Hometown of Great Leaders · Xiangtan Travel Guide | Red Culture + Food + Natural Scenery All in One

This city steeped in history is not only the hometown of great leaders but also a perfect blend of delicious cuisine and breathtaking natural scenery! Follow this guide to unlock the best ways to explore～🚀

🔥 **Must-Visit Attractions**
✅ **Hometown of Mao Zedong · Shaoshan**
🌟 China's top red tourism destination
📍 Address: Shaoshan Village, Shaoshan City, Xiangtan
🆓 Admission: Free (some attractions require reservations)
🚌 Transport: 1-hour direct bus from downtown
📸 Highlights:
- Mao Zedong’s Former Residence (Where the revolutionary journey began)
- Bronze Statue Square (Solemn and dignified—keep quiet for photos)
- Memorial Hall (Experience the life of a great leader)
💡 Tip: Crowds explode during holidays—visit off-peak!

🌸 **Panlong Grand View Garden**
🌺 Seasonal flower fields + petting zoo—perfect for families!
🎫 Admission: ¥80 (varies by season)
⏰ Suggested visit: 3-4 hours
🅿️ Parking: ¥10/day

🌉 **Xiangjiang River Scenic Belt**
📍 Address: Yanjiang Road, Yuhu District
💖 Recommended: Evening electric scooter rides are a must!
🌃 Lighting hours: 19:00-22:00

🎨 **Qi Baishi Memorial Hall**
🖌️ A paradise for calligraphy and painting lovers!
🆓 Free entry
⏰ Opening hours: 9:00-17:00 (Closed Mondays)

🌲 **Dongtai Mountain National Forest Park**
🏞️ A lung-cleansing retreat with panoramic views of Xiangtan
🚶 Suggested visit: 2-3 hours

🍜 **Xiangtan’s Must-Try Food**
1️⃣ **Mao-Style Braised Pork** 🥢
👉 Texture: Tender, melt-in-your-mouth goodness
📍 Try it at: Shaoshan Mao Family Restaurant

2️⃣ **Xiangtan Rice Noodles** 💯
🍜 Silky smooth—the ultimate breakfast choice
📍 Must-visit: Old-school noodle shops (worth the queue!)

3️⃣ **Chopped Chili Fish Head** 🌶️
🔥 Spicy and addictive—perfect with rice
📍 Best at: Xiangtan Old Street Fish Lips

4️⃣ **Sugar Oil Baba** 🍡
💛 Crispy outside, chewy inside—a sweet lover’s dream

5️⃣ **Steamed Preserved Meats** 🧆
Cured pork + fish + chicken—irresistibly fragrant!

🚄 **Transport Guide**
✔️ High-speed rail: Xiangtan North Station (10min from Changsha South)
✔️ City travel: Didi is affordable, but e-scooters are even more convenient

🏨 **Accommodation Picks**
💎 Downtown:
Huayin International Hotel (luxury)
Home Inn/Hanting (best value)

🏡 Shaoshan:
Shaoshan Hotel (steps from Mao’s Former Residence)

🗺️ **Itinerary Suggestions**
1️⃣ **Red Culture Day Trip**
Mao’s Former Residence → Bronze Statue Square → Memorial Hall → Farmhouse meal

2️⃣ **2-Day Deep Dive**
Day 1: Shaoshan attractions → Night cruise on Xiangjiang River
Day 2: Panlong Grand View Garden → Qi Baishi Memorial Hall

💡 **Travel Tips**
❗ Book Shaoshan tickets in advance
🌞 Sun protection is a must in summer
🌶️ Spice lovers—bring stomach medicine!

Xiangtan offers both the enlightenment of red culture and the joy of food and nature. Save this guide and start your Hunan adventure! ✨