Changsha-Liuyang Baisha Town (Self-Drive)

Liuyang Baisha Ancient Town Self-Drive Guide

**1. Route Planning**
- **From Changsha**: Approximately 1.5-2 hours via the Changliu Expressway (G6021) to Liuyang City, then transfer to National Highway G319 or Dongbai Road directly to Baisha Ancient Town.
- **From Liuyang City Center**: About 60 km along National Highway G319, with clear road signs along the way.

**2. Parking Information**
- Multiple parking lots are available around the ancient town. Avoid peak hours to prevent congestion.
- Some guesthouses (e.g., "Baisha Bai Aesthetics Guesthouse") also offer parking spaces, suitable for overnight visitors.

**3. Recommended Attractions**
- **Baisha Ancient Street**: Cobblestone paths and traditional wooden shops, preserving Ming and Qing architectural styles.
- **Wanfu Ancient Bridge**: A century-old stone bridge where locals often sun-dry quilts, full of local charm.
- **Wenchang Pavilion**: A Qing Dynasty structure offering panoramic views of the town.
- **Daxi River**: A tributary of the Liuyang River with clear water, ideal for strolling and photography.
- **Red Culture Sites**: Such as the Liu Family Ancestral Hall (headquarters of the Autumn Harvest Uprising) and the Shangping Conference Site.

**4. Food Recommendations**
- **Baisha Tofu**: A Liuyang intangible cultural heritage dish—try fried tofu, braised tofu, or oil tofu.
- **Liuyang Steamed Dishes**: Like steamed cured meats and dried tofu, recommended at local restaurants.
- **Local Snacks**: Fennel cakes, sugar-oil glutinous rice balls, and stinky tofu.

**5. Accommodation Recommendations**
- **Baisha Bai Aesthetics Guesthouse**: Minimalist and natural style, close to the ancient town center.
- **Moye·Banshan Duyin Zhuli Guesthouse**: Nestled in bamboo forests, featuring an infinity pool and BBQ area.
- **Waterfront Homestay**: Riverside lodging offering farm-style meals and root carving art experiences.

**6. Nearby Attractions**
- **Daweshan National Forest Park** (~20-minute drive): Activities include rafting, hiking, and skiing (winter).
- **Jinshoutang** (~15-minute drive): Former site of the Hunan Soviet Government, featuring ancient architecture.
- **Shikou Battlefield Rafting** (~12-minute drive): Perfect for summer adventures.

**7. Tips**
- Some areas of the ancient town retain their original charm with limited commercial facilities, so bring snacks and water.
- Winter visits offer snowy landscapes, but dress warmly.
- Respect local customs, such as avoiding disturbance to clothes drying on the bridge.

Baisha Ancient Town is ideal for travelers who enjoy slow living, history, and nature. Plan a 1-2 day trip and combine it with nearby Daweshan attractions.