Hengyang Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, activities, food, and culture in Hengyang, China. Find out how to get there, where to stay, and what to buy in our comprehensive tour guide.


Introduction to Hengyang

Hengyang is a city in the south-central province of Hunan, China. With a history of over 2,000 years and a population of over 7 million people, it is one of the cultural and economic centers of the region. The city is known for its rich history, natural beauty, and traditional cuisine.

List of Places to Visit in Hengyang

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Hengshan Mountain: A sacred mountain with over 1,200 years of history, it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and has several temples and palaces on its slopes.
  • Nanyue Academy: One of the oldest academies in China, it was built in the Song Dynasty and has been a center of Confucian education for over 900 years.
  • Hengyang Museum: It houses over 30,000 cultural relics and artifacts that showcase the history and culture of the city.
  • Martyrs’ Park: A beautiful park that honors the soldiers who died in the Chinese Civil War, it features several monuments and statues that pay tribute to the fallen heroes.

Natural Attractions of Hengyang: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Hengyang Wetland Park: A scenic park with picturesque lakes, gardens, and walking trails that offer a peaceful retreat from the city.
  • Zijia Mountain: A popular hiking spot, it offers stunning views of the city and has several temples and scenic spots along the way.
  • Nanjiao Park: A serene park with a bamboo forest and a lake, it is an ideal spot for picnics, walks, and relaxation.
  • Hengyang Zoo: It is home to over 10,000 animals and has several themed areas such as the African Savannah, Tropical Rainforest, and Marine World.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hengyang

  • Hengshan Mountain Hiking Trail: A challenging hike that takes you to the peak of Hengshan Mountain, it offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and has several historic temples along the way.
  • Zijia Mountain Hiking Trail: A moderate hike that takes you up Zijia Mountain, it offers panoramic views of the city and has several scenic spots along the way.
  • Hengyang Wetland Park Cycling Route: A leisurely ride through the beautiful Hengyang Wetland Park, it offers a peaceful retreat from the city and stunning views of the lakes and gardens.

Best Things to Do in Hengyang: Activities and Tours

  • Explore Ancient Temples: Hengyang is home to several ancient temples, such as the Wulong Temple, and the Temple of the King of Medicine, which are worth exploring.
  • Try Traditional Cuisine: Hengyang is known for its spicy, flavorful cuisine, especially its grilled fish and hotpot dishes.
  • Attend Cultural Festivals: The city hosts several cultural festivals throughout the year, such as the Hengyang International Lion Dance Festival and the Hengyang International Peach Blossom Festival.
  • Experience Local Nightlife: The city has several lively night markets, bars, and karaoke clubs where you can experience the local nightlife scene.

Week-Long Itinerary for Hengyang

Day Activity
1 Visit Nanyue Academy and Hengyang Museum
2 Hike up Hengshan Mountain and explore the temples
3 Relax at Hengyang Wetland Park and visit Martyrs’ Park
4 Try local cuisine and attend a cultural festival
5 Visit Hengyang Zoo and explore ancient temples
6 Cycle through Hengyang Wetland Park and visit Nanjiao Park
7 Explore Zijia Mountain and enjoy the views of the city

Food and Drink Scene of Hengyang

Must-Try Dishes

  • Hengyang Rice Noodles: A traditional breakfast dish made with spicy broth, rice noodles, and various toppings such as braised pork, peanuts, and pickles.
  • Hengyang Grilled Fish: Fresh fish grilled over charcoal and seasoned with spicy bean paste, garlic, and other spices.
  • Hengyang Hotpot: A spicy hotpot dish made with a variety of meats, vegetables, and noodles cooked in a spicy broth.

Local Beverages

  • Hengyang Tea: A type of black tea that is famous for its fragrant aroma and sweet taste.
  • Hengyang Rice Wine: A traditional local wine made from fermented rice that has a sweet, mild flavor.

Where to Stay in Hengyang: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Shangri-La Hotel Hengyang: A luxurious hotel located in the heart of the city that offers spacious rooms, an indoor pool, and a fitness center.
  • Hengyang Fuyuan Jinjiang International Hotel: A modern hotel that has comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a bar.
  • Hengyang Central Hotel: A budget-friendly hotel that is centrally located and offers basic amenities such as free WiFi and air conditioning.

What to Buy in Hengyang: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Hengyang Tea: A popular souvenir that is both delicious and healthy.
  • Hengyang Embroidery: A traditional handicraft that features colorful and intricate designs.
  • Zijia Pottery: A type of pottery that is unique to Hengyang and is known for its beautiful designs and high-quality craftsmanship.

Local Culture and Customs of Hengyang

  • Dragon Boat Festival: A traditional festival that takes place on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month and involves dragon boat races, eating Zongzi (glutinous rice wrapped in leaves), and drinking realgar wine.
  • Lion Dance: A traditional dance that is performed during festivals and celebrations to drive away evil spirits and bring good luck.
  • Hengyang Opera: A traditional form of opera that originated in Hengyang and is known for its dynamic performances and vibrant costumes.

Best Time to Visit Hengyang

The best time to visit Hengyang is in the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and comfortable. The summer (June to August) can be hot and humid, while the winter (December to February) can be cold and rainy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hengyang

Do:

  • Respect local customs: Dress modestly and be mindful of local customs and traditions.
  • Try local cuisine: Hengyang is known for its spicy and flavorful cuisine, so don’t miss out on trying some local dishes.
  • Learn a few Mandarin phrases: This will help you communicate with the locals and make your stay more pleasant.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect religious sites: When visiting temples and other religious sites, be respectful and follow the rules and regulations.
  • Create a disturbance: Avoid creating a disturbance, especially at night, as this can be considered rude and inconsiderate.
  • Negotiate too aggressively: When shopping in markets or bargaining with street vendors, be respectful and negotiate in a friendly and polite manner.

Safety and Health

Safety in Hengyang

Hengyang is a safe city, but like any other city, it is important to take precautions to ensure your safety. Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and keep your valuables secure. Avoid walking alone in deserted areas and take taxis or public transportation instead.

Health in Hengyang

The tap water in Hengyang is not safe to drink, so make sure to drink bottled water or boiled water instead. Also, be mindful of the spicy food, as it can cause indigestion or stomach upset if you are not used to it.

Getting to Hengyang: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Hengyang

  • Hengyang Nanyue Airport: Located about 25 kilometers from the city center, it offers domestic flights to major cities in China.

Bus Stations Near Hengyang

  • Hengyang East Bus Station: Located in the city center, it offers bus services to nearby cities and towns.
  • Hengyang West Bus Station: Located on the outskirts of the city, it offers long-distance bus services to other parts of China.

Other Options

  • Train: Hengyang Railway Station offers train services to major cities in China.
  • Taxi: Taxis are widely available in Hengyang and are a convenient way to get around the city.
  • Public Transportation: The city has several bus routes and a metro line that make getting around the city easy and affordable.

How to Get Around in Hengyang

  • Taxi: Taxis are widely available in Hengyang and are a convenient way to get around the city. Make sure to agree on a fare with the driver before getting in.
  • Public Transportation: The city has several bus routes and a metro line that make getting around the city easy and affordable.
  • Bicycle: Bicycles are a popular way to get around Hengyang, especially in the scenic spots and parks.

Where to Go Next from Hengyang: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Changsha: The capital city of Hunan province, it is known for its vibrant culture, modern architecture, and delicious food.
  • Shaoshan: The birthplace of Mao Zedong, it offers a glimpse into the life and legacy of the former Chinese leader.
  • Zhangjiajie: A scenic area that is famous for its breathtaking natural scenery and unique rock formations.

Conclusion

Hengyang is a city with a rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and delicious cuisine. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, foodie, or adventurer, Hengyang has something for everyone. Use this comprehensive tour guide to plan your trip and make the most of your visit to this beautiful city in China.