Changsha, Paradise of Food
Changsha boasts major tourist attractions such as Orange Island, Yuelu Mountain, Hunan Provincial Museum, and Changsha Ocean World. Orange Island is renowned for its natural scenery and rich historical culture, making it a popular spot for leisure. Yuelu Mountain attracts visitors with its abundant historical relics and beautiful natural landscapes. Hunan Provincial Museum showcases Hunan's extensive historical and cultural heritage, while Changsha Ocean World, featuring diverse marine life, is a top choice for family outings. These attractions, each with its unique charm, collectively contribute to Changsha's rich tourism resources.
Changsha’s Main History
With 3,000 years of recorded city history, Changsha was a key Chu-Han stronghold; the Qin set up Changsha Commandery, it became Hunan’s provincial capital in the Ming-Qing era, and served as a cradle of late-Qing reform and the 1911 Xinhai Revolution. The city is steeped in modern revolutionary heritage.
Changsha’s Latitude & Longitude
Municipal range: 27°51′ N–28°41′ N, 111°53′ E–114°15′ E; city centre ≈ 28°13′ N, 112°59′ E.
Changsha’s Total Area
11,819.5 km².
Changsha’s Permanent Resident Population
≈ 10.62 million (end-2024).
Number & Names of Changsha Airports
2 airports: Changsha Huanghua International Airport (CSX) — the primary civil airport; Datuopu Airport is now mainly for general aviation.
Number & Names of Changsha’s Main Railway Stations
4 principal stations: Changsha Railway Station, Changsha South, Changsha West (opened 2024) and Changsha North (mainly freight).
When Changsha Opened Its Metro & How Many Lines Exist
First metro line opened 29 April 2014; as of June 2025 the network comprises 8 lines (including the Maglev Express).
Changsha’s Geographic Position in China
South-central China, eastern Hunan Province, lower Xiang River basin, on the southern fringe of the Dongting Lake Plain; core of the Chang-Zhu-Tan metropolitan cluster.
Changsha’s Geographic Features
The Xiang River bisects the city: east bank for commerce, west bank for education & culture. Rolling hills and plains interlace; Yuelu Mountain (300.8 m) is the highest point within the urban area.
Changsha’s Climate Characteristics
Mid-subtropical monsoon: four distinct seasons, concurrent rainfall and heat. Spring is humid and rainy, summers are long and hot, autumns are crisp, winters are cold with little snow.
Months of Changsha’s Four Seasons
Spring: March–May
Summer: June–August
Autumn: September–November
Winter: December–February
Changsha’s Annual Average Temperature
≈ 17.4 °C.
Changsha’s Annual Average Precipitation
≈ 1,400 mm.
Best Times to Visit Changsha
Spring (March–May for cherry blossoms and outings) and autumn (September–November for clear skies and mild weather).
Changsha’s Peak Tourist Seasons
Late March–May (cherry & azalea festivals) and September–October (National Day “Golden Week”).
Major Tourist Attractions
Yuelu Mountain & Orange Isle (5A), Hunan Provincial Museum, Tianxin Pavilion, Mawangdui Han Tombs, Former Site of Hunan First Normal College, IFS Sky View Deck, Meixi Lake Art Centre.
Main Shopping Streets & Locations
Wuyi Pedestrian Street (Huangxing South Road, Furong District) and Pozi Street Food & Shopping Street (Pozi Street, Tianxin District).
Signature Changsha Snacks
Stinky tofu, sugar-oil baba (glutinous rice cakes), spicy crayfish, steamed fish head with chopped chili, Cha Yan Yue Se milk tea, Changsha rice noodles.
Yuelu Scenic Area
Named after the famous ancient Yuelu Academy, Yuelu Mountain integrates renowned mountains, waters, islands, academies, and historical figures. It is a well-known scenic spot, boasting numerous historical sites such as Aiwan Pavilion, Lushan Temple, Yunlu Palace, and Yuelu Academy. With pleasant scenery in all seasons, it's an ideal place for visitors to climb mountains, relax, and unwind.
Orange Island Scenic Area
Introduction: Orange Island, known as "China's First Island," is a long island in the Xiang River. It is renowned for its integration of natural and cultural landscapes, with the core attraction being the artistic sculpture of Mao Zedong in his youth. The scenic area showcases the magnificent views of the Xiang River and is one of the iconic attractions in Changsha.
Hunan Museum
Hunan Museum is the largest museum of historical and artistic artifacts in Hunan Province. Its most treasured exhibit is the remains of Lady Xin Zhui from the Mawangdui Han Tomb. The museum houses a rich collection of artifacts, including Shang and Zhou Dynasty bronze vessels, Han Dynasty lacquerwork, and modern relics, serving as an important window to understand the history and culture of Hunan.
Tianxin Pavilion
Tianxin Pavilion is a symbol of Changsha's ancient city walls and towers, with profound historical and cultural significance. It is not only one of the iconic buildings in Changsha but also a great spot for visitors to climb and enjoy panoramic views of the ancient city. The pavilion features historical exhibitions showcasing the changes of Changsha over time.
Taiping Street
Taiping Street is the most intact street in Changsha's old city, retaining the original layout of ancient alleys. It boasts historical sites such as Jia Yi's Former Residence, Changhuai Well, and the West Gate Tower of the Prince of Ji's Palace. With its antique charm, it's an excellent place to experience the old city ambiance and taste local snacks.
Super Wenheyou
Super Wenheyou is a popular destination in Changsha, known for its unique retro decoration style and abundant local snacks. It is not only a great place to taste delicious food but also an excellent spot to experience the urban culture and market life atmosphere of Changsha. Walking through it, visitors feel like they have traveled back to the old times, experiencing a different city ambiance.
Jinggang Ancient Town
Jinggang Ancient Town is a famous historical and cultural town in Changsha, with well-preserved ancient architectural complexes and rich folk customs. Once an important water transportation hub, it is now a popular attraction for visitors to experience ancient town life and taste traditional cuisine.
Huogong Temple
Huogong Temple is a renowned gathering place for traditional Changsha snacks, with a long history and rich food culture. It offers a variety of special snacks from Changsha and even Hunan, making it an excellent spot to taste authentic Hunan cuisine and experience Changsha's nightlife.
Window of the World
Window of the World is a large theme park integrating famous landmarks, folk customs, and major amusement facilities from around the world. Visitors can experience the scenic spots and cultural characteristics of various countries without leaving the country, making it a popular choice for family outings and vacations.
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