnson from the United States, who now teaches at the University of Science and Technology of China, shared his perspective as a resident: ''Hefei is my home right now. There are a lot of great park areas and places for me to be and enjoy - it's a very livable city. The wastewater treatment technology here is also impressive and efficient.''

Cultural experiences were also highlighted, with a trip to the Tongqinglou Catering, Anhui New East Cuisine Institute, and an introduction to traditional Chinese medicine at Anhui University of Chinese Medicine.

Their visit to Xingfuba, or ''happiness'' subway station on Aug 28, coincided with Qixi Festival. Couples were tying the knot there, allowing the international guests to share in the festive atmosphere.

''I've heard back in 2024 that the Hefei population has reached 10 million people and half of that are the younger generation under 35. Now Hefei is a rich technology hub. I hope more people will come to Hefei to develop that and start their lives here,'' said Douglas Dueno, a foreign expert at China Daily Website.

SOURCE chinadaily.com.cn