Pack your bags, buckle up, and let's journey to Changde, the enchanting "Pearl of Hunan." This riveting city, situated along the northern bank of the majestic Yuan River, is a haven of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and gastronomic delight. Known for its ancient poetry wall, sprawling lakes, and vibrant folk art, Changde is a vibrant testament to China's unique blend of tradition and progress.
| Rank | Booking Site | Price Compared to Average | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Cheapest | Trip.com | -9% | |
| 2. Cheap | Agoda | -7% | |
| 3. Average | Booking.com | -2% | |
| 4. More Expensive | Expedia | 4% | |
| 5. Most Expensive | Hotels.com | 8% |
Wuling District: The city's beating heart offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly inns. With easy access to shopping centers, restaurants, and cultural attractions, this is an ideal location for first-time visitors.
Dingcheng District: Prefer a quieter stay? Choose from the comfortable hotels and guesthouses in this district, home to several scenic parks and historical landmarks.
Shimen County: For nature lovers, this county offers lodges and hotels near the beautiful Shimen Reservoir and the captivating Fairy Maiden Mountain.
Li County: Enjoy countryside hospitality in this area. The local guesthouses provide an immersive experience of the laid-back rural lifestyle, and you're not far from several famous scenic spots.
Jinshi City: If you're looking for a stay near the water, the hotels and resorts in this area offer incredible views of the Yuan River.
Poem Wall: Marvel at the world's longest engraved wall displaying classical Chinese poems, spanning over 3 kilometers with more than 200 masterpieces.
Taohuayuan (Peach Blossom Spring): Step into a real-life painting at this idyllic garden, inspired by Tao Yuanming's fable, representing the Chinese vision of utopia.
Liuye Lake: Take a leisurely boat ride or bike around this stunning lake, known for its water sports and breathtaking sunsets.
Mount Huping: Explore the rich biodiversity of this nature reserve, home to rare plant and animal species, and soak in the panoramic views from the peak.
Changde Han Tombs: Discover ancient history at these well-preserved tombs from the Western Han Dynasty, offering a peek into China's past.
Smoked Meat: Get your taste buds tingling with Changde's signature smoked meats, particularly pork, known for their unique flavor from a special smoking process.
Rice Noodles: Slurp on these delectably smooth and chewy noodles, served with a flavorful broth, fresh vegetables, and a choice of meat or seafood.
Tofu Pudding (Douhua): This silky tofu dessert, served sweet or savory, is a local favorite. Try the sweet version with a drizzle of ginger-infused syrup.
Stuffed Lotus Roots: This traditional Hunan dish of lotus roots filled with sticky rice and sweetened with osmanthus syrup is an absolute delight.
Maojian Green Tea: Brewed from the local high-quality tea leaves, this tea is known for its fresh, sweet taste, and delightful aroma.