After spending 2 days in Changde, my spending perspective was shattered

Hey guys, to avoid crowded tourist spots, you must head to places with stunning scenery, fewer people, and full of surprises! I visited Changde this June and instantly fell in love with this city🥰! It boasts poetic lakes and mountains, ancient towns with millennia of history, and irresistible local cuisine. Two days here left me utterly satisfied—here’s your must-save guide👇!

🌉 Awesome 2-day, 1-night itinerary

**Day 1**: Liuye Lake 👉 German Street 👉 He Street 👉 Old West Gate
**Day 2**: Taohuayuan (Peach Blossom Spring) 👉 Return

🌟 **Day 1**: Lakeside Serenity + Changde’s Lively Vibe

Though June in Changde is a bit humid, the morning and evening breezes are delightful～Start early, pack a sun umbrella and mini fan, and begin your adventure!

**Liuye Lake**

First stop: Liuye Lake! This massive urban lake has crystal-clear water and breathtaking views🌅! Rent a bike🚲 and cycle along the lakeside road—on one side, shimmering waves; on the other, tree-lined paths. Every shot is Instagram-worthy📸! You can also take a boat ride, feel the lake breeze, and watch egrets skim the water—so relaxing! P.S. The lakeside beach is perfect for kids to play in the sand!

**German Street**

After the lake, head straight to German Street at noon! The architecture here is straight out of Europe, with red-brick walls and pointed roofs—like teleporting to a European castle🏰! The street is lined with cafés and Western restaurants. Take a break with an iced coffee☕️—pure bliss! Photography lovers, this is your spot—every corner is a photo op!

**He Street**

In the evening, soak up Changde’s local vibe at He Street! The antique-style buildings along the Chuanzi River, adorned with red lanterns, create a magical atmosphere🏮! The street is packed with food stalls and specialty shops—spicy "meat" (actually tofu), leicha (pounded tea), marinated duck...all the Changde delicacies are here! Must-try: the spicy "meat"—chewy, numbing, and addictive!

**Old West Gate**

At night, head to Old West Gate! This artsy hotspot is a revitalized old neighborhood turned creative district🎨. Browse unique bookstores and boutiques, or unwind at a quiet bar with live music—experience Changde’s nightlife!

🌳 **Day 2**: Step into a Real-Life "Peach Blossom Spring"!

**Taohuayuan (Peach Blossom Spring)**

Wake up early on Day 2 for Taohuayuan! Though June isn’t peach blossom season, the scenery is still breathtaking🌿! Take a boat through the "Qinren Ancient Cave"—it feels like entering the utopia from Tao Yuanming’s classic tale. The area features Qin Stream, Qin Valley, Wuliu Lake, and more. Stroll along cobblestone paths, past ancient villages and babbling streams, breathing in the fresh air—total relaxation! Don’t miss the "Peach Blossom Spring" live-performance site (the nighttime show is epic, but daytime photos are stunning too!). Try traditional crafts like oil-pressing and bamboo-weaving, and take home unique souvenirs!

🚄 **Transport Guide**

• **High-speed rail**: Take the train to Changde Station (about 1 hour from Changsha🚝). Taxis or buses from the station make getting around easy.

• **Drive**: 2–3 hours from nearby cities. Parking in downtown Changde is convenient, and driving offers more freedom.

🏨 **Stay Recommendations**

• **Near Liuye Lake**: Opt for a lakeside B&B—wake up to lake views and catch the sunrise🌅!

• **Downtown pedestrian streets**: Plenty of hotels, with food streets right downstairs—perfect for exploring and eating!

🍜 **Must-Try Changde Eats**

• **Changde Rice Noodles**: A must! Beef noodles, spicy "meat" noodles, three-delicacy noodles...choose your topping. The noodles are smooth and chewy, the broth rich and savory, paired with pickled beans and chili oil—pure noodle bliss🍜!

• **Marinated Duck**: A Changde specialty! Firm, chewy, and spicy—you won’t stop eating🌶️!

• **Leicha (Pounded Tea)**: A unique drink! Tea leaves, sesame, peanuts, etc., are ground and brewed, served with fried rice or sweet potato chips—refreshing and flavorful!

• **Changde Spicy "Meat"**: As mentioned earlier! Tofu-based "meat," spicy and addictive—perfect for snacking or with drinks!

Changde in June offers poetic landscapes and down-to-earth charm. Go now and treat yourself to a healing, delicious getaway🎉!