Avoid the crowds during National Day with kids! Chenzhou, just 2 hours from Shenzhen, hides Misty River, Danxia, and grasslands

Who says the South only has elegance? Chenzhou, reachable by a 1.5-hour high-speed train from Shenzhen, blends "Misty River, Danxia, and grasslands" into a small city, like a palette spilled by God—every snapshot feels like a fairy tale!

Early morning at Xiaodong River is shrouded in mist, walking along the shore feels like entering a fairyland; in the afternoon at Gaoyiling, the Danxia landform glows fiery red, as if stepping onto Mars; at dusk on Yangtian Lake grassland, windmills spin with the waves of grass, instantly transporting you to a "mini Hulunbuir." Planning a National Day trip with kids nearby? This 3-day, 2-night guide is a must-copy!

🚗 3-day, 2-night kid-friendly highlights route

Day 1: First encounter with Chenzhou, stroll ancient streets and seek local life

1. Arrive at Chenzhou West Station, check into a 4-star hotel in Zixing (within walking distance to Xiaodong River, convenient for an early start the next day);
2. In the evening, wander around Yuhou Street, walk on 2200-year-old bluestone pavements, enjoy some snacks, admire the ancient street night view, and experience Chenzhou’s slow life.

Day 2: Misty River and Danxia, a day full of amazement

1. 5:30 AM Misty Xiaodong River: Wake up early to catch the golden hour, watch fishing boats glide through the mist, every photo is atmospheric, kids will say "it’s like being in a cartoon";
2. 8:30 AM Enjoy authentic breakfast: Slurp a bowl of Qifengdu fish noodles, with a fresh and spicy broth wrapping soft rice noodles, warming you up for the day;
3. 9:30 AM Bailang lake circuit cycling: Rent an electric bike to ride the 18.8 km lake circuit road, feel the lake breeze and see green mountains and clear water, check in at "Hunan’s Little Erhai," kids sitting on the back seat will be super happy;
4. 3:30 PM Gaoyiling adventure: Take kids to walk the dragon ridge, see the giant stone array, the brave can try flying ladder rock climbing, before sunset, the Danxia turns golden red, spectacular.

Day 3: Have fun on the grassland, be a "little herder" for a day

1. 8:30 AM Depart for Yangtian Lake grassland: Although the drive is a bit long, the moment you see the grassland is super healing;
2. 12:30 PM Grassland picnic: Bring your own snacks and picnic mat, have lunch under the windmills, full of ceremony;
3. 1:00 PM Cute pet interaction: Feed soft alpacas, chase gentle spotted deer, watch peacocks spread their tails, kids can play for hours;
4. 3:00 PM Grassland fun: Slide on the grass with kids, ride ponies, take the grassland mini train, look up to see windmills and sea of clouds, perfect for photos;
5. 5:00 PM Return: Head home with a trunk full of photos and kids’ laughter.

🍜 Must-try Chenzhou delicacies with kids

- Braised chicken: Local chicken stir-fried with chili, tender meat and rich sauce, mixed with rice kids can eat an extra bowl;
- Dongjiang salmon: Five ways to enjoy one fish, sashimi is fresh, fish soup is rich, perfect for kids who prefer mild flavors;
- Linwu duck: Slow-cooked over firewood, crispy skin and firm meat, delicious to tear and eat;
- Rice dumplings: Made with rice batter, chewy skin, dipped in sour and spicy sauce, mildly spicy and kid-friendly;
- Fried glutinous rice cakes: Crispy outside and sticky inside, available in sweet and savory flavors, great as snacks.

💡 Thoughtful tips for traveling with kids

- Book tickets in advance: Dongjiang Lake and Gaoyiling are crowded during National Day, it’s recommended to book tickets early, joining a tour is more worry-free and you don’t have to handle transportation yourself;
- Don’t slack on sun protection: UV rays are strong at Yangtian Lake, make sure kids wear hats, apply sunscreen, and have sunglasses to avoid sunburn;
- Kid-friendly: Reserve 2.5 hours of free time on the grassland, feeding cute animals and grass sliding are kids’ favorites, no rush on the schedule;
- Photo tips: The best light at Xiaodong River is between 6-7 AM, shoot Danxia an hour before sunset at Gaoyiling for amazing shots.

Don’t want to be squeezed by crowds this National Day? Chenzhou, this low-key small city, offers poetic mountains and waters and lets kids have fun. With direct high-speed train access, fewer people, and beautiful scenery, bring your kids and start your fairy-tale holiday!