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

#awesomepic There is no other place to capture the majestic Sydney Harbour Bridge than from the platform of Circular Quay train station. Amidst the hustle and bustle of the busy city life, the beauty of this iconic architecture will surely make you stop and snap. Neighbours with other Iconic landmark, the Sydney Opera House and a few minutes walk to the famous Queen Victoria Building in CBD area.

Xiangtan Rendezvous: Unlocking Multiple Ways to Explore the Treasure City Xiangtan, a city located in central Hunan, boasts a rich historical heritage and unique cultural charm, making it a treasure city worth deep exploration. Whether you are tracing the footsteps of great figures, savoring historical culture, immersing yourself in natural scenery, or indulging in delicious food, Xiangtan has it all. Now, follow this guide to start an exciting journey in Xiangtan! Leisure Vacation Three-Day Tour Day 1: Arrive in the morning at Panlong Grand View Garden, a large ecological and cultural theme park. In the flower viewing area, various flowers compete in beauty, offering different scenic views in every season. There are also plenty of amusement facilities, making it especially suitable for family trips. Noon: Dine at the park’s restaurant and try local farmhouse dishes. The steamed cured meat platter is a must-try, featuring cured pork, sausage, and chicken steamed together with a rich aroma. Afternoon: Continue enjoying the park’s attractions and amusement rides, savoring a leisurely time. Day 2: Head to Zhaoshan Scenic Area, a famous mountain on the east bank of the Xiang River and home to the ancient Xiangxi Eight Views’ “Mountain City Clear Mist.” Climb the mountain along the ancient Zhaoshan stone steps, visiting the Liu Qi Former Residence Site and the Great Man Pavilion along the way. At the summit, visit the ancient Zhaoshan Temple and pray under the millennium-old ginkgo tree while overlooking the magnificent view where the Xiangjiang River meets the three cities of Changsha, Zhuzhou, and Xiangtan. Noon: Enjoy local cuisine at a restaurant at the foot of the mountain. The chopped chili fish head is a must-order dish, with fresh and spicy chopped chili paired with tender fish head for an absolutely delicious taste. Afternoon: Proceed to Dongtaishan National Forest Park, which has a forest coverage rate of 85%, making it a great place for hiking and breathing fresh air. Stroll along forest trails, breathe in the fresh air, and relax your body and mind. Day 3: Visit the Peng Dehuai Memorial Hall in Wushi Town, Xiangtan County. The hall showcases the life and deeds of Marshal Peng Dehuai. The “Standing Firm with Sword and Horse” themed sculpture is magnificent, and the realistic restoration of the Korean War command scene inspires deep respect for Marshal Peng. Noon: Taste local dishes at nearby restaurants. Recommended dishes include Mao-style braised pork and chopped chili fish head to experience authentic Xiang cuisine flavors. Afternoon: Before heading back, visit specialty stores to pick up local products such as Xiang lotus seeds, Longpai soy sauce, candle wick cake, and Xiangtan cured meats to bring the taste of Xiangtan home. 2. Food Highlights Xiangtan offers a wide variety of delicious foods beyond those mentioned above. Xiangtan rice noodles are a must-try. Shibazong Rice Noodle Shop is a century-old brand, with soft and chewy rice noodles. Paired with thin-skinned, generously filled pot dumplings and sweet, mellow fermented rice wine with egg, it’s perfect! Huage Breakfast offers a rich variety, with shredded meat and ribs as main fillings, diverse side dishes, and homemade pot dumplings that taste amazing. The signature wontons at the Nameless Wonton Shop are generously filled, served in a specially made squid ink broth that is sweet and fresh. Paired with homemade pepper powder and pickled vegetables, it’s the “hidden boss” of wontons. The century-old Dongsheng Dumpling Shop’s wontons are also excellent, handmade with thin skins, large fillings, fresh flavors, rich broth, and juicy. “Fly Restaurant” style eateries have their own unique charm. Shuige Flavor Restaurant’s stir-fried tripe is crispy and tender without any odor. Their secret recipe tofu is crispy on the outside and silky inside with an egg aroma. Huage Restaurant’s cumin chicken wings are fragrant with cumin, tender chicken, and soft potatoes. Steamed yellow duck calls combine spicy and fresh flavors, very appetizing. Dongping Home Cuisine’s cumin beef is strongly aromatic, with evenly cut beef coated in cumin and chili, looking very tempting. Their spicy boiled pork slices are bright red with tender, juicy meat. Zhilan Hand-Shredded Chicken and Duck Restaurant’s shredded chicken is firm with crispy skin and perfectly blended seasoning. The shredded duck is tender with soft skin, combining braised and fatty aromas. Wenhua Restaurant’s meat patties with soup and egg custard are as tender as clouds, with solid and chewy meat patties. Their home-style bream is crispy outside and tender inside with rich seasoning. Special snacks are also not to be missed. Xinhua Zhai Pastry is a local Hunan brand with over 60 years of history. Their candle wick cake making technique is a representative intangible cultural heritage of Hunan Province. They also offer refreshing cakes, brown rice cakes, sesame dates, and other traditional pastries. Wen Qimu Sweet Wine House serves traditional sweet rice wine with plump, soft, and chewy glutinous rice and fresh, sweet rice wine juice. Dongtingchun Brain Roll has a complex making process, with paper-thin dough that melts in your mouth. Yihezai’s raw oil mooncakes have rich fillings such as peanuts and osmanthus, sweet but not greasy. The food night markets are lively too. Liancheng Night Market is the largest and busiest night market in Xiangtan, with sizzling barbecue, crispy and tender stinky tofu, sweet and soft sugar oil cakes, and fresh, fragrant fish noodles full of everyday life atmosphere. Wanlou Youth Wharf Market is the largest container market in the country, with many snack stalls including stinky tofu, candied hawthorn, barbecue, and various Hunan specialties, making it super fun to eat and stroll. 3. Accommodation Recommendations - City Center Area (Yuhu District/Yuetang District): Convenient transportation and complete commercial facilities. For cost-effective options, 7 Days Premium Hotel offers clean and tidy rooms with attentive service at 150-300 RMB/night. For more comfort, Xiangtan Huayin International Hotel is a good choice, priced at 400-800 RMB/night, with full facilities including a gym and swimming pool. - Near Shaoshan Scenic Area: Convenient for visiting red tourism sites. Shaoshan Dishuidong No.1 Homestay costs 300-450 RMB/night, with some rooms featuring courtyards and a quiet environment. Shaoshan Hotel has a stronger historical atmosphere, priced at 400-600 RMB/night, allowing you to better experience Shaoshan’s red culture. 4. Travel Tips 1. Transportation: - External transport: The nearest airport is Changsha Huanghua International Airport, about 50 km from Xiangtan. You can take the airport shuttle bus or go to Changsha South Station first, then transfer to the high-speed train to Xiangtan North Station. Xiangtan North Station and Xiangtan Station connect to cities nationwide. The high-speed train from Changsha South Station to Xiangtan North Station takes about 15 minutes. You can also choose long-distance buses or drive via Jinggang’ao Expressway, Hukun Expressway, etc., to reach Xiangtan. - City transport: Buses, taxis, ride-hailing, and shared bikes/electric bikes cover major areas. For longer distances between attractions, taxis are more convenient; for shorter distances, buses or shared bikes are easy options. 2. Best seasons: Spring and autumn (March-May, September-November) are the best travel times with pleasant weather suitable for outdoor activities and beautiful scenery. Summer is hot, so prepare for sun protection and heat prevention; winter is cold, but the festive atmosphere during New Year and Spring Festival, along with the flower offering tide in Shaoshan, offers a unique charm. 3. Show tickets: If you want to watch the large-scale live show “China Gave Birth to Mao Zedong” in Shaoshan, book tickets in advance via the “Hong Pei Tong” mini program. Usually, there is only one show per night at 7:30 PM, and tickets are highly sought after during peak seasons. 4. Photo and outfit tips: Wear a red scarf at the bronze statue square for more solemn photos; wear Hanfu on Yaowan Ancient Street for a strong atmosphere; wear student uniforms at Nan’an Private School to capture the theme of “Youthful Study.” 5. Specialty shopping: When buying specialties, choose reputable stores. For products like Xiang lotus seeds, Longpai soy sauce, candle wick cake, etc., look for trusted brands and quality to avoid inferior products.

Qiu Ran's hometown of the great man! A 2-Day, 1-Night Xiangtan Tour Guide: Encounter Red Maple Leaves and Millennium Yaowan > Tracing the Red Footprints of Shaoshan, Listening to the Rumble of the Xiangjiang River in Yaowan Ancient Town, I was captivated by the city's autumn charm. **Table of Contents** - Highlights: See What to Do at a Glance - Detailed Itinerary: 2-Day, 1-Night Guide - Practical Tips: Transportation and Accommodation Recommendations ✨ **Highlights at a Glance** - **🏛️ Immersing in Red Culture**: Visit Mao Zedong's Former Residence in the **Shaoshan Tourist Area**, and touch Chairman Mao's reading desk at **Dongshan Academy** to experience the great leader's journey. - **🍁 Enjoying Golden Autumn Scenery**: Admire the vibrant maple leaves at **Yunyang Mountain** and experience the poetic beauty of the autumn forest. - **🏮 Strolling the Millennium Ancient Town at Night**: Stroll along the bluestone streets of **Yaowan Historical and Cultural District**, admire historical sites like the Datangxing Temple and Wangheng Pavilion, and experience the prosperity of the millennium commercial port. - **🎎 Experience Intangible Cultural Heritage Handcrafts: Experience Xiangtan paper-cutting at Wanlou and learn about traditional soy sauce making at the Dragon Brand Soy Sauce Intangible Cultural Heritage Workshop. Experiencing the charm of intangible cultural heritage. - **🍜 Authentic Cuisine: Savor authentic Xiangtan flavors from Mao's Braised Pork to Lantern Cake. 🗓️ **Detailed Itinerary** 🏛️ **Day 1: Red Shaoshan → Yaowan Night View** **Morning: Departing Changsha, I drove about an hour to the Shaoshan Tourist Area. My first stop was the Former Residence of Comrade Mao Zedong. This quintessential Jiangnan farmhouse is where Chairman Mao was born and raised. Standing in front of the residence and touching the wood-burning stove, I felt as if I were reliving the great man's childhood. **Afternoon: For lunch, enjoy authentic Mao's Braised Pork at the Shaoshan Hotel. Then, I headed to the Dongshan Academy. Within the academy, surrounded by towering ancient trees, I touched the desk where Chairman Mao once studied, feeling the warmth of history. The academy is exceptionally peaceful in autumn, perfect for quiet contemplation. **Evening**: In the evening, I returned to downtown Xiangtan and headed straight for the **Yaowan Historical and Cultural District**. Walking along the bluestone pavement, the **Xiangjiang River flowing by** and the autumn breeze caressing my face were particularly pleasant. I strolled along the old street, visiting **Datangxing Temple** and **Wangheng Pavilion**, and paused on the ancient **Tangxing Bridge** to admire the illuminated nightscape of the Xiangjiang River. 🏮 **Day 2: Intangible Cultural Heritage Experience → Autumn Relaxation** **Morning**: After breakfast, I headed to **Wanlou**. Built during the Wanli period of the Ming Dynasty, this ancient building is a cultural landmark in Xiangtan. Climbing the Wanlou offers **a magnificent view** of the Xiangjiang River, taking in the panoramic nightscape. At the Wanlou scenic area, I participated in the **Xiangtan Paper-Cutting** experience and, under the guidance of an intangible cultural heritage inheritor, completed a simple paper-cutting piece. **Afternoon**: After lunch, I visited the **Dragon Brand Soy Sauce Intangible Cultural Heritage Workshop**. Here, I learned about the traditional soy sauce production process and experienced the joy of handmade soy sauce making. If you have more time, you can also visit **Chrysanthemum Pond Park** to admire the sea of ​​autumn flowers. **Evening**: Conclude your enjoyable Xiangtan trip and prepare to return. Before leaving, I made a special trip to **Xinhuazhai** to purchase **Dengxin Cake**, a non-heritage item, as gifts for friends and family. 💡 **Practical Tips** **Transportation Guide** - **External Transportation**: Xiangtan offers convenient transportation and is accessible via high-speed rail. The high-speed rail from **Changsha South Station to Xiangtan North Station takes only 19 minutes**. - **Intra-City Transportation**: Tourist attractions are scattered, so **charging a car** is a good option. **Accommodation Recommendations** - **Hotels in the City**: Choose central areas like **Yuhu District** for convenient transportation and a wide variety of dining options. - **Near Shaoshan**: Choose **Shaoshan Hotel** and experience the red-walled themed rooms. **Budget Guide (2 Days, 1 Night)** | Activities | Budget (RMB) | Comfort (RMB) | |------|------------|------------| | Accommodation/person | 100-200 | 200-300 | | Meals/day | 80-100 | 100-150 | | Transportation | 100-150 | 200-300 | | Entrance Fees | 50-100 | 100-150 | | Total | 330-550 | 600-900 | **Best Time to Travel** - **Autumn (September-November): **The weather is pleasant, and the **Yunyang Mountain's maple leaves are a vibrant array**, making it a great time to enjoy the autumn scenery. **Avoiding Pitfalls** 1. **Itinerary**: The Shaoshan tourist area is quite large, so it is recommended to **plan a full-day tour**. 2. **Ticket Reservations**: Attractions like Comrade Mao Zedong's Former Residence are **free, but reservations are required**. Advance planning is recommended. 3. **Special Events**: Follow the official "**Xiangtan Culture and Tourism**" website for the latest updates on intangible cultural heritage experiences and more. On the return high-speed train, I flipped through the photos on my phone—**from the solemnity of the Shaoshan Former Residence, to the enchanting nightscape of Yaowan Ancient Town, to the majestic Wanlou**. Xiangtan, the hometown of this great man, with its profound revolutionary culture, rich history, and beautiful natural scenery, gave me a weekend filled with education and profound emotions. If you're looking for a weekend escape to experience the charm of revolutionary culture and the poetic beauty of the Xiangjiang River, Xiangtan is absolutely worth a visit. I believe this "**Hometown of a Great Man, Red Xiangtan**" will leave you feeling awe-inspiring and deeply moving!

#September Good Places 2025 Mao Zedong's Former Residence is a major attraction in Shaoshan 5A Scenic Area! 🏡 Yellow mud wall, green tile roof farmhouse, looks super feel ~ original flavor preserved the real scene of rural life in Hunan in the late Qing Dynasty and early Republic of China. The thirteen rooms in the former residence, including bedrooms, main rooms, and kitchens, are all simply furnished. Walking in is like stepping back in time, feeling the great man's childhood and return home. The best thing is that every detail tells how Mao survived his early years: simple desks, farm tools, cooking utensils, everything is sooo historical. At the same time, it is also a photo spot for Chinese red tourism. Every year, many tourists come to feel the modern revolutionary spirit! After the epidemic, the flow of people has increased, we recommend that you try to avoid the peak of the festival⏰, book a visit online in advance, so you can slowly chill and quietly feel this feeling of sedimentation and space travel ~ 🔎 Basic information: Address: Shaoshan Dishui Cave Road, Shaoshan Town, Shaoshan City, Xiangtan City, Hunan Province Opening hours: 08:00 - 17:30 Chill a day of red culture tour, take pictures of Mao Zedong's former residence, history fans must go! 🔥

Reflections on Traveling in Jinggangshan -----The Influence of the Red Spirit and a Slight Disappointment with the Commercial Atmosphere On August 24, 2025, stepping onto the land of Jinggangshan, a sense of solemnity and reverence welled up in my heart. Every mountain, every road, every stone tablet here seems to quietly tell the magnificent revolutionary history. In the afternoon, visiting the Revolutionary Museum in Ciping, the precious historical photos and weathered revolutionary relics silently narrated those arduous years. Definitely worth a visit, but note it’s closed on Mondays. In the evening, I went to Chairman Mao’s Former Residence and stayed at Wenyuan Hotel, which was affordable and had great service. I lost a bracelet there, and the staff returned it to me. Dinner was also decent. In the middle of the trip, I got ripped off when my car’s oil warning light came on. The repair shop below the hotel just added a little oil and charged 380 yuan. Later, in Jinggangshan city, they didn’t even know what kind of oil it was. The key issue was no real service. I ended up getting a Shell oil change and maintenance in the city for only 350 yuan with excellent service. On the morning of August 25, I drove up Huangyangjie, as if I could still hear the booming artillery from the defense battle back then. The winding mountain roads and steep cliffs were the battlegrounds where Red Army soldiers fought fiercely. Standing in front of the monument, looking out at the endless mountains shrouded in mist, I deeply felt the heroic spirit of "a single spark can start a prairie fire." It’s a must to drive up once. On the morning of August 25, I went into Dajing. Those simple thatched huts and adobe houses with a wooden table, an oil lamp, and a few benches were the places where they strategized and directed the revolution. I stayed at Xijiangyue, which had great service and a decent environment, though some rooms were a bit small. However, a farmhouse restaurant opposite the hotel was a rip-off: a medium bottle of Coke was 18 yuan, sweat... Red rice was 10 yuan for a small bamboo bucket. A small tip: ask the price before ordering to avoid being overcharged. In the afternoon of August 25, I visited the old site of the Xiaojing Red Army Hospital, which was quite heavy-hearted. Then I went to Longtan Scenic Spot, walked down, and took the cable car back. This spot is a must-visit; compared to the red revolutionary sites, this rare natural scenic area also bears traces of the revolution. In the evening, I went to nearby Xiaojing, but I was a few minutes late. The staff locked the back door like thieves, haha. Even after showing a full ticket, they hurriedly closed for the day. The sunset over Jinggangshan was still magnificent then. So it was a bit of a regret, and later I gave up on this red site due to lack of time. On August 26, I went to the Revolutionary Martyrs’ Cemetery. Since there were few people, I just paid my respects from below, then went to Torch Square. It’s worth climbing; I also visited the museum again. Hehe. Checked out and left Jinggangshan at noon. This long-awaited trip to Jinggangshan was bittersweet; the joys were the revolutionary spirit, red history knowledge, tourist attractions, and hotels. The worries were the excessive commercialization and tourist scams, which can’t compare to Shaoshan Chong, diminishing the travel experience. Overall, I would still visit Jinggangshan again if I have the chance.

🚀【Shocking Reveal】Shaoshan One-Day Tour Guide! Step into Chairman Mao’s Hometown and Feel the Spirit of a Great Leader🔥 Hey, friends! Today, I’m taking you on a journey through time to the red-hot land of Shaoshan, Hunan, full of revolutionary memories!🌟 If you haven’t been here yet, you definitely haven’t truly experienced the awe of the “Hometown of a Great Leader”!🌈 Ready? Let’s embark on an inspiring red-themed journey together!✊ 🎯 Why must you visit Shaoshan? This place is not just a tourist spot, but a spiritual baptism!💖 Shaoshan is the hometown of Chairman Mao and a symbol of the Chinese revolutionary spirit. Standing here, you’ll be deeply moved by the original aspiration and mission. Every inch of land tells a story, and every green mountain inspires us to forge ahead courageously!🌟 This is a cleansing of the soul and an elevation of values!✨ 🗺️ Transportation Guide: Easy Access to Shaoshan Self-drive: Depart from Changsha, take the Jinggang’ao Expressway (G4) straight to Shaoshan, about a 2-hour drive with beautiful scenery and good road conditions.🚗 High-speed Rail + Bus: Take the high-speed train to Shaoshan Station, then transfer to a dedicated tourist bus directly to the scenic area, convenient and fast!🚆 Tour Groups: Many places offer one-day tour packages, hassle-free and perfect for those with limited time! 🏨 Accommodation Recommendations: Red Culture Experience + Comfortable Rest Shaoshan Hotel: Elegant environment, complete facilities, close to the scenic area, convenient for sightseeing.🌿 Specialty Homestays: Experience local Shaoshan charm, enjoy a strong rural atmosphere, perfect for photo ops!📸 🌟 Must-Visit Attractions: Red Memories and Natural Wonders 1. Mao Zedong’s Former Residence 🏡 Highlight: The place where Chairman Mao grew up, well-preserved, taking you back to those remarkable years. Tip: Book a guided tour in advance for a richer story experience! 2. Chairman Mao Memorial Hall 🖼️ Feature: Rich historical materials and precious artifacts, feel the great aura of the leader. Interactive: Don’t forget to write your reflections on the message wall and share with fans nationwide!✍️ 3. Dishuidong Revolutionary Site 💧 Significance: Witness the birth of the revolutionary spark and feel the spirit of the predecessors’ struggle. Photo Tip: The light and shadow inside the cave change, so bring a good camera! 4. Shaoshan Chong Natural Scenery 🌳 Feature: Clear mountains and waters, lush forests, an excellent place to relax your mind. Suggestion: Bring a picnic mat and enjoy an outdoor picnic!🍉 5. Chairman Mao Statue Square ✨ Highlight: The towering bronze statue of Chairman Mao, solemn and majestic, a must for photo ops! 🍴 Food Recommendations: Taste the Local Flavors of Shaoshan Shaoshan Tujia Smoked Bacon: Rich smoky flavor, tender meat, perfect with rice! Red Revolution Cuisine: Special red-themed dishes with deep meaning, taste the spirit of struggle! Wild Vegetable Soup: Picked from the mountains, light and healthy, replenishes energy! 💡 Tips: Make Your Shaoshan Trip Perfect Wear: Comfortable sneakers + light clothing for easy walking. Time Plan: Visit Mao Zedong’s Former Residence in the morning, then enjoy the natural scenery in the afternoon. Respect Culture: Remember to show respect, avoid noise, and keep quiet. Interact: Take photos during your visit, share your feelings! Leave a comment to tell me your thoughts!😊 🌈 Final Message: In Shaoshan, you not only see a great leader but also find the power to strive!💪 Every trip is a spiritual elevation. Shaoshan helps us remember history and inspire the future. I hope every friend who comes here returns home full of positive energy!✨ **Like this guide?** Give it a thumbs up and share it to let more people experience the charm of Shaoshan! Feel free to leave a comment telling me which Shaoshan story you want to know most! See you next time!👋😊

🚩【Shocking Arrival】Shaoshan 5 Days 4 Nights In-Depth Experience! Explore the hometown of Chairman Mao with 5000 RMB and feel the power of red culture🔥 “Did you know? In Shaoshan, you can not only pay tribute to the great man but also experience rich red culture and enjoy an unforgettable spiritual cleansing! 🌈 With 5000 RMB, 5 days and 4 nights, we will take you to deeply explore every corner of Shaoshan and leave the most precious memories! Come join me to start this red journey! 🚀” 🌟【Highlight One: Why Choose Shaoshan?】 Shaoshan is not only the hometown of Chairman Mao but also a red holy land full of historical heritage and cultural charm. Here you will find the solemn Former Residence of Chairman Mao, the magnificent Tianlun Bridge, red-themed memorial halls... Walk with heart, and every step touches the warmth of history! 🔥 【Itinerary Highlights】 Authentic and Practical: Reasonable time arrangement, budget-saving Fun Interaction: Check in at classic spots, take viral photos Full of Positive Energy: Feel the spirit of the great man and motivate yourself to move forward! 💪 📅【Day 1: Arrive in Shaoshan, Start the Red Journey】(Budget: ¥1200) **Transportation:** Buy tickets in advance at high-speed rail/train stations, direct to Shaoshan High-Speed Rail Station, convenient and fast, ticket about ¥150 **Accommodation:** Shaoshan budget hotel or homestay, double room ¥150/night (early booking discount) 🏨 **Dinner:** Try local specialty farmhouse dishes, about ¥50 per person 🍲 **Tips:** Arrange your itinerary in advance to avoid last-minute expenses! 📝 📍【Day 2: Former Residence of Chairman Mao + Mao Zedong Memorial Hall】(Budget: ¥800) **Entrance Fees:** Free (Former Residence) + Memorial Hall ticket ¥30 **Check-in Highlights:** Take photos in front of the residence, feel the tranquility and solemnity of the great man’s hometown 📸 **Food:** Shaoshan specialty tofu, farmhouse dishes, about ¥50 per person 🍽️ **Fun Interaction:** Leave a message telling me which story about Chairman Mao you want to know most? 💬 📍【Day 3: Tianlun Bridge + Shaoshan Chong Revolutionary Site】(Budget: ¥700) **Tianlun Bridge:** Take photos and check in, feel the historical sediment on the “bridge” 🌉 **Shaoshan Chong:** Red revolutionary site, learn about the stories of revolutionary martyrs 🕊️ **Transportation:** Bus or carpool, about ¥20 **Lunch:** Farmhouse, specialty home-cooked dishes ¥50 📍【Day 4: Shaoshan Martyrs Cemetery + Red Theme Park】(Budget: ¥700) **Martyrs Cemetery:** Pay tribute to the martyrs, feel the revolutionary spirit 🕯️ **Red Theme Park:** Experience red culture-themed amusement facilities, very fun 🎢 **Lunch:** Specialty snack street, about ¥40 per person **Interaction Suggestion:** What souvenir do you most want to bring home? Leave a message to tell me! 🎁 📍【Day 5: Free Exploration + Return】(Budget: ¥600) **Free Exploration:** Visit Shaoshan specialty stores, bring some unique souvenirs 🛍️ **Return Transportation:** Book high-speed rail/train tickets in advance, about ¥150 **Lunch:** The last farmhouse meal, keep the beautiful memories 🍚 💰【Budget Summary】 Item Cost (RMB) Notes Transportation (High-speed rail + bus) ¥300 Early booking discount Accommodation ¥600 4 nights budget homestay Tickets + Attractions ¥60 Mostly free or low price Meals ¥1000 Authentic farmhouse dishes, specialty snacks Others (souvenirs, unexpected expenses) ¥300 Leave some room for peace of mind Total ¥2260 Far below budget, saving money and fulfilling! 🌈【Money-Saving Tips】 Book transportation and accommodation in advance to enjoy discounts! Choose more free attractions to save budget! Eat at farmhouse inns, authentic and affordable! Pay attention to ticket discount information and arrange time reasonably! ✨【Summary & Positive Energy】 Shaoshan is not only a red holy land but also a spiritual baptism! Walk through every corner with heart, and you will find: the spirit of the great man inspires us to keep moving forward! 💖 Hope this 5000 RMB 5 days 4 nights guide helps you have a happy and meaningful trip! Remember to like, comment, and share, so more friends can feel the charm of Shaoshan! 🤗

#holidayitinerary (Shaoshan Mao Zedong Memorial Hall: “Hall of the Century Narrative” and the Repository of Red Memory) This is not a museum; it is a secular shrine. Opened in 1964, expanded and renewed through decades, the Mao Zedong Memorial Hall in Shaoshan gathers over 8,000 relics, manuscripts, photographs, and artworks—a treasury where private childhood collides with national destiny. Within its whitewashed walls and sweeping red rooflines, the story of one man is stretched into the arc of modern China. Here, the personal becomes monumental: the rough ink of a schoolboy, the brushwork of a poet, the uniform of a soldier, the chair of a statesman—all presented not as static exhibits, but as stations in a pilgrimage of history. Walk its galleries and witness the layers of transformation: 📜 The Handwriting of Youth: School notebooks, marginalia, and first essays—ink traces of a restless boy who refused confinement to the village horizon. ⚔️ The Revolutionary Years: Worn uniforms, photographs of Jinggangshan and Yan’an, a leader’s visage in the smoke of war. 🏛️ The Statesman’s Desk: Documents and seals that once bore decisions shaping millions of lives. The wood is silent, but heavy with echoes. 🎨 The Portraits & Artworks: A thousand faces of Mao—painted, carved, sketched—each interpretation a fragment of collective memory. 🌹 The Relics of Memory: Gifts from peasants and leaders alike, flowers pressed in glass, banners inscribed with trembling brushstrokes—tokens of devotion preserved like relics of saints.

#holidayitinerary (The Mao Zedong Bronze Statue in Shaoshan: “The Pilgrim’s Axis” and the Body Cast in a Century’s Echo) This is not a statue; it is a focal point of memory and devotion. Rising 10.1 meters high in Shaoshan Square, the bronze figure of Mao Zedong stands tall against the backdrop of verdant hills and open skies. Unveiled on December 26, 1993—his centenary birthday—it is both monument and altar, where millions of pilgrims and visitors bow, offer flowers, and remember. Mao is no longer only the boy of clay walls; here, he has become the immortalized patriarch of a national myth, cast not in flesh but in bronze. Circle the statue and encounter the layers of symbolism: 🕊️ The Pose of Command: Mao stands in a long coat, hands crossed in front, a posture of steady authority yet approachable dignity. Unlike martial triumphalism, it radiates calm strength—a leader secure in both destiny and memory. 🌄 The Gaze Forward: His bronze eyes look out over Shaoshan’s hills, past his birthplace, into the horizon of the future. This is not nostalgia; it is eternal vigilance towards tomorrow. 💐 The Ritual of Flowers: At the base, red and yellow blossoms pile high each day. The offerings are not mere ceremony—they are the continuing dialogue between people and leader. 🌿 The Landscape Frame: The square is framed by pine trees, mountains, and the open sky. The natural environment transforms the statue into a cosmic axis, rooting a single figure into earth and heaven alike.

#holidayitinerary This is not just a farmhouse; it is a seedbed of revolution. Nestled against the green hills and fed by the waters of Shaoshanchong, this humble clay-tiled dwelling is where Mao Zedong (1893–1976) first opened his eyes to the world. Here, under the thatched eaves and between wooden beams darkened by smoke, the future chairman learned to till, to read, and to dream. It is not simply a house; it is the womb of an era, the modest stage upon which history’s most sweeping transformation prepared its opening act. Walk the courtyard and witness the paradox of simplicity and destiny: 🌾 The Soil of Origins: The house’s mud walls and bamboo lattice speak of poverty, yet also of grounded strength. Every crack is a reminder that world-changing ideas can germinate in the humblest earth. 👪 The Family Hearth: Inside are 18 rooms—kitchen smoke, ancestral tablets, farming tools—all whispering of a boyhood rooted in tradition before it erupted into revolution. 📖 The Desk of Awakening: Mao once sat at a simple wooden desk here, where village primers became stepping stones to visions of national renewal. The desk is not furniture; it is the first platform of thought. 🌄 The Landscape as Mentor: Behind the house rises Shaoshan’s green hills, before it the rippling paddy fields. Nature was his first teacher—its cycles of hardship and abundance shaping his philosophy of endurance.

Traveling with children, we always hope to combine education with fun, allowing them to gain knowledge and grow while playing. This time, we chose the red revolutionary site Shaoshan, visited Chairman Mao's former residence, and stayed in a unique homestay. It satisfied our children's curiosity about history and let our whole family enjoy a warm time amidst green mountains and clear waters. This travelogue will detail our itinerary, accommodation experience, and educational insights, hoping to provide a reference for families planning to bring their children to Shaoshan. Preparation before the trip: Pass application and itinerary planning: After booking the homestay, the owner contacted us to handle the pass and sent us suggestions for Shaoshan’s attractions and itinerary, which was super thoughtful. For the itinerary, we decided on a relaxed two-day trip to avoid the fatigue of rushing: · Afternoon of the first day: Arrive at the homestay, settle in, get familiar with the environment, and watch Zhang Yimou’s film "Remembering Shaoshan" in the evening. · Full day on the second day: In-depth visit to Comrade Mao Zedong’s Former Residence, Nan’an Private School, Mao Zedong Memorial Hall, and the Relics Museum. · Morning of the third day: Tour Dripping Water Cave Scenic Area before returning home. This arrangement ensured ample rest time and allowed the children to fully satisfy their curiosity at each attraction. We also loved the homestay, perfect for family trips. The kids had so much fun playing in the water! Dining: The hotel’s ingredients are all “self-supplied,” very fresh. Lunch and dinner can be pre-ordered, and the housekeeper will notify us when the meals are ready. Every day, snacks are delivered to the room, and afternoon tea can be enjoyed at the outdoor leisure tables and chairs. Service: One-on-one housekeeper service. Even before check-in, we received homestay information and sightseeing suggestions. If we had other needs, we could tell the housekeeper. The entire stay was very worry-free!

Best 5-Day Itinerary & Budget Guide for Xiangtan (2025 Latest Edition) Classic 5-Day Itinerary Day 1: Cultural Discovery in Downtown • Morning: Arrive in Xiangtan and check into a downtown hotel (Recommended: Huayin International Hotel with river-view rooms at ¥150/person/night). • Afternoon: Visit Xiangtan Museum (Free, learn about Hunan culture), then explore Yaowan Historical Block (Free, climb Wangheng Pavilion for U-shaped Xiang River views, try betel nut carving at Xuanmiao Workshop for ¥30). • Evening: Taste tangyou baba (caramel-glazed glutinous rice balls, ¥5 each) at Yaowan Old Street and enjoy nightlife. Day 2: Shaoshan Red Tourism Experience • Full-day: Chartered car to Shaoshan (1-hour drive, ¥300/day). • Morning: Visit Mao Zedong's Former Residence (Free with reservation, try straw sandal weaving). • Afternoon: Explore Dishui Cave (¥50 ticket, hike through canyon to see millennium-old tiger stone carving). • Evening: Watch "Remembering Shaoshan" light show (VIP seat ¥298, directed by Zhang Yimou), stay at Shaoshan Guesthouse (Red Wall theme room, ¥400/night). Day 3: Nature & Art Fusion • Morning: Visit Dongshan Academy (Free, touch Chairman Mao's study desk, take graduation photos in scholar robes). • Afternoon: Qi Baishi Memorial Hall (¥20 ticket, see authentic shrimp paintings, learn seal carving of "Xiangtan"). • Evening: Return downtown for Mao-style braised pork (¥68/serving at Shaoshan Guesthouse, with perilla leaves). Day 4: Scenic Wonders & Trendy Spots • Morning: Shaoshan Scenic Area (¥30 ticket, pray at Zhaoshan Temple, listen to ancient ginkgo leaves, free viewpoint for Xiang River photos). • Afternoon: Wanlou Youth Wharf (¥80 ticket for manta ray aquarium, Hanfu photos in underwater tunnel; shop at container market for crafts, try "Lotus City" fruit tea ¥15/cup). • Evening: Ride Wanlou Ferris Wheel (¥60 ticket for night views of Xiang River). Day 5: Departure & Souvenirs • Morning: Buy Xinhua Zhai lampwick cakes (spicy flavor, ¥20/box) and Zhang Xinfa betel nuts (with cassia oil, ¥30/box). • Afternoon: Return trip (19-min high-speed rail from Xiangtan North to Changsha South ¥30, or shared car ¥120/person). Budget Breakdown (Per Person) [Table] Item Cost Range (¥) Notes Transportation 300-600 Round-trip high-speed rail (Changsha-Xiangtan) or shared car. Early booking discounts available. Local Transport 300-500 Chartered 9-seater/bus included. Independent travelers recommended chartered cars (¥300-500/day). Accommodation 800-1200 Budget hotels ¥200-300/night, 4-star hotels ¥400-600/night, Shaoshan Guesthouse ¥400/night. Dining 400-600 ¥40-80/meal including Mao-style pork, tangyou baba, lampwick cakes. Attractions 500-700 Includes Dishui Cave, Wanlou, Zhaoshan Temple. Some free sites like Mao's Residence require booking. Miscellaneous 300-500 Souvenirs (¥200-300), activities (craft workshops, aerial tours at ¥398/10min). Total 2500-4000 Budget trips start at ¥2500/person (economy standard), including special experiences. Highlights & Tips 1. Red Culture: Shaoshan is a must-visit. Book Mao's Residence in advance and try interactive activities like straw weaving. 2. Food Recs: Besides Mao-style pork, try Xinhua Zhai lampwick cakes, Zhang Xinfa betel nuts, and Yaowan's tangyou baba. 3. Photography: Rice fields near Mao's Residence, Wanlou Ferris Wheel, and Zhaoshan viewpoint are photogenic. Bring wide-angle lens. 4. Seasonal Notes: Best April-October. November offers autumn foliage but bring mosquito repellent. Summary: This 5-day trip showcases red culture, natural landscapes, and local life with transparent pricing, ideal for families, couples, or culture enthusiasts.

#chinatravel Shaoshan Scenic Area is not just a tourist spot—it’s a walk through the revolutionary legacy of Mao Zedong. From the solemn Bronze Statue Square where floral tributes are offered, to the humble Southern Private School and Mao’s Ancestral Hall, every stop echoes stories of his youth and family. The Mao Memorial Museum, inaugurated in 1964 with a plaque inscribed by Deng Xiaoping, showcases his life from childhood to 1976. Don’t miss his former residence, a 20-room Hunan-style courtyard home where he grew up (prepare to queue!). Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious, this site offers powerful insight into China’s modern journey. #Shaoshan #MaoZedong #RedTourism #ChinaHistory #MyItinerary #ThingstoDo

This city steeped in history is not only the hometown of great leaders but also a perfect blend of delicious cuisine and breathtaking natural scenery! Follow this guide to unlock the best ways to explore～🚀 🔥 **Must-Visit Attractions** ✅ **Hometown of Mao Zedong · Shaoshan** 🌟 China's top red tourism destination 📍 Address: Shaoshan Village, Shaoshan City, Xiangtan 🆓 Admission: Free (some attractions require reservations) 🚌 Transport: 1-hour direct bus from downtown 📸 Highlights: - Mao Zedong’s Former Residence (Where the revolutionary journey began) - Bronze Statue Square (Solemn and dignified—keep quiet for photos) - Memorial Hall (Experience the life of a great leader) 💡 Tip: Crowds explode during holidays—visit off-peak! 🌸 **Panlong Grand View Garden** 🌺 Seasonal flower fields + petting zoo—perfect for families! 🎫 Admission: ¥80 (varies by season) ⏰ Suggested visit: 3-4 hours 🅿️ Parking: ¥10/day 🌉 **Xiangjiang River Scenic Belt** 📍 Address: Yanjiang Road, Yuhu District 💖 Recommended: Evening electric scooter rides are a must! 🌃 Lighting hours: 19:00-22:00 🎨 **Qi Baishi Memorial Hall** 🖌️ A paradise for calligraphy and painting lovers! 🆓 Free entry ⏰ Opening hours: 9:00-17:00 (Closed Mondays) 🌲 **Dongtai Mountain National Forest Park** 🏞️ A lung-cleansing retreat with panoramic views of Xiangtan 🚶 Suggested visit: 2-3 hours 🍜 **Xiangtan’s Must-Try Food** 1️⃣ **Mao-Style Braised Pork** 🥢 👉 Texture: Tender, melt-in-your-mouth goodness 📍 Try it at: Shaoshan Mao Family Restaurant 2️⃣ **Xiangtan Rice Noodles** 💯 🍜 Silky smooth—the ultimate breakfast choice 📍 Must-visit: Old-school noodle shops (worth the queue!) 3️⃣ **Chopped Chili Fish Head** 🌶️ 🔥 Spicy and addictive—perfect with rice 📍 Best at: Xiangtan Old Street Fish Lips 4️⃣ **Sugar Oil Baba** 🍡 💛 Crispy outside, chewy inside—a sweet lover’s dream 5️⃣ **Steamed Preserved Meats** 🧆 Cured pork + fish + chicken—irresistibly fragrant! 🚄 **Transport Guide** ✔️ High-speed rail: Xiangtan North Station (10min from Changsha South) ✔️ City travel: Didi is affordable, but e-scooters are even more convenient 🏨 **Accommodation Picks** 💎 Downtown: Huayin International Hotel (luxury) Home Inn/Hanting (best value) 🏡 Shaoshan: Shaoshan Hotel (steps from Mao’s Former Residence) 🗺️ **Itinerary Suggestions** 1️⃣ **Red Culture Day Trip** Mao’s Former Residence → Bronze Statue Square → Memorial Hall → Farmhouse meal 2️⃣ **2-Day Deep Dive** Day 1: Shaoshan attractions → Night cruise on Xiangjiang River Day 2: Panlong Grand View Garden → Qi Baishi Memorial Hall 💡 **Travel Tips** ❗ Book Shaoshan tickets in advance 🌞 Sun protection is a must in summer 🌶️ Spice lovers—bring stomach medicine! Xiangtan offers both the enlightenment of red culture and the joy of food and nature. Save this guide and start your Hunan adventure! ✨

We visited Shaoshan on a bright summer morning, and the experience was both powerful and surprisingly peaceful 🌿☀️. Known as the birthplace of Mao Zedong, the area has a calm, almost rural atmosphere that balances out its deep historical importance. Walking through the green hills and rice paddies toward Mao’s former residence, we passed vendors selling local snacks and souvenirs, but nothing felt overly commercialized. The house itself is well-preserved, with personal items and family spaces that made the visit feel intimate rather than distant or overly political. What stood out most was how well the site is integrated with the natural surroundings. Even in the height of summer, shaded paths and gentle breezes from the nearby forested hills made it comfortable to explore. There’s a museum nearby that dives into the historical context, but we found ourselves most drawn to the simple setting and reflective mood of the village. If you’re visiting Hunan and looking for a place that blends culture, history, and the peacefulness of nature, Shaoshan is definitely worth a summer trip 🏘️ 🍃 #summervacay #myitinerary #travel

Summer Swap Plan: A 3-Day 1-Night Road Trip from Changsha to Xiangtan - Red Legacy & Local Flavor This July, pack away Changsha's summer heat and escape to Xiangtan—just an hour's drive away. Our "Summer Swap Plan" begins with a road trip, spending 3 days and 1 night exploring this city rich in revolutionary history and vibrant local culture. 📍Address: Xiangtan City, Hunan Province (about 1-hour drive from Changsha) 🚗 Transportation Guide - By car: Take the G4 Beijing-Hong Kong-Macao Expressway from Yuelu or Yuhua District in Changsha, then transfer to the G60 Shanghai-Kunming Expressway. Exit at Shaoshan or Xiangtan North. The 60km trip costs about ¥30 in tolls. - Local transport: Attractions in downtown Xiangtan are concentrated with convenient parking (¥10-20/day). In Shaoshan Scenic Area, take the shuttle bus (¥20/person, all-access pass). 🌟 3-Day 1-Night Itinerary Highlights 【Day 1: Tracing Revolutionary Roots】 - Shaoshan Core Scenic Area 🕙Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (last entry 4:30 PM) 🍽Rating: ★★★★★ 🖼Atmosphere: A solemn revolutionary site nestled in green hills, offering cool summer walks. 💰Cost: Free (book via "Shaoshan Tourism" WeChat), shuttle ¥20, Mao Zedong Memorial Hall guide ¥50. Must-dos: Mao Zedong's Former Residence (30-min queue), Mao Zedong Square (wreath-laying ceremony), Shaoshan Exhibition Hall (immersive history). - Dinner: Mao's Family Restaurant (Shaoshan branch) 🕙Hours: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM 🍽Rating: ★★★★☆ 🖼Atmosphere: Retro Chinese decor with vintage photos. 💰Cost: ¥80/person Try: Mao-style braised pork (tender, not greasy) and Shaoshan fire-dried fish. 【Day 2: Old Town Charm & Lakeside Leisure】 - Yaowan Ancient Town 🕙Hours: Open 24/7 (shops 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM) 🍽Rating: ★★★★☆ 🖼Atmosphere: Ming-Qing style riverside street with stone paths and red lanterns, perfect for evening photos. 💰Cost: Free (some attractions like Wangheng Pavilion charge ¥5). Activities: Visit Xiangtan Museum (free), tea by the river, snack on sticky rice cakes. - Yuhu Park 🕙Hours: 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM 🍽Rating: ★★★☆☆ 🖼Atmosphere: Classic lakeside park with shaded paths and summer lotus blooms. 💰Cost: Free Tip: Rent a pedal boat (¥30/hour) to enjoy the lake breeze. 【Day 3: Countryside Serenity & Return】 - Panlong Grand View Garden 🕙Hours: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM 🍽Rating: ★★★★☆ 🖼Atmosphere: Expansive floral gardens featuring lotus ponds in summer. 💰Cost: ¥80 entry, ¥30 for shuttle. Activities: Morning flower viewing, farming culture exhibit, countryside lunch (¥60/person), return to Changsha by 2 PM. 💡 Travel Notes Xiangtan's summer pace feels more relaxed than Changsha's. Touch history in Shaoshan, snack by the river in Yaowan, watch chess games in Yuhu Park—all within easy reach. The flexible road trip makes for a perfect weekend reset.

🎉 Exciting discovery at the shop! In Shaoshan, the hometown of great men, I unexpectedly encountered the super beautiful "Little Sanya of Hunan" 🏖️— "Shanjian Xiaozhu" (Mountain Stay) 🌿 As soon as you step into this hidden gem of a guesthouse, you are deeply attracted by its mountain camping-style courtyard! Surrounded by green trees, filled with the fragrance of flowers, koi swimming freely, it feels like instantly being embraced by nature～🌳 Every corner is a perfect spot for photos and check-ins, beware of your phone’s storage running out! 📸 🏊‍♀️ The highlight is here! The boundless mountain forest swimming pool is simply a paradise for photos! The rippling blue water reflects the blue sky and white clouds, wearing a beautiful swimsuit, you’ll be the most stunning star on your social feed! 👙 The guesthouse also offers floating afternoon tea, exquisitely delightful, making you feel like you’re really vacationing in Sanya, relaxed and carefree～☕️ 📍 The location is also super great! "Shanjian Xiaozhu" is located in the Fairy Group of Shaoshan Village, only 1.5 kilometers from the core scenic area of Shaoshan Former Residence, and the host provides free visitor permits for villagers, making transportation convenient and stress-free! 🚗 The shop also offers Republic of China era student uniforms for dress-up, instantly transporting you back to that revolutionary era, fully enhancing the atmosphere of Shaoshan tourism! Visiting Shaoshan is not only about commemorating great men but also enjoying such a pleasant "Little Sanya" time. "Shanjian Xiaozhu" is definitely worth having! Come and take a spontaneous trip now!

If you haven't experienced the charm of Xiangtan's red culture and unique local customs, then a trip to Xiangtan is your perfect choice. This is the hometown of great leaders, boasting profound historical heritage, abundant natural landscapes, and numerous mouthwatering delicacies. Here's a Xiangtan travel guide: Accommodation Recommendations Luxury Xiangtan Huayin International Hotel: Rating 4.9, adjacent to the Xiang River with stunning river views and Wanlou night scenery, located at No. 68 Shaoshan East Road (Hutan Square). Xiangtan Panlong Villa Hotel: Rating 4.8, featuring a massive natural oxygen bar and premium services, at No. 1 Hongqi Avenue, Hedong. Premium Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Xiangtan Wanlou: Rating 4.8, with 180° panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Xiang River and cityscape, located at Unit 1, Building 3, Tianyuan Xiyuan, No. 5 Liancheng Avenue. Xiangtan Junyi MGM International Hotel: Rating 4.6, featuring luxurious American-style decor and hundreds of complimentary services, at No. 3 Jianshe Middle Road. Food Recommendations Liancheng Matou Naosui Rolls: A century-old delicacy with paper-thin wrappers, sweet flavor, and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Xiangxiang Baked Cake: Ivory-colored, instantly dissolving, fire-roasted aroma, refreshing taste, nutritious, and easy to preserve. Zhonglupu Medicinal Candy: Made from premium rice, wheat, and sesame, with medicinal effects like "moistening lungs, nourishing yin, aiding digestion, and resolving phlegm." Grandma Wen's Sweet Rice Wine: Soft and chewy glutinous rice with sweet, aromatic rice wine. Xiangxiang Zhenfeng Spicy Braised Duck: Rich sauce flavor, moderate spiciness, crispy skin, firm meat, not greasy or fishy, with great chewiness. Attractions Shaoshan Tourist Area: Birthplace and childhood home of Chairman Mao Zedong, featuring Mao's former residence and memorial hall to experience red culture. Xiangtan Museum: One of China's first research and practice education bases for primary and secondary students, showcasing Xiangtan's history and development. Yaowan Historical and Cultural Block: Well-preserved ancient streets and docks with rich historical atmosphere. Qi Baishi Cultural Tourism Area: Hometown of world-renowned artist Qi Baishi, featuring his former residence and beautiful natural scenery. Chen Geng's Former Residence: Comprising three parts - residence, cemetery, and memorial hall, representing typical central Hunan architecture. 3-Day Itinerary Day 1 Morning: Visit Xiangtan Museum to learn about local history (2 hours recommended). Noon: Try local specialties like Xiangxiang Baked Cake and Grandma Wen's Sweet Rice Wine near the museum. Afternoon: Explore Yaowan Historical and Cultural Block, visit Tangxing Temple and Catholic Church (about 3 hours). Evening: Enjoy Xiangxiang Zhenfeng Spicy Braised Duck and admire Yaowan's night views. Day 2 Morning: Visit Shaoshan Tourist Area to see Mao Zedong's former residence (about 2 hours). Noon: Taste Shaoshan specialties at local restaurants. Afternoon: Watch the spectacular live show "China Produced Mao Zedong" (1.5 hours). Evening: Stay overnight in Shaoshan to experience rural life. Day 3 Morning: Visit Qi Baishi Cultural Tourism Area to see the artist's former residence and enjoy natural scenery (3 hours). Noon: Sample local foods like Zhonglupu Medicinal Candy. Afternoon: Visit Chen Geng's Former Residence to learn about the general's life (about 2 hours), then return to the city for departure. We look forward to welcoming you to Xiangtan - this captivating land where you can follow in the footsteps of great leaders, experience profound culture, and savor delicious local snacks. Xiangtan is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories. Come and start your wonderful Xiangtan journey!

✅In December 2019, I came to Changsha specifically to visit Chairman Mao's former residence. I chartered a car from Changsha to Shaoshan (450 yuan per day). "When you drink water, remember the well-digger" – we must never forget the roots of our happy life. This visit was a heartfelt tribute to this great man! ✍️Only upon arrival did I realize the scenic area is unimaginably vast, likely encompassing several villages. For independent travelers, some pre-trip planning is essential to avoid aimless wandering, unnecessary detours, and wasted time/effort. Here’s my optimized one-day itinerary, hoping to help first-time visitors. ✅✅Pre-Tour Prep: Go to the transfer center → Choose attractions → Buy tickets → Board shuttle → Begin tour ‼️‼️Whether arriving by high-speed rail, private car, or chartered vehicle, everyone must switch to eco-friendly shuttle buses at the transfer center. 👉Main Attractions: Shaoshan Transfer Center → Mao Zedong Square (Bronze Statue) → Mao Clan Ancestral Hall → Mao Zedong Memorial Hall → Comrade Mao Zedong's Former Residence → South Bank Private School → Mao Zedong Memorial Park (60 yuan ticket) → Dishui Cave Scenic Area (40 yuan ticket) → Shaoshan Transfer Center ✅✅Ticketing: On the right side of the transfer center lobby: - Eco-shuttle: 20 yuan (unlimited rides) - Mao Zedong Memorial Park: 60 yuan - Dishui Cave Scenic Area: 40 yuan - Other attractions: Free ‼️‼️Note: Don’t confuse the free Memorial Hall with the paid Memorial Park (60 yuan)! ✅✅Shuttle Routes: ‼️‼️Simply ask staff at shuttle stops if the bus goes to your desired attraction. If yes, board—no need to overcomplicate. 🚙Route 1: Transfer Center → Mao Zedong Square East Stop (exit only) → Mao Zedong Square North Stop (Former Residence) → Memorial Park East Gate → Dishui Cave → Mao Zedong Square West Stop → Transfer Center. 🚙Route 2: Transfer Center → Mao Zedong Square East Stop (exit only) → Shaoshan Hotel → Mao Zedong Square West Stop → Transfer Center. ✅✅Recommended Route: Shaoshan Transfer Center → Mao Zedong Square (Bronze Statue) → Mao Clan Ancestral Hall → Mao Zedong Memorial Hall → Comrade Mao Zedong's Former Residence → South Bank Private School → Mao Zedong Memorial Park (60 yuan) → Dishui Cave Scenic Area (40 yuan) → Shaoshan Transfer Center ✅Tour Route Details: 🦶🦶From Transfer Center, take shuttle to Mao Zedong Square East Stop (exit only). Walk straight for minutes—clearly signposted. On the left: Mao Zedong Square (Bronze Statue), Mao Clan Ancestral Hall, Memorial Hall, and Relics Hall (all near the square). ‼️‼️Note: Get free Memorial Hall tickets with ID—keep them for Relics Hall/Former Residence entry (no reissuing needed). 👀👀Mao Zedong Square (Bronze Statue): ✍️The statue stands at the square’s center, backed by Shaofeng Peak. Towering in a Sun Yat-sen suit, Chairman Mao holds scrolls with a faint smile. The base bears Jiang Zemin’s inscription "Comrade Mao Zedong," surrounded by flowers and pines. 🙏Circle the statue three times, bow three times, and deeply honor this historic figure. Stone-carved poems adorn the square—feel free to recite aloud! 👀👀Mao Zedong Memorial Hall (Must Visit): A thematic museum showcasing Mao’s life, ideology, and character, including biographical exhibits, special sections, and historic sites. ✅✅Next Stops: 🦶🦶From the Memorial Hall, return to the main road. At the fork, take Yingbin Avenue (right) to reach Comrade Mao Zedong's Former Residence and South Bank Private School. 👀👀Comrade Mao Zedong's Former Residence (Must Visit): ‼️‼️Store bags beforehand—only cameras/phones allowed inside. ✍️Built in early Republic China, this southern farmhouse features a U-shaped layout with 13.5 rooms: mud-brick walls, tiled roofs, and shared central hall. Mao’s family occupied 13 tiled rooms (east side); neighbors lived in four thatched rooms (west). 👀👀South Bank Private School: West of the Former Residence, this Qing Dynasty brick-and-tile school educated 8-year-old Mao for two years starting in 1901. ✅Next Leg: 🦶🦶Walk or shuttle from the Former Residence to Mao Zedong Memorial Park. 👀👀Mao Zedong Memorial Park (Not Recommended): ✍️Miniature replicas of key sites from Mao’s revolutionary journey, including: - Hunan First Normal School well pavilion - Nanhu Boat (First CPC Congress site) - Jinggangshan Octagonal House - Yan’an Pagoda (1:2 scale) - Others at 1:1 scale ✅Final Stop: 🦶🦶Dishui Cave is farther—take the shuttle from Memorial Park’s East Gate or directly from the Former Residence. 👀👀Dishui Cave Scenic Area (Recommended): A breathtaking, mysterious valley 4km west of Mao’s statue. Skip the paid shuttle—just walk minutes to the cave. ✍️Highlights: 👉Building No.1: T-shaped brick house where Mao stayed secretly for 11 days in 1966. Features a 1970 bomb shelter. 👉Building No.2: 24 rooms for officials, adjacent to No.1. 👉Building No.3: Staff quarters, 100m away. ✍️Tiger Rest Peak: Hike past bamboo groves to Mao’s ancestral grave, tiger sculptures, and pavilions. ✍️Dragon Head Mountain: Left of the cave, featuring Mao’s great-grandparents’ tomb and Longquan Springs. 🙏🙏🙏With ample time (a full day recommended), visit all sites reverently to fully absorb their significance!

Day 1 History and Local Life 🎈In the morning, head straight to Yaowan Historical and Cultural Street. This thousand-year-old ancient street hides provincial-level cultural heritage sites like Tanbao Bus Station and Wangheng Pavilion, as if traveling back to ancient times. Tangxing Bridge and Taogong Mountain are also worth a visit. Walk and take photos along the way; the collision of vintage architecture and modern cultural creativity makes every shot full of feeling! 🌆In the afternoon, go to Wanlou Youth Wharf. Climb Wanlou to overlook the Xiang River, and next to it, the "Xiangtan Eye" Ferris wheel is super romantic. Especially at dusk, when the lights come on and the river breeze blows, the atmosphere is perfect! 🍜In the evening, dive into Liancheng Night Market, where the aroma of stinky tofu, sugar oil baba, and spicy hot pot fills the air. Bite after bite, fully experience the bustling life of Xiangtan. Remember to avoid peak hours to escape the crowds! Day 2 Red Memories and Natural Scenery 🚩Spend the whole day on a red tourism trip to Shaoshan. In the morning, visit Comrade Mao Zedong’s Former Residence and Mao Zedong Square, offer flowers to the great leader’s bronze statue, and deeply understand his growth story. In the afternoon, tour Dripping Water Cave Scenic Area and Shaofeng, explore the "mysterious villa" where Mao once lived, and stand atop Shaofeng to overlook the panoramic view of Shaoshan—majestic and stunning. Shaoshan is about an hour’s drive from the city center; it’s recommended to charter a car or join a local day tour for convenience and peace of mind. If you have enough time returning to the city, you can also visit the Xiangtan City Museum or the Party History Museum to unlock the city’s development secrets. Helpful Tips🌼 🚗Transportation: Taxis or buses are fine for city attractions; self-driving or chartering a car is more convenient for Shaoshan; Zhaoshan Scenic Area can be reached by bus or taxi. 🍱Food: Besides the night market, don’t miss Mao-style braised pork and roasted fish in Shaoshan, and the Xiangjiang Fish Feast near Wanlou! 🏠Accommodation: It’s recommended to stay near Yaowan or Wanlou on the first day for easy night outings; on the second day, you can choose a Shaoshan homestay or return to a city hotel. 📌Note: Remember to bring your ID card (real-name ticket purchase required for scenic spots), apply sunscreen, and wear comfortable shoes. Some venues are closed on Mondays, so check in advance before departure! Yueyang🌸 Attractions to Check In 📍Yueyang Tower: "Dongting Lake is the best water, Yueyang is the best tower." As one of the three famous towers in Jiangnan, Yueyang Tower’s historical charm and magnificent scenery are intoxicating. Climb the tower to take in the beautiful view of Dongting Lake. If you can recite "The Yueyang Tower Essay," you can even get free admission😉 The scenic area has many cultural and creative shops, and Yueyang ice cream is both visually appealing and delicious, perfect for photo check-ins. 📍Junshan Island: Known as the "Love Island," the island boasts beautiful scenery with spotted bamboo and the tomb of the two concubines. Strolling here feels like traveling back to ancient times, experiencing romantic legends and stories. It’s very convenient to reach by bus directly from Yueyang Tower. 📍Sheng’an Ancient Temple: One of the oldest temples in Yueyang, built in the early Tang Dynasty. Climb to the top of the Ten Thousand Buddha Pagoda for a panoramic view of Yueyang city, which is refreshing and uplifting. The temple is bustling with incense and peaceful, allowing visitors to forget worries and feel spiritual tranquility. 📍Baling Square: The sculpture of Houyi shooting the serpent on the square is spectacular. Walking here at night, feeling the Dongting Lake breeze and enjoying the beautiful night view is very pleasant. Nearby Bianhe Street is lively with many snacks and specialty shops. 📍Nanhu Lake: A large park with stunning lake and mountain scenery. You can choose to take a boat to enjoy the lake view or cycle along the lakeside, enjoying a leisurely time and experiencing Yueyang’s slow life. 🍜Food Recommendations: 1. Yueyang Barbecue: Featured on "A Life of Skewers," truly well-deserved fame! Highly recommend the beef tallow and beef skewers; the tallow bursts with juice in your mouth, and the beef is chewy and super fragrant! Also try the potato slices, crispy outside and tender inside, sprinkled with chili powder—absolutely amazing. 2. Yueyang Rice Noodles: You must slurp a bowl of noodles when in Yueyang! Recommended are beef noodles and pig-killing noodles, with rich broth and fresh toppings. One slurp of the noodles makes you feel completely refreshed🍲 3. Changle Sweet Wine: Sweet but not greasy, mild alcohol flavor, rich taste, served ice-cold and very delicious, perfect as a dessert drink🥤 4. Pingjiang Sauce Dried Tofu: Firm and chewy texture, the more you chew, the more fragrant it gets. Available in original and spicy flavors, great as a snack! Changde🌸 📍Changde Old West Gate✅ (reachable by bus, free admission) A cultural tourism street based on Changde’s history, offering architectural features and cultural experiences, great for photos. There is also the Red Brick House Original Pot Dish Museum (now commercialized, can be viewed from outside). Without dining, you can walk through the entire street in about 30 minutes. 📍Changde Liuyue Lake✅ (reachable by bus h5/h16/y35/y26, free admission) Known as Hunan’s "Little Erhai Lake"🏝, it truly lives up to its name. Liuyue Lake under the warm autumn sun is stunning! It’s very large, with over 30 km around the lake, and not crowded—perfect for cycling and camping! You can visit Simalou, Huxian Island, and Changde Eye; enjoy Kale Planet and Beach Park sunsets🌅...! Pedal boats and electric sightseeing cars are available for rent. 📍Daxiaohe Street✅ (2.5 km from Liuyue Lake Service Center, accessible by taxi or bike) An ancient-style street by the river, not very long and quite commercialized. On the west side of Daxiaohe Street is a section of the city wall overlooking the street🌃, also offering views of the German-style street across the road. There are pigeons under the lower part of the wall, a popular spot to check in with Changde’s city wall. 📍German Style Street❎ (opposite Daxiaohe Street, 3 minutes on foot): Modeled after Hanover, Germany, this European-style town is not recommended even on my second visit to Changde. The street remains sparsely populated as five years ago, with incomplete business operations—only buildings without vitality. 🔅Tips: If you need accommodation, Wuling District is the first choice, convenient for visiting these attractions! Zhuzhou🌸 🌟Attractions: ✅Shennong Lake: Stunning scenery, few people, very peaceful. For those tired of the crowds in Changsha parks, this place will definitely refresh you with its beauty🫧 Stroll by the lake and feel the breeze, very relaxing~ ✅Zhuzhou City Museum: Near Shennong Lake, within walking distance. The museum is well built, with natural, historical, and cultural exhibitions, allowing you to deeply understand Zhuzhou. Visiting all three floors is very rewarding📖 ✅Locomotive Park: Great for photos📸 Featuring locomotives, high-speed trains, and railway models. Nearby is a seaside-like area where many camp, lively and photogenic, perfect for shooting great pictures! ✅Clothing Wholesale Market: Near the train station, a good place for those looking for clothes. However, the quality varies, so patience is needed to find good value items. 🍱Food: ✅Pig’s Trotter Rice behind Xingtong Shoe City: Small shop but authentic Cantonese flavor. The pig’s trotters are tender and flavorful, very satisfying with every bite! ✅Wang Shiwan Wenji Claypot Chicken: Highly recommended! When served, the oil in the claypot is still bubbling, full of "pot aroma." The chicken skin is crispy and sticky, irresistibly delicious😍 Hengyang🌼 ✨Must-Visit Highlights ✅78% forest coverage, every breath is a luxury of negative oxygen ions! Walk the greenway listening to birdsong, instantly refreshing your fatigue. ✅Millennium Emperor Ku Shrine + Yanyu Temple + Chisong Temple, three ancient sites in a row! The bronze Thousand-Hand Guanyin and ancient seal script stone carvings are stunning. ✅Yumu Lake reflects the mountains in its clear waves; encounter a breathtaking sunset in the evening🌄, perfect for your social media spotlight. ✅Seasonal romance: spring azalea sea / summer night lotus pond moonlight / deep autumn golden fruit on the hills / winter red plum blossoms against snow. 🚗Lazy Route Scenic entrance → Yanyu Temple for blessings → Emperor Ku Shrine exploration → Feilai Rock check-in → Yumu Lake lakeside stroll → Farmhouse for authentic Hengdong local cuisine. 📸Photo Tips: ▫️Fuwenhua Square’s red walls for ancient-style photoshoots ▫️Yumu Lake wooden boardwalk for atmospheric silhouette shots ▫️Ten-mile Lotus Pond in Hanfu for stunning photos!

Here are some Mangshan travel routes and tips for your reference: Transportation Options - Self-driving: From Changsha, take the Changzhang Expressway via Xiangtan, Shaoshan, Yongzhou, and G4 Beijing-Hong Kong-Macao Expressway to Chenzhou, then proceed to Mangshan. From Guangzhou, take the Guangshen Expressway, Shenhai Expressway via Xiangtan, Yongzhou, and G4 Beijing-Hong Kong-Macao Expressway to Chenzhou, then to Mangshan. - Public transport: First arrive at Chenzhou West Station, then transfer to a direct bus to Mangshan from Chenzhou Bus Terminal. Alternatively, take a direct shuttle to Mangshan Scenic Area from Chenzhou Wanhua Bus Station. Ticket Information Tickets can be purchased in advance on major travel platforms. An adult ticket with round-trip cable car costs around ¥280. Free admission for children under 14 and seniors over 65, with half-price tickets for students aged 14 and above. Tour Routes - One-day tour - Morning: Arrive at the scenic area around 9:00, first visit the Monkey King Village to enjoy the beautiful scenery of waterfalls and babbling streams, and you might spot some monkeys. - Noon: Around 11:30, after leaving Monkey King Village, have lunch at the scenic area restaurant. - Afternoon: At 13:00, take the cable car up the mountain to Wuzhi Peak, walk along the cliffside plank road to admire the strange peaks and rocks; around 16:00, head to the Cloud Viewing Platform to enjoy the sunset if the weather is good, and descend around 17:30. - Two-day tour - Day 1: Depart in the morning, arrive at Mangshan in the afternoon, visit Tiantai Mountain to see attractions like Tiantai Temple and Tiantai View; stay overnight at a nearby hotel or farmhouse. - Day 2: After breakfast, visit Monkey King Village, then explore the Wuzhi Peak scenic area in the afternoon, walking along the plank road to see Wuzhi Peak and Golden Whip Pillar, and experience the Motianling Elevator. - Three-day tour - Day 1: Same as the first day of the two-day tour. - Day 2: After breakfast, visit Monkey King Village, then explore Dalang Gorge for a canyon adventure; return to the hotel in the evening. - Day 3: Experience the glass bridge in the morning, visit Wuzhi Peak in the afternoon, rest at the hotel in the evening before preparing for the return trip. Accommodation Recommendations - Mangshan Forest Hot Spring Hotel: Rated 4.5, comfortable hot springs with a cliffside infinity pool, great for photos. - Mangshan Cloud Mountain Hot Spring Homestay: Rated 4.8, you can fall asleep to the sound of waterfalls, located near Mangshan Forest Hot Spring. Important Notes - Check the weather forecast in advance and bring appropriate clothing. Even in summer, temperatures on the mountain can be low, so it's best to bring a jacket. - There are many monkeys in Monkey King Village; do not tease or feed them to avoid scratches. - Follow the scenic area rules during your visit. Do not enter dangerous areas without permission, and be cautious when walking on plank roads and other areas.

This is the hometown of great leaders and a city of mountains, waters, and islands—Xiangtan! ✨ 📌 Shaoshan: Trace the memories of revolutionary history. Gaze upon the light of faith at Mao Zedong's Bronze Statue Square, step into the former residence to touch the warmth of history—every brick and tile tells stories of glorious years. 🌿 Panlong Grand View Garden: A 3,000-acre ecological kingdom! The wisteria corridor is dreamlike, and the azalea blooms blaze like sunset clouds. Bring your camera and encounter romance that lasts through all seasons. 🏞 Yaowan Historical and Cultural Block: The charm of ancient kilns from a thousand years ago lingers! Stroll along cobblestone paths, watch the sunset over the Xiang River, savor authentic "naosuijuan" (a local pastry), and soak in the slow-paced nostalgia of old Xiangtan. ⛰ Zhaoshan: Summit one of the "Eight Scenic Views of Xiaoxiang" and behold the Xiang River winding like ink around the mountains, with ancient temple bells echoing—the "Mountain Market in Clear Mist" described by Wang Fuzhi unfolds before your eyes. 🚤 Shuifumiao Reservoir: Hunan’s "Little Erhai"! Glide across emerald waters dotted with islands, go camping, fishing, or stargazing—wild adventures await! 🌟 Caption Highlight: "From revolutionary soil to poetic landscapes, Xiangtan writes its stories on every inch of land—come, and feel the gentle breeze, where history comes alive."

**🌶️【5-Day 4-Night Hunan Highlights Guide｜A Double Whammy of Scenery and Spice】🏞️** **✨ Day1-2: Fairyland Zhangjiajie** 📍 **Tianmen Mountain**: Ride Asia's longest cable car, walk the glass walkway, witness the Tianmen Cave swallowing clouds (Ticket: ¥278) 📍 **Wulingyuan**: Visit the "Avatar" Hallelujah Mountain, hike Golden Whip Stream and meet macaques, take Bailong Elevator to the sky in 1 second 📍 **Grand Canyon Glass Bridge**: World's highest! Bungee/sliding adventures for an adrenaline rush (Ticket: ¥219) **✨ Day3: Ancient Town of Fenghuang** 📍 **Tuo River Night Cruise**: Stilted houses with red lanterns reflected on water, capture Miao ethnic outfits on stepping stones, stay in a riverside B&B lulled by flowing water 📍 **Nanhua Mountain**: Summit for a panoramic view of the ancient town, morning mist like a xianxia fantasy world **✨ Day4: Spicy Changsha** 📍 **Orange Isle**: Pay respects to Chairman Mao’s statue, ride a mini-train through orange groves (¥40) 📍 **Wuyi Square**: Sip "HeyTea" + try stinky tofu (Black Classic), step back into 1980s Changsha at Super Wenhua **✨ Day5: Cultural Wonders** 📍 **Yueyang Tower**: Recite "Memorial to Yueyang Tower" by Dongting Lake for free entry! 📍 **Shaoshan**: Visit Mao Zedong’s former residence, offer flowers at the Bronze Statue Square **🍜 Taste Explosion:** • Hunan’s Big Three: Steamed fish head with chopped peppers, stir-fried yellow beef, chili pork • Snack Heaven: Golden Honey Glutinous Balls (Jinji), Rice Noodles (Gongjiao Xincun), Spicy Crayfish (Tianbao Brothers) **🚄 Smart Transport:** • High-speed rail loop: Changsha → Zhangjiajie (2h) → Fenghuang (1h) → Huaihua return • Changsha Metro App for seamless travel, carpool between attractions (~¥50/person) **💡 Hidden Gems:** • Zhangjiajie’s "Charming Xiangxi" show (featuring corpse-driving/wedding cries) • Ziquejie Terraces’ morning fog (May-Oct) • Chenzhou’s Gaoqiling Ridge "Dragon’s Backbone" photo spot

Finally found this hidden gem homestay in the Shaoshan scenic area! The moment I stepped into "Mountain Stay," the lush garden of flowers and plants instantly healed my soul 🌷 ❣️The uncle and auntie hosting are incredibly warm and thoughtful Kneeling by the koi pond to feed fish with the kids 🐟 The cat butler napping on the swing, happy to be petted 🐱 ✨Room details that city dwellers will love Soundproofing + electric curtains + waterfall-strength hot water Lying in bed, you can watch tree shadows and listen to the rain The garden room on the first floor opens to greenery Plenty of lawn space for furry friends to run freely! 🏠Prime location in the scenic area Just a 5-minute drive to Chairman Mao's former residence Return to enjoy auntie’s delicious home-cooked meals Paired with freshly picked seasonal veggies—so appetizing! Tips: The courtyard is perfect for BBQ! Remember to contact them in advance for fresh ingredients. This weekend, come unwind with mountain breezes and starlight. 📍Mountain Stay Homestay (Shaofeng Scenic Area Branch)

The Mao Zedong Memorial Museum in Shaoshan is the only memorial museum in China that systematically showcases Chairman Mao Zedong's life, thoughts, and character. It is a National Outstanding Patriotic Education Demonstration Base, National Integrity Education Base, and a National First-Class Museum. It also serves as an influential research center and base for studying Mao Zedong's life and thoughts. The museum's main exhibition "China Produced a Mao Zedong" scientifically, accurately, and vividly reflects Comrade Mao Zedong's historical position, great achievements, and noble character in the Chinese revolution and socialist construction, winning the 11th National Museum Top Ten Exhibition Excellence Award. The special exhibition "Enduring Character—Chairman Mao's Cultural Relics Exhibition" won the National Museum Top Ten Exhibition Special Excellence Award.

#AprilGoodDestinations2025 Must see! A complete guide to Mao Zedong's former residence in Shaoshan, taking you through the great man's years🚀 Going to Shaoshan to pay homage to Mao Zedong's former residence is a red journey of extraordinary significance. The following guide will take you to immerse yourself in the growth footprints of the great man and experience the most authentic Shaoshan style. Itinerary Tips 📍 Address: Land Chongshangwuchang, Shaoshan Village, Shaoshan Township, Shaoshan City, Xiangtan City, Hunan Province. 🕙 Opening hours: 08:00 - 17:30 in summer; 08:30 - 17:00 in winter. Be sure to arrange your time in advance. It is recommended to visit for half a day to a whole day. 🎫 Tickets: Free🆓 But you need to make an appointment in advance through the "Shaoshan in the World" applet or the "Shaoshan Comrade Mao Zedong Memorial Hall" official account. You can make an appointment 1-7 days in advance. The number will be released at 7:00 every day. Remember to set the alarm ⏰. 🚗 Transportation: • High-speed rail: Take the bus to Shaoshan South Station, then take bus No. 2 or No. 3 to the scenic spot, or take a taxi for about 20 minutes and the fare is about 30 yuan. • Self-driving: Navigate to "Shaoshan Comrade Mao Zedong's Former Residence". There are many parking lots around the scenic area, and the parking fee ranges from 10 to 20 yuan. Attractions ✅ Comrade Mao Zedong's Former Residence: A typical southern farmhouse with an "A"-shaped civil structure. Chairman Mao was born here and spent his childhood and youth. The house is arranged in its original appearance, with tables, chairs, beds, etc. that he once used. The green mountains behind the house and the pond in front of the house are all scenes of the past. ✅ Mao Zedong Square: Solemn and dignified, with a tall bronze statue of Chairman Mao standing there. People often present flower baskets here to express their remembrance. The square is wide and surrounded by greenery, making it a great place to take photos. ✅ Comrade Mao Zedong Memorial Hall: Systematically displays Chairman Mao’s life and achievements. The museum has rich collections, including precious photos, documents, daily necessities, etc., which can give you an in-depth understanding of the great man’s magnificent life. Food Recommendations • Mao’s Braised Pork: bright red in color, fatty but not greasy, melts in your mouth, a must try! • Fish head with chopped pepper: spicy and fresh, tender fish meat, paired with soft and sticky noodles, super satisfying. • Sugar-coated glutinous rice cake: sweet, soft and sticky, with a delicate taste, perfect as a snack. Travel Suggestions • When visiting the former residence, you are not allowed to bring in packages, liquids and prohibited items, but they can be stored free of charge at the entrance. • Try to avoid holidays, otherwise there will be too many people and the queues will be long. • Please respect history, respect great people, keep quiet and abide by the order of the scenic area. This trip to Shaoshan filled my heart with shock and emotion. Every brick, every blade of grass, and every tree in the former residence tells the story of the great man. Standing in Mao Zedong Square and looking at the bronze statue, I feel a sense of reverence. The rich exhibits in the memorial hall gave me a deeper understanding of that period of history. This is not only a trip, but also a spiritual baptism. I strongly recommend everyone to come to Shaoshan to feel the charm and spiritual power of the great man💪!

🏛️ Overview Located in Dongshan New City, Xiangxiang, Xiangtan, Hunan Province, Dongshan Academy was established in 1895. It was Mao Zedong's first place of study in his youth and a pioneer of modern education in China. As a National Key Cultural Relics Protection Unit and National Patriotic Education Demonstration Base, the academy combines Hunan cultural heritage with revolutionary spirit. It features both Qing Dynasty Confucian architectural layout emphasizing "ritual and music harmony" and embodies educational principles of "integrity, sincerity, diligence, and frugality," making it a must-visit destination for exploring the footsteps of great leaders and experiencing the fusion of history and nature. 🌟 Key Highlights: A Dialogue Across Time from Academy to Revolution 🏫 Birthplace of New Hunan Learning • Mao Zedong's Former Study Site: Mao studied here in 1910. Original buildings including classrooms and dormitories remain preserved. A statue of young Mao gazing into the distance stands in the bronze statue plaza, recreating his ambitious spirit of leaving home to pursue his dreams. • Architectural Features: The academy follows the Eight Trigrams layout, with two main gates positioned at the "Qian and Kun" positions, symbolizing students' future influence. The lecture hall features Western-style glass windows, while the library preserves Qing Dynasty woodblock prints of the Complete Library in Four Sections. • Red Heritage: The exhibition hall displays Mao's manuscripts, classmate records, and revolutionary artifacts, bringing to life stories like the "Four Outstanding Students of Dongshan School." 🌿 Nature and Culture Coexistence • Dongshan National Forest Park: The academy backs onto mountains, with forest trails leading to Wangchun Pavilion overlooking the winding Lianshui River. • Zhuangyuan Bridge: A Song Dynasty bridge spans the Zhouxi River, shaded by century-old camphor trees. Legend says "crossing the bridge leads to success." • Lotus Pond Moonlight: In summer, lotus ponds surround the academy's east side, perfect for traditional costume photography and occasional encounters with art students practicing calligraphy. 🎓 Cultural Experiences: From Classroom to Stage • Chinese Classical Studies: Regular Analects readings and calligraphy workshops, with opportunities to experience the "First Writing Ceremony" in traditional robes. • Drama "Young Classmates": Live performances recreating scenes of Mao debating with classmates and composing poems on mountain hikes (combo tickets include performances). • Cultural Creative Workshop: Create "Dongshan Bookmarks" and make rubbings of academy stone inscriptions for unique cultural souvenirs. 📝 In-Depth Guide: Classic Routes and Hidden Experiences 🎫 Tickets and Opening Hours • Admission: Free entry, reservation required through "Dongshan School" WeChat account. • Hours: 08:00-17:30, closed Mondays for maintenance. • Recommended Routes: Half-day (3 hours): Zhuangyuan Bridge → Academy Gate → Mao's Classroom → Library → Bronze Statue Plaza Full-day: Morning academy exploration + afternoon Dongshan Mountain hiking + evening lotus pond light show. 🌸 Hidden Spots • Ancient Well Behind Academy: Crystal-clear water where Mao allegedly washed his brushes, with "Remember Your Origins" carved in stone. • Air Raid Shelter Site: Former WWII shelter converted to history exhibition hall, revealing the academy's wartime perseverance. 🍜 Local Flavors: Hunan Cuisine Meets Mountain Specialties • Must-Try List: ◦ Dongshan Grilled Fish: Charcoal-grilled river fish with spicy peppers (15 yuan/serving at Academy Food Street) ◦ Mao-style Red-braised Pork: Tender and flavorful (48 yuan/serving at Dongshan Hotel Restaurant) ◦ Mugwort Rice Cakes: Fresh-made with fragrant mugwort (5 yuan each) • Snack Highlights: ◦ Sweet Oil Rice Balls: Golden and chewy (8 yuan/skewer) ◦ Perilla Peach Ginger: Sweet and sour summer special (10 yuan/serving) 🚗 Transportation Guide: Convenient Red Tourism Routes • Driving: ◦ From Changsha: Changzhi Expressway → Hukun Expressway → Xiangxiang exit (1.5 hours) ◦ From Xiangtan: Tanmeng Road → Dongshan Avenue, navigate to "Dongshan Academy" (30 minutes from city) • Public Transport: ◦ High-speed Rail: Taxi from Shaoshan South Station (40 minutes, 80 yuan) ◦ Bus: Xiangxiang Route 102 direct to academy (First bus 06:30, last bus 18:00) 🏡 Nearby Accommodation: Academy Stay and Mountain Retreat • Dongshan Residence: Converted century-old house overlooking academy eaves, breakfast + guided tour package 398 yuan/night • Cloud Mountain House: Hillside cabins facing Dongshan Mountain, afternoon tea available (from 498 yuan/night) • Value Options: ◦ Qingfeng Lodge: Designer guesthouse with floor-to-ceiling windows and floor heating, private hot spring pool included (880 yuan/night) ◦ Backpacker Camp: Tent/RV rentals, shared kitchen for BBQ (150 yuan/tent) 📸 Photography and Tour Suggestions • Photo Spots: ◦ Academy Gate Upward Shot: Wide-angle lens highlighting roof eaves with Zhouxi River and Zhuangyuan Bridge background ◦ Bronze Statue Silhouette: Capture Mao's statue against sunset • Combined Tours: ◦ Red Tourism Route: Dongshan Academy → Mao Zedong's Former Residence → Shaoshan Martyrs' Cemetery ◦ Nature Route: Academy → Dongshan Mountain → Maohu Ancient Town • Cultural Bonus: Annual "First Writing Ceremony" in September, featuring children in traditional dress reciting classics, continuing thousand-year cultural heritage. From the scholarly sounds of the Qing Dynasty to the spark of revolution, Dongshan Academy stands as a beacon across time with its spirit of "seeking truth from facts," fusing Hunan's cultural heritage with revolutionary faith. Whether tracing the footsteps of great leaders or seeking natural tranquility, there's always a story here waiting for you to continue.

Seniors, join us for a classic 6-day tour of Xiangtan and surrounding areas! Explore Zhangjiajie, Shaoshan, and Fenghuang Ancient Town with ease. Indulge in three must-try Xiangxi feasts, including the Flowing Feast, Tujia specialties, and the Tusi King Banquet. Don't miss out; start your relaxing journey now! -------- 🚩Itinerary: Day 1: Arrive in Changsha → Transfer to hotel🏨 → Explore trendy Changsha: Orange Isle🍊, Yuelu Academy, May 1st Square🍢, and Hunan Museum🏛️. Day 2: Shaoshan Tourist Area🚩—— Tuojiang River🌊——Fenghuang Ancient Town night tour🌃. Day 3: Furong Town🏞️—— Wangcun Waterfall💦—— Huanglong Cave🕳️—— Zhangjiajie "Charming Xiangxi" show🎭. Day 4: Zhangjiajie National Forest Park🌳—— Tianzi Mountain Scenic Area🌄——Fairy Offering Flowers, West Sea Peak Forest🌸——Bailong Elevator🚡——Water Around Four Gates🌊. Day 5: Yongshun Tusi City🏰——Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park🚠. Day 6: Free day in Changsha🍽️, enjoy Xiang cuisine such as the Flowing Feast, Tujia Three-Pot, and Tusi King Banquet——Transfer to your departure point based on your schedule🚖.🌟 -------- Must-see attractions: 🌳 Zhangjiajie National Forest Park Stunning scenery, including the Avatar Hallelujah Mountains in Yuanjiajie, the pristine Tianzi Mountain, and the Huangshi Village viewing platform. Seniors can easily explore and enjoy the magnificent natural beauty. 🚡 Tianmen Mountain Cableway Enjoy a comfortable ride with breathtaking views of Tianmen Cave and the summit. This experience is perfect for seniors seeking a high-altitude adventure. 🏰 Fenghuang Ancient Town Nestled between mountains and rivers, the ancient city walls, bluestone streets, and stilt houses exude Xiangxi charm. Seniors can easily explore and experience the town's allure and rich history. 🏞️ Furong Town This historic town offers leisurely walks through old streets, waterfall views, and illuminated stilt houses at night. Savor authentic rice tofu, explore historical relics, and immerse yourself in the ancient town's ambiance. 🎭 Zhangjiajie "Charming Xiangxi" Show This cultural performance showcases the unique customs of Xiangxi. The relaxed atmosphere makes it ideal for seniors to appreciate the distinct charm of Xiangxi culture. -------- Tips: 📸 Visit Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. Ne Zha fans, don't miss out! Show your movie ticket stub for unlimited visits within the year. 🍴 Indulge in the three must-try Xiangxi delicacies: the Flowing Feast, Tujia Three-Pot, and Tusi King Banquet. A culinary adventure awaits! 🎁 Hunan specialties are affordable; bring some home for your loved ones! 💡 Present a valid ID and electronic or paper movie ticket stub to enjoy exclusive Ne Zha benefits. -------- A trip to Xiangtan is not just a sightseeing tour; it's a journey for the soul. Book a Trip.com group tour and explore the charm of Xiangtan with us!