Zhangjiajie, Hengshan: all the joys of Hunan

(Ecns.cn)—Located in the south central part of China with mountains to the east, west, and south, and the Yangtze River to the north, Hunan never fails to stun tourists with its natural beauty.

1) What to see?

Many head for Mt. Hengshan while touring in Hunan. Situated 120km south of the provincial capital of Changsha, the mountain is one of the five sacred Buddhist Mountains in China (although many activities there are also dedicated to the Taoist belief). The mountain extends for 80km and has a total of 72 peaks in all, the highest of which is the Wishing for Harmony Peak (Zhurong Feng), which rises to 1,298 meters above sea level. This beautiful area is filled with charming Buddhist and Taoist temples, some dating back more than 1,000 years.

Not far from Mt. Hengshan is the well-known Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in northwest Hunan. The park is especially known for its quartz-sandstone rock formations, with bare stone sculpted by nature set against green trees and frequent clouds.

After climbing mountains and visiting temples, it's high time to head to romantic Phoenix Town (Fenghuang Cheng). Situated on the western boundary of Hunan Province, the town enjoys both natural beauty and a lifestyle passed down from hundreds of years ago. Upon entering Phoenix Town, visitors are sure to be impressed by its air of mystery, elegance and primitive simplicity. This is a world dominated by Mother Nature, and features the color green: the mountain slopes are covered with green foliage, the fields are green and even the Tuo Jiang River reflects the greenery. The bridges and unique houses built on stilts display a harmony that is often portrayed in traditional Chinese paintings.

2) How to get there?

All these spots have convenient transport facilities with highways and trains available. Fly to Changsha (about $159 for an air ticket from Beijing) then buy a train ticket ($15.9) to any of these destinations.

3) Where to stay?

Some recommend booking a hotel, while I personally suggest you stay in a family inn ($6.3 per day for accommodation). This way you can get a true experience of local life.

4) Highlights

Hunan's cuisine has a unique flavor, which suits the humid climate. Nearly every dish tastes peppery hot and super delicious.

Local products include Xiang embroidery, one of China's four famous embroideries.

The chrysanthemum stone carvings of Liuyang are also vivid and exquisite, with 200 years of history.

With abundant natural resources, Hunan is home to many ethnic minorities, including the Maio, Dong, and Yao, which are the most numerous minorities in the country. Their unique cultures and ethnic customs attract numerous tourists from home and abroad.