In the long-term development of Anhui culture, due to the differences in geographical environment and human environment, Anhui has formed three distinctive regional cultures, namely Huaihe culture, Wanjiang culture and Huizhou culture, which have become Anhui culture.
Huaihe cultural circle generally refers to the regional cultural belt composed of Huaihe River and Huaibei area. The formation of Huaihe cultural circle benefits from the unique geographical and humanistic environment conditions, and has its profound foundation and rich connotation. Due to the special geographical location and humanistic environment of Huaihe River, different cultures collide and communicate here. Huaihe culture, as a regional culture formed on the basis of the integration of Central Plains culture and Wu Chu culture, has the characteristics of compatibility and transition.
Wanjiang cultural circle generally refers to the sum of material culture and spiritual culture created in Wanjiang area since ancient times, and its scope is generally close to the present Wanjiang Economic Zone, namely Anqing, Wuhu, Maanshan, Tongling, Chizhou, Chaohu, Xuancheng (except Jixi County) and the eastern part of Chuzhou City.
There are differences and similarities between these three sub-cultural plates. Differences make Anhui culture rich and diverse; This convergence is manifested in the mutual blending of Confucianism, Taoism and Buddhism. In the process of development, the cultural focus shifted from north to south. This is consistent with the change of Anhui regional economic center of gravity and the evolution of administrative system.
The spirit of "change" has become an important internal factor for the long-term continuation of Anhui culture. The academic orientation of "applying the world and seeking the harmony of the world" The cultural phenomenon beyond the region is widespread and has become an important part of China culture.
Anhui culture has formed the following main characteristics in the long-term historical development. Anhui culture has continuity, compatibility, diversity, imbalance and innovation.
Ancient Anhui culture has a long history, and Wanjiang culture is rich in content, profound and colorful. Wanjiang culture has the characteristics of water culture and a strong sense of openness and innovation. Huizhou culture refers to various unique and typical cultural phenomena in Shexian, yi county, Xiuning, Qimen, Jixi, Wuyuan (now Jiangxi Province) and other places belonging to the former Huizhou government. Huizhou culture is the most mature, representative and typical regional culture in Anhui.