Changsha,
Changsha, the capital city of Hunan Province in south-central China, is renowned for its rich history, dating back over 3,000 years, and serving as an important cultural hub during several Chinese dynasties. Today, it is a vibrant metropolis blending its historical heritage with modern development, including towering skyscrapers, expansive parks, and a thriving entertainment sector.
Changsha is also celebrated for its culinary scene, especially spicy Hunan cuisine, and attractions like the Hunan Provincial Museum, which houses artifacts from the ancient Mawangdui Han Tombs.
Places to visit
Key Phrases
Speak like a local
- "ä˝ ĺĽ˝ (nÇ hÇo)" - hello
- "谢谢 (xièxie)" - thank you
- "寚ä¸čľˇ (duĂŹbĂšqÇ)" - sorry
- "诡 (qÇng)" - please
- "ĺč§ (zĂ ijiĂ n)" - goodbye
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Historical Sites Exploration
morning:Start your day with a visit to the Hunan Provincial Museum, where you can immerse yourself in the rich history of the region. Don't miss the chance to try the delicious local breakfast at Old Street.
afternoon:Afterwards, head to Yuelu Academy, one of the four most prestigious academies over 1,000 years old in China. You can grab a satisfying lunch at the nearby Laodaoqian Restaurant.
evening:For a night-out, explore Taiping Old Street and enjoy the vibrant nightlife and traditional snacks.
Nature and Serenity
morning:Begin your day with a peaceful walk around Orange Island Park, where you can enjoy the scenic beauty of the Xiang River. You can relish the famous rice noodles for breakfast at Xiangtan Rice Noodles.
afternoon:Continue your day at Mt. Yuelu, take a cable car to the top for breathtaking views, and visit the Lushan Temple. Try the scrumptious local cuisine at Fenghe Restaurant.
evening:For a delightful evening, take a leisurely stroll along the Xiangjiang River and enjoy the illuminated views and fruity desserts.
Cultural Immersion
morning:Immerse yourself in the arts at the Changsha Bamboo Slips Museum, where you can explore ancient writings and documents. Treat yourself to a delightful breakfast at Baishaquan Restaurant.
afternoon:Head to the Martyrs' Park to pay your respects and take a peaceful walk. Try the authentic Hunan flavors at Jiangnan Noodle House for lunch.
evening:Experience the local culture at Huangxing Road Pedestrian Street, known for its vibrant atmosphere, street performances, and lively bars for a fun night-out.
City and Modernity
morning:Start your day with a visit to the Aiwan Pavilion, for a breathtaking panoramic view of the city. Don't miss the chance to indulge in a delicious local breakfast at Yihezhiqiao Breakfast Shop.
afternoon:Continue your day at the Changsha Window of the World, where you can explore replicas of famous landmarks. Enjoy a fusion lunch at Tongcheng Restaurant.
evening:For a night-out, explore the vibrant nightlife at Tai Ping Street and discover trendy bars and live music venues.
Changsha Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Changsha Spicy Chicken
A signature dish featuring tender chicken cooked in a spicy and savory sauce, often accompanied by red chili peppers and Sichuan peppercorns. It's a must-try for spice lovers. Best enjoyed at Shao Shifu Restaurant.
Must-Try!
Stinky Tofu
A pungent yet delicious snack made from fermented tofu. You can find this popular street food at Huangxing Road Snack Street or Wuyi Avenue Food Street.
Mao's Braised Pork
Named after the former Chinese leader Mao Zedong, this dish consists of succulent pork belly stewed in a rich sauce. Head to Huo Gong Dian Restaurant for an authentic taste.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Nanmen Market
This bustling market offers a wide array of local street food stalls where you can sample delicacies such as grilled skewers, spicy snails, and rice noodles. The atmosphere is lively and perfect for exploring Changsha's street food culture.
Pozi Street
Pozi Street is renowned for its vibrant night market, where you can indulge in a variety of street snacks such as barbecue skewers, fried rice cakes, and local desserts like Tangyuan (glutinous rice balls).
Pet sitters in Changsha
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!