Anji to Maanshan Road Trip: Scenic Drive Guide

The drive from Anji, a bamboo-forest hub in Zhejiang, to Maanshan, an industrial city on the Yangtze in Anhui, covers about 250 km via the G50 Expressway. The route passes through the scenic Tianmu Mountains and the Yangtze River Delta, with a driving time of approximately three hours without traffic.

The G50 is in good condition with well-maintained guardrails and lighting at major interchanges. Speed limits vary from 100 to 120 km/h, strictly enforced by cameras. Rest areas are spaced every 30-50 km, with designated parking, clean restrooms, and often family-friendly playgrounds.

For families, the rest stops at Changxing and Xiaodan are particularly suitable, featuring ample seating and kid-friendly meal options. For pet owners, while Chinese highway regulations generally do not allow pets in rest areas, many rest stops have grassy areas where you can briefly walk your dog on a leash.

To avoid fatigue, take a mandatory break every 2 hours. The Xinzhuang Service Area (at the 180 km mark) is a recommended rest point with a wide range of dining and convenience stores.

Hidden off-route spot: after passing the Guangde interchange, take exit 54 to visit the Shuiming Cave, a lesser-known underground river attraction about 30 minutes off the highway. For the best stops and hidden gems along this route, consult how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites are not directly on this route, but a detour to the West Lake in Hangzhou (2 hours south of Anji) is a worthwhile addition for history buffs.

The G50 Expressway (also known as the Shanghai-Chongqing Expressway) is a toll road with excellent pavement and clear signage. Fuel stations are abundant every 30-50 km, and rest areas offer food, restrooms, and shops. The route passes near the S12 and G4211 interchanges, which are well-marked.

• Tolls for a standard car: approximately ¥150 one-way.
• Fuel costs: estimate ¥1.20 per km, total around ¥300.
• Alternative scenic route: take S205 and S104 to enjoy rural views, adding 1 hour to the drive.

For real-time traffic and route planning, use navigation apps like Amap or Baidu Maps. The road network connects to the G50 and G4211, facilitating a smooth journey. The fastest route is on the G50, but the slower S205 offers charming lake views near Nanshan Lake.

As you depart Anji, the Tianmu Mountains dominate the skyline, with bamboo groves covering the hillsides. The climate is subtropical monsoon, with rainy seasons in June-July and hot summers; the best driving weather is in October-November when the skies are clear. The route gradually transitions from mountainous terrain to the flat Yangtze River Delta, offering contrasting views.

Local commerce thrives in towns like Changxing, known for its walnut orchards and traditional tea shops. In Guangde, try the local tofu dishes at roadside eateries. These stops not only break the drive but also provide a taste of regional culture.

• Changxing: visit the China Yangtze River Delta National Wetland Park (free entry).
• Guangde: stop at the Taiji Cave, a karst formation open to the public.
• Maanshan: explore the Caishi Rock, a historic cliff with a scenic overlook.