It turns out the most beautiful city in Hunan isn't Changsha, but…

In Hunan, there's a small city of extraordinary beauty: Yueyang. Free from the hustle and bustle of a big city, it boasts captivating scenery and a rich history. Yueyang is home to the time-honored Yueyang Tower, as well as the vast, ocean-like Dongting Lake, where the breathtaking sunsets over the lake are a sight to behold. But Yueyang's charm doesn't end there. The industrial relics and crane wharves of the port silently narrate the city's past glory. A stroll through the old streets near Yueyang Port reveals rows of historical residences from the late Qing Dynasty, exuding a rich cultural atmosphere. The more you explore Yueyang, the more captivated you'll become by its unique charm. Here's a two-day itinerary for Yueyang, designed to help you fully appreciate the beauty of this small city: Two Days to Explore the Best of Yueyang D1: A Journey Through History and Romance In the morning, visit Yueyang Tower and immerse yourself in the sentiment of "Be the first to worry about the affairs of the state, and the last to enjoy its pleasures." Then, wander through Bianhe Street and experience the vibrancy of the ancient streets. In the afternoon, explore Dongting South Road and delve into the stories of its past. As evening approaches, head to Yueyang Port Industrial Ruins Park and witness a stunning sunset amidst the blend of industrial aesthetics and the fading sunlight. D2: Ancient Charm of Academia and Lakeside Romance Start your day with a visit to Hubin University and admire the Western-style buildings on this historic campus. Afterward, journey to Dongting Lake and experience the grandeur of the vast expanse of water. Finally, await the sunset at Piaowei and immerse yourself in the romantic spectacle of "floating light leaping gold." Must-See Attractions to Unlock Yueyang's Unique Charm 1. Yueyang Tower: A shining pearl on the shores of Dongting Lake and one of the four famous towers south of the Yangtze River, Yueyang Tower features a layered roof resembling ruyi dougong brackets. Its unique helmet-shaped roof structure is the only remaining example of its kind in ancient Chinese architecture. Although some of its ancient charm was lost during its reconstruction in 1982, its grandeur and solemnity remain undiminished. 2. Dongting South Road: This historical street next to Yueyang Port is rich in cultural heritage, with Qing Dynasty residences still retaining traces of everyday life. Amidst the city's transformation, it connects the memories of generations. Strolling through the quiet alleys, you can almost hear the whispers of the century-old houses. 3. Yueyang Port Industrial Ruins Park: Once a bustling port, this area has shed its industrial dust with the decline of inland waterway shipping, transforming into a captivating industrial ruins park with a retro vibe. It's also an excellent spot for sunset viewing, where the golden hues of the setting sun create a breathtaking spectacle. 4. Hubin University: The first formal university in Yueyang's modern history, Hubin University, though short-lived, left behind a collection of exquisite Western-style buildings. Situated on the shores of Dongting Lake, these buildings complement the surrounding scenery, creating a picturesque view. 5. Piaowei: A hidden gem with an artistic and romantic atmosphere, Piaowei is the ultimate sunset-viewing spot in Yueyang. As the sun sets, the sunlight dances on the deck and the water's surface, creating a dreamlike scene of "floating light leaping gold." The fusion of water and sky creates an incredibly romantic ambiance.