Located in the south central part of the Chinese mainland, Hunan has long been known for its natural beauty. Hunan is surrounded by mountains on the east, west, and south, and by the Yangtze River on the north. Hunan has a humid, subtropical climate. The monsoon rain falls mostly in April, May, and June. July and August are uncomfortably hot and humid. The best time to visit is in the fall, when temperatures are cooler and the rainfall lighter.

 

Tourism
Mawangdui Han Tombs
   Located in the eastern suburb of Changsha City, the world famous Mawangdui Han Tombs is one of the most fascinating attractions in Hunan Province. All three tombs were excavated between 1972 and 1974. According to the research this place was a family graveyard from at least two thousand years ago. The tombs are very grand and complicated as well. Number 1 and Number 3 tombs were in excellent condition when excavated and Number 1 tomb is the largest among the three. Number 1 and Number 2 tombs have been in filled. Number 3 tomb has been preserved and covered by a ceiling for the benefit of the visitors.
   More than 3,000 relics have been unearthed from the three tombs, such as silk products, silk books, silk paintings, lacquer works, potteries, bamboo slips used for writing, weapons, herbs, and so on. A map excavated from Number 2 tomb will provide another surprise. All the unearthed relics are exhibited in Hunan Provincial Museum.

Yueyang Pavilion 
   The Yueyang Pavilion is an ancient architectural treasure which is located on the shores of Dongting Lake in Yueyang City, Hunan Province. The Yueyang Pavilion is one of four famous Chinese pavilions. The other famous pavilions are the Tengwang Pavilion in Hubei Province, the Yellow Crane Tower in Jiangxi Province and the Penglai Pavilion in Shandong Province.
   The Yueyang Pavilion is a three storey, rectangular building which reaches 15 meters (about 49 feet) high and is constructed entirely from wood. Surprisingly, no nails or beams have been used in its construction. This is a rare feature in classical architecture. Pillars have been included in the construction to ensure the strength of the building. Four pillars made of 'Nanmu' wood support the entire pavilion; twelve pillars of catalpa wood support the eaves of the first storey and a further twelve pillars have been included to support the second storey. The roof of the pavilion is built using unusual curved lines which are similar to the shape of a helmet used by a knight of ancient times.

 

Dining
Hunan Cuisine
   Hunan Cuisine, also known as ' Xiang' Cuisine is renowned as one of the Eight Cuisines of China. It is features a fine and delicate appearance together with a hot and spicy flavor.

    In contrast with the more widely recognized quick stir fry method of Chinese cooking, gentle simmering is an important feature of Hunan Cuisine. By preparing the food over a low heat and allowing it to simmer slowly the nutritional value is maintained while developing an exciting fresh flavor.

 Bean Curd with Odor
   The best bean curd with odor is at Huogongdian Restaurant, which has a history of one hundred years.It is made of Liuyang fermented soybeans and bittern, which was made of winter bamboo shoot, dried mushroom and koji wine. The fried bean curd of odor is crispy outside and tender inside.

 Spicy Chicken Cubes (Mala Zi Ji)
   This is probably the most typical local dish. It was said that the one who hasn't eaten this dish equals is one who has never eaten Hunan Cuisine.
   Simply stir-fry the chicken dices with pepper, capsicum, vinegar, shaohsing wine over high heat. The finished dish should have a bright color and spicy flavor.The best place to enjoy it is Yuloudong Restaurant.

 

Shopping
Chrysanthemum Stone
   This natural stone is amazing with its white inclusions embedded in the grey/black stone. The layers of 'petals' radiate to the outside in beautiful shapes on a stalk giving a chrysanthemum-like appearance, hence its name.

Xiang Embroidery
   Xiang Embroidery in Changsha is well renowned in China. Hand embroidery craft items such as clothes, bags, wall hangings, handkerchiefs and other decorative items are popular souvenir for travelers.

Liuyang Fireworks
   Fireworks originated in Chin's splendid Tang Dynasty (618 - 907) and reached the height of their popularity in the Song Dynasty (960 - 1279). During the lunar New Year, Chinese people light auspicious fireworks to drive away evil spirits and they are a popular choice to create a festive atmosphere. The fireworks produced in Liuyang are said to be the best in China for their quality and variety, and are exported to different countries around the world.

 

Transportation
Air
   Huanghua International Airport is 24.2 kilometers east to the center of Chengsha City, near Huanghua Town of Changsha County. It is the biggest airport with the most complete establishment in Hunan

Province.

Railway
   The railway station is located at Dongzhanlu of downtown. It could be reached by many public buses such as 108, 110, 111 and 113. Everyday, there are nearly one hundred passenger trains departing or passing Changsha, reaching all the big and moderate cities of China.

Taxi
   At day time, the flag-fall price of taxi in Changsha is RMB 3 for 1 kilometer, additional charge within 3 kilometers: RMB 4 for 1 to 1.5 kilometers, RMB 5 for 1.5 to 2 kilometers, RMB 6 for 2 to 2.5 kilometers, and RMB 7 for 2.5 to 3 kilometers. Over three kilometers, RMB 1.8 is charged for each kilometer.