Zhaoshan Complete Guide|Millennium Ancient Path + Ancient Temple Riverside View, Few People and Beautiful Scenery, Perfect for a Weekend Getaway
Xiangtan's Zhaoshan is definitely an underrated short-trip treasure 🏞️ Located at the border of Changsha and Xiangtan, just a 1-hour drive away, it is also the original site of the famous "Shanshi Qinglan," one of the "Eight Scenic Spots of Xiaoxiang." The scenic area is open to the public for free, with few visitors and serene views. You can find a millennium-old ancient path, a Tang Dynasty temple, and a riverside pavilion all in one place. Spending half a day here allows for a leisurely stroll, with easy hiking and stunning mountain and river views—comfortable and stress-relieving.
🥾 Four Must-Visit Highlights of Zhaoshan, Each Full of Surprises
Millennium Ancient Stone Steps
The millennium-old stone steps leading from the foot to the summit are the soul route of Zhaoshan. The entire ancient path is 1,314 meters long, paved with over 5,300 granite stones, and features 1,947 steps winding up along the mountain’s terrain. It is one of the best-preserved ancient post roads in Hunan Province. Walking on the stones worn smooth by time, shaded by dense foliage blocking the sun even in the height of June summer, the mountain breeze rustles through the leaves, occasionally mixed with bird calls. As you walk, you gradually feel a deep calm. Along the way, you’ll pass the Great Man Pavilion and the former residence site of Liu Qi, reading historical stories engraved on stone tablets, making the hike far from boring—more like traveling through a thousand years of history.
Zhaoshan Ancient Temple
Built during the Tang Dynasty, the Zhaoshan Ancient Temple is nestled on the mountaintop amid lush greenery. The red walls and dark tiles against the green mountains exude a natural Zen atmosphere ⛩️. The temple’s Buddha statues are mostly crafted with Dongyang wood carving techniques, with delicate and lifelike patterns, showing exquisite craftsmanship in every detail. Behind the temple stands a nearly thousand-year-old ancient ginkgo tree, a true treasure of the temple. Its branches are adorned with red prayer ribbons that gently sway in the breeze, creating a deeply atmospheric scene. Although you won’t see golden ginkgo leaves in June, the temple remains quiet and serene, free from commercial noise. Occasionally, the sound of bells rings out, and after a visit, your mood will feel much more peaceful.
Kuixing Tower
As the iconic building of Zhaoshan, Kuixing Tower is an excellent spot for panoramic views. The ancient tower with flying eaves and dougong brackets is magnificent. Climb the wooden stairs to the top floor, and the expansive view of the Xiangjiang River Bay unfolds instantly: layers of mountains wrapped in green, the clear Xiangjiang River winding through, boats slowly passing on the water, and distant villages and fields arranged in a picturesque pattern, like a traditional Chinese ink landscape painting. The best time to visit is at dusk when the sunset dyes the river golden. Sitting and enjoying the river breeze for a while, all the fatigue from work will be swept away.
Classic Hiking Route
The scenic area is free to enter, and the classic route is especially friendly for hiking beginners: start from the main entrance, follow the millennium-old stone steps up the mountain, passing the Great Man Pavilion and Liu Qi’s former residence site. A slow walk takes about an hour to reach the mountaintop Zhaoshan Ancient Temple. After visiting the temple and climbing Kuixing Tower, you can choose to descend via a gentle trail on the other side, completing a loop without backtracking. The difficulty is moderate, so even those who don’t exercise regularly can easily manage it.
🌿 Shaoyang Zhaoyang: A Hidden Ancient Charm and Scenic Secret in Central Hunan
If you happen to be around Shaoyang, Shaodong—formerly known as "Zhaoyang"—also hides many less crowded and beautiful spots, blending natural scenery with historical depth, perfect for a leisurely day trip.
Zhaoyang Park
A treasured ecological park for locals’ daily leisure, combining culture, relaxation, and entertainment. Stroll along the paths shaded by green trees with fresh air. Climb to the park’s highest point, Zhaoyang Pavilion, to take in the entire cityscape and surrounding mountains and fields of Shaodong. Evening walks to watch the sunset here are very relaxing.
Sayu River Basin
About 15 kilometers from the city center, the 47-kilometer riverbank is lined with clusters of weeping willows, including over 1,800 ancient willows more than a hundred years old. In spring, tens of thousands of apple blossoms mingle with the smoky willows, like stepping into a poetic painting; in early summer, the trees provide dense shade and the river water is clear and cool. You can walk along the riverbank to enjoy the breeze or try drifting and riverside barbecues, making it a great weekend spot for camping and relaxation.
Zhaoyang Marquis City Ruins & Yugong Mountain
History lovers can visit the Zhaoyang Marquis City ruins, walking on the land of the ancient city and feeling the weight of time. For those who enjoy panoramic views, don’t miss Yugong Mountain. The summit often gathers clouds and mist, preserving the ancient scene known as "Yugong’s Cloud Hair." Standing at the top watching the clouds roll and the weather change, you can enjoy the peacefulness of the entire mountain landscape.
✨ Practical Travel Tips
1. Be sure to confirm your destination before setting out: Zhaoshan in Xiangtan and Zhaoyang in Shaoyang are quite far apart, so don’t go to the wrong place.
2. For hiking in Zhaoshan, comfortable sports shoes are recommended since the ancient stone steps are numerous; good shoes greatly enhance the experience.
3. Each season has its highlights: Zhaoshan’s autumn features golden ginkgo and colorful forests, perfect for photos; early summer in June offers dense shade and cool hiking without sun exposure, also a great experience; Sayu River is best for spring flower viewing and summer water activities.
4. Both scenic areas are free to enter, and there are no extra fees for Zhaoshan Ancient Temple or Kuixing Tower, offering excellent value for money.