Hunan, China: Off the Beaten Path Charm in China's Heartland

Most travelers to China stick to the well-trodden paths of Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi'an, bypassing the treasures hidden elsewhere in this vast country. However, those in the know seek out destinations with unique flavor and character beyond the tourist traps. One such overlooked gem is the inland province of Hunan, located in south-central China. Steeped in history, culture, and lip-smacking cuisine, Hunan offers visitors a real taste of "local" China, far from the international hipster haunts. Read on for an insider's guide to thisscenic province's top highlights.

The Soul of Zhuge Liang Lives On in Changde

No trip to Hunan would be complete without paying homage to the man revered as its most famous historical figure - Zhuge Liang. As Chancellor during the Three Kingdoms period, Zhuge Liang was a military strategist of genius who helped cement Shu Han's control over the province. He even features as a playable character in the Dynasty Warriors video game series! The city of Changde proudly claims him as a native son. Visit his former residence, marked by a large stelae erected in his honor. Nearby is scenic Bawang Hill, where you can climb pathways past pine groves and temples to admire vistas of Lake Dongting beyond. The soul of this great tactician is said to still inhabit these tranquil spots.

Float Down the Yangtze in Fenghuang

For a different perspective on rural Hunan, drift down the Yangtze River through the mountain town of Fenghuang. This ancient settlement clings to steep hillsides above the rushing waters, an atmospheric maze of alleys, temples and stone archways. Spend your days soaking in the laidback scenery from a rented boat, gazing up at the centuries-old wooden structures perched precariously along the cliffs. As dusk falls, tea houses and local eateries twinkle with lights - the perfect spots to sample Hunan's liquor and nibble on snacks like lotus root crisps. End each evening watching the sun sink behind distant sheer-sided peaks, a mesmerizing end to an scenic and relaxing cruise.

Get Your Adventure Fix in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

For nature lovers seeking active pursuits beyond basic sightseeing, Zhangjiajie is the place to head. Its stunning pillar-like sandstone mountains inspired the floating Hallelujah Mountains in Avatar. A wonderland of bizarre protrusions, walls and pinnacles loom mysteriously from dense forests. Multiple well-tended hiking trails lead through this otherworldly landscape. Challenging climbs reward with breathtaking vistas over the park's skyscraping formations. For an adrenaline rush, try rock climbing or via ferrata along sheer cliff faces with safety gear. After a day of epic adventure, unwind in the evening town lit with lanterns strung through the trees. No trip is complete without gazing upon the park by night from a glass skywalk jutting over the abyss.

Soak in Hot Springs Around Shennongjia

Still longing for relaxation after all that hiking? Head to Shennongjia Nature Reserve to heal tired muscles in natural hot springs. Scattered in woodland glades around this UNESCO site are bubbling pools fed by underground mineral sources. Discover hidden gems like Muni Hot Spring, surrounded by dripping ferns and mossy rocks. Spend the afternoon soaking your cares away while admiring the forested peaks encircling you. For the truly indulgent, some hot springs operate rudimentary wooden "hot spring hotels" - basic rooms with ensuite private pools. Come evening, wander village streets lit with paper lanterns, browsing stalls selling local specialties like wild fungi and honey.

Discover Ancient History and Culture in Changsha

As capital of Hunan province, Changsha offers a taste of big-city living alongside historical charms. Visit prestigious museums to learn of the area's role as a pivotal crossroads along the ancient Silk Road. Admire artifacts from the mausoleum of warrior king Zhao Mo dating back to the 2nd century BC. Architecture fans will adore admiring grand pagoda towers like Yuelu Academy, centers of learning from the Tang Dynasty era. For a chilled afternoon activity, relax in Hunan Provincial Museum Park, formerly the imperial gardens of a Tang royal palace. Culture vultures can book Changsha tours via BitBook to experience the city's riches. Save room to sample the local snack - sugarcane juice with chunks of cane served fresh from street carts!

Make a Pilgrimage to Shaoshan: Mao's Hometown

The village of Shaoshan holds almost cult-like reverence as birthplace of revolutionary leader Mao Zedong. Tour his historic former residence to glimpse how a family of modest means lived in early 20th century rural China. Peruse artifacts and documents chronicling Mao's progression from farm boy to founding father of communist People's Republic. His mausoleum is an eerie experience, as guards watch silent and stern. Don't forget to try flaky mantou buns, a local specialty - legend claims even young Mao loved these steamed breadrolls as a child! Though touristy, Shaoshan offers a memorable look into the upbringing that shaped modern China's most influential figure.

Sip Tea and See History in Hongjiang Old Town

After sightseeing Changsha's urban landmarks, rural Hongjiang Old Town provides a relaxing escape. Wander its quaint backstreets and alleys flanked by red brick and wooden structures hundreds of years old. Pause for tea and snacks at cozy teahouses, settling into cushioned booths to admire bonsai displays or art installations. Local women may spin thread or weave bamboo crafts, keeping vanishing traditions alive. Those looking to soak up history can tour the 13th century Hong Bridge, a marvel of Ming Dynasty engineering skill. Other highlights include a Confucius Temple and whitewashed pagodas perched above the river scenery. Linger into dusk for soft warm lighting and bustling night market atmosphere along lanes.

Indulge in Hunan Cuisine in Changsha

To truly experience Hunan's greatest treasure, you must dive into its lauded culinary culture. Changsha streets and alleys are lined with hole-in-the-wall restaurants serving local specialties. Sample braised pork belly in brown sauce, a signature dish. Or try "twice cooked" pork, a sizzling stir-fry with aromatics. Don't forget xiaolongbao - thin-skinned soup dumplings bursting with rich broth. For a traditional experience, book a home-cooked Hunan feast through BitBook where local chefs invite guests into their homes. Spicy mala hotpot is another specialty best enjoyed communally. However you indulge, the bold and lip-tingling flavors will have you longing to return to this under-the-radar Chinese province again and again.