2025 Hengnan Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in July)

The Lixian Ancestral Hall and Xiangen Academy (now called Chejiang Li Clan Ancestral Hall) is a century-old ancestral hall that was once named Xiangen Academy. By 1998, the academy had fallen into disrepair and become a dangerous structure. At the end of 1998, a clan meeting decided to demolish and rebuild it. The main structure of the rebuilt ancestral hall was completed in 2005. In 2011, Professor Liu Jiyuan from University of South China was invited to establish a school here, leading to a complete renovation of the ancestral hall. The history of Lixian Ancestral Hall and Xiangen Academy (Chejiang Li Clan Ancestral Hall) dates back over a hundred years, and it was once listed as a county-level cultural heritage site in Hengnan County. However, due to funding and construction issues, its cultural heritage value was lost after the demolition and reconstruction. Despite this, in 2019, it was still included in the tenth batch of provincial-level cultural heritage sites in Hunan Province.

Built during the Kangxi reign of the Qing Dynasty, the Jiang Clan Ancestral Hall faces south with a three-bay, three-courtyard layout that ascends stepwise with the terrain. Featuring a flush-gable roof and horse-head gable walls, it covers approximately 600 square meters. A feng shui pond lies in front of the hall. The first entrance has stone door frames and stone pillows, while the second courtyard houses the "Zunqin Hall" with stone pillars and bases. The entire structure boasts simple beam decorations and bluestone-paved courtyards. According to stone inscriptions, it underwent renovations during the Qianlong era and recent years, remaining well-preserved to this day.

The Hanlin Academy in the center of the Pailou House was built during the Jiajing period at the request of Hanlin Grand Academician Liao Daonan (whose ancestral home was Bao Gai). Its main gate opens in an "eight-character" shape, and above it are 99 exquisitely carved wooden plum blossom reliefs. Below hangs a plaque bestowed by Emperor Kangxi with the inscription "Inheriting Ancestral Blessings Through Generations". In front of the main gate, replicas of the Forbidden Street and the General's Review Platform were built. Inside the Yutang (Jade Hall), the first, second, and third sections are all grand halls. The main beams in the halls are made of large, naturally curved wood, the column bases are carved from white marble, solemn and elegant, the clay sculptures painted with gold and colors are lifelike, gold plaques and silver screens are arranged in sequence, and stone carvings and jade carvings sparkle brilliantly. The morning bell rings, opening the vermilion doors, waking the butterflies from their quiet dreams, and calling the swallows under the eaves to peck - the grand hall is also one of the Eight Ancient Scenes of Bao Gai, "Yutang Morning Bell". Directly behind the Pailou House, there was originally a magnificent and imposing seven-story Baojia Tower. According to historical records, in the late Northern Song Dynasty, Liao Hanyi, the Prefect of Hengzhou, passed through Bao Gai, saw the pleasant landscape and the land resembling an open lotus, and built a house to settle down. During a time of military upheaval, he built the seven-story Baojia Tower, which was known as "The First Scene of Hengzhou, The First Tower for Protecting the Home". Because the area was rich in natural treasures, it was later called Bao Gai Tower (Bao Gai Town was named after this). The tower was destroyed during the Cultural Revolution, but the site is still recognizable.

The Gaoling Liu Clan Ancestral Hall is located in Guanshi Town, Hengnan County, Hengyang City. Facing south, this five-bay, three-courtyard ancestral hall covers approximately 500 square meters. It features a flush-gable roof with horse-head gable walls, showcasing exquisite architectural composition and superb craftsmanship that combines intricate details with bold simplicity. The hall contains 36 dragon and 12 phoenix carvings, with its front corridor ceiling uniquely decorated with colorful porcelain plates in lattice patterns - a feature unparalleled in Hengnan. Supported by 28 wooden (stone) pillars symbolizing the 28 constellations gathered in the ancestral hall, the entire structure stands tall and majestic, inspiring awe. It is a key cultural relic protection unit of Hunan Province.

Gaoxin Village, located in Huaqiao Town of Hengnan County, is home to a 300-year-old locust tree at its entrance, silently witnessing the village's rise and fall over centuries. Nestled beneath verdant mountains, rows of ancient dwellings with blue bricks and tiles come into view, featuring over 20 well-preserved structures showcasing architectural styles from the early Qing Dynasty to the Republican era. Stretching hundreds of meters, this magnificent complex forms the awe-inspiring Jiang Family Compound, renowned as "Hengnan's Premier Village." The Jiang Family Compound, also known as Maiyuan Jiangjia, spans approximately 300 acres, with origins dating back to the early Ming Dynasty and expansions during the Qing era. The interconnected houses boast staggered eaves, bluestone foundations, and black-tiled roofs. Its labyrinthine alleys, arched corridors, and latticed windows create a hidden world of charm. Ancestral halls, private schools, courtyards, and lofts are intricately linked. Two ancient trees—a camphor and a locust—stand guard at the village entrance, their gnarled branches exuding timeless vigor. Over a kilometer of bluestone-paved paths weave through the settlement, facing vast farmlands ahead and towering peaks behind. Stepping into its courtyards reveals classic Qing-era layouts complete with skylit atriums and lofts, radiating tranquility and profound cultural heritage. Recognized in 2019 as a Hunan Provincial Key Cultural Relic Protection Unit and among China's fifth batch of Traditional Villages.

Baogai Village is located on the east and west sides of the Baogai Town government center. Built in the late Northern Song Dynasty, it consists of four interconnected ancient residential complexes: Pailou House, Anli House, Dawuchang, and Tanhua Village, covering an area of approximately 40 acres. The entire structure is a closed brick-and-wood construction, grand in scale, rationally laid out, and diverse in style. Each individual building features a three-bay design, embodying the traditional concept of "four waters returning to the hall" and the custom of "keeping wealth within the family." The sculptures and paintings are elegant and dignified, with lifelike depictions of figures, flowers, and plants, as well as vibrant images of rare birds and exotic animals. Among these, Pailou House is the most well-preserved. The Baogai Ancient Architecture Complex is one of the most intact and largest ancient architectural complexes in Hengyang City, holding significant historical value for the study of ancient architecture, history, local customs, and Huxiang culture. It also plays a leading role in promoting Hengyang's tourism development, which focuses on ancient-style architectural complexes, and has important cultural relic protection value. It is a key cultural relic protection unit of Hengyang City and one of the fourth batch of China's Traditional Villages.

✈️ Calling all travelers heading to Hengyang soon! Discover this perfect hidden gem for business trips or vacations — City Comfort Inn (Hengyang Nanyue Airport Branch). For just around 100 RMB per person, you can enjoy a smart and cozy experience with unbeatable value! A must-recommend! 📍【Prime Location】 Only about 5 km from Hengyang Nanyue Airport! 🚗 A 10-minute drive gets you there, making early flights or late-night arrivals a breeze. With convenient transportation nearby, exploring the city for food or sightseeing is effortless—just go whenever you want! 🌟【Surprisingly Complete Facilities】 Self-service breakfast: A rich variety of Chinese and Western options. Start your day with a bowl of warm local rice noodles for an energetic morning! Self-service laundry: A lifesaver for business travelers! Toss your clothes in the washer after a long day and relax. Self-service gym: Fitness enthusiasts can keep up their routine with fully equipped machines, ready for a sweat session anytime 💦 Meeting room & luggage storage: Perfect for business meetings or temporary storage—convenience and security guaranteed! Self-check-in kiosk: Available 24/7 for hassle-free check-in/out! 🤖【Fully Smart Experience】 Lobby robot delivery: Don’t want to go downstairs for takeout? 🤖️ The robot delivers straight to your door—fast, contactless, and perfect for introverts! In-room Xiaodu voice control: Just say "Xiaodu Xiaodu" from bed to control lights, AC, TV, curtains… One command and laziness wins! No need to get up to turn off lights—pure bliss 💡 💡【Handy Tips】 ✅ Early flight? Tell the front desk in advance—they’ll pack breakfast for you! ✅ Driving? Don’t worry about parking—the hotel offers free parking! ✅ Planning a trip soon? Book early for the best deals! This hidden gem is ideal for both business and leisure! Who can resist a 100-RMB stay that feels like 1,000 RMB? 😭 Bookmark this and head straight here on your next Hengyang trip! 👇 🏨: City Comfort Inn (Hengyang Nanyue Airport Branch)

| Qiudao Hotel (Hengnan Nanyue Airport Branch). Hey everyone, if you're coming to Hengyang for tourism or business, I highly recommend the Qiudao Hotel (Hengnan Nanyue Airport Branch)! It offers incredible value and a fantastic experience 💯 🏨Hotel Highlights ✅ Prime Location: The hotel is located at Room 2033, Building 5, Phase 1, Yunji Avenue 38 (Hengnan County Commercial Pedestrian Street). Shopping, dining, and entertainment options are all within easy reach. Whether you want to sample local delicacies or indulge in some retail therapy, everything is super convenient. Just step outside and start your joyful journey~ ✅ Diverse Room Options: The hotel offers a wide variety of room types to meet different needs. • Elegant Delight Double Room: Simple yet elegant decor, warm and comfortable, with soft and skin-friendly bedding, ensuring a restful night's sleep 🛏 • Cinema Double Room: Enjoy the pleasure of watching movies on a big screen from the comfort of your bed, perfect for unwinding after a day of travel 🎦 • Elegant Delight Twin Room: Spacious and ideal for sharing with friends or family, providing ample space for chatting and enjoying quality time together 👭 • Artistic Round Bed Room: The unique round bed design creates a romantic ambiance, perfect for couples 💑 • Premium Suite: Spacious and bright with comprehensive amenities, offering a high-quality stay 🏞 ✅ Comfortable Environment: From the hotel lobby to the guest rooms, every detail reflects meticulous care and attention. The spacious and bright lobby, coupled with the warm and attentive staff, creates a welcoming atmosphere. The rooms feature modern and minimalist decor, complete amenities, and impeccable cleanliness, ensuring a worry-free stay 🥰 🎈Fun Things to Do Nearby • Baowei Li: A street steeped in retro charm and unique cultural atmosphere. Here, you can admire the bright yellow buildings, perfect for capturing memorable photos 📸 • Xiangjiang Riverbank: Take a leisurely stroll along the Xiangjiang River in the evening, enjoying the gentle breeze and the shimmering waters under the deep night sky, experiencing the tranquility and beauty of Hengyang 🌅 • Surrounding Ancient Scenic Areas: Hengyang boasts a rich history and culture, and the surrounding ancient scenic areas are full of traditional charm. You can don a Hanfu and explore the traces of history, immersing yourself in the wisdom and elegance of the ancients 🏯 💰Amazingly Affordable: Incredible value for your money! Starting from just 179 yuan, you can enjoy a comfortable and memorable stay. Don't miss out on this hidden gem when you visit Hengyang~

Near downtown Hengyang, behind Yumu Mountain, can be done in half a day. There is a spring at the foot of the mountain, and many locals bring buckets to collect spring water. Time: 3 hours 45 minutes, 12.57 km in total Difficulty: ⭐️⭐️ Scenery: Amitabha Temple, newly renovated and very beautiful, with two thousand-year-old ginkgo trees that have not yet turned yellow. Route: Navigate to Amitabha Temple and see picture 4. Picture 5 is a fork in the road, and you can park after telling the owner. Walk up the cement road. When you see Amitabha Temple in picture 7, go up to the right of the temple and start walking on the yellow dirt road. Keep walking up to the end of the road and you will see a house with an iron gate. There is a small road next to the iron gate that you can take to go down the mountain. See pictures 10-12 for the road conditions. When you reach the cement road and see a house, walk about 500 meters to the left along the house to the Shiniufeng South Gate Archway in picture 14. After exiting the archway, walk along the main road to the left to reach the parking spot.

Hunan Hengyang Amitabha Temple Travel Guide Preparation - Check opening hours: Check the opening hours of the temple in advance and plan your trip accordingly. - Transportation: If you drive, you can navigate to Amitabha Temple in Chejiang Town, Hengnan County. Parking is convenient. If you take public transportation, you can first go to Hengyang City, then transfer to an inter-county bus to Chejiang Town. After arriving in Chejiang Town, you can take a taxi to the temple. - Notes: Respect the religious customs of the temple, keep quiet, and do not touch the Buddha statues, cultural relics, etc. Temple Tour - Temple architecture: Enter through the mountain gate and feel the solemnity. The four heavenly kings in the Hall of Heavenly Kings are majestic. The Mahavira Hall is magnificent, with statues of Sakyamuni Buddha, Medicine Buddha, and Amitabha Buddha. The statue of Guanyin on the sea island behind the Buddha statues is lifelike, and the eighteen Arhats on both sides have different postures. - Millennium ginkgo: If you visit in autumn, you can see two ginkgo trees planted at the beginning of the temple's construction. The golden ginkgo leaves hang on the branches, and the sunlight shines through the branches and leaves, making the ground golden and beautiful. - Cultural atmosphere: Amitabha Temple has a long history. You can learn about its historical origin, which was built by a disciple of Master Huineng, a famous monk in the Tang Dynasty, and feel the profound Buddhist culture. Local Food and Specialties - Food recommendations: Try local specialties in Hengyang, such as Hengyang fish noodles, with tender fish, rich soup, and smooth rice noodles. There are also Zhajiang rice noodles, Hengdong local dishes, etc. - Specialty shopping: You can buy Hengyang's specialty agricultural products, such as Yunwu tea, with tight and curly strips, green and oily color, high and lasting aroma, and mellow and sweet taste. Itinerary - Morning: Arrive at Amitabha Temple, visit the temple buildings, admire the millennium ginkgo, feel the peaceful and harmonious atmosphere, listen to the monks chanting, and immerse yourself in Buddhist culture. - Noon: Taste local food at a restaurant near the temple and take a break. - Afternoon: You can communicate with the monks to learn about Buddhist culture and temple history, or you can take a walk around to enjoy the rural natural scenery.

A. "Thoughts🪭": Finally arrived at the destination that has been in my favorites for 3 years: Amitabha Temple~ 🎫：8:30-17:30～ PS: Thanks to passers-by and friends for appearing~ Hanfu feels so good! Traveling through time and space with a thousand-year-old ancient temple~ What comes into view are two towering ginkgo trees🍂~yellow and green echo~ Avalokitesvara is so beautiful ~ the main hall is spectacular ~ full of atmosphere ~ B.『Food🥣』： 🈶Vegetarian meal ~ inform your aunt in advance ~ C.『Transportation🛣️』: 1️⃣Bus🚌: Take No. 162 "Yumu Passenger Terminal" and transfer to No. 162 branch line, Get off at the "Shiniu Peak Climbing Entrance" station ⬇️ and walk 🚶‍♀️ 24 minutes~ 2️⃣Self-driving🚗: A newly built cement road can lead directly to the door~

🐾 Thank Inn Chain Hotel (Hengyang Hennan Nanyue Airport Branch) 💨 🔸A hotel that perfectly combines convenience and comfort with practicality and warmth, carefully creating an excellent accommodation experience for you🏅 1️⃣The guest rooms are rich and diverse🏩, including double rooms, twin rooms, and mahjong rooms. Zero-pressure mattresses and latex pillows will help you sleep peacefully⛺️. The private bathrooms are fresh and clean🛀🏻, with 24-hour hot water supply💧, and high-speed WIFI network Unimpeded traffic, all-around caring ~[Love] 2️⃣The room is equipped with exciting Internet TV📺, you can cast the screen as you like📱 on your mobile phone, disposable slippers care for your feet🥿, complete toiletries🧼, free parking is convenient and worry-free🚗, and the butler-style service is meticulous🍶, allowing you to relax as much as you want. , as comfortable and warm as home 💁🏻‍♀️ 3️⃣The hotel’s supporting facilities are unique🥁. The 24-hour laundry room will relieve your worries🎭. It is close to Century Hualian Supermarket for shopping convenience🥽 and is adjacent to the County Administrative Center🗼 🔸The specific address❗️❗️❗️👉 is located at No. 81 Yunfeng Road, Yunji Town, Hengnan County (directly opposite the County Highway Bureau)🙀

This Kongming Tower is located on the banks of the Leishui River in Xiangshi Township, Hengnan County, Hengyang, Hunan. The Kongming (courtesy name Kongming, also known as Wolong) Tower dates back to 211 AD, more than 1,800 years ago, when the original stone post station was located here. People built the Kongming Tower here to commemorate Mr. Kongming. The ancient tower was later destroyed by war, and the newly built Kongming Tower was completed in 2017 at a cost of more than 4 million yuan. The construction of the Kongming Tower by the descendants of the official hall can be traced back to when Zhuge Liang supervised the taxation of the Zhengxiang River and passed through the Leishui River, where he moored his boat on the beach of Xianggong Fort. The official ship was stranded on the beach, and Zhuge Liang disembarked and was deeply moved by the water and mountain scenery and the feng shui of this place, so he docked and stayed overnight, set up a beach training camp, and set up a "Kongming Post Station" for taxation. Climbing the Kongming Tower, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery on both sides of the Leishui River and the surrounding scenery, and look out at the Jiangkou Island. Today, this tower has become an important part of local tourism development. Several buses pass by the tower every day from Hengnan County, and visitors can stop by waving their hands, making it very convenient to travel back and forth.