Fuyang is a prefecture-level city situated in northwestern Anhui province, China. Geographically, it lies in the Huai River valley and is bordered by Henan to the north, Huaibei to the northeast, Huainan to the southeast, Lu'an to the south, and the provinces of Henan and Hubei to the west. Covering an area of about 9,775 square kilometers, it is a city of significant size with a history that dates back to the Spring and Autumn period (approximately 771 to 476 BC). The city's history is rich, with cultural heritage from various dynasties that have ruled there over the millennia. Fuyang played a notable role, especially during the tumultuous years of the Song dynasty, owing to its strategic location as a border town facing invaders from the north. Throughout the centuries, it has been an important site for military defense and governance in the region. Culturally, Fuyang is known for its traditional folk art forms, including Paper-cutting, which has been inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. It is also recognized for local arts such as opera and lantern festivals. The local cuisine is characterized by the use of local agricultural products and is known for its simple yet flavorful dishes. Demographically, Fuyang has a population of over 10 million people, with the Han Chinese making up the vast majority of this population. There are also small ethnic minority groups residing within the city. The particular dialects spoken in Fuyang can be classified under the Jianghuai Mandarin subdivision of the Mandarin Chinese language, although standard Mandarin is widely spoken and understood thanks to national education and media policies. The economy of Fuyang is diverse, with agriculture playing a traditional role due to the fertile land around the Huai River. It is known for grain production, particularly wheat, as well as cotton, and more recently for its white goose industry. Industrial development has accelerated in recent years, with the chemical industry, building materials, textiles, and machinery manufacturing becoming increasingly significant contributors to the local economy. Fuyang has continued to develop and urbanize, with the cityscape featuring a blend of traditional Chinese architecture and modern buildings. It has a well-established transportation network that includes rail, road, and river transport facilities, connecting it with other major cities and regions in China. Educational and healthcare facilities in Fuyang have improved over the years, reflecting the government's commitment to social development. There are several universities and colleges located within the city, providing educational opportunities for residents and attracting students from other parts of the province. Fuyang's rich history is spanned by a number of landmarks and scenic spots, such as Yingzhou West Lake, Wenfeng Pagoda, and Fuyang Ecological Park that offer insights into the local culture and history. The city also hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year, which are celebrated with traditional music, dances, and other cultural performances. These events provide an excellent opportunity for visitors to experience the vibrant local culture and traditions of Fuyang. In summary, Fuyang is a city with deep historical roots, a thriving culture, and a growing economy. It represents a blend of the old and new, showcasing the dynamic nature of China's ongoing development while preserving its unique local characteristics.