Chenzhou Travel Guide: A Fairyland Journey Amidst a Landscape Painting, Enchanted by Red Rocks and Green Waters

Hidden in southeastern Hunan, Chenzhou conceals stunning Danxia wonders, misty fairyland scenes, and high mountain grasslands. It is a city of mountains and waters that you won’t want to leave once you arrive. Chenzhou, located in southeastern Hunan Province, is famous for its spectacular mountain and water scenery, Danxia landforms, and rich history and culture. It boasts cloud sea wonders and grassland starry skies comparable to Switzerland, yet it maintains a relatively low profile. Whether it’s the misty Xiaodong River in spring mornings, the charming contrast of red rocks and green waters at Gaoyiling, or the rare southern high mountain grassland Yangtian Lake, Chenzhou always surprises visitors with its unique natural charm. ✨ Trip Highlights · Perfect blend of landscape painting: In Chenzhou, you can see the marvelous combination of Danxia landforms and clear lakes, experiencing the beauty of Dongjiang Lake described as “a lake in heaven and earth, with myriad scenes within.” · Highly cost-effective travel experience: Compared to other crowded popular spots, Chenzhou offers more affordable prices. · A year-round travel destination: Enjoy mist in spring, coolness in summer, cloud seas in autumn, and rime frost in winter. Chenzhou has unique scenery waiting for you in every season. 🗺 Itinerary Planning Three-day Essential Route Day 1: Danxia Wonders and Ancient Street Stroll · Morning: After arriving in Chenzhou, it’s recommended to rent a car or drive to Gaoyiling Tourist Area, known as “the place forgotten by God.” Here you’ll find mountains, water, springs, caves, villages, cliffs, and plains all in one. The biggest feature is the Danxia landform surrounded by beautiful water pools, red rocks, green waters, perilous villages, and mysterious ravines, creating breathtaking views. Navigate to the “Lijiazai Chicken Farm” entrance, then walk 3 minutes to “Longjibei” to overlook the giant lizard-like red rocks and emerald waters. The best light for photography is at 2 p.m. · Afternoon: Experience Gaoyiling’s aerial amusement activities such as hot air balloons, via ferrata, cliff swings, and zip lines. · Evening: Stay at a hotel in downtown Chenzhou, recommended is the Dawuli Hotel near Yuhou Street. For dinner, try Chenzhou’s signature dish, Shao Jigo (braised chicken), stir-fried with tea oil and spicy chicken with firm meat. At night, stroll along Yuhou Street to enjoy the ancient street scenery under the lights, feeling like you’ve arrived at Fenghuang Ancient Town. Day 2: Misty Fairyland and Lake-Mountain Scenery · Early morning: Be sure to get up early (depart before 6:00 a.m.) to visit Dongjiang Lake Scenic Area and watch the famous “Misty Xiaodong River.” The best time to see the morning mist is from 6:00 to 8:00 a.m. Head to Viewing Platform No. 2 (where the mist is thickest) or No. 4 (with a bamboo forest background) to capture classic shots of fishermen casting nets (nets are cast every 15 minutes). · Morning: Take the scenic area shuttle bus to tour Dongjiang Lake, visit Longjing Gorge, and admire 26 waterfalls. If you purchase the premium ticket, it includes a boat ride and a visit to Doushuai Lingyan Cave. · Afternoon: Cycle around Bailang Scenic Area by the lake and taste freshly caught Qiaozui fish while enjoying the lake and mountain views. · Evening: Stay at a lakeside guesthouse at Dongjiang Lake and savor a local specialty fish feast. Day 3: High Mountain Grassland and Return · Morning: Head to Yangtian Lake Grassland (the southernmost high mountain grassland in China). The average summer temperature here is 20°C, with lush green grass. You can interact with cute animals (alpacas, sika deer, etc.) and enjoy horseback riding across the grassland. · Afternoon: Visit Hobbit Castle, Rainbow Flying House, and other fairy tale scenes for photo opportunities. Then conclude your trip and return. 🍜 Food Recommendations Chenzhou cuisine is characterized by freshness and spiciness. Here are some must-try specialties: Dish Name | Recommended Restaurant | Features | Approximate Price ---|---|---|--- Qifengdu Fish Noodles | Time-honored fish noodle shop | Fresh fish soup base with local chili peppers, delightfully spicy | 15 RMB/bowl Dongjiang Salmon | Restaurants along Dongjiang Lake | Salmon raised in Dongjiang Lake water, served five ways (sashimi, salted pepper, fish balls, etc.) | 80 RMB per person Shao Jigo (Braised Chicken) | Gaozi Shao Jigo | Chenzhou signature dish, tea oil stir-fried chicken with firm meat | — Zilong Jun Braised Pork | Local specialty restaurant | Spicy braised pork with lean and pork belly cuts, said to be related to the Three Kingdoms general Zhao Zilong | — Linwu Duck | Available in major restaurants | A special local duck from Linwu, all lean meat, delicious flavor | — 💡 Practical Information Best Travel Time · Mid-April to early May: Dongjiang Lake morning mist appears with a 90% probability · July-August: Yangtian Lake Grassland is lush and green, ideal for summer cooling; Gaoyiling often forms cloud seas after rain · Autumn: Clear weather, perfect for mountain climbing and cloud sea viewing Transportation · High-speed rail: 2 hours direct from Hangzhou, only 1.5 hours from Guangzhou · Local transport: Attractions are scattered, so renting a car or driving is recommended; public transport is also available with bus routes to each attraction Saving Tips · It’s recommended to buy the Chenzhou Tourism Annual Card, which covers most attraction tickets and saves a lot · Gaoyiling is currently free (still in a natural undeveloped state), only a 20 RMB/day parking fee applies · Students and seniors enjoy half-price discounts at Dongjiang Lake and other attractions Essentials to Bring · Clothing: short sleeves + light jacket (10°C+ temperature difference between morning and evening), non-slip sports shoes (for hiking at Gaoyiling) · Protection: sun hat, sunglasses, rain gear · Others: ID card, some cash (signal is weak in some ancient villages), power bank 💎 Travel Tips 1. Photography enthusiasts: Arrive early (before 6 a.m.) to shoot the misty Xiaodong River and bring a telephoto lens; the best light at Gaoyiling is at 2 p.m. 2. Some sections of Gaoyiling have no guardrails, so wear non-slip shoes and be cautious 3. The UV rays at Yangtian Lake Grassland are strong, so be sure to apply sun protection 4. When tasting local food, if you can’t eat spicy, please specify “mildly spicy” or “not spicy” in advance 5. It’s recommended to book accommodation in advance, especially during peak travel seasons and weekends The beauty of Chenzhou is hidden in the morning mist, afternoon clouds, and evening glow. This small city in southern Hunan presents the magical charm of nature through its unique landscape painting to every visitor. Whether you are a thrill-seeking young traveler, a peace-loving escapist, or a parent broadening your child’s horizons, Chenzhou can meet your expectations. We hope this guide helps you plan an unforgettable trip to Chenzhou, where you can find your own poetry and distant dreams within this landscape painting!