Chadong Ancient Town: A Romantic Journey Back to the Border Town, Standing at the Junction of Three Provinces

Chadong Ancient Town is located in Huayuan County, Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Hunan Province. It is a well-preserved ancient town with Ming and Qing dynasty architectural styles. As the prototype location of Shen Congwen’s novel "Border Town," it attracts many tourists with its unique natural scenery and rich cultural heritage.

Transportation: From Changsha, you can take a high-speed train to Jishou East Station, then transfer to a bus to Chadong, with a total travel time of about 4 hours. Self-driving visitors can take the Baomao Expressway and exit at Huayuan. Motor vehicles are prohibited inside the ancient town, so walking is recommended for sightseeing.

The best time to visit is during spring and autumn. Spring (March to May) offers pleasant weather and blooming rapeseed flowers; autumn (September to November) features clear skies and is ideal for photography. Summer is relatively hot, and winter is damp and cold, so prepare accordingly.

Main attractions include:
1. Riverside of Qingshui River: Experience traditional ferries and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of "Border Town."
2. Stilted Buildings Cluster: Well-preserved Ming and Qing architecture showcasing the distinctive residential style of western Hunan.
3. Stone Slab Old Street: About 800 meters long, lined with shops on both sides, perfect for buying handicrafts.
4. Wind and Rain Bridge: A local landmark, great for resting and enjoying the view.

Recommended local delicacies:
1. Blood Rice Duck: A traditional western Hunan dish combining duck meat and glutinous rice perfectly.
2. Sour Soup Fish: Made with local river fish, sour and spicy to whet the appetite.
3. Rice Tofu: Delicate in texture, can be served cold or hot.
4. Cured Meat: Traditional Tujia-style preserved meat with a unique flavor.

For accommodation, it is recommended to stay at Linjiang Inn, where you can experience local life and enjoy river views. Advance booking is necessary during peak season. There are also many boutique guesthouses in the ancient town, with prices ranging from 200 to 500 yuan.

Notes:
1. Respect the customs and habits of local ethnic minorities.
2. Be cautious of flooding during the rainy season and check the weather in advance.
3. Some attractions require a combined ticket; it is advisable to check the latest prices beforehand.
4. Protect the environment of the ancient town and do not litter.

Chadong Ancient Town retains an authentic lifestyle atmosphere, suitable for travelers who enjoy a slow-paced trip. It is recommended to spend 2-3 days to deeply experience the unique charm of this border town.