Hunan (Extended)
Central-southern province famous for Zhangjiajie's sandstone pillars (Avatar's Pandora), Fenghuang's ancient town, and spicy Hunan cuisine.
provinces2026-10-27
At a glance
- Region
- central
- Capital
- Changsha
- Population
- 66.4 million
- Area
- 211,800 km²
- Best season
- April–May and September–November
- Pinyin
- Húnán
- Country
- CN
- Signature cuisine
- Stinky Tofu, Chairman Mao's Red-Braised Pork
Why visit
For Zhangjiajie — the 3,000+ sandstone pillars that inspired Avatar's Hallelujah Mountain (UNESCO). For Fenghuang — a 1,300-year-old Miao minority town with stilt houses along the Tuojiang River. For Hunan food — even spicier than Sichuan.
Getting there
Changsha Huanghua (CSX) is the main hub. Zhangjiajie Hehua (DYG) is closer to the national park. HSR from Beijing: 5-6h to Changsha.
Getting around
HSR within the province. Changsha-Zhangjiajie: 3h. Fenghuang is 4-5h by bus from Changsha.
Key cities
UNESCO sites
- Wulingyuan Scenic Area(1,992)
Day by day
3 — Zhangjiajie
Day 1: Arrive, transfer to Wulingyuan. Day 2: Wulingyuan (Yuanjiajie — Avatar Mountain). Day 3: Tianmen Mountain (glass walkway).
5 — Zhangjiajie + Fenghuang
Day 1-3 Zhangjiajie, Day 4-5 Fenghuang ancient town.
Famous for
- Zhangjiajie (Avatar mountains, UNESCO)
- Fenghuang ancient town
- Hunan cuisine (spicy)
- Mao Zedong birthplace
FAQs
Is Zhangjiajie worth a long trip?
Yes — the sandstone pillar formations are unique in the world. Avatar's Hallelujah Mountain was inspired by Yuanjiajie.
When is Zhangjiajie best?
April-May and September-October for clear weather. June-August is hot and humid.
How spicy is Hunan food?
Very — Hunan cuisine uses fresh chilies and is hotter than Sichuan (which uses dried). Stinky tofu is a must-try.