Changsha - Discovering China

Travelling to Changsha

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Changsha, a pretty good destination in China (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Changsha and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Changsha, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through China, here's everything to know about Changsha for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Changsha

Changsha is a city located in southern China, in the province of Hunan. It has a population of over 7 million people and covers an area of 11,819 square kilometers. Changsha is known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and scenic natural landscapes. The city is home to many landmarks and tourist attractions such as the Yuelu Mountain, Orange Island, and the Hunan Provincial Museum. It is also a center for education, technology, and commerce in the region. The local cuisine in Changsha is also highly regarded and features many spicy dishes.

What to visit in Changsha

1. Yuelu Mountain: This scenic spot is located in the west of Changsha city and is a famous tourist attraction. The Mountain boasts of rich natural scenery, ancient buildings, and cultural relics. Its main attraction is the Yuelu Academy, which is one of the four ancient classical academies.
2. Orange Isle: It is a big island in the Xiangjiang River in Changsha City, and is surrounded by water on all sides, providing a great view of the city. Visitors can take a walk, jog, bike or take a boat ride around the island.
3. Tianxin Pavilion: It is a famous pavilion in Tianxin District of Changsha City, located in the heart of the city. With a rich cultural history and magnificent architecture, it is a popular spot for tourists.
4. The Hunan Provincial Museum: The museum is located in the south bank of Xiang River, Changsha. The museum has more than 4,00,000 exhibits and is divided into four exhibition areas, the Revolutionary History, Ancient History, Ceramic Art, and Minority Nationalities.
5. Martyrs' Park: It is located in the east of Changsha City and covers an area of 499,000 square meters. The park is dedicated to the Chinese revolutionaries, and it's a great place to go for a walk or relax.
6. Hunan Forest Botanical Garden: The garden is located in the Furong District of Changsha City and is one of the largest botanical gardens in China. The garden has more than 10,000 plant species and is a great place for nature lovers.
7. Meixihu International Culture & Arts Centre: It is located in the Meixi Lake Area, Changsha City. The centre is a hub for cultural performances and exhibitions, with artistic design and state-of-the-art facilities.
8. Changsha Window of the World: It is a world cultural theme park located in the Xingsha Economic Development Zone, Changsha. The park covers an area of more than 60 hectares and is home to miniature versions of famous landmarks from around the world.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in China, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Changsha

Changsha, China has a subtropical climate with hot and rainy summers, and mild and relatively dry winters. The best time to visit Changsha is in the autumn (September to November) when the temperatures are pleasant and the rainfall is low. Spring (March to May) is also a good time to visit when the weather is mild, and the flowers are in bloom. However, be aware that during Chinese holidays like National Day in early October, Changsha can get very crowded and prices can be higher. It is advisable to check the weather forecast and local events calendar before planning your trip.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Changsha

There are a few ways to get to Changsha, China: 1. By air: Changsha Huanghua International Airport is the major airport in Changsha, serving both domestic and international flights. Many major airlines offer direct flights to Changsha from major cities around the world.
2. By train: Changsha is well connected by rail to major cities in China. You can take a high-speed train from Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou or Shenzhen to Changsha.
3. By bus: If you are already in China, you can take a long-distance bus to Changsha from nearby cities like Wuhan, Nanchang or Changde.
4. By car: You can drive to Changsha, although the journey may take longer due to traffic and road conditions.
Whatever method of transportation you choose, it's important to plan ahead, make reservations in advance, and allow plenty of time for travel.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Changsha, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Changsha

Changsha is a city located in the Hunan Province of China, and it is known for its unique and delicious cuisine. Here are some typical foods of Changsha with a short description for each of them: 1. Stinky Tofu (臭豆腐): This is a fermented tofu dish that has a strong and pungent odor, hence the name "stinky" tofu. It is usually served fried with a crispy outer layer and a soft center. 2. Hunan Rice Noodles (湖南米粉): These are thin rice noodles that are served in a flavorful broth with various toppings such as pork, vegetables, and spices.
3. spicy beef and pork dishes: Hunan cuisine is known for being spicy, and beef and pork dishes are no exception. Some popular dishes include Spicy Beef Noodles (辣炒牛肉面) and Spicy Pork Belly (辣炒肉).
4. Tangerine Peel Chicken (陈皮鸡): This is a crispy chicken dish that is coated with dried tangerine peel, giving it a unique citrusy flavor.
5. Mao’s Braised Pork (毛氏红烧肉): This is a famous Hunan-style braised pork dish that is cooked with a combination of soy sauce, rock sugar, ginger, and other spices.
6. Steamed Fish Head with Chopped Chili Pepper (剁椒蒸鱼头): This dish features a steamed fish head that is flavored with chopped chili peppers and other spices.
7. Spicy Frog (辣子蛙): This is a traditional Hunan dish that features deep-fried frog legs that are seasoned with spicy chili peppers and other flavors. These are just a few examples of the many delicious and unique dishes that you can find in Changsha.
You can find general info about typical foods in China here.

Is Changsha an expensive destination for tourists?

Changsha can be considered moderately expensive for tourists depending on your budget and the activities you plan to do. Accommodation and transportation costs in Changsha are generally affordable. However, entrance fees to some tourist attractions, dining at upscale restaurants, and shopping can be quite costly. It is recommended that you plan your budget accordingly and research the cost of specific activities you want to do in Changsha before your trip.

Where to find accomodation in Changsha

The best areas to find accommodation in Changsha would be around the Wuyi Square, Furong Square, and Dongtang Business District. These areas are located in the central part of Changsha, which makes it easier to access popular tourist attractions, local restaurants, and shopping centers. Additionally, these areas have good transportation systems, which makes it easier to get around the city.
You can check hotel prices at Changsha here:
Booking.com

Is Changsha a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Changsha is generally a safe place for tourists. Overall, the city of Changsha is relatively safe compared to other major cities in China. However, as with any city, it is important to remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas or at night. It is also worth noting that some areas of the city may be more prone to petty crime such as pickpocketing or theft, so it is important to take necessary precautions such as keeping your belongings close to you. Overall, though, Changsha is a great destination for tourists with much to see and experience!
You can find general info about safety for tourists in China here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Changsha.

What type of travelers will enjoy Changsha the most?

Changsha, China can be enjoyed by various types of travelers. Here are some recommendations based on different types of travelers: 1. Couples: Changsha is a romantic destination with scenic spots that make it perfect for couples. The Yuelu Mountain Scenic Area, Orange Island, and Tianxin Pavilion are just some of the picturesque areas you can explore.
2. Young people looking for fun: The city has a vibrant nightlife scene with numerous bars and nightclubs, such as Monkey Club, Club 9, and Moose Bar. Additionally, there are several amusement parks, including the world's longest roller coaster at Happy Valley.
3. Families: Changsha also has many family-friendly attractions, including the Changsha Window of the World, a theme park with replicas of famous landmarks from around the world, and the Changsha Ferris Wheel, which provides a panoramic view of the city.
In summary, Changsha has something to offer for couples, young people looking for fun, and families.

How to get around Changsha

Changsha has various modes of transportation like buses, subway, taxis, and bikes. Buses are the most common form of transportation in the city, with 245 routes in operation. The subway system currently has four lines, and more routes are expected to become available in the coming years. Taxis are readily available in the city center but can be difficult to find in the suburbs. Finally, bikes are a popular way to get around the city, with bike rental stations available throughout the central area.

What to see around Changsha

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Changsha: 1. Mount Yuelu Scenic Area: Located in the Yuelu District of Changsha, Mount Yuelu is a beautiful scenic area with stunning views, historic temples, and ancient academies.
2. Shaoshan: This is the birthplace of Mao Zedong and has many historical sites, including Mao's childhood home and a museum dedicated to his life.
3. Furong Ancient Town: This town is located about 100 kilometers from Changsha and is worth a visit for its traditional architecture and picturesque scenery.
4. Tianmen Mountain: It is located in Zhangjiajie, which is about a 3-hour drive from Changsha. The mountain is known for its stunning natural scenery and glass walkway.
5. Hengshan Mountain: It is a sacred mountain in China and a popular destination for those seeking beautiful scenery and great hiking opportunities. 6. Chenzhou Dongjiang Lake: It is a picturesque lake located about 150 kilometers from Changsha. The lake is surrounded by beautiful mountains and is popular for its scenic boat rides. I hope this helps! Let me know if you need more information.
For every travel information about China you can click here.

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