2026 Pingjiang Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in July)

Glass bridge of Shiniuzhai. The area is very beautiful and it’s easy to get to the location ,you can buy your day tour from trip.com or you can drive a car to the tourist center there’s a special bus that will take you to the scenic area. To go to the glass bridge you will have to buy another ticket is not included in the ticket. there is beautiful hotels nearby that you can stay and have a lovely holiday #nationalpark#summervacation#beachvacation#hikingtrails#hotelstay#urbanexplorer

As soon as the boat docked at Junshan Island pier, an auntie came over carrying a bowl of lotus seed pods asking if I wanted to buy some—three for five yuan. I peeled one and popped it into my mouth—it was sweet, with a fresh fishy scent from the lake water. Just that one bite completely relaxed me. The city of Yueyang is seriously underrated. Most people only know to check in at Yueyang Tower and then leave, but the truly worthwhile experience is the entire area around Dongting Lake. I stayed for four days and three nights this time, didn’t visit Yueyang Tower (too crowded), and spent the whole time around the lake. The experience was ten thousand times better than just checking in. 📍Junshan Island—An Overlooked Treasure The ticket includes the boat ride and costs 78 yuan. It’s about a 20-minute boat ride from Yueyang Tower pier. The island isn’t big; two hours of slow walking is enough. The charm lies in the few people and the high vegetation coverage. Walking on the shaded paths in summer feels several degrees cooler than the city. I highly recommend the path between Liuyi Well and Chuan Shu Pavilion, flanked by Xiangfei bamboo forests, with the rustling sound of bamboo leaves in the wind. There’s also a silverfish beach on the island; when the water recedes, you can walk to the lake edge where the water is ankle-deep. The lake stretches endlessly in the distance, giving the illusion that "Dongting is the sea." 📍Dongting South Road Historical and Cultural District—The Night is the Real Show This street only comes alive after 8 p.m. The old lakeside buildings are warmly lit, a singer performs old songs at the street corner, and a crowd gathers in front of the naked-eye 3D screen for photos. Walking from the street river mouth to Yueyang Gate, the lake breeze rushes into the alley, instantly cooling the heat. I had a craft beer at an outdoor lakeside spot, staring blankly at the lights across the water. There’s a lakeside music festival every Saturday night, free of charge, with a great atmosphere—recommend reserving a spot early. 📍Dongting Lake Museum—A Free Air-Conditioned Treasure Open Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., closed on Mondays. The museum covers 280 acres with over 50,000 square meters of building space. Honestly, I thought it would be boring before going in. But the exhibits are very well done, including an immersive Dongting Lake ecological simulation area with stunning light and shadow effects. The best part—plenty of air conditioning. It was 38 degrees outside, but spending two hours inside revived both my mind and body. 📍South Lake Loop Cycling—1,200 Hectares of Greenway You can rent a shared bike and ride along the well-maintained lakeside greenway with almost no motor vehicle interference. I rode about 12 kilometers of the route; the lake bays twist and turn, each corner offering a different angle of the lake view. Going in the late afternoon around 4 or 5 p.m., the light softens and the water’s reflection looks like scattered gold. The ancient embankment at Sanyan Bridge is very atmospheric, with centuries-old stone slabs that give a sense of time travel when you ride over them. 📍Zhangguying Village—The "Folk Palace Museum" Just over an hour’s drive from the city. This Ming and Qing dynasty ancient village is remarkable because it still has residents after more than 600 years, not a fake tourist town. The entire complex is built along the mountain, with a maze-like network of alleys and over 200 courtyards. The ancient lighting and drainage systems show the wisdom of the ancestors. Tickets cost about 50 yuan; it’s recommended to hire a local guide (50 yuan per hour) because many details are hard to notice without explanation. I bought handmade tofu skin in the village, 10 yuan for a big bag—cooked into soup back home, it was delicious enough to cry. ⚠️ Practical Tips: → Yueyang Tower ticket is 70 yuan; reciting the full text of "Record of Yueyang Tower" grants free admission—give it a try if you know it → Water levels in Dongting Lake are high in July, some areas of Junshan Island may be temporarily closed; check official notices before departure → No direct bus from the city to Zhangguying Village; taxi one way costs about 120 yuan; self-driving or carpooling is recommended → Lots of mosquitoes by the lake; be sure to apply insect repellent in the evening Accommodation 🏨 Huaya Yunman·Hidden Luxury Hotel (Yueyang Tower Scenic Area Branch) A garden-style resort hotel with a restaurant overlooking the lake, the rooftop viewing platform is perfect for sunsets, great for afternoon tea photos, and within walking distance to Yueyang Tower and Bianhe Street 🏨 Baling·Yonghu Manor Hotel (Dongting Lake China Panda Park Branch) A wild luxury manor nestled in nature, villa rooms offer great privacy, surrounded by pastoral scenery, free parking, pet-friendly, with service so attentive it’s almost embarrassing 🏨 Naguo·K Resort Homestay A villa homestay on the foothills of Dongting Lake town, renovated from an ancient village preserving its original charm, each room has an independent courtyard view, newly rated five-star in Hunan Province in 2025 🏨 Zizai Pingjiang Wild Luxury Resort Hotel Although a bit far from the city, it’s definitely worth the trip. Experience wild luxury in the Danxia landform, with Eagle Rock Cliff Residence built on the mountaintop offering 360-degree unobstructed valley views

🍴 Pingjiang Yushe Private Kitchen | A Warm Culinary Rendezvous in a Rural Town 🌾 Deep within the Lijiang Rural Art Town, Pingjiang Yushe not only offers poetic accommodations, but also a table of meticulously prepared private kitchen delicacies. We have carefully prepared meals for 2-3 people, using fresh local ingredients to recreate authentic Hunan flavors. 🐟 Signature Fire-Roasted Fish Slowly roasted over low heat until the skin is slightly crispy, while the inside remains tender. The fish's aroma is infused with the smoky scent of charcoal, one bite, and you're enveloped in the authentic taste of Yueyang Lake 😋. 🌶️ Stir-fried Pork with Chili A soul-stirring home-style dish of Hunan. Local chili peppers paired with local pork, stir-fried quickly over high heat, spicy to the point of being addictive, and richly fragrant, truly a "rice killer" 😋. 🥣 Lily Bulb and Lean Pork Soup A bowl of soothing soup, perfect for relieving the spiciness. Sweet lilies, tender slices of meat, slow-cooked over high heat to bring out their natural freshness, no need for extra seasoning. 🥦 Stir-fried Seasonal Vegetables Harvested and served daily. Using the simplest cooking methods, preserving the most authentic freshness of the ingredients. A small gathering for two, a quiet drink for three, a table of home-style dishes, yet holding a carefully crafted rustic flavor. Pingjiang Yushe Private Kitchen, not only offering poetic accommodations, but also dining with heart. 🤗 We look forward to your visit. Pingjiang Yushe Private Kitchen Yueyang·Lijiang Pastoral Art Town 2-3 Person Meal|Reservations Available 🏷️

Starting from Vienna, choose from two natural routes, perfect for outdoor lovers and photographers like you👇 🏔️【Pingjiang Shiniuzhai – "Little Zhangjiajie of Northern Hunan"】 A national AAAA-level scenic area, about a 40-minute drive from the hotel. Typical Danxia landform featuring strange rocks, unique peaks, and stone caves. Must-visit spots: the high-altitude glass bridge overlooking the hundred-mile Danxia; the sky mirror for stunning reflection shots; the cliff swing to feel the mountain breeze howl. Open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM), recommended visit time 3-5 hours. 🦢【Donggu Lake – International Wetland Birdwatching Haven】 Yueyang was certified as an "International Wetland City" in 2025. Donggu Lake has recently emerged as a top birdwatching destination—over 10,000 little swans, and more than 60,000 rare migratory birds including white cranes, grey cranes, geese, and ducks. Winter is the best season for birdwatching, with flocks of migratory birds feeding and playing in the wetlands, creating a spectacular scene. The 14th Dongting Lake International Birdwatching Festival is also about to be held. About a 1-hour drive from the hotel. Stay next to the train station, spend one day adventuring in Danxia, and another day watching tens of thousands of birds take flight—perfect for outdoor photography enthusiasts! 🦢

🌶️ Who understands! June in Changsha is truly a food lover’s paradise. You might not believe it, but I stayed in Changsha for 3 days, gained 5 pounds, and was happy for a whole month! June in Changsha is really friendly — temperatures are just right at 28-32℃, there are half as many tourists as in peak season, the night markets are already lively, crayfish are in season, and you don’t even have to queue long at Cha Yan Yue Se! 🕒 The right way to enjoy Changsha is to rest during the day and go out at night. Morning: Hide in air conditioning and learn something new ✨ Hunan Provincial Museum | Free but must book 7 days in advance! Focus on the Mawangdui Han Tomb exhibits: the silk gauze burial clothes, T-shaped silk paintings, the millennium-preserved Lady Xin Zhui... I got goosebumps after spending 2-3 hours there. The museum’s air conditioning is super strong, perfect to avoid the morning sun. ✨ Xie Zilong Image Gallery | Free to take photos outside Don’t foolishly buy tickets to go inside! The white buildings outside, geometric lines, spiral staircase — every shot looks like a masterpiece. Recommended to visit after 4 PM when the light is soft. Closed on Mondays, so don’t go then. Afternoon: Escape the heat in the forest + artsy check-ins 🌳 Yuelu Mountain | Go early at 7-8 AM for fewer people and coolness Don’t take the sightseeing bus! Take the cable car from the East Gate (30 RMB one way) and enjoy the healing view of the whole Star City. Have a cup of Cha Yan tea at the top, then walk down passing Aiwan Pavilion and Yuelu Academy, shaded all the way with no sun exposure. 📚 Yuelu Academy | 40 RMB ticket worth every penny The top of China’s four great academies, the heritage of this thousand-year-old school is truly unique. The old site where Zhu and Zhang lectured, the plaque bestowed by Emperor Qianlong, sitting in the courtyard listening to cicadas makes you feel refined. Evening: Changsha nightlife officially begins! 🌃 Orange Isle | Go at 5 PM to watch the sunset Take the small train straight to the statue of young Chairman Mao, the evening river breeze is so comfortable! There’s a fireworks show on weekends (8:30-8:50 PM), remember to reserve your spot early. 🍢 Dongguashan Night Market | The night market locals truly love Don’t go to the overcrowded Taiping Street! Dongguashan is the soul of Changsha’s night snacks: · Dongguashan Sausage: 3 RMB each, sweet and spicy, crispy outside and tender inside, I ate 5 by myself · Dandan Hot Marinated: Must order the pork lard mixed noodles, the aroma of pork lard coats the smooth rice noodles · Mengzhong BBQ: Fiery beef and grilled beef fat, spicy enough to make you gasp but you want more 🍜 Changsha Food Guide (Follow this and you won’t go wrong) Breakfast essentials · Gongjiao Xincun Noodle Shop: Beef noodles, generous toppings · Yang Yuxing: Shredded pork noodles, a daily staple for old Changsha locals · Jinji Sugar Oil Baba: Crispy outside, tender inside, sweet but not greasy Main dishes · Lu Ge Restaurant: Sour radish beef tripe, salted egg yolk eggplant, a local secret · Yizhandeng: Duck web tendon, pickled pepper beef, spicy and satisfying · Chef Fei: Stir-fried yellow beef, so fragrant you’ll lick the plate Must-try snacks · Black Classic Stinky Tofu: Crispy outside, tender inside, juicy and spicy · Gualiangfen (Cold Jelly Noodles): So refreshing in summer · Perilla Peach Ginger: The perfect antidote to spiciness, sweet and appetizing · Cha Yan Yue Se: Orchid latte, Shengsheng oolong, three cups a day is never too much 💡 Exclusive June Tips for Changsha 1. Don’t go out at noon! The sun in Changsha is really strong 2. The subway goes directly to all attractions, no need to take taxis 3. Almost all attractions are free, remember to book in advance 4. Bring stomach medicine, Hunan cuisine is really spicy 5. Bargaining at night markets? No way, prices are clearly marked and fair to all ages --- Accommodation 🏨 Zizai Pingjiang Wild Luxury Resort 1 hour drive from Changsha, covers the stunning scenery of the entire Danxia Mountain peak, a real-life Peach Blossom Land, very private 🏨 Changsha No.5 Valley Features treehouses, bird nests, pool view rooms, overlooking bamboo forests, rice fields, and valley views, with an infinity heated pool and stunning sunsets 🏨 Star Traveler Wild Luxury Resort Located deep in the original forest of Zizhu Mountain, perfectly blending pristine nature with light luxury living, the mountaintop starry sky view is unparalleled 🏨 Xueqingji・Shanshi Qinglan Resort Homestay An independent island in Yanghu Wetland Park, adjacent to the Li Zijian Art Museum, beautiful natural scenery and excellent ecological environment

🌊 The most thrilling Tuolong Gorge rafting guide is here! One-day group tour departing from Changsha! 💰 Around 200 RMB. Includes the following: round-trip transportation from Changsha to Tuolong Gorge; Tuolong Gorge entrance ticket; disposable gloves; Meals: (meal standard 💰30 RMB, food is okay, you can add dishes yourself). 1️⃣ What to bring for rafting? ❶: Sunscreen, waterproof phone case (if you don’t need to take photos, you can skip this), disposable bath towel, body wash, shampoo, a change of dry clothes, hairdryer (must bring!!! The scenic area charges very high fees, not worth it), hole shoes (about 15 RMB/pair if you buy), water gun (there are many slow-flow areas, buy if you want to have water fights, water scoops are recommended), goggles and glasses strap (nearsighted friends can prepare one). ❷ Other fees? Locker rental 20 RMB each, this is necessary because there’s no place to store your change of clothes. Helmet and knee pad rental fee 50 RMB, this is a deposit and refundable. ❸ Is it easy to capsize while rafting? I didn’t encounter any capsizing that day, and even a companion with a weight difference of nearly 100 jin (about 110 lbs) didn’t capsize. The chance of capsizing is quite low as long as you follow the instructions. When rafting, you must not let go of the handrail and try to lean forward. ❹ Is it very dangerous? Overall, it’s quite safe if you don’t capsize, because the scenic area provides life jackets (with whistles), knee pads, helmets, and there are staff along the way. ❺ Is there a charge for the shower center? No charge, and basically no need to queue. Each person has a private bathroom, which is quite good. If you have other questions, feel free to ask in the comments. The above are personal opinions for reference only!

🌿 Foreword June in Changsha marks the height of summer, but don’t just crowd into Yuelu Mountain or Orange Isle! Today, I’m revealing my years-long hidden summer getaway spots. Fewer people, beautiful scenery, and cool temperatures—locals head here on weekends~ · -- 💦 Taohualing Park|Changsha’s "Little Jiuzhaigou" for Stream Trekking and Fish Catching Address: Taohualing Scenic Area, Meixi Lake Road, Yuelu District Admission: Free Best Time: 8:00-11:00 / 16:00-18:00 Stop struggling with Yuelu Mountain! Taohualing is the true summer backyard for Changsha locals🌳 In June, the dense greenery shades the area, with babbling streams and temperatures 5℃ cooler than downtown—it's like a natural air-conditioned room! Pristine forest + crystal-clear streams, few people, peaceful, and full of forest vibes. ✅ Must-Do Tips: · Head straight to the North Gate stream trekking area, barefoot water walking is super healing, the water is ice-cold enough to scream · Bring a net and a small bucket; kids can catch little fish and shrimp · Take panoramic shots from the mid-mountain viewing platform, the lake reflections are breathtaking · Remember to wear non-slip shoes, the rocks can be slippery 🌊 Zhouluo Grand Canyon|The Ultimate Summer Escape Near Changsha Address: Zhouluo Village, Shegang Town, Liuyang City Admission: 60 RMB Travel Time: 1.5 hours from downtown The canyon is deep and narrow, with tall mountains on both sides blocking the scorching sun. The stream runs through the entire area, making it perfect for water play and cooling off from June to August. The stone steps inside the canyon are stable, water-side paths are well protected, with waterfalls and shallow pools appearing along the way. The water is clear and icy cold. ✅ Highlights: · Xianjian Waterfall: 50 meters drop, the mist is super refreshing · Mandarin Duck Waterfall: twin waterfalls, perfect for photos · Moon Pool: a natural swimming pool, dare to jump in if you want · Shallow pools along the way, perfect for stepping in to cool down anytime 🎋 Dashanchong Forest Park|Changsha’s "Little Xing’an Mountains" Address: Dashanchong Forest Park, Lukou Town, Changsha County Admission: Free Travel Time: 1 hour from downtown The forest coverage here reaches 95%, with towering dawn redwoods forming natural sunshades. Walking on the forest trails, you won’t feel the sun at all. In June, the redwood forest is lush and green, sunlight filters through the leaves creating dappled shadows—every photo looks like a forest masterpiece. ✅ Photo Spots: · Dawn Redwood Avenue: straight rows of redwoods stretching into the distance, a must-shoot! · Wooden Bridge by the Stream: paired with flowing water, full of atmosphere · Tea Garden: a small, less crowded tea garden halfway up the mountain, beautiful scenery 🏮 Xiyuan Beili|A Century-Old Cool Alley in the City Center Address: No. 305 Xiangchun Road, Kaifu District Admission: Free Transport: 5-minute walk from Peiyuanqiao Metro Station Compared to the crowded Taiping Street, this place is quiet like stepping back into old Changsha. A 300-meter bluestone alley hides 7 cultural heritage sites, with white walls and bamboo shadows giving a little Kyoto vibe. The old locust trees in the alley provide full shade, making it especially cool to walk through. ✅ Artsy Activities: · Browse rare old books at the grandpa’s bookstore at the alley entrance, 5 RMB each · Overlook old city tile roofs from the hand-pour bar at Luguang Coffee · Capture stunning light and shadow photos of blue brick door frames at sunset · Chance encounters with cats napping under eaves 🎨 Houhu Art Park|A Summer Haven for Artsy Youth Address: Houhu Road, Yuelu District Admission: Free Transport: Metro Line 4, Hunan University Station This is the gathering place for Changsha’s artsy youth, with lakeside trails + artsy cafes + graffiti walls. The lake breeze keeps you cool all afternoon. Each café has its own unique decor; order an iced Americano and relax all afternoon, super cozy. · -- ✨ June Changsha Travel Tips 1. Avoid the hottest hours from 12:00 to 15:00 2. Carry a small fan and cooling spray 3. Keep iced milk tea, iced jelly, and cold snacks handy 4. Recommended indoor spots: Xie Zilong Image Gallery, Li Zijian Art Museum, Hunan Provincial Museum --- Accommodation 🏨 Zizai Pingjiang Wild Luxury Resort Hotel Owns breathtaking views of the entire Danxia mountain peak, 1 hour from Changsha, private standalone villas, infinity pool perfect for sunset views. 🏨 Changsha No.5 Valley Features treehouses, bird nests, and pool view rooms, surrounded by bamboo forests, rice fields, and valley views. The infinity heated pool at sunset is especially stunning, with attentive butler service. 🏨 Xueqingji・Shanshi Qinglan Resort Homestay An independent island in Yanghu Wetland Park, near Li Zijian Art Museum and Xie Zilong Image Art Gallery, with beautiful natural scenery and excellent ecological environment. 🏨 Shan’ao’ao SANOO Homestay Located inside Dawei Mountain National Forest Park, with 99% forest coverage, known as the "Green Pearl of Eastern Hunan," summer temperatures average 8℃ cooler than downtown.

In the scorching summer, escaping the city's hustle and heat, I embarked on a journey to Tianyue Mufu Mountain. Located at the junction of Hunan, Hubei, and Jiangxi provinces, this famous mountain attracts me with its majestic peaks, beautiful natural scenery, and rich cultural heritage. Departure: Setting off with anticipation Early in the morning, while the sunlight was still gentle, I left Changsha and drove swiftly along the highway. The scenery outside the window kept changing, with the bustling city gradually replaced by the tranquility of the countryside. About two hours later, I arrived at Nanjiang Town at the foot of Tianyue Mufu Mountain. After a brief stop in town to taste local specialties and recharge, I officially began my mountain climbing adventure. Climbing: Encountering the beauty of nature First cable car experience Upon arriving at the Tianyue Mufu Mountain Visitor Center, I purchased a package ticket that included admission and cable car rides. Taking the cable car is a convenient way to ascend the mountain. The cable car stretches 2,493 meters with a vertical height difference of 987 meters, known as the first large international cable car in northern Hunan. Sitting in the cabin, slowly rising, the view gradually opened up. The lush forest below looked like a green ocean, with waves of greenery rolling as the cable car moved. The distant mountain ranges undulated continuously, shrouded in mist, appearing like an ink painting. Hiking exploration After getting off at the cable car upper station, I chose to continue on foot. Following the winding mountain path, I first reached the Laolonggou Waterfall Group. There are dozens of waterfalls here, including small, medium, and Mandarin Duck waterfalls, as well as unique mist, wind, and rain waterfalls. Standing before the falls, feeling the cool spray on my face and hearing the roaring water, it felt like being in a natural concert hall. Sunlight filtering through the leaves created beautiful rainbows over the waterfalls, inspiring awe at nature’s craftsmanship. Continuing forward, I arrived at the Tianyue Feilong Forest Adventure Park. This place is full of excitement and challenges, featuring attractions like the Alpine Track and Spider Web Playground. I bravely tried the Alpine Track, riding the track car through the forest along an 800-meter track, speeding through 360-degree turns. The thrill and speed made my heart race, and I shouted with delight. The Spider Web Playground is more suitable for family fun, with dense nets forming a huge play space where children happily jump and play, filled with laughter. Exploring attractions Climbing further along the mountain path, I reached Yifengjian, the main peak of Tianyue Mufu Mountain, at an elevation of 1,596 meters. Standing on the summit, I gazed far and wide, taking in the magnificent scenery of the three provinces of Hunan, Hubei, and Jiangxi. The endless mountain ranges met the sky, seemingly without end. Towns and villages in the distance looked like sparkling jewels embedded in the earth. A gentle breeze brought a refreshing coolness, making me feel relaxed and joyful. Near Yifengjian, there are many attractions worth exploring. Taiyuan Tiangong is a solemn Taoist temple housing statues of Nüwa and other deities, with bustling incense offerings. The temple’s architecture is unique, with flying eaves and intricate brackets, grand in scale. Here, I felt the profound and mysterious charm of Taoist culture. Baigui Boiling Sand Pool is a peculiar spring well, with white sand covering the bottom. Water gushes from the bottom, causing the sand to swirl like boiling water. At the bottom lies a white stone turtle. Legend says Fuxi once raised a white turtle here to observe celestial phenomena, inspired by the turtle’s shell patterns to create the Bagua diagram. I scooped up some spring water, cool and sweet, refreshing my body and soul, as if sensing the wisdom and spirit from a thousand years ago. Wentian Terrace is a place full of legend. It is said that Qu Yuan composed "Heavenly Questions" here, lamenting the hardships of the people and his unfulfilled patriotism, asking the heavens a series of questions from the cosmos and mythology to reality. Standing on Wentian Terrace, with a deep cliff beneath and drifting clouds above, strange ravines and forest rocks around, I felt a sense of timelessness. I seemed to see Qu Yuan’s lonely yet resolute figure, feeling his spirit of seeking truth. Camping: Overnight in the mountains, gazing at the stars At dusk, I chose to camp at a tent site on the mountain. The campsite is located in a scenic spot surrounded by dense woods and clear streams. The staff warmly welcomed me and helped set up my tent. After settling in, I strolled around the campsite, enjoying the summer mountain scenery. The sunset’s afterglow draped the mountains in a golden veil. Birds sang joyfully on the branches, and the stream babbled like a beautiful symphony. As night fell, the campsite held a music and barbecue party. Everyone gathered around, enjoying delicious barbecue, listening to melodious music, and sharing travel stories. Amid laughter and joy, I felt the warmth and friendship among people. After dinner, I lay on a lounge chair outside the tent, gazing at the starry sky. The summer night sky was exceptionally clear, stars twinkling like gems on a black canvas. The Milky Way stretched across the sky like a dazzling ribbon. Immersed in this beautiful starry sky, I forgot all worries and fatigue, feeling peaceful and fulfilled. Return: Leaving with beautiful memories The next morning, I was awakened by birdsong. Stepping out of the tent, a thin mist enveloped the mountain, like a fairyland. I went to the Observation Terrace to wait for sunrise. Gradually, the eastern sky brightened from pale white to orange-red. Soon, the sun slowly rose behind the mountains, casting golden light over the land, bringing vitality to all things. Watching this magnificent sunrise, my heart was filled with emotion and reverence. After the sunrise, I packed up and took the cable car down the mountain. On the way down, I reflected on the two-day journey, feeling reluctant to leave. The summer trip to Tianyue Mufu Mountain allowed me to escape the city’s noise and heat, get close to nature, and experience its beauty and wonder. Here, I not only admired stunning natural scenery but also enjoyed thrilling attractions, learned about rich cultural heritage, and made new friends. All of this will become a cherished memory in my life. When I returned to the city, the noise and heat greeted me again, but my heart was calmer and more composed. I knew that on this summer journey to Tianyue Mufu Mountain, I found a spiritual sanctuary of my own. I believe this beautiful memory will always accompany me, inspiring me to move forward bravely in life. 1. Basic travel information 1. Opening hours Open year-round, daily from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. It is recommended to enter before 9 AM to allow ample time for sightseeing. To watch the sunrise, consider staying overnight at a mountaintop guesthouse. 2. Tickets and transportation fees · Admission ticket: Regular adult ticket price is 70 RMB, with better discounts for online advance booking. Seniors and students enjoy half-price discounts. · Shuttle bus: 25 RMB per person (valid for the day, mandatory purchase). Private cars are prohibited on the main roads of the scenic area. The shuttle bus connects the cable car entrance and the core mountaintop area, as the distances between key spots are considerable. · Tianyue Cableway: 80 RMB one-way, 130 RMB round-trip. The cableway is 2,600 meters long and takes 15 minutes to reach the summit. It is the preferred choice for effortless sightseeing. Transparent glass cabins are available for an immersive view of the forest below. 2. Must-visit core attractions 1. Yifengjian (Main Peak) The highest point of the scenic area and the core spot for panoramic views and watching the sunrise over the sea of clouds. From the summit, you can overlook the scenery at the junction of Hunan, Hubei, and Jiangxi provinces. When clouds rise, it feels like standing among the clouds with an extremely broad view. It is the iconic check-in spot of Mufu Mountain. 2. Tianyue Light Viewing Platform A popular suspended viewing platform with unobstructed views facing vast mountain forests and valleys. Paired with blue skies, white clouds, and rolling sea of clouds, it is a highly atmospheric photo spot and a must-visit for tourists. 3. Mufu Red Cliff One of the eight ancient scenic spots of Pingjiang, featuring bright red cliff walls contrasted with lush green trees. A cliffside plank road is built along the cliff, offering a thrilling yet healing hiking experience. Along the way, you can check in at unique rock formations like Iron Hammer, Nüwa’s Hand, and Repairing Heaven Terrace. 4. Laolonggou Waterfall Group & Stream Tracing Trail A 3-kilometer-long pristine stream tracing trail with crystal-clear water. Along the way are multiple tiered waterfalls, clear pools, and shallow beaches. In summer, you can step into the water to cool off and play. The forest coverage is very high, with abundant negative oxygen ions, making it a natural oxygen bar.

June Summer Exclusive・Ten Thousand Mu Lotus Pond + Creek Tracing Rafting Complete Guide 🌸 The right way to enjoy Yueyang in June! Ten thousand mu of lotus ponds in full bloom, an 18°C man-made cave for summer cooling, and refreshing mountain creek tracing rafting for a cool summer~This guide organizes the best summer activities in Yueyang, so you can enjoy comfortably even in 30°C+ weather! 🪷 June Exclusive・Yunmeng Summer Lotus Journey 🪷 Junshan Wild Lotus World|Asia’s Largest Asia’s largest wild lotus cluster! Best from late June to August, the vast lotus pond stretches endlessly, with the real-life scene of "lotus leaves touching the sky, endless green, lotus flowers uniquely red under the sun" right before your eyes! Take a small boat through the lotus pond, lotus flowers within reach, perfect for photos, a must for Hanfu enthusiasts! 🚣 Tuanhu Lotus Picking|Summer Exclusive Experience Ride a small wooden boat into the lotus pond to pick lotus pods, fresh lotus seeds are sweet and refreshing, freshly picked and eaten on the spot is so satisfying! You can also watch fishermen catch fish and experience water town life, kids love this activity! 🌅 Nanhu Lotus Viewing|Lotus Pond in the City Free! There is a large lotus pond in the urban area, ride along the three-ring greenway of Nanhu, watch the lotus flowers with the sunset over the thousand-mu lake in the evening, gentle evening breeze, perfect for walking or jogging, locals’ favorite after-dinner stroll! 🌡️ Cool Secret Realm・10°C Cooler Than the City 🕳️ 6501 Scenic Area|18°C Man-made Cave Natural air-conditioned room! A mysterious military project, the cave stays at 18°C year-round, wear a jacket in summer! The huge man-made cave is stunning, learn about that glorious history, summer cooling + red education, two benefits in one. 💦 Chunxi Town|Creek Tracing Paradise The ultimate summer cooling spot! Walk entirely in the creek water, clear and icy cold, splash water fights and catch small fish, kids don’t want to leave! Fully shaded all along, no sun exposure at all, bring change of clothes and slippers, play all afternoon without feeling hot! 🚣 Tuolong Gorge Rafting|Hunan’s Most Thrilling A 299-meter drop! Known as "the world’s largest drop rafting," full of screams, super thrilling! Starts rafting in June, have a wet battle in the hot summer, cool and stress-relieving, a must for young people! 🚂 Lutoujing Valley|Forest Mini Train Popular forest mini train! Runs through the primeval forest, full of negative oxygen ions, plus cloud kayaking and canyon creek tracing, few people and beautiful scenery, perfect for photos, Yueyang’s new popular check-in spot! ⛰️ Tianyue Mufu Mountain|Sea of Clouds Sunrise 10°C cooler than the city! The highest peak in northern Hunan, watch the sea of clouds sunrise from the summit, so healing! Cliff plank road, sky mirror, popular swing, stay overnight on the mountain top to stargaze, summer cooling is so comfortable~ 👶 Cute Kids Seeking Cool・Parent-Child Summer Escape Routes 🐼 China Giant Panda Garden 8 giant pandas playing and rolling, kids love it the most! Dongting Lake Town also has a non-powered amusement park and cute pet interactions, fun all day long without getting tired, right next to Nanhu, great environment. 🏰 Yangsha Lake International Tourism Resort Water park, fishing kiln town, colorful flower fields, one-stop parent-child vacation, the top choice for summer water fun! Convenient from Changsha and Yueyang, perfect for weekend family relaxation. 🏮 Changle Ancient Town|Intangible Cultural Heritage Experience A thousand-year-old ancient town, birthplace of sweet wine culture, experience stilt walking, storytelling intangible heritage, taste Changle sweet wine, feel the charm of traditional culture, quiet and less crowded, suitable for families. 🗓️ Official Recommendation・3 Days 2 Nights Summer Escape Routes 🌿 Secret Cool Journey (2 Days 1 Night) 6501 Scenic Area (18°C Cave) → Dashiao’ao Wonderland Creek Tracing → Wujian Mountain National Forest Park → Buoy Characteristic Town 🌸 Yunmeng Summer Lotus Journey (3 Days 2 Nights) Yueyang Tower → Dongting South Road Historic District → Junshan Wild Lotus World → Dongting Lake Museum → Peach Blossom Mountain Forest Park 💧 Refreshing Mountain and Lake Journey (3 Days 2 Nights) Chunxi Town Creek Tracing → Tuolong Gorge Rafting → Lutoujing Valley Forest Mini Train → Tianyue Mufu Mountain Sea of Clouds Sunrise 🍧 Summer Cooling Delicacies · 🧊 Huarong Ice Flower: Intangible cultural heritage snack, summer cooling magic · 🍧 Mung Bean Paste: Barbecue staple, cool and refreshing · 🍶 Changle Sweet Wine: Cool and sweet, Yueyang specialty · 🍉 Dongting Watermelon: Sandy and sweet, summer must-have · 🥤 Liangfen (Cold Jelly): Q elastic and smooth, cool and refreshing · 🍋 Lemon Tea: Hand-beaten super refreshing, relieves greasiness and thirst ⚠️ Summer Escape Tips: 1. Bring change of clothes + slippers for rafting and creek tracing; 2. 6501 cave is cold, bring a light jacket; 3. Best lotus viewing time: early morning or evening; 4. Sunscreen + mosquito repellent essential! 🏨 Accommodation 🏨 Yueyang K Resort Hotel (Dongting Lake China Panda Garden Branch) Core location in Dongting Lake Town, free shuttle to Panda Garden, beautiful garden-style resort environment, pet-friendly + family-themed rooms, lakeside beautiful residence + home theater, ranked No.15 among Yueyang luxury hotels. 🏨 Meisu Yuezhi Hotel (Yueyang Pingjiang Branch) Located in Yueyang Pingjiang rural area, warm tones wrapped in rustic atmosphere, elegant design aesthetics blending with nature, surrounding mountain scenery + Hunan farmhouse cuisine, full relaxation vibe. 🏨 Yueyang Pusu Homestay (Dongting Lake Town Branch) Near Nanhu Youle International RV Campground in Dongting Lake Town, beautiful environment and fresh air, free parking + fishing + garden, newly opened with complete facilities, a great place to get close to nature. 🏨 Bamboo Yilin Homestay (Yueyang Junshan Birdsong Forest Resort Branch) Junshan Birdsong Forest Eco Campground, surrounded by Birdsong Forest, Light Valley, and Feather Forest Secret Realm, beautiful mountain scenery, newly opened with new facilities, close to nature for healing body and mind.

🌶️ June in Changsha is the river breeze of Orange Isle mixed with the aroma of chili peppers, and the lively night scene that’s still buzzing at 3 a.m.! This classic attraction checklist will take you through the city’s most iconic landmarks efficiently, avoiding crowds and capturing great photos~ 📸 Must-Visit Landmark Route Orange Isle Scenic Area 🍊 Changsha’s city calling card—missing it means missing out! In June, it’s best to enter around 4-5 p.m. to avoid the midday heat and catch the stunning sunset. Take the sightseeing bus directly to the Youth Mao Zedong Statue, a magnificent 32-meter-high sculpture—taking a photo here is a must. On weekend nights from 8:30 to 8:50 p.m., there’s a fireworks show; Du Fu Jiang Pavilion is the best viewing spot, so be sure to secure your place early! 💡Tips: Book 3 days in advance via the official WeChat account; tickets are released at midnight and are highly sought after on weekends. The sightseeing bus round trip costs 40 RMB; walking is 5 km, so don’t overexert yourself. Yuelu Mountain ⛰️ The Aiwan Pavilion from the famous poem "Stopping the carriage to admire the maple forest at dusk" is here! In June, Yuelu Mountain is lush and green, a natural urban oxygen bar. It’s recommended to hike early between 7-8 a.m. when it’s cooler and less crowded. Start from the south campus of Hunan University, passing Yuelu Academy and Aiwan Pavilion along the way, then enjoy panoramic views of Changsha from the summit. The cable car one-way ticket is 30 RMB; for the descent, try the thrilling slide! 💡Tips: Also requires booking 3 days in advance; wear comfortable sports shoes as some paths are steep; after descending, visit the Hunan University food street. Hunan Provincial Museum 🏛️ The must-visit museum in Changsha! National treasures like Lady Xin Zhui from the Mawangdui Han Tomb, her silk burial garments, and the T-shaped silk painting showcase civilization from over 2,000 years ago. Renting an audio guide is highly recommended to understand the exhibits. 💡Tips: Book 7 days in advance; tickets are released at 8 p.m. and are extremely hard to get! Closed on Mondays, so don’t go empty-handed; allow 3 hours for a leisurely visit. Yuelu Academy 📚 The foremost of China’s four great academies, with a millennium of scholarly heritage. The former site of lectures by Zhu Xi and Zhang Shi, the ancient camphor tree planted by Zhu Xi, and the plaque bestowed by Emperor Qianlong all tell the story of Huxiang culture. The academy’s rear garden is especially beautiful in June when lotus flowers bloom, with pavilions and towers reflected in the water, showcasing the elegance of Jiangnan gardens. Taiping Old Street & Pozi Street 🥢 The food hubs of Changsha! Taiping Old Street’s stone pavements and old buildings are full of charm, and the former residence of Jia Yi is located here. Although the Fire Palace on Pozi Street is crowded with tourists, the snacks are worth trying. The two streets are close to each other, making for a delightful evening of strolling and eating. IFS International Finance Square 🏙️ Changsha’s new landmark, with the KAWS sculpture on the 7th floor being a must-visit spot—expect long lines for photos. The observation deck upstairs offers panoramic views of Wuyi Square, especially vibrant when lit up at night. Below is Huangxing Pedestrian Street, perfect for shopping and dining. 🌃 Night View Recommendations Du Fu Jiang Pavilion 🌉 A traditional-style building by the Xiang River, beautifully illuminated at night and the best spot to watch the Orange Isle fireworks. Entrance requires a ticket, but the free riverside area also offers great views. Xiangjiang Riverside Scenic Belt 🌊 Stroll along the Xiang River, enjoy the river breeze and the lights on both banks—the nightlife in Changsha is just beginning. The European-style buildings at Fisherman’s Wharf are very photogenic, and there are many cozy bars for a quiet drink. Wanjiali Plaza ✨ Changsha’s most magical landmark! The helipad on the 28th floor is open to the public for free, offering 360° views of the city’s nightscape. Sunset is the most beautiful time to visit, perfect for stunning photos. ☀️ June Survival Guide for Changsha 👕 Clothing: Summer wear is recommended; bring a light jacket as air-conditioned rooms can be cold 🌂 Essentials: Sun/rain umbrella (dual-purpose), small fan, sun-protective clothing, sunscreen, mosquito repellent 🚇 Transportation: Metro Line 2 covers all core attractions; downloading the Changsha Metro app is very convenient 🍵 Tea: Avoid long lines at Chayanyuese in Wuyi Square; the branch around the corner is much less crowded ⏰ Timing: Try to visit attractions in the morning; afternoons are hot and better suited for indoor or mall activities 💧 Hydration: Drink plenty of water! Changsha summers are really hot, so stay hydrated Though June in Changsha is hot, the city’s passionate atmosphere, irresistible food, and vibrant nightlife will make your trip unforgettable. The charm of Star City is something you’ll only understand once you arrive~ · -- Accommodation 🏨 Zizai Pingjiang Wild Luxury Resort Hotel About 1 hour’s drive from Changsha, this resort offers breathtaking views of the entire Danxia mountain range. A real-life Peach Blossom Land, with independent villas scattered among mountains and waters, where you can open your window to see Danxia landforms and bamboo seas—a top wild luxury getaway to escape city noise. 🏨 Star Traveler Wild Luxury Resort Hotel (Changsha County Branch) A heavenly resort hotel hidden on a mountaintop, newly opened in 2024 with brand-new facilities. The 270° unobstructed mountain view rooms offer window views of sea clouds rolling over the hills, perfect for watching sunrises and sunsets from bed. Ideal for families and couples, with excellent value. 🏨 Xueqingji · Shanshi Qinglan Resort Homestay (Changsha Yanghu Wetland Park Branch) Located on an independent island in Yanghu Wetland Park, near the Li Zijian Art Museum and Xie Zilong Photography Art Museum. The natural ecological environment is excellent, with elegant and serene new Chinese-style design—a hidden paradise in the city. 🏨 Changsha Jingyeshe Homestay A Southeast Asian-style wild luxury retreat at the foot of Yuelu Mountain, featuring a poolside afternoon tea and a backyard terrace BBQ. Enjoy food, drinks, and fun without leaving the premises. The rich and delicious Chinese and Western breakfasts, along with stylish public areas, make it a perfect quiet getaway in the city’s bustle. · --

Dear friends! Yueyang is truly an underrated treasure city! It’s not just about Yueyang Tower and Dongting Lake; there are many local hidden summer activities. Fewer crowds, beautiful scenery, and affordable prices. I spent three days exploring with local friends and completely fell in love with this river and lake city! In June, the lake breeze in Yueyang brings an unbeatable river and lake vibe! The first stop has to be Junshan Island, described as "a green snail in a silver plate"! The boat ticket plus entrance fee is 78 RMB. Taking the boat to the island feels amazing—the lake breeze blowing through your hair, watching the sparkling waves of Dongting Lake instantly lifts your mood. The island is densely vegetated and very cool. Places like Xiangfei Temple, Liuyi Well, and Feilai Bell are full of stories. My favorite is Liuyi Well; the water is especially cool and refreshing in summer, plus there’s a beautiful love legend that’s very romantic. You must visit the Junshan Silver Needle Tea Garden! For 80 RMB, including a tea ceremony experience, you can pick this intangible cultural heritage tea by hand! The tea farmer sisters will teach you how to pick and process tea, and you can finally taste the Junshan Silver Needle tea you made yourself. The tea soup is clear with a lasting fragrance, giving a great sense of accomplishment. The tea garden is very cool, with neat rows of tea trees, perfect for taking fresh, natural-style photos. Animal lovers must visit the China Giant Panda Sanctuary! Yueyang’s panda sanctuary is very large, and the pandas are very lively—some eating bamboo, some rolling around, some climbing trees—so adorably mischievous! I watched for an hour and still couldn’t get enough. The park is densely vegetated and cool, so it’s not hot even in summer, making it perfect for family trips. Zhangguying Village is also a must-visit! This Ming and Qing dynasty ancient village is a living fossil, with 600 years of well-preserved history. The architectural layout of "houses connected and doors open to each other" is truly amazing—you won’t get wet walking through the whole village even on rainy days! Elderly villagers sit outside cooling off, and children run around the alleys. This original lifestyle is truly beautiful. The village’s farmhouse dishes are delicious—cured meat, native chicken, wild vegetables—all made from the freshest ingredients and simply cooked to perfection. Summer isn’t complete without water fun! Pingjiang Tuolong Gorge rafting is a must! Known as "the world’s largest drop rafting," it has a 299-meter drop over 5 kilometers, thrilling enough to scream! I shouted hoarse by the end, but it was so exhilarating that all the summer heat was washed away. The route is surrounded by canyon forests, very cool and shady. After rafting, you can also wade in the creek, which is very comfortable. Yueyang’s soul comes alive at night! You must visit Bianhe Street Night Market, where all kinds of snacks are available. Yueyang barbecue is famously delicious! The beef tallow sizzles and melts in your mouth; grilled tendons are chewy and springy; grilled fish is crispy outside, tender inside, and spicy-flavored. There’s also Pingjiang dried tofu, Yueyang rice noodles, and sugar oil baba—every dish is delicious. I was so full but still wanted more! After barbecue, take a stroll at Nanhu Square. The night view of Nanhu Lake is especially beautiful, with lights reflecting on the shimmering water. Many people walk, dance, and sing by the lake, full of life. The lake breeze on your face carries the lake’s moisture, very comfortable, and all the day’s fatigue disappears. 💡【Local Hidden Tips】 1. It’s best to visit Junshan Island in the morning when it’s less crowded and cooler; afternoons can be a bit sunny. 2. For barbecue, avoid places near tourist spots; go to old local favorite shops for better taste and cheaper prices. 3. Bring a change of clothes and waterproof bags for rafting—you will definitely get soaked. 4. It’s recommended to hire a guide in Zhangguying Village, or you’ll miss many stories behind the buildings. 5. Yueyang’s summer is cool in the mornings and evenings but hot at noon, so rest indoors during midday. Yueyang is truly a city full of life, with the grandeur of rivers and lakes and the charm of a small town. Here, you can climb towers to view the lake, boat on lotus ponds, explore ancient villages, enjoy delicious food, and raft in the water. This summer’s happiness is all arranged for you in Yueyang~ Accommodation 🏨 Shangsu · Yuehu Lou Inn (Yueyang Tower Scenic Area Branch) Near Yueyang Tower Scenic Area and Bianhe Street, lakeside beautiful Chinese-style ancient charm, free parking, perfect for photos, lake view rooms with windows opening directly to Dongting Lake 🏨 Yueyang K Resort Hotel Deep in the Nanhu New District Dongting Lake Town, renovated from an ancient village, with blue tiles, white walls, stone paths, standalone courtyards with lake views from the windows, a treasure choice for family vacations 🏨 Yueyang Qixi Bieyuan (Wangjiahe Park Branch) A quiet residence hidden in the Yueyang Tower area on Peach Blossom Mountain, peaceful environment with complete facilities, adjacent to Wangjiahe Park, the top choice for tranquility in the city 🏨 Huameishi Hotel Located near the Panda Sanctuary and Houlang Park, featuring all floor-to-ceiling windows, with windows opening to a beautiful view of Nanhu Lake, offering a high cost-performance comfortable experience ---

✨A two-hour self-driving journey from Yueyang to a fairyland No commercial hustle and bustle, only rhododendrons blooming all over the hills🌺, green pines shrouded in mist, and healing mountain breezes~The relaxed vibe here fills the entire spring🍃 🚡The Stunning First Encounter with the Long Cableway · The longest cableway in Yueyang, with red cable cars slowly ascending · Rhododendrons scattered below, distant villages fading into the mist · Tested by a slight fear of heights: gripping the handrail is worth it! Look up to see blue skies and a sea of clouds☁️ that heal all fears 🌿Turn Left into a Hiking Paradise · A 1.5-hour easy hiking route · Wish plaques on pine branch buds, red ribbons telling mountain secrets · Stop anytime to take photos📸, even the mist feels romantic ⚠️TIPS: It’s windy on the mountain, so bring a thick jacket for spring outings🧥 ☁️Cloud-top Viewing Platform · A secret base faintly visible in the fog · Overlooking the mountain covered in green, softened by clouds and mist🌫️ · The pine-scented mountain breeze instantly takes away all fatigue 🍞Picnic Joys · Prices are high at the summit, so bringing your own simple meal is recommended · Bread + hot water + mountain breeze = the most satisfying lunch 💡Money-saving tip: Find a wind-sheltered spot to enjoy your picnic time 🌄Sunshine on the Way Down · The magical moment when clouds part and the hills are bathed in golden light · Looking back from the cable car: the most beautiful scenery is every slowed-down step 💭The charm of this mountain lies in its wildness that doesn’t cater to anyone~[Clapping][Clapping][Clapping]

The entire itinerary covers the historical footprints of Pingjiang and the bustling food scene of Suzhou's ancient city. Wandering between exquisite hotels and the tranquil nightscapes of the ancient town, you can truly feel the gentle glow of Jiangnan nights. The absolute biggest highlight is exploring the ancient town's lantern festival at night: carrying a glowing lantern reflecting off the river, guessing lantern riddles to win candy, and soaking up the lively, joyful atmosphere that will make you instantly fall in love with this city. Recommended Attractions & Itineraries Pingjiang Uprising Memorial Hall 📍 Address: No. 338 Dongxing Middle Road, Pingjiang County, Yueyang City ⏰ Opening Hours: 09:00-16:30 (Closed on Mondays) Come here to relive the momentous revolutionary history of Pingjiang. The exhibits inside are highly detailed—don't miss the display cases of historical revolutionary materials, and you'll often find guides providing live explanations. It's recommended to avoid visiting on Mondays. Gusu Ancient City Pingjiang 📍 Address: Floor B1, No. 636 Ganjiang East Road ⏰ Opening Hours: Open all day, year-round To experience the true local vibe of Suzhou, you must visit the ancient city of Pingjiang at dusk. Red lanterns hang high in front of every household. Next to the night market alleys, riverside stalls, and handmade lanterns, be sure to try the Su-style candied lotus root and osmanthus cakes from the street vendors along Pingjiang Road. What lingers in the night air is pure human warmth. My top tip: definitely buy a rabbit lantern! Walking down the riverside alleys with it will instantly brighten your mood. Ten-Mile Gallery Bamboo Rafting 📍 Address: West of Botou Village Committee, Pingjiang County, Yueyang City, Hunan Province During the day, I highly recommend experiencing the bamboo rafting. Escape the city hustle and soak in nature's oxygen bar. If you're a plant lover, the riverside orchids look particularly gorgeous in the sunlight, making you feel like you've stepped into a natural botanical garden. Hotel Recommendations Scholars Hotel Pingjiangfu Suzhou 📍 Address: No. 60 Baita East Road Located right off Pingjiang Road, this hotel is within walking distance of the Humble Administrator's Garden and the Lion Grove Garden. It boasts antique-style garden views, comfortable rooms, and a stellar breakfast. I highly recommend trying their Su-style breakfast—the handmade wontons and tofu pudding (douhua) are top-notch. They also host Pingtan (traditional Suzhou musical storytelling) performances in the evenings for a perfect cultural experience. Suzhou Pingjiang Huafu Hotel 📍 Address: No. 88 Lujia Alley, Lindun Road Just steps away from Pingjiang Road, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll back to your room after dinner. The hotel offers a quiet environment, a rich spread of late-night snacks, and an observation deck overlooking the sparkling Suzhou nightscape. Practical Tips 1. It is best to arrive at the lantern festival after 7 or 8 PM. The crowds are just right, the lights are at their most beautiful, and be sure to bring your phone or camera—the riverside night scenes are incredibly photogenic! 2. For rabbit and lotus lanterns, street stalls are your best bet. They are rustic, handcrafted, and budget-friendly, but remember to double-check the quality and the safety of the candle wax. 3. If traveling with elderly family members or kids, Scholars Hotel Pingjiangfu Suzhou is a great choice for its peaceful environment, abundant activities, and friendly service. Food Recommendations · The candied lotus root, osmanthus cakes, and tofu pudding found in the alleys of Pingjiang Road are classic Suzhou desserts, perfect for snacking while you walk. · The freshly fried lotus root boxes you'll stumble upon at the night market are incredibly savory and not greasy at all. · If you love Su-bang cuisine, you can book a table at the Chinese restaurant in Scholars Hotel Pingjiangfu Suzhou. The dishes are authentic and offer great value for money. Transportation Advice · Getting around downtown Suzhou by subway or bus is very convenient. The Pingjiang Road area is best explored on foot, and catching a cab to the ancient town is a short, easy ride. · If heading to the Ten-Mile Gallery in Pingjiang, Yueyang, driving or booking a car in advance is highly recommended.

Summer Whispers in Pingjiang: In the 21°C mountain streams, summer is transformed into ice-cold soda. "Hold on tight!" Our guide, Lao Yang, had barely finished shouting when the raft was thrown into a washing machine, spinning wildly in the rapids of Tuolong Gorge. Water sprayed all over me, sending a shiver down my spine—while Changsha at 38°C was still frying eggs, the stream here was as cold as if it'd just been pulled from a freezer. June in Pingjiang holds a surprising kind of coolness: 96.6% of the forest filters the sunlight like shattered gold, the drifting waves extinguish all the summer heat, even the evening wind carries a wild, "If you don't come soon, it'll be all gone" vigor—this isn't escaping the heat; it's like summer has been plunged into an ice bucket. After three days of crazy fun in Pingjiang, from catching fish in the streams of Chunxi Town to screaming on a raft in Tuolong Gorge, from swaying on the bamboo forest train in Lutoujing Valley to staring blankly at the sea of ​​clouds in Mufu Mountain, I finally understood why they say "half of Hunan's summer is in Pingjiang." The 21℃ here isn't just hype; it's the temperature emanating from the streams, filtered through the bamboo forests, and practically fallen from the clouds—come now, or you'll have to queue for a raft during summer vacation! 🚣 Tuolong Gorge Rafting: Screams that echo through the mountains As soon as I put on my life jacket, Lao Yang shoved a water ladle into my hand: "Don't just scream, remember to have a water fight!" Sure enough, the 5-kilometer rafting course was like an enraged dragon, with 19 rapids crashing down one after another. The first drop sent the raft plummeting vertically; before I could even scream, my stomach was filled with cold stream water, chilling me to the bone. 3 Rafting Tips to Avoid Getting Soaked Up · Choose a middle raft: Don't sit in the first or the last raft! A middle raft allows you to "fish in the mud" with the main group, provides cover when others splash you, and blocks some of the spray when navigating rapids. The guy in the raft next to me was in the first one and got soaked to the bone right after setting off; even his glasses were blown off! · Wear quick-drying clothing and river tracing shoes: Don't wear T-shirts! Quick-drying clothing won't stick to your body when wet, and river tracing shoes will help you hold onto the raft (bare feet will get blistered by the rocks, and sandals are easily washed away). I personally witnessed a woman's flip-flops being swept away by the rapids; she jumped barefoot on the raft the entire time, her soles turning bright red from the sun. · Hold on tight to the ropes before rapids: There are red warning signs before each rapid. When you see one, quickly grab the ropes on both sides of the raft and lean back. Old Yang said, "This is called 'lying flat to charge,' it reduces the impact by half." I tried it, and sure enough, I wasn't thrown off, though the back of my head hit the raft, leaving me dizzy like I'd been drinking too much. Once we reached a calmer section, water fights became the main battleground. Old Yang's water ladle danced like a windmill, splashing people on the next raft so hard they couldn't open their eyes. I was laughing so hard I couldn't stand up straight when suddenly someone ambushed me from behind, pouring a ladle of water precisely down my neck—apparently, the joy of rafting comes half from the rapids and half from the "mutual torture." 🌊 Chunxi Town: You can see the fish's heartbeat in the stream After getting off the rafting trip, Old Yang took me to Chunxi Town: "The water here is shallow, perfect for 'gentle water play.'" Sure enough, the water on the beach was just above my ankles, so clear I could see tiny fish swishing their tails in the crevices of the rocks. The moment I stepped in, the heat vanished instantly, even my toes felt cool. 3 Fun Activities for Kids · Find the "Little Waterfall Among the Rocks": Walk for 20 minutes, and you'll find a small pool surrounded by rocks, with a waterfall hanging like a curtain. Adults can sit on the rocks and soak their feet, while children can splash around in the shallow water, just up to their knees, making it very safe. I saw a mother soak a watermelon in the pool; after half an hour, she took it out, and it was as cool as if it had been taken out of the refrigerator. · Catch the "Playing Dead Stone Crabs": Turn over the rocks by the water's edge, and you can often find stone crabs. They'll curl up into a ball and play dead when you grab them. Don't squeeze them! Squeeze their carapace (the soft part of their belly will kill them). They'll feel cool in your hand, and after you've played with them enough, you can throw them back into the water. I caught one bigger than my fingernail, and when I put it back, it pinched me, as if saying, "Don't mess with me next time." · Watch the Sunset by the Stream: At 5 pm, the stream shimmers with golden light, and the shadows of the bamboo forest are cast in the water, like a traditional Chinese ink painting. Find a smooth, large rock to sit on, and watch the sunset paint the mountain peaks orange-red, even the air carrying the scent of bamboo. Old Yang said, "The water is warmest at this time; soaking your feet while watching the sunset, even a god wouldn't want to be there." 🚂 Lutou Jinggu: The Bamboo Forest Train Slows Down Time As the little train clattered into the bamboo forest, I suddenly understood what "peace and tranquility" meant. The forest train in Lutou Jinggu swayed slowly along the tracks, the bamboo on both sides shining brightly green, the bamboo leaves brushing against the windows, carrying a damp coolness. Two Ways to "Make the Most of Your Time" · Take the "Last Carriage": You can stick your head out the window to take panoramic photos of the bamboo forest; the tracks wind through the bamboo forest like a green ribbon. When I was taking a picture with my phone, a bamboo leaf landed right on the lens, adding a little green stamp to the photo—even better than a filter. · "Forest Cloud Rafting" - Don't close your eyes: This slide is built above a bamboo forest, and you can see the sea of ​​bamboo swaying below as you slide down. Don't scream and close your eyes! Open your eyes to see yourself flying through green waves. Staff at the finish line will take photos for 20 yuan each—ugly but undeniably funny. For lunch, we ate Pingjiang dried fish at the bamboo forest restaurant. The dried fish were fried to a golden brown, crunchy and delicious. Old Yang said, "This fish is raised in the stream water of Chunxi Town; it's incredibly fresh." Sure enough, the aroma of the fish mixed with the fragrance of bamboo made us eat two extra bowls of rice. 🌅 Mufu Mountain Cloud Sea: The sunrise will leave you speechless. We got up at 4 a.m. to watch the sunrise. Old Yang said, "The cloud sea at Mufu Mountain is thickest in June." Sure enough, as the first ray of sunlight squeezed out from the mountain peak, the cloud sea suddenly turned red, like a bucket of orange juice had been poured over it, surging and rolling down the mountain. Standing on the viewing platform, I felt like I was walking on clouds, even my breath felt ethereal. A Guide to Watching the Sunrise Without Freezing: · Bring a light jacket and a thermos: The temperature on the mountain is 5°C lower than at the foot, only around 15°C in the early morning. Wearing short sleeves will make you freeze. Fill your thermos with hot water; a sip when it gets cold will warm you right up. The girl next to me was wearing a sundress and was shivering like a leaf while watching the sunrise. Afterward, she quickly wrapped herself in her boyfriend's jacket. · Choose the "Tiantai Temple Viewing Platform": The view here is the most expansive, allowing you to see the sea of ​​clouds "spreading" up from the valley like milk boiling in a pot. Old Yang said, "If you're lucky, you can see 'Buddha's Light,' where your shadow is encircled by a rainbow." I didn't see that, but I did see small hills in the sea of ​​clouds, like biscuits floating in milk. During the day, I was so scared during the "Tianyue Flying Dragon" jungle trek that my legs went weak. Walking a tightrope between the treetops, with a sheer drop below, Old Yang shouted from the side, "Don't look down! Look at the trees ahead!" I closed my eyes and walked forward, suddenly realizing that the bamboo forest around me was a vibrant green, shimmering like ocean waves in the wind. My fear turned into laughter—it turns out, surprises are hidden within the thrill. 🚗 3 Days 2 Nights Refreshing Itinerary (800 RMB per person) · Day 1: Changsha → Chunxi Town (2-hour drive), afternoon fishing and water fights in the stream → stay in a guesthouse in the scenic area (approx. 180 RMB/night, no need for air conditioning), evening watching the sunset by the stream. · Day 2: Morning Tuolong Gorge rafting (ticket 198 RMB, including transportation) → afternoon Lutoujing Valley (mini-train + cloud rafting combo ticket 168 RMB), stay in a bamboo forest guesthouse (approx. 200 RMB/night, fall asleep to the sound of bamboo). - Day 3: Tianyue Mufu Mountain (entrance fee 85 yuan), watch the sunrise over the sea of ​​clouds at dawn → challenge the jungle trek → have lunch of stir-fried cured pork cooked over a wood-fired stove → return trip. Pingjiang Summer Retreat "Life-Saving Tips" 1. Sunscreen! Sunscreen! Sunscreen!: Don't think you don't need sunscreen just because it's cool! Bamboo forests and streams reflect ultraviolet rays. I didn't apply sunscreen to my neck, and I got a red collar after just one day, which hurt like being scalded by boiling water. 2. Bring "change of clothes + towel": You will definitely get soaked while rafting and playing in the water, so bring an extra set of clothes (including underwear!). Your towel should be large enough to wrap around your whole body. The changing rooms in the scenic area are small, so avoid crowding while waiting. 3. Eat "Pingjiang dried bean curd + roasted fish": The small shops in town sell vacuum-packed versions. The dried bean curd is chewy, and the roasted fish is so fresh you'll lick your fingers. It's 10 yuan a pack, suitable as a snack or a side dish. 4. Don't cut in front of other drivers: The roads to the scenic area are mostly winding mountain roads with many curves, so don't drive too fast. I saw a young man overtake me, and we almost collided with an oncoming car; it scared me so much my palms were sweating. On the day I left, Lao Yang handed me a bag of fried sweet potato chips at the highway exit: "My wife fried these; they're really crispy." The bamboo forest outside the car window receded like a green waterfall. He said, "If you want to go rafting in July, you have to book tickets three days in advance. Now is perfect; fewer people and cooler water." Suddenly, I felt a little reluctant to leave—reluctant to leave the cool stream, the green bamboo forest, the exhilarating screams, and Lao Yang's words, "Take care, we'll see you again next summer." Now, if you search "Pingjiang Rafting Package" on Ctrip, you can directly book a combined ticket for Tuolong Gorge and Lutoujing Valley, saving 30 yuan compared to buying them separately. The guesthouse owner said that the rooms weren't fully booked for June, and you could choose a room with a balcony (where you can see fireflies at night). If you don't come now, once summer vacation arrives, even the little train in the bamboo forest will have to queue up—after all, the chance to experience summer at 21°C only comes once a year.

Accommodation Recommendation Vienna International Hotel (Yueyang Pingjiang Branch) Close to the highway and bus station, complete breakfast, convenient parking, ideal for staying throughout the trip Day 1 Arrival Day|County Leisure + Hotel Photoshoot 14:00 Arrive at the hotel, check-in, and rest 16:00 Walk around: Tianyue Square, county street scenery stroll 18. 00 Dinner: Local home-style dishes, must-try Pingjiang soy sauce dried tofu and roasted fish 19. 30 Hotel night scene photoshoot: entrance, lobby chandelier, corridor pillars Accommodation: Stay at Vienna Hotel for the night Day 2 Shiniuzhai One-Day Tour 08:00 Breakfast at the hotel 08. 30 Depart for Shiniuzhai (about 40 minutes by car) 09. 00–16:00 Explore Shiniuzhai: glass bridge, cliff walkway, Danxia viewing platform 16:30 Return to the hotel to rest 18:00 Dinner: Pingjiang Ten Bowls local banquet dishes Day 3 Red Cultural Sites + Off-the-Beaten-Path Attractions Return Trip 08. 30 Breakfast at the hotel 09. 00–11:30 Pingjiang Uprising Memorial Hall (free, red tourism spot) 12. 00 Lunch: Pingjiang specialty eel noodles 13. 30–16:00 Choose one of two options ① Chunxi Town: creek tracing and water play, forest hiking ② Wutong Mountain: mountain climbing and sightseeing, ancient style photo spots 16:30 Return to the hotel to collect luggage and end the trip Practical Must-See Tips 1. Transportation: Taxi within the county; self-driving or chartered car recommended for Shiniuzhai and Chunxi 2. Outfit Suggestions: Wear sneakers for mountain and water spots; light-colored, French-style outfits for hotel photoshoots for better pictures 3. Souvenirs: Pingjiang soy sauce dried tofu, longevity spicy strips, roasted fish, easy to buy on the go 4. Dining Options: Local home-style restaurants, Ten Bowls banquet, eel noodles, all safe choices

The moment I stepped into Mufu Mountain, I felt like a screw that had been tightly twisted for a long time... Finally, it loosened🔩✨ The mountain road winds upward, The car window rolls down, and the wind is cool, Carrying the fresh sweetness mixed with bamboo leaves and soil🍃 The heat from the foot of the mountain dissipates here, A coolness brushes over the skin, Like being gently washed by mountain spring water. Climbing up to a viewing platform, the view suddenly opens up— The clouds are not floating in the sky, They are piled up in the valley, Thick, white, and fluffy, Occasionally torn open by the wind, Revealing the dark green ridgeline beneath🗻 The distant peaks layer upon layer, fading the farther they go, Finally blending into the gray-blue horizon. Sunlight leaks through the clouds, Painting shifting patches of light on the mountain walls, So bright it dazzles, while the shadows are as deep as ink jade. Going further in, it’s a true forest🌲 Ancient trees grow crookedly, Their trunks covered in moss, fuzzy to the touch, Like the back of a small animal. Stream water jumps down from the cracks between stones, The sound crisp, tinkling, Sometimes fast, sometimes slow. Squatting down to look, the water is unbelievably clear, Every pebble’s pattern on the bottom is crystal clear. A leaf falls into a whirlpool, Spinning several times before drifting away🍂 The most stunning moment is at dusk🌅 The setting sun dyes the entire mountain, Clouds change from white to pink, pink to orange, orange to purple... Like someone spilled a palette of paint🎨 The wind picks up, pine waves roll in bursts, Standing there, Suddenly feeling so small, Yet feeling the heart so big. By the time I descend, it’s completely dark, Stars densely press down✨ The mountain wind still blows by my ears, My body filled with the scent of grass and trees. This whole day, My eyes have been washed, My lungs have been cleansed, Even my heart seems to have been refreshed. Mufu Mountain, I will come again next time. 💚

Yueyang Pingjiang Chunxi Town is definitely a hidden gem for spring outings! Come and experience the beauty of April in this earthly paradise~ 🌸 Springtime exclusives at Chunxi Town: · Crystal-clear streams so pure they cleanse your soul the moment you step in💦 · A sea of dancing daisies, perfect for snapping viral photos for your social feed📸 · Wild waterfalls hidden in the primeval forest, their soothing sounds heal you all day long 📌 Top spots to check in: 1️⃣ Daisy Flower Trail - a fairyland straight out of Eden 2️⃣ Stone Steps by the Stream - zone out to the sound of flowing water 3️⃣ Forest Waterfall - a natural oxygen bar effect included ✨ Tips: · Wearing light-colored clothes makes your photos pop · Bring some picnic snacks to enjoy a forest spa experience · Remember to wear non-slip shoes for safer water play This is definitely a spring secret spot cherished by locals in Hunan! Quickly gather your friends and feel the romance nature has gifted you💐

The Wu Family Ancestral Hall in Yueyang, also known as the Jinhua Wu Family Ancestral Hall, is located in Aobei Alley, North Street, Chengguan Town, Pingjiang County, Yueyang City, Hunan Province. It is a representative traditional ancestral hall building in the area. The hall was built in the second year of the Republic of China (1913), with a brick and wood structure, facing south with its back to the north, covering an area of approximately 1,438–1,500 square meters. After the founding of the People's Republic of China, the Wu Family Ancestral Hall was taken over by the government and managed by the Real Estate Bureau. In 2008, due to the renovation of the old city on North Street, it once faced the risk of demolition but was later rescued and protected following proposals by representatives of the People's Congress and evaluations by cultural relic experts. In December 2017, the Pingjiang County government held a special meeting to clarify the main body of the renovation, funding sources, and management and utilization plans. The renovation project was completed in September 2019. The beams, purlins, eaves, and columns of the Wu Family Ancestral Hall are integrated, with simple carving, smooth lines, carefully selected materials, exquisite craftsmanship, and splendid decoration. It is one of the best-preserved private ancestral halls in northeastern Hunan, holding high value for architectural history and arts and crafts research. It is a key cultural relic of Yueyang City.

The Huangniwan Mansion in Huangqiao Village was first built in the 19th year of the Jiaqing reign of the Qing Dynasty (1814) and completed in 1817. It covers a total construction area of about 6,820 square meters, with the main structure occupying 3,672 square meters. The mansion includes 108 rooms, 9 large halls, and 16 or 36 courtyards. It features load-bearing walls built using the "father-son bricklaying method" and a double-layer beam structure, with carved decorations such as blessings and prosperity patterns, mythical beasts, and cloud grass. The drainage system is scientifically designed, and after more than 200 years, there has been no water accumulation. The mansion was built by the Ye family. Ye Shanlin founded the private school "Guilin Academy," which cultivated 8 successful candidates in the imperial examinations, 3 students at the Imperial Academy, and 1 recommended scholar. In modern times, it also produced notable figures such as Ye Xiaosong, who studied at Waseda University in Japan. In 1918, Ye Hengfu established the Pingjiang County Fifth Higher Elementary School. During the War of Resistance, the mansion was requisitioned as a field hospital and treated 8 members of the American Flying Tigers. Slogans such as "Protect the health of soldiers and civilians" and "Defeat the Japanese invaders and disease" still remain. It is a key cultural relic protection unit of Hunan Province and part of the fourth batch of China's traditional villages.

Bringing the kids to Tianxin Pavilion in Changsha was truly an amazing family trip! The rich historical culture, beautiful city scenery, and delicious local snacks—all left a deep impression. Both adults and children had a fantastic time. Tianxin Pavilion is full of historical charm. This ancient building, with over 400 years of history, has witnessed the great changes of Changsha. Taking the kids up to Tianxin Pavilion to overlook the entire city and telling them about Changsha’s history was especially meaningful. The cultural relics exhibition inside the pavilion is also worth seeing, allowing children to learn more about history and culture. The ancient city wall is also very distinctive. It is the only preserved ancient city wall in Changsha, with a history of over 2,000 years. Walking along the wall with the kids and feeling the weight of history is very educational. There are many cannons on the wall, which kids find particularly interesting. The Bamboo Slips Museum is really fascinating. It houses a large collection of ancient bamboo slips, helping children understand ancient writing and scripts, which is very educational. Various interactive experiences are also perfect for kids, making learning fun. Changsha is truly a food paradise. Stinky tofu smells strong but tastes delicious, sugar oil baba is sweet but not greasy, spicy crayfish is flavorful, and the milk tea from Chayan Yuese is absolutely delicious. Walking around and tasting food with the kids was especially joyful. When traveling with kids, comfortable accommodation is the most important. Changsha offers many lodging options, and various unique homestays are full of character. Accommodation 🏨Tongle・Yingshan Resident Homestay (Yingzhushan Forest Park Branch) A five-star tourist homestay in Hunan, featuring natural wood wild luxury that’s super healing, romantic starry mountain music concerts, the top choice for family vacations 🏨Orange Room Moon Stay Collection A one-stop outdoor leisure and vacation complex, covering camping leisure and entertainment areas, RV zones, crescent lawns, full moon theaters, and lakeside standalone villas 🏨Zizai Pingjiang Wild Luxury Resort Hotel A 5,000-acre Danxia secret realm, with 19 standalone rooms nestled in the forest, offering a top-notch wild luxury vacation experience with guaranteed quality 🏨Changsha No. 5 Valley A 200-acre pristine secret realm, wild luxury treehouses and suspended wooden houses, infinity pool facing the valley, an excellent healing vacation spot ---

Mount Tianyue Mufu, embark on a spontaneous trip! 🌄 The moment I saw Mufu Mountain, I was captivated by the fairy-like mist swirling around! 💭 Recommended route: Nanjiang Town → Panshan Highway → Chazhu Village → Huanglong Cave → Hongxia Temple → Xiyaoping → Tianyue Square → Nanjiang Town 🎫 Ticket info: 55 RMB/person (includes round-trip sightseeing bus) 📸 Best photo spots: 1⃣️ Xiyaoping: An excellent vantage point overlooking Chazhu Village, perfect for capturing the floating mountain peak effect. 2⃣️ Nanjiang Town: Picturesque scenery along the way, ideal for enjoying the views by car. 📝 Travel tips: 1⃣️ Enter the park before 8:30 AM to avoid crowds. 2⃣️ Keep warm! The temperature on the mountain is low, so bring enough warm clothing. 3⃣️ It’s recommended to bring some snacks and dry food, as dining options on the mountain are limited. 4⃣️ Wear comfortable shoes; the mountain paths are quite rugged. 🏨 Hotel recommendation: There are many hotels to choose from in Nanjiang Town. 🍲 Food recommendation: Pingjiang local specialties, such as Xianggan (fragrant dried tofu) and spicy tofu.

During the May Day spring holiday, Yueyang launches a series of immersive cultural and tourism activities, covering diverse experiences such as tech light shows, cultural interactions, mountain and water healing, leisurely city strolls, and fun family activities. 【Dongting Fishing Fire Season · Drone Light Show】 On the evening of May 1st, a large-scale drone light show will be presented on the main stage of the Dongting Fishing Fire Season. Using the night sky as a screen and light as a brush, it dynamically showcases city landmarks like Yueyang Tower and Dongting Lake, portraying the poetic scenery of "floating light leaping gold, still shadows sinking jade," creating a stunning audiovisual nighttime cultural feast. 【Yueyang Tower Scenic Area · Scholar NPC Immersive Interaction】 During the May Day holiday, Yueyang Tower Scenic Area transforms into a cultural real-life space where historical figure NPCs such as Fan Zhongyan and Li Bai appear on site. They engage visitors with impromptu poetry and fun quizzes, awakening the millennia-old cultural memory of Baling in a relaxed interactive way. 【Junshan Island · "Junling Ji" Immersive Real-Scene Romance】 Junshan Island launches a new love-themed immersive real-scene performance "Junling Ji." Based on the island’s legends and natural landscape, the entire island is transformed into a flowing story scene, deeply blending myth narration with mountain and water sightseeing. 【Tianyue Mufu Mountain · Cloud Camping Plan】 Tianyue Mufu Mountain offers cloud camping, starry sky movies, bonfire parties, and other outdoor leisure activities. Combined with family-friendly facilities, it creates a spring mountain living experience close to nature, relaxing and healing. 【Dongting South Road Historic Cultural Street · "Relaxed Little Gathering"】 With restored old teahouses, handmade markets, and sunset concerts taking turns, the slow-paced scenes reconstruct the lively city life, allowing visitors to feel the warm texture of Baling life in the mottled streets. 【Dongting Lake Museum · Cultural Challenge Experience】 The museum innovatively sets up fun interactive checkpoints, integrating local history, hydrology ecology, and intangible cultural heritage knowledge, making learning enjoyable and enhancing the sense of participation and achievement in cultural awareness. 【Yueyang China Giant Panda Garden · Cute Panda Encounters × Flower Festival Garden Tour】 In collaboration with the Flower Language World, it launches integrated activities including flower sea check-ins, panda interactions, and family fun, where spring floral scenery and the adorable national treasure pandas complement each other, meeting the diverse expectations of family visitors. Come to Yueyang and start your unique journey!

The ultimate guide to the Yangshuo + Pingjiang dual-destination route! Check off stunning river and mountain scenery, slow-living B&Bs, and breathtaking sunset views all in one trip 🥰 If you love a relaxing, slow-paced lifestyle and breathtaking nature, this Yangshuo + Pingjiang combo is your dream itinerary! In Yangshuo, Guilin, stay at a cozy B&B near the Ten-Mile Gallery, surrounded by winding rivers day and night with views of unique karst mountains in the distance. During the day, drift along the water on a bamboo raft, or ride an e-bike freely through the picturesque countryside. You'll even get to experience a magical river sunset. Over in Pingjiang, the bamboo rafting at their Ten-Mile Gallery reveals another kind of tranquil beauty, where mountains and waters blend into a terrestrial paradise. This entire route offers not only convenient transportation and comfortable stays but also unforgettable river sunsets and warm B&B hospitality for the ultimate chill vacation! 🌄 Recommended Itinerary Highlights 1. Yangshuo Antiya B&B (Yulong River Ten-Mile Gallery Branch) 📍 Address: 300 meters northeast of Gongnong Bridge Pier, foot of Damian Mountain, Gongnong Bridge section, Zhudouzhai Village, Fenglou Village Committee, Gaotian Town. Located right in the heart of the Ten-Mile Gallery scenic area, it features an e-bike rental shop so you can head out to explore anytime. The B&B's design is a great mix of artistic and modern vibes. Its top-rated observation decks, "Sky Mirror" and "Eye of Yangshuo," are absolute must-visits for viral photos! The rooms are spotless, equipped with air conditioning, drying racks, and free laundry/drying facilities. The breakfast rice noodles are highly recommended 👍. Free afternoon tea, goodnight desserts, and family-friendly facilities are all available, making it super worry-free if you're traveling with kids. You can even try on Hanfu for a photoshoot here! 2. Guilin Yangshuo Ten-Mile Gallery 📍 Address: Ten-Mile Gallery, National Highway 321, Yangshuo County, Guilin City. Open all day, year-round. Strolling through the Ten-Mile Gallery feels like stepping into a traditional landscape painting. This is the absolute essence of Yangshuo—mountains, waters, rustic fields, old stone bridges, and wild natural beauty right before your eyes. I highly recommend visiting during sunset; as the sun hits the river, the misty atmosphere makes it feel like a fairy tale, and every shot is pure magic. You can rent an e-bike or a bicycle for a leisurely, carefree ride along the road. 3. Must Experience: Bamboo Rafting Book your bamboo raft via WeChat Mini Programs. The budget is about 250 RMB per person, which is a fantastic deal! The whole rafting trip takes around 4 hours, and the biggest highlight along the way is the "20 RMB banknote scenery"—peaceful water reflections and layered distant mountains. Every second looks like a blockbuster movie scene. It's best to hop on the raft around sunset; the river under the setting sun is unbelievably gorgeous. 4. Pingjiang Ten-Mile Gallery Bamboo Rafting 📍 Address: West side of Botou Village Committee, Pingjiang County, Yueyang City, Hunan Province. 📅 Operating Hours: 08:00-17:00 (Ticket sales and entry stop at 17:00) If you want to experience bamboo rafting through a different type of landscape, the Pingjiang Ten-Mile Gallery is a fantastic extension to your trip. The rafting route here is even more tranquil, with mountains and waters complementing each other, offering a peaceful escape far from the hustle and bustle of the city. 💡 Practical Tips · It's best to book your bamboo raft in advance via WeChat Mini Programs. It gets crowded on-site, and you might easily miss your ideal time slot. · Highly recommend wearing sneakers for the whole trip, as there is a lot of walking in Yangshuo's scenic areas and the terrain can be uneven. · The breakfast rice noodles at the Ten-Mile Gallery B&B are a must-try. You can also capture two stunning views in one go from the observation decks on the 7th and 8th floors—photography lovers shouldn't miss this! · Strongly suggest choosing the sunset time slot for rafting; the vibes are absolutely immaculate. · The B&B offers free washing and drying, so you don't have to worry about packing wet clothes for the trip home. · If you don't have much luggage, renting an e-bike to explore the area makes for an effortless and fun loop. 🥢 Food Recommendations · You must try the handmade rice noodles for breakfast at the B&B. The texture is delicate and they are a true local specialty. · Along your journey, the Guilin rice noodles and Beer Fish at nearby local eateries are also totally worth trying. 🏞️ Transportation Guide · The location of Yangshuo Antiya B&B is super convenient. Whether you're heading to Gongnong Bridge, the bamboo raft pier, or the Ten-Mile Gallery, all these spots are within walking distance, saving you a lot of transit hassle. · You can take the high-speed rail or a coach bus from Yangshuo to Pingjiang. Upon arrival, it's recommended to grab a taxi straight to the scenic area for a safer and faster trip.

Wanting to escape the city for some fresh air, I accidentally found this homestay in Pingjiang, and I didn’t want to leave the room😭 📍 Location & Transportation Only 1.5 hours by car from Changsha, right at the foot of Lion Mountain in Pingjiang, surrounded by vast rice fields and forests. The roads are easy to drive, parking is convenient, and driving alone here is totally stress-free. 🌾 Room Experience (Stayed in the Qiye Tianju Suite) Opening the window reveals endless rice fields. When sunlight pours in through the floor-to-ceiling windows, I truly felt healed. The room has a minimalist raw concrete style with gentle details, fully smart-controlled, super worry-free for solo stays. The bedding is soft and cozy, and at night it’s so quiet you can only hear the frogs, sleeping here is a hundred times better than at home. ☕️ Check-in Perks Perfect for Lazy People Every day I got a serving of rice field coffee + seasonal fruit. The housekeeper pre-chilled my water, proactively reminded me about the weather, helped me book a visit to nearby Lutou Jinggu, and even gave me souvenirs when I left—Pingjiang’s dried sauce and smoked tea. I was taken care of so thoroughly all by myself. ✨ The Atmosphere is Instantly Elevated The entire homestay was designed by teacher Wei Chunyu. The corridors are filled with sculptures and paintings, like living in a mountain art museum. No need to find angles for photos; every shot comes with a natural filter. There’s also a huge rooftop activity area where you can enjoy the breeze and watch the sunset over the rice fields. I was too relaxed to even think about captions for my social posts. The surroundings are very convenient too, close to the off-road vehicle base and rafting spots. If you don’t feel like moving, just daydream, drink coffee, and read at the homestay—it’s already the perfect alone time. If you want to find a place to hide away without going too far, this place will truly give you the relaxation you’re looking for.

Yueyang Cultural Tourism launches a fan appreciation event. Fifteen core scenic spots including Yueyang Tower, Junshan Island, Tianyue Mufu Mountain, and Yueyang China Giant Panda Garden offer exclusive benefits. Athletes, coaches, and other event-related personnel can enter for free with valid credentials to experience the unique charm of these scenic spots up close. Spectators and audience members can enjoy 50% to 60% off tickets with their stubs, allowing for a great time at the attractions. In addition to sightseeing, there are surprises for accommodation as well. Thirty-three quality hotels across the city offer special room rates at 12% off, providing comfort and savings. Here, you can climb Yueyang Tower to admire the grandeur of "embracing distant mountains and swallowing the Yangtze River"; stroll on Junshan Island to feel the romantic love legends; explore Tianyue Mufu Mountain to experience nature’s craftsmanship; and get close to the adorable national treasure at Yueyang China Giant Panda Garden. Come to Yueyang and start an exciting journey combining sightseeing and lodging, leaving unforgettable beautiful memories!

Top ten spring scenic spots in Yueyang, each with its own charm: Yueyang Tower shrouded in spring mist, where you can feel the timeless spirit of "worry first, then joy"; Dongting Lake's vast green waves, with seagulls and egrets flying gracefully, the water and sky like a mirror; Love Island with fresh willow colors, clear tea fragrance, and quiet ancient sites, romance gently rippling in the spring breeze; Junshan District's 50,000 mu of golden rapeseed flower fields, creatively themed with finless porpoises and deer, perfect for aerial photography; Pingjiang Shiniuzhai's thousand-mu sea of cherry blossoms, pink and white like clouds, petals falling like rain, filling the paths with gentleness; Pingge Ecological Park blooming with splendid flowers, lakeside greenways ideal for cycling and strolling, sunset waves shimmering with golden light; Huarong Dongshan's "Dongting Hulunbuir" grasslands stretching to the horizon, swaying reeds, blue water reflecting the sky, occasional sightings of porpoises leaping and deer roaming the forest; Miluo Quzi Ecological Park's 10,000 mu of pear blossoms like clouds and mist, fragrant and refreshing, perfect for Hanfu photos with natural soft lighting; Linxiang Wujian Mountain's cliffside rhododendrons in full bloom, 46 flower colors competing, sea of clouds and flower tides dancing together, boardwalks weaving through the blossoms; Yueyang County's Zhang Guying Village with century-old residences of blue bricks and black tiles, courtyards turning green, fragrant alleys, and slow-burning stone slab smoke evoking nostalgia; Junshan Island's Junshan Silver Needle tea gardens with spring mountains layered in green, winding tea ridges, offering a leisurely tea picking and making experience. Come to Yueyang and see all the wonders of spring!

Pingjiang Accommodation Legend|Vienna International Hotel · Local Insider Guide If you're visiting Pingjiang, this is the one to lock in! Perfect location, great environment, excellent value, Suitable for business, families, couples, and self-driving travelers, One-stop guide for travel photography + dining + accommodation + entertainment~ 🏨 Hotel Address Vienna International Hotel (Pingjiang Branch) Northwest corner of the intersection of Tianyue Avenue and Changchong Road, Pingjiang County, Yueyang City, Hunan Province (opposite Country Garden) Close to Tianyue Square and Tianyue Bus Station, right in the heart of the county! 🌆 Decoration Style Classic European light luxury style The lobby is grand and stylish, corridors are quiet and elegant, Rooms are clean and bright, perfect for high-end photos without being flashy, Great for business style, lifestyle shots, or atmospheric travel photography. 🛏 Room Types/Layout · Standard Single/Double Room · Deluxe King/Twin Room · Business Suite (with living room, very comfortable for long stays) Highlights: Dreamy bed, good soundproofing, separate wet and dry areas, bright and airy, very comfortable sleep. 🚌 Transportation Guide · Self-driving: Navigate directly by hotel name, free parking available · From Tianyue Bus Station: about 5 minutes by taxi · From highway exit: about 5 minutes by taxi 🏨 Check-in Information · Bring original ID card · Check-in: after 12:00 PM|Check-out: before 12:00 PM next day · Supports online booking and quick front desk check-in ⛺ On-site Amenities · Multi-function conference hall (business/team building) · Free self-service laundry room · Lobby lounge, reading corner, relaxation area · Chess and card room (reservation available) 🍩 Restaurant Features · In-house Chinese restaurant with elegant environment · Free buffet breakfast included (rich Chinese style, fresh and clean) · Offers light meals, full meals, and local dishes 🏬 Nearby Must-Visit Spots · Tianyue Square: 5-minute walk · Pingjiang Uprising Memorial Hall: 10-minute drive · Bubugao Supermarket/Cinema: 8-minute walk · Pingjiang Old Street and Food Street: 10-minute drive 💴 Average Cost Standard Room: 180-260 RMB/night (90-130 RMB per person) Deluxe Room: 240-320 RMB/night Suite: 350-450 RMB/night Slight increase during holidays, excellent value. 🧡 Practical Tips 1. New facilities, clean and tidy, no odors 2. Central county location, close to everything, no need to change hotels 3. Breakfast from 7:00 to 9:30 AM, don’t miss it 4. Free parking, free WiFi, 24-hour front desk

Spring is the perfect time to travel in Yueyang! The spring waters of Dongting Lake are just beginning to rise, and in April, major scenic spots in Yueyang are launching sincere promotions, including discounts, free admissions, and waived tickets. Tianyue Mufu Mountain: From April 7 to April 30, with a valid student ID, you can enjoy tickets plus round-trip cable car rides. The cable car takes just over ten minutes to reach the heights, where you can overlook the rolling sea of clouds and lush mountains; every step on the cliffside plank road offers scenic views. You can also explore the Tianyue Flying Dragon Forest Adventure Park, Laolonggou Waterfall Group, and rare vegetation. Note: This special offer ticket is valid until June 30, 2026, and is not available during the May Day holiday. Yueyang Tower: Visitors under 18 can enter the tower for free and immerse themselves in the famous lines from Chinese textbooks, “Linking distant mountains, swallowing the Yangtze River.” There is a daily free recitation event of "Record of Yueyang Tower" (limited to 200 people per day on non-holidays), which requires advance real-name reservation. Junshan Island: From January 1 to April 20, 2026, all visitors can take the scenic shuttle bus for free, easily reaching the island in the lake’s center. Stroll through the Xiangfei Bamboo Forest, listen to legendary stories, and quietly enjoy the misty waves of Dongting Lake. Come to Yueyang and start your unique journey!