With its soaring sandstone peaks, emerald lakes, and mist-draped mountains, Hunan is a land where nature reigns supreme. This southern Chinese province is a dreamscape for adventurers, photographers, and serenity seekers alike – a place where ancient villages perch on riverbanks and dramatic landscapes seem pulled from the pages of a fairytale.

From UNESCO-listed wonders to hidden gems off the beaten path, Hunan invites you to explore its breathtaking beauty and timeless allure. Whether you’re scaling dizzying cliffs, gliding across glassy waters, or wandering through lush valleys, below are 10 unforgettable spots to fuel your wanderlust.

Hunan Through the Seasons

Hunan’s diverse landscapes transform beautifully as the seasons change, making each visit a unique experience depending on the time of your visit in the year.

Spring (March to May) is great for witnessing blooming flowers and mild weather, ideal for visiting Zhangjiajie National Park, Dehang Miao Village, and the Jiuyi Mountains. The fresh greenery and gentle mist of the season adds a magical touch to these destinations.

Water-based activities at Dongjiang Lake and Baofeng Lake are more enjoyable in Summer (June to August), while the lush forests and cooler mountain climates offer a refreshing escape from the heat.

In Autumn (September to November), enjoy crisp air and vibrant autumn foliage at Mount Heng, Langshan Mountain, and Tianmen Mountain. For those who enjoy the mountains, this season extends excellent hiking conditions and stunning views.

Finally, for a serene and less crowded experience, visit Fenghuang Ancient Town and Shiniuzhai National Geological Park in Winter (December to February). Snow occasionally dusts the peaks, creating a picturesque playground for snowy adventurers.

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

Famed for its towering sandstone pillars that seem to float in the mist, Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the inspiration for the surreal landscapes in Avatar, with over 3,000 stone pillars rising dramatically above lush greenery. Don’t miss the glass-bottomed Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Bridge for breathtaking views of the canyon below, and take the world’s tallest outdoor elevator, the Bailong Elevator, which ascends 326 meters in under two minutes.

Tianmen Mountain

A visit to Tianmen Mountain is a thrilling adventure comprising the Heaven’s Gate, 99 Bends, vertical cliffs, and more. While you’re there, take the world’s longest cable car ride to the summit which takes about 30 minutes and over seven kilometres, where you’ll find the jaw-dropping Heaven’s Gate, a natural arch carved into the mountain that rises 131 metres and looks like a portal to another world. Brave souls can venture further and walk the 1.6-metre wide and 100-metre long glass skywalk for unparalleled views of the surrounding peaks.

Fenghuang Ancient Town

While known for its 300-year old history and folklore, Fenghuang Ancient Town, where 28 minority ethnic groups reside, also boasts scenic beauty. Set along the Tuojiang River, the town’s stilted wooden houses, stone bridges, and lush hills create a lovely setting for leisurely exploration. Wander through its cobblestone streets lined with centuries-old buildings and explore local temples, ancestral halls, and towers that reflect the architecture of the Ming and Qing dynasties.

Dongjiang Lake

Dubbed the Lake Geneva of the East, Dongjiang Lake is an idyllic escape that combines scenic spots such as mountains, lakes, caves, and dams with islands, waterfalls, canyons, and forests. Visit early in the morning to witness the ethereal misty rain phenomenon, where fog drapes the lake in a dreamlike veil, creating wonderful conditions for some photography. For an action-filled trip, visitors to Dongjiang Lake can enjoy whitewater rafting, water motorsports, bank fishing, hot spring soaks, and more.

Mount Heng (Hengshan)

The northernmost mountain out of China’s Five Great Mountains with the highest peak of over 2,100 metres, Mount Heng is a sacred site that harmoniously fuses natural beauty with spiritual significance, comprising more than 100 separate peaks. Follow trails through ancient forests to discover Taoist temples, waterfalls, and panoramic mountain vistas. According to Chinese Taoism, the sacred mountain has long been a pilgrimage site since the Zhou Dynasty (roughly 1045-256 BC).

Shiniuzhai National Geological Park

Known for its vibrant red cliffs and the heart-pounding “Hero Bridge” – a glass suspension bridge suspended 300 metres above the ground – Shiniuzhai National Geological Park is an adrenaline-filled spot for adventure seekers and a feast for the eyes. Amongst the various activities available at Shiniuzhai, which gets its name from a mountain in the west of the park that resembles an ox, include the thrilling suspension walkway, cliff swings, the 10-mile cliff plank road, climbing the 800-metre high Via Ferrata, and more.

Baofeng Lake

Situated amidst the karst peaks of Zhangjiajie, Baofeng Lake is a tranquil retreat that feels like a scene from a Chinese painting. Visitors can take a relaxing boat ride across the emerald-green waters, surrounded by cliffs that rise dramatically from the lake’s edge. The calm waters reflect the surrounding peaks, creating stunning photo opportunities. Baofeng Lake is also home to local legends and guides who often sing traditional tunes that echo through the mountains.

Dehang Miao Village

Tucked away in the mountains, Dehang Miao Village is a cultural and natural treasure. The village is home to the Miao ethnic minority, who preserve their traditions, unique architecture, and colourful crafts. Explore traditional stilted houses built along steep slopes and interact with locals who share stories of their heritage. On the other hand, nature lovers will enjoy hiking to the nearby Dehang Canyon and also Yuanyang Waterfall, one of the highest in China, rewarding hikers with spectacular views.

Langshan Mountain

This UNESCO Global Geopark is famed for its striking red sandstone formations, with landscapes that include cliffs, spires, and caves that have been sculpted by million of years of erosion. Notable sights include the Chili Peak, a towering red spire that brings to mind a chili pepper, and Tianyi Lane, a narrow gorge flanked by steep rock walls. Hike along the well-marked trails to uncover viewpoints that offer sweeping panoramas of this otherworldly landscape. Langshan is less crowded than Zhangjiajie, so that’s definitely something you’d want to consider.

Jiuyi Mountains

The Jiuyi Mountains are a biodiverse haven, blanketed in dense forests, waterfalls, and hidden trails. According to legend, the mountains are the resting place of Emperor Shun, a revered figure in Chinese mythology. Hikers will enjoy exploring its trails, which lead to stunning viewpoints, tranquil streams, and untouched wilderness, which are exceptional for nature lovers seeking peace and solitude. In spring, the mountains come alive with blooming wildflowers, while autumn conceals the slopes in fiery hues.

Featured image: CNSPhoto