Things To Do
in Chenzhou

Chenzhou, located in the southern part of Hunan Province, is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The city is surrounded by picturesque mountains and rivers, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Chenzhou is also home to various ethnic groups, contributing to its diverse cultural tapestry.

With its blend of history, nature, and modern amenities, Chenzhou promises visitors a unique experience.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Chenzhou's Heritage
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Chenzhou Museum to learn about the region's history and culture.

afternoon
:

Explore the ancient temple of Nanyue, famous for its intricate architecture and peaceful surroundings.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional Hunan dinner at a local restaurant, sampling spicy dishes and local flavors.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Hike in the picturesque Lijiang River Scenic Area, taking in breathtaking views.

afternoon
:

Visit the Chenzhou Dongjiang Lake for some leisure activities like kayaking or biking around the lake.

evening
:

Relax at a local tea house, sipping traditional Chinese tea while enjoying the sunset.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of Noodles$2
🍵Cup of Tea$1
🍽️Dinner at a Local Restaurant$10
🚌Bus Fare$0.50
🏨Night in a Budget Hotel$20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural heritage with diverse local cuisine.
  • Friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Language barrier for non-Chinese speakers.
  • Limited public transport options compared to larger cities.
  • Hot and humid summers can be uncomfortable.
  • "你好" - Hello
  • "谢谢" - Thank you
  • "请问厕所在哪里?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "我不懂" - I don't understand
  • "多少钱?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Chenzhou

Visit one of these nice places.

Nanyue Temple

An ancient temple with stunning architecture and serene gardens, perfect for capturing traditional Chinese culture.

Dongjiang Lake

A picturesque lake surrounded by mountains, ideal for landscape photography during sunrise or sunset.

Wuling Mountain Range

Known for its breathtaking views, the mountain range offers numerous vantage points for stunning photos.

Culinary Guide

Food in Chenzhou

Chenzhou is a culinary delight, known for its spicy and flavorful Hunan cuisine that features fresh ingredients and bold flavors.

Chenzhou Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Steamed Fish Head with Chopped Chili

A signature dish of Hunan, this features a large fish head steamed with a fiery chili sauce.

Must-Try!

Hunan Spicy Tofu

Tofu stir-fried with vegetables and a generous amount of chili oil, offering a spicy kick.

Chenzhou Rice Noodles

Thin rice noodles served in a spicy broth with various toppings, popular among locals.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Chenzhou Night Market

A vibrant market filled with street food stalls offering a variety of local snacks and dishes.

Wuling Street Food Market

Famous for its grilled skewers and fried snacks, it's a must-visit for food lovers.

Climate Guide

Weather

Chenzhou experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are hot and humid, with temperatures averaging 30°C (86°F). Winters (December to February) are cold, with temperatures dropping to around 0°C (32°F) at night. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are mild and pleasant, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to elders, addressing them formally and allowing them to lead in conversations.

Dining Etiquette

Do not start eating until the host says 'dig in,' and avoid pointing with your chopsticks.

Gift Giving

When giving gifts, avoid using the color white, as it is associated with funerals.

Safety Guide

Safety

Chenzhou is generally a safe city for travelers, with low rates of violent crime. However, petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas, so it's wise to stay vigilant. Ensure you have travel insurance and keep emergency contact numbers handy.

Tipping in Chenzhou

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in China, but rounding up the bill is appreciated in service industries.

Payment Methods

Mobile payments via Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted; cash is less commonly used.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild weather with blooming flowers; ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Hot and humid, with occasional rain; plan indoor activities during peak heat.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage; perfect for hiking and photography.

Winter

Cold with occasional snowfall; suitable for enjoying hot pot and indoor cultural activities.

Nightlife Guide

Chenzhou at Night

Chenzhou's nightlife is vibrant and diverse, offering a mix of local bars, tea houses, and night markets. Many locals gather in tea houses to socialize over traditional tea, while bars offer a lively atmosphere for music and dancing. The night markets come alive in the evening, providing a unique culinary experience, where visitors can sample street food while enjoying the lively ambiance.

Hiking in Chenzhou

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Wuling Mountain Trail

A challenging trail that offers stunning views and diverse wildlife.

Dongjiang Lake Hiking Path

A scenic and easier hike around the lake, perfect for families and casual walkers.

Airports

How to reach Chenzhou by plane.

Chenzhou Beihu Airport

The main airport serving Chenzhou, offering domestic flights to major cities in China.

Getting Around

Walkability

Chenzhou is a moderately walkable city, particularly in the downtown area where key attractions, restaurants, and shops are located within walking distance. Sidewalks are available, but some areas may be uneven or crowded, so it's advisable to wear comfortable shoes and be cautious while walking.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Han Chinese

The majority ethnic group in Chenzhou, contributing to its cultural and social landscape.

Yao Ethnic Group

One of the many ethnic minorities in the region, known for their unique traditions and customs.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Table Tennis

A widely enjoyed sport in Chenzhou, with many locals playing in parks and clubs.

Basketball

Basketball courts are common, and the sport is popular among youth and adults alike.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Chenzhou can be congested during peak hours, particularly in the downtown area. Public transportation includes buses and taxis, but many locals prefer to use bikes or walk short distances. Ride-hailing apps are also available for more convenient travel.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Chenzhou.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check if meat is used in sauces.

Spicy Food Caution

Hunan cuisine is known for its spiciness; ask for milder options if you're sensitive to heat.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Chenzhou has several healthcare facilities, including public hospitals and private clinics. Major hospitals offer a range of services, but English-speaking staff may be limited. It's advisable for travelers to have health insurance that covers international healthcare and to carry a basic first aid kit.

Discover China

Read more in our China 2025 Travel Guide.

China Travel Guide