Best Things to Do in Hunan

With magnificent natural scenery, unique local cuisine, rich history and colorful culture, Hunan will satisfy all your travel wishes and bring you an unforgettable experience. Let's take a look at what you can do in Hunan~

Explore the Best Scenic Spots in Hunan

As dawn breaks, the mountains in Zhangjiajie of Hunan awake, veiled in a gossamer mist that swirls and dances around their peaks. Tianzi Mountain stands majestically, it outlines softened by the tender morning light, resembling giants cloaked in misty shrouds. As the sun rises higher, its golden rays pierce through the clouds, painting the Grand Canyon in a warm hue, transforming it into living masterpieces of nature.

Nestled among the rolling hills and verdant valleys of Hunan, Fenghuang Ancient Town whispers tales of a bygone era. Not just a town, it's a living museum, where every stone pavement and wooden doorframe tells a story of love, war, and the spirit of resilience. Its cobblestone streets are a canvas upon which the sun's rays paint hues of gold and bronze, while the riverside cottages reflect a world of tranquility.

Standing tall and proud, Yueyang Tower gazes out over the vast Dongting Lake, a mirror that captures the sky's ever-changing moods. It's a sentinel of poetry and wisdom, where the great scholars of ancient China found inspiration. Its wooden eaves curl gracefully, almost as if they were embracing the clouds, and its red lanterns sway in the breeze, like a dancer's scarlet ribbons.

Yuelu Mountain, a green giant that rises majestically from the plains. Its slopes are carpeted with lush foliage, and its peaks are crowned with temples and pagodas that seem to touch the heavens. It's a sanctuary, a place where nature and culture intertwine, and where the scent of pine trees mingles with the sound of chanting monks.

Hunan is a land of endless wonders, inviting all to explore and appreciate its unmatched beauty. We have also prepared A Map of Scenic Spots for you, so that you can have a more comprehensive tour of Hunan.

Unique Experiences in Hunan

Embarking on a journey through Hunan province is a captivating experience that combines the wonders of nature and the thrill of adventure.

Dongting Lake and the Sunset

Dongting Lake and the Sunset

Dongting Lake, the largest freshwater lake in China, offers a serene and calming respite. As the sun begins to set, the sky turns a spectrum of orange, red and purple, reflecting beautifully on the lake's surface. Watching the sunset from the shores of Dongting Lake is a tranquil and romantic experience, one that will stay etched in your memory.

Sea of Clouds in Zhangjiajie

Sea of Clouds in Zhangjiajie

Stepping into Zhangjiajie, you will immediately taken aback by the majestic cliffs and towering peaks. The view of the sea of clouds is truly breathtaking. As the misty vapors swirl and shift, the mountains seem to float on a bed of white cotton. Standing at the edge of a cliff, you feel as if you are floating among the clouds, a truly ethereal experience.

Bailong Elevator Experience

Bailong Elevator Experience

The Bailong Elevator in Zhangjiajie offers a breathtaking ride to the mountain's peak. Enclosed in a glass cabin as the elevator soars through the clouds, you are surrounded by lush greenery, towering cliffs and stunning views of the mountains. This experience is both thrilling and serene, allowing you to appreciate the natural beauty of Zhangjiajie from a unique perspective.

Thrill of Bungee Jumping

Thrill of Bungee Jumping

For the adrenaline junkies, bungee jumping in Zhangjiajie is a must. The feeling of stepping off the platform and into the void is indescribable. As you soar through the air, your heart races and your senses are heightened to a new level. The thrill of the bungee jumping is an exhilarating experience that will leave you an unforgettable memory.

Cable Car Ride for Panoramic View

Cable Car Ride for Panoramic View

Taking a cable car ride in Tianmen Mountain is a unique way to appreciate the magnificent landscapes. As you ascend, the views become increasingly spectacular, unfolding vistas of lush mountains, deep valleys, and crystal-clear stream. The cable car gently glides through the air, offering a serene and peaceful way to explore the wonders of this natural paradise.

Cruising the Tuojiang River

Cruising the Tuojiang River

As your boat glides along the river, you are treated to views of picturesque landscapes and charming Stilted Building Group (Diaojiaolou). The river's calm waters reflect the surrounding scenery, creating a mirror-like effect that is truly magical. Cruising the Tuojiang River (especially at night) is a wonderful way to unwind and appreciate the beauty of Fenghuang Ancient Town.

Enjoy Fenghuang Folk Performances

A Glimpse of Fenghuang Folk Performances

As night falls over Fenghuang Ancient Town, the air fills with the rhythmic beats of drums and the melodies of traditional instruments. Colorful costumes and lively dances come to life, showcasing the vibrant folklore of this charming town. From dragon dances to opera performances, each act tells a unique story of the local people and their traditions, bringing the ancient town's spirit to life under the starlit sky. 

We also provide you with An Adventure Map to help you enjoy your trip to Hunan.

Taste the Delicious Hunan Cuisine

When it comes to the culinary delights of Hunan, the range of unique and flavorful snacks and street foods is nothing short of remarkable. From the famous Changsha stinky tofu to the Xiangxi small skewered food, each dish offers a unique taste experience.

The hallmark of Hunan cuisine is its generous use of chili peppers. The Steamed fish head with diced hot red peppers is a dish that showcases the harmony of spicy and savory flavors. The fish head is steamed to tenderness, topped with a generous amount of homemade chili sauce, and served with rice. Perfect in color, aroma and taste, it's a comfort.

However, Hunan cuisine is not just about chili peppers. It's also about the harmonious balance of flavors. Dishes like Mao Family's Braised Pork, where tender pork is slowly cooked in a sweet and savory sauce, showcase the province's mastery of flavor combinations. The sauce, rich in soy, sugar, and spices, coats the meat, enhancing its natural flavors.

And let's not forget the snacks and desserts. The Crisp Mooncakes, with their delicate pastry shells and sweet fillings, offer a refreshing contrast to the spicy dishes.

In Hunan, each cuisine is a work of art, a symphony of flavors that dance on the tongue. They encourage experimentation and exploration, inviting you to embark on a culinary journey that's as exciting as it is delicious. 

The following is A Cuisine Map of Hunan. We hope you can experience them yourself and have a deeper understanding of the local food culture.