The trip to Chenzhou Ancient City was totally worth it! I could stay for half a month~

Pre-trip Preparation

- Documents: Bring ID cards, student IDs, etc. for discounted tickets.
- Clothing: For summer visits, pack breathable outfits, sun-protective clothing, swimsuits, sunglasses, and sun hats, plus a light jacket for temperature changes.
- Others: Prepare medicines, phone, camera, power bank, charger, and download local maps/navigation apps.

Transportation Guide

- External: Fly to Chenzhou Beihu Airport or take high-speed rail to Chenzhou West Station (some trains stop at Chenzhou Station).
- Local: Take buses (most attractions accessible), taxis, or rent a car for flexibility.

Attractions

- Gaoyiling Scenic Area (Feitianshan Town, Suxian District): Crimson sandstone ridges contrast with emerald lakes like a dragon’s spine. Visit after 4 PM to avoid heat and catch sunset views.
- Dongjiang Lake Tourist Zone: The misty river resembles ink paintings from fantasy dramas. Best fog-watching: 5:30-7:00 AM (June-Sept). Don’t miss the net-casting show at Viewpoint 2.
- Yangtianhu Grassland: Wildflowers, white windmills, and Hobbit houses dot the landscape. Try horseback riding or grass sliding.
- Mangshan Wuzhifeng Scenic Spot: Features cliff elevators and a 3.5km barrier-free walkway, offering epic shots even on cloudy days.

Food Recommendations

- Local dishes: Dongjiang salmon sashimi, "Slaughtered Pork" noodles, bundled duck, taro duck. The salmon is tender; pork noodle broth is rich.
- Snacks: Qifengdu fish noodles, Matian tofu, Linwu duck—found across Chenzhou streets.

Accommodation Tips

- Downtown: Stay in Suxian/Beihu Districts (e.g., Wyndham Grand Plaza Royale Chenzhou) for transport and food options.
- Dongjiang Lake: Choose lakeside B&Bs like Qishe for misty river views.
- Mangshan Base: Mangshan Forest Hot Spring Hotel offers mountain hot springs to unwind.

Reminders

- Check weather forecasts; bring sun/rain gear.
- Wear sports shoes for steep areas like Gaoyiling.
- Yangtianhu has strong UV—apply sunscreen and protect the grassland environment.