Chenzhou

Introducing Chenzhou

Chenzhou City is a prefecture-level city under the jurisdiction of Hunan Province. It is located in the southeastern part of Hunan Province. It is located in the area where the Nanling Mountains and Luoxiao Mountains intersect and the Yangtze River and Pearl River systems diverge. It is known as the "Southern Gate" of Hunan.

Chenzhou is one of the birthplaces of Chinese agricultural culture. It's a magical place where the Yan Emperor, Shennong, discovered "good grains," taught the people how to cultivate, and pioneered China's primitive agricultural culture. Since ancient times, it has been hailed as the "Land of Nine Immortals and Two Buddhas," a blessed place where Taoist and Buddhist cultures flourished. The stories of Su Xian, Wang Xian, and Cheng Xian, who achieved enlightenment, are widely circulated among the people and have become symbols of ancient Chinese medical history and the medical profession.

Chenzhou, formerly known as Linyi, meaning "city in the forest," boasts a forest coverage rate of 70%. "One mountain, one lake, and one spring" are the essence of Chenzhou's scenic beauty.

Climate and best time to travel

It has a subtropical monsoon climate, with cold winters and hot summers, frequent spring rains, long hot summers, and cool and refreshing autumns, but sometimes there are also continuous autumn rains. It is suitable for travel all year round.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Yushui Danxia Mountain

Yushui Danxia is located between Yushui Village and Dukou Township in the Junshan area of ​​Yonglejiang Town, Anren County.

Rice Field Park

Located southeast of Yonglejiang Town, Anren County, Hunan Province, Rice Field Park is China's only "agricultural park" integrating ecological agriculture, science education, sightseeing, and leisure and entertainment. The park's name was inscribed by Yuan Longping, an academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and the "Father of Hybrid Rice."

Dongjiang Lake

Dongjiang Lake Scenic Area, a National 5A-level scenic spot, is located in Zixing City, Chenzhou District, southeastern Hunan Province. Close to the Beijing-Guangzhou Railway and National Highway 107, it is 38 kilometers from the city center, offering extremely convenient transportation. The Dongjiang Lake Scenic Area, centered around the Dongjiang Lake, a blend of mountains and waters, features the Dongjiang rapids, the magical Dousui Lingyan Rock, the breathtaking scenery of Longjing Canyon, and a cluster of islands. This lake-island tourist area, covering a total area of ​​200 square kilometers, is ideal for sightseeing, leisure vacations, and wellness retreats.

Mangshan

Mangshan Mountain is located in Yizhang County, Hunan Province, at the northern foot of the Nanling Mountains. It covers a total area of ​​20,000 hectares and borders Ruyuan, Lianzhou, and Yangshan in Guangdong Province to the east, west, and south. Mangshan boasts a complex terrain, with sharp peaks and crisscrossing ravines. There are over 150 peaks over 1,000 meters within the area. The highest peak, Mengkengshi, stands at 1,902 meters, earning it the title "Southern Peak." The Changle River, meandering through the mountains, is one of the sources of the Pearl River.

2 days

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Most Popular FAQs for Chenzhou

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Chenzhou, located in the southern part of Hunan Province, is historically significant for its ancient culture and natural beauty. The city is known for its scenic landscapes, such as Dongjiang Lake and Wulingyuan, and has a rich history that dates back to the Han Dynasty. It is an important cultural and economic center in the region.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Chenzhou is located in the southern part of Hunan Province, about 200 kilometers from Changsha, the provincial capital. The city can be reached by high-speed train from Changsha, taking about 2.5 to 3 hours. Alternatively, buses and taxis are available for local travel within the city.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The city itself does not have specific opening hours, but the best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months (March to May and September to November) when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its most beautiful.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entrance fees vary depending on the attraction. For example, Dongjiang Lake charges a small fee for boating, and Wulingyuan charges for entry to the scenic area. Tickets can be bought online or at the entrance of each attraction.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

For major attractions like Wulingyuan, it’s advisable to book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons (April to October). Booking 1-2 days in advance should be sufficient.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore the major attractions of Chenzhou, plan for at least 2-3 days. This allows time for hiking in Wulingyuan, visiting Dongjiang Lake, and exploring the city's cultural sites.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The must-see highlights in Chenzhou include the stunning Dongjiang Lake, Wulingyuan Scenic Area, and the ancient temples scattered throughout the city. Visitors should also explore the local markets for a taste of Chenzhou's traditional culture.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Chenzhou, especially at popular tourist sites like Wulingyuan. The tours are typically available in Mandarin, but some tour guides may offer services in English during peak tourist seasons.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots include the observation points at Dongjiang Lake, where you can capture the lake surrounded by lush mountains. Wulingyuan Scenic Area also offers stunning views of karst formations and lush greenery.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start your visit at Dongjiang Lake for a relaxing boat tour. Then, head to Wulingyuan to explore the natural landscapes. If you have more time, visit the local temples and markets for a deeper cultural experience.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Chenzhou does not typically offer night visits or light shows. However, some areas like Dongjiang Lake are beautiful at dusk, offering serene views of the lake surrounded by mountains in the evening light.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Chenzhou is less crowded during weekdays and off-peak seasons (November to February). Weekends and public holidays tend to attract more tourists, especially in the summer months.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic facilities like toilets, rest areas, and food stalls are available at major tourist sites like Wulingyuan. Restaurants and local tea houses can be found around Dongjiang Lake and the city center.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Chenzhou’s major attractions are generally accessible, though some hiking trails in Wulingyuan may be difficult for elderly or disabled visitors. It is advisable to choose flat, paved paths or boat tours for a more comfortable visit.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is widely accepted, especially in local markets. However, major tourist attractions, hotels, and larger restaurants in Chenzhou generally accept cards and mobile payments like Alipay or WeChat Pay.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several local restaurants near Dongjiang Lake and Wulingyuan, offering traditional Hunan cuisine, such as spicy dishes, fish, and rice. Tea houses near Dongjiang Lake also provide local tea tasting experiences.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available at many local restaurants, especially for those who prefer plant-based diets. Halal food options may be limited but can be found in larger cities nearby.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several mid-range and budget hotels in Chenzhou. The Beichen Hotel and Chenzhou International Hotel are located near major tourist areas, providing convenient access to Dongjiang Lake and Wulingyuan.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, famous for its sandstone peaks and breathtaking scenery, and the Ancient Village of Fenghuang, known for its historic architecture and culture.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops can be found near major tourist sites in Chenzhou, selling items like local handicrafts, tea, and traditional Hunan-style artwork.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

To continue your trip, the best transportation options are high-speed trains to Changsha or other nearby cities. Local buses and taxis are also available for further travel within Chenzhou and its surrounding areas.