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What are the must-visit destinations for an 8-day, 7-night trip to Hunan? Check out the detailed itinerary below to prepare for your upcoming adventure!
For years, Hunan has been a captivating tourist destination in China, renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Exploring this region offers countless delights, from the majestic Hallelujah Mountain in Zhangjiajie, featured in the movie Avatar, to the ancient villages of the Tujia and Miao ethnic groups in Fenghuang Ancient Town.
This land, known as 'south of Dongting Lake,' is also the birthplace of Chairman Mao Zedong, holding immense historical significance. The 8-day, 7-night Hunan travel itinerary is perfectly designed to let you fully experience the beauty of this region. Save this detailed itinerary if you're planning a trip to Hunan!
Budget-Friendly 8 Days 7 Nights Self-Guided Hunan Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Changsha - Changde
To begin your journey in Hunan, you’ll need to travel from cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, or Da Nang to Changsha, the capital of Hunan. Currently, there are no direct flights to Hunan, so your trip will include at least one layover. Airlines such as Vietnam Airlines, China Southern Airlines, and Cathay Pacific operate flights to Changsha, with travel times ranging from 6 hours 15 minutes to over 21 hours.
After landing at Huanghua Airport, if time permits, visit the Changsha Bamboo Slips Museum. Recognized as one of China’s most significant archaeological discoveries of the 20th century, the museum combines exhibition, preservation, restoration, and research of precious artifacts.
The museum displays over 100,000 bamboo and wooden slips dating back more than 1,700 years, unearthed since 1996. These artifacts provide detailed records of the politics, economy, military, culture, and geography of Changsha during the Wu Dynasty (222-280 AD). Admission is free, so history enthusiasts should not miss this!
After the museum visit, your journey continues to Changde, approximately 170km from Changsha. For convenience, take a train from Changsha Station, which takes around 2 hours.
The final stop of the day is Liuye Lake, a famous scenic spot in Changde. The serene blue lake, surrounded by majestic mountains, creates a picturesque natural landscape. Stroll around the lake to enjoy the fresh air, watch the vibrant sunset over the water, and dine at nearby restaurants for a perfect end to your day in Hunan.
Day 2: Changde - Fenghuang Ancient Town
On the second day of your Hunan journey, explore Fenghuang Ancient Town, often hailed as 'the most beautiful ancient town in China.' From Changde, the quickest way is to take a taxi. For a more budget-friendly option, take a train to Jishou, then catch a bus from Jishou Railway Station Square directly to the ancient town.
Nestled beside the tranquil Tuo River, this ancient town is renowned for its well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture and poetic scenery. The cobblestone streets, stilted Diaojiaolou wooden houses reflecting on the river, create a nostalgic and peaceful atmosphere.
Enhance your exploration with a boat ride on the Tuo River, offering a panoramic view of the town. Other fascinating spots like Hongqiao Bridge, Shen Congwen’s Former Residence, Dongmen Gate Tower, and Guantian Miao Village provide deeper insights into the town’s rich culture and history.
At night, riverside bars light up, filling the area with lively folk and modern music. Indulge in Fenghuang’s culinary delights, including salted fish, spicy fish hotpot, blood duck stew, shrimp cakes, bamboo-tube rice milk tea, and glutinous rice wine.
Day 3: Fenghuang Ancient Town - Furong Town - Zhangjiajie
Just a 30-minute train ride from Fenghuang Ancient Town, the historic Furong Town is a must-visit. With over 2,000 years of history, Furong Town is built on cliffs above a cascading waterfall, earning it the nickname 'the town hanging on a waterfall.' At its heart lies the majestic Furong Waterfall, plunging 60 meters with a width of 40 meters, creating a breathtaking spectacle.
Strolling along Wuli Street (2,500 meters), you’ll immerse yourself in the unique culture of the Tujia people through ancient wooden houses and traditional shops. Don’t miss the Tusi Residence, perched on a cliff beside the waterfall, and the Xizhou Bronze Pillar, a significant historical relic of the Tujia community.
Additionally, Furong Ancient Town offers a variety of engaging activities, such as visiting the folk museum, enjoying traditional Tujia cultural performances, boating on the Youshui River, and savoring local delicacies like rice tofu and traditional ginger candy.
After soaking in the poetic charm of the ancient towns, take a train to Zhangjiajie to experience the awe-inspiring natural beauty of Hunan. The train ride from Furong Town to West Zhangjiajie Station takes just 30 minutes. In Zhangjiajie, you can choose from buses, taxis, or cable cars to reach your destinations.
Day 4: Zhangjiajie - Tianmen Mountain
When in Zhangjiajie, don’t miss the chance to conquer Tianmen Mountain, known as the 'Heaven’s Gate.' Standing at 1,518.6 meters, it offers not only breathtaking natural beauty but also thrilling adventures. The journey begins with the Tianmen Mountain Cableway, the world’s longest cable car ride, taking you to the summit with panoramic views of the city and serene countryside.
At the summit, the sensation of floating above the clouds on the transparent Skywalk adds excitement to your adventure. Tianmen Cave, the world’s highest natural mountain arch, is your next stop. You can challenge yourself by climbing the 999 steps to Heaven’s Gate or take the escalator for an easier ascent. The winding 99-Turn Road, resembling a giant dragon coiled around the mountain, is another unforgettable experience.
In the evening, the Fox Fairy Show – a perfect blend of Tujia music, dance, and modern stage technology – will leave you with an unforgettable cultural impression.
Tianmen Mountain is just 6km from the city center and easily accessible by taxi or bus. What’s even more exciting is that Asia’s longest cable car, stretching 7,455 meters, departs directly from the city center near Zhangjiajie Railway Station, saving you significant travel time to the mountain base.
Day 5: Zhangjiajie - Grand Canyon
On the fifth day of your Hunan journey, conquer the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge – a spectacular landmark you can’t miss. Known as the world’s highest and longest glass bridge, it spans two majestic cliffs within Zhangjiajie National Forest Park.
The 40-minute walk across the bridge challenges your courage while offering breathtaking views of lush forests, serene streams, and cascading waterfalls. For thrill-seekers, try bungee jumping from a height of 260 meters, one of the highest bungee jumps in the world.
Next, visit the Junqing Painting Academy, showcasing exquisite ink wash paintings by artist Junqing, inspired by Zhangjiajie’s stunning landscapes. Marvel at artworks crafted from natural materials like sand and sandstone, reflecting the region’s artistic essence.
This excursion not only offers an emotionally enriching experience but also deepens visitors' understanding of the cultural and artistic beauty of Zhangjiajie.
Day 6: Zhangjiajie - Wulingyuan
Your journey through Hunan becomes even more captivating as you step into Wulingyuan, part of the Wulingyuan National Park, renowned for its majestic natural beauty. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, it is famous for its towering quartzite sandstone pillars, creating a scene reminiscent of a fairyland.
The adventure begins at Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. Here, the towering mountains, especially the Hallelujah Mountain, will leave you in awe. This iconic landmark attracts millions of visitors annually. A must-try experience is riding the Bailong Elevator, the world's tallest outdoor elevator. In just 92 seconds, you'll be treated to a panoramic view of the magnificent valley below.
Next, explore the Tianzi Mountain Nature Reserve, often referred to as the 'Monarch of the Peaks.' From the summit of Tianzi Mountain, the surreal sea of clouds and the endless stretch of sandstone pillars will mesmerize you. This is truly a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the grandeur of nature.
Finally, Suoxiyu Valley, with its crystal-clear streams, is an ideal stop for trekking enthusiasts. The lush greenery and fresh air here will provide an unforgettable experience for your journey.
Day 7: Zhangjiajie - Changsha
Continuing your exploration of Wulingyuan, make your way to Huangshi Village, one of the standout attractions in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. Perched at an elevation of 1,200 meters, it’s the perfect spot to admire the majestic mountain scenery and the slow drift of fluffy clouds. A visit here typically lasts 2 to 3 hours, giving you ample time to soak in the beauty of nature.
After being captivated by the stunning views at Huangshi Village, you’ll head to Changsha. In the afternoon and evening, explore Huangxing Walking Street, a vibrant area that preserves the traditional culture of "Old Changsha." This bustling street is lined with major department stores like Spring Department Stores, Wangfujing Department Store, Apollo Commercial Square, and Friendship Shopping Center.
Additionally, you’ll have the chance to savor countless traditional Changsha delicacies in areas like Bozi Street, featuring famous spots such as Fire Palace, Xiangqun, Double Swallow Pavilion, and Red Plum Flower. The barbecue stalls near the walking street exits are also an irresistible attraction.
Take time to indulge in Hunan’s culinary delights and shop for unique souvenirs to bring back for your loved ones!
Day 8: Changsha - Departure Back to Vietnam
On the final day of your Hunan trip, you can visit famous landmarks in Changsha before heading to the airport for your return flight. Exploring Yuelu Mountain, located west of the city center, offers a deep dive into the region’s rich historical heritage.
To reach the summit, you have two options: take a cable car or hike. At the top, you’ll find the tombs of revolutionary leaders, Lushan Temple—Changsha’s oldest Buddhist temple dating back to the 3rd century—and Yuelu Academy, one of ancient China’s most prestigious educational institutions, established in the 10th century.
In the afternoon, your journey continues to Orange Island, the largest inland island in China. The tram system here makes it easy to navigate between attractions. You’ll explore parks, pavilions, the massive statue of Mao Zedong, and Jiangshen Temple. Don’t forget to enjoy a delicious bowl of noodles at the island’s food court!
8-Day 7-Night Self-Guided Hunan Travel Experience
The majestic beauty of nature and the rich cultural tapestry of Hunan await your discovery. An 8-day, 7-night journey will be smoother and more memorable with these tips:
- Visa & Currency: Apply for a China L-tourist visa and exchange currency to RMB at least 2-3 months before your trip.
- Connectivity & Information Access: Prepare a 4G SIM card or portable Wi-Fi to stay connected. Download essential apps like VPN, translation apps, Didi, WeChat, Baidu Maps, and Alipay in advance.
- Booking Flights & Hotels: Book flights, train tickets, and hotels early, especially during peak travel seasons. Choose accommodations near tourist spots to save travel time.
- Packing Essentials: Pack weather-appropriate clothing for Hunan’s seasonal conditions. Bring personal medications, sunscreen, and a wide-brimmed hat.
- Culture & Cuisine: Research local culture and cuisine beforehand. Hunan is famous for its spicy dishes, so inform servers if you prefer milder options.
- Transportation: Familiarize yourself with Hunan’s public transport (buses, subways) to save costs. Plan intercity travel options (buses, high-speed trains) in advance.
- Detailed Itinerary: Create a detailed travel plan, including sightseeing, travel, and rest times. Allocate sufficient time for each destination to avoid an overly packed schedule.
- Safety & Health: Purchase travel insurance for risk prevention. Note emergency contact numbers and the address of the Vietnamese embassy/consulate in China.
How Much Does an 8-Day 7-Night Hunan Trip Cost?
When planning a long or short trip, budget is always a top concern. Check out the estimated cost for an 8-day, 7-night Hunan trip below to help you plan your journey effectively:
Mục chi phí | Chi phí tiết kiệm (VNĐ) | Chi phí thoải mái (VNĐ) |
Vé máy bay (khứ hồi) | 7.000.000 | 12.000.000 |
Khách sạn (7 đêm) | 7.000.000 | 14.000.000 |
Di chuyển | 3.000.000 | 5.000.000 |
Ăn uống (7 ngày) | 4.000.000 | 7.000.000 |
Vé tham quan | 5.000.000 | 8.000.000 |
Mua sắm | 2.000.000 | 5.000.000 |
Chi phí khác | 1.000.000 | 2.000.000 |
Tổng chi phí | 29.000.000 | 43.000.000 |
Note: This is only an estimate. Actual costs may vary depending on personal choices, travel season, and other factors.
The picturesque beauty of Hunan captivates anyone at first glance. The majestic scenery of Zhangjiajie transports you to a surreal world where towering stone pillars rise against the vast blue sky. Fenghuang Ancient Town exudes timeless charm and tranquility, with moss-covered rooftops lining the poetic Tuojiang River, blending nature and history into one harmonious painting. Additionally, the region is enriched by the unique cultures of the Miao and Tujia ethnic groups.
Explore more helpful travel guides on the Mytour Blog to prepare for your upcoming trip: Latest 2024 China Entry Procedures, Latest Zhangjiajie Travel Guide, Detailed Fenghuang Ancient Town Self-Guided Travel Tips, 12 Unmissable Xinjiang Tours for Adventure Enthusiasts, Harbin Ice City Travel Guide, Updated Jiangnan Travel Guide for Independent Travelers, and more.
What are you waiting for? Start planning your 8-day 7-night Hunan adventure today!
