Must-See Attractions (Classical & Trendy)

Cultural & Historical Landmarks

(1) Hunan Provincial Museum (Free, Reservation Mandatory)

• Opening: Tue–Sun 9:00–17:00 (last entry 16:00), closed Mondays.
• Iconic exhibits:
  • 49g plain unlined gauze silk robe (ultra-light Han silk craft)
  • T-shaped silk funeral banner (depicting heaven, mortal world and underworld)
  • Well-preserved mummy of Lady Xin Zhui (Marquis Dai’s wife)
  • Thousands of lacquerwares, silk textiles and ancient bamboo-slip texts
• Tip: Book free tickets online at 20:00 every night; allocate 1.5–2 hours for the visit

• (2) Yuelu Mountain (Free entry; Aiwan Pavilion small fee)

  A mountain of literati culture on the west bank of Xiangjiang River.
  • Core spots:
    • Yuelu Academy: One of China’s Four Great Ancient Academies, a millennium-old institute of learning.
    • Aiwan Pavilion: A renowned pavilion for appreciating red maple leaves in late autumn.
    • Lush forests, stone carvings and ancient Buddhist shrines.
  • Access: Metro Line 4 to Hunan University South Gate, then walk uphill or take sightseeing shuttle.

  (3) Orange Isle (Juzizhou, Free, Reservation Required)

  A long alluvial island in the middle of Xiangjiang River, a landmark red tourism site inspired by Mao Zedong’s poem Qinyuan Chun·Changsha.
  • Highlight: Giant youth Mao Zedong stone sculpture (the city’s signature photo spot).
  • Extras: Riverside trails, bonsai garden, beach park. Round-trip sightseeing train: 40 RMB.
  • Night activity: Firework shows every Saturday night (May–October) and major festivals.

  (4) Taiping Old Street & Chaozong Street

  Ancient pedestrian streets blending old Changsha style and trendy shops. Local snacks, handmade silverware, antique stores and photo studios line the roads. Chaozong Street features artistic old alleys ideal for vintage shots.

  (5) Wenheyou (Free Entry)

  A viral retro-themed complex recreating 1980s–90s Changsha old alleys, complete with vintage billboards, old apartments and an indoor cable car running through multiple floors. Great for photos and local snacks.

  Religious & Scenic Spots

  • Kaifu Temple: A thousand-year-old Buddhist temple with red walls and grey tiles; ticket 10 RMB, peaceful atmosphere for worship.
  • Tianxin Pavilion: The only preserved ancient city wall of Changsha, with a city moat and garden views.