Complete Guide to Eating and Exploring in Changsha: Four Days and Three Nights
Christmas holidays bring new adventures! With the recent launch of direct flights from Hong Kong to Changsha, you can start your city walk mode right after landing at the airport and enjoy four days of non-stop fun! This itinerary covers Changsha's most popular food streets, trendy shopping districts, must-visit scenic spots for art lovers, and vibrant night markets. Plus, you'll stay at the conveniently located Tyndall·隙 Hotel, offering stunning river views and neon-lit nights. If you love efficient exploration, check out the detailed guide below!
Itinerary Overview
Day 1: City Walk for Local Delicacies
After landing and checking into the hotel, head straight to Wuyi Square (No. 88 Huangxing Middle Road, Furong District, Changsha, Hunan Province). This area is not only convenient for transportation but also surrounded by numerous local snacks: Huangxing Pedestrian Street (Huangxing Road, Tianxin District, 410002), Pozi Street, and Nanmenkou. Enjoy stinky tofu and sugar oil glutinous rice cakes for lunch, shop for souvenirs, and savor authentic Hunan cuisine at the renowned Fire Palace (must-try dishes: chopped pepper fish head and yangmei glutinous rice cakes). In the evening, visit IFS International Finance Square, which boasts high-quality Hunan restaurants and unique shops—a must for shopping enthusiasts!
Day 2: Tongguan Kiln Cultural Park & Night Market Stroll
Spend the day at Tongguan Kiln Cultural Park (check opening hours in advance). The park features ancient architecture with a strong cultural vibe, numerous photo spots, and staff dressed in traditional costumes performing interactive games with prizes! The highlight is the evening iron flower performance, which creates an electrifying atmosphere perfect for capturing stunning videos. Afterward, head to Changsha's busiest Yangfan Night Market to explore local stalls offering stinky tofu, spicy hot pot, brown sugar pear, and pork lard fried rice—each dish is a must-try!
Day 3: Yuelu Mountain Cultural Walk & Artsy Cafe
Yuelu Mountain (No. 58 Denggao Road, Yuelu District, open 06:00–22:00) is a must-visit for art lovers. Experience the scholarly ambiance at Yuelu Academy, admire the poetic beauty at Aiwan Pavilion, and relax at Aiwan Pavilion Cafe, which offers a charming environment and locally brewed coffee—perfect for a break.
Day 4: Orange Isle Photo Spot & Final Shopping Spree
Start your morning at Orange Isle to take photos at the iconic Mao Zedong Youth Statue. Stroll along the riverside to enjoy the natural scenery, ideal for sunrise or sunset photography. Wrap up your trip with a shopping spree at Huangxing Pedestrian Street and Huangxing Square (No. 251 Renmin West Road, Building 1), where you can buy souvenirs and savor local delicacies for a perfect ending to your journey.
Food Highlights
Stinky Tofu: The most authentic version is found on Pozi Street.
Sugar Oil Glutinous Rice Cakes: Best enjoyed at small stalls near Huangxing Pedestrian Street.
Night Market Snacks: Yangfan Night Market offers a wide variety of options; try pork lard noodles and brown sugar stewed pear.
Fire Palace Tea Gathering: Highly recommended by locals—don’t miss it!
Accommodation:
Changsha Wuyi Square Tyndall·隙 Hotel (No. 112 Huangxing North Road, Wanglu Garden Street, 3rd Floor of China Resources Land Building 3). Extremely convenient location near subway stations and shopping districts, with attentive service, smart facilities, and river-view rooms that showcase the city’s nighttime beauty. The hotel is also adjacent to a snack street, making it a perfect choice for food lovers.
Transportation Tips
The subway network is well-developed (install the WeChat app in advance for easy ticket purchases). For longer distances within the city, use Didi ride-hailing for safe and time-efficient travel.
Tips & User Experience
During the Christmas holidays, popular attractions can get crowded, so arrive early to avoid the rush. The city’s nightlife is vibrant and safe. Stinky tofu has a unique taste but is best enjoyed fresh and hot! Check app information for attraction opening hours to avoid wasted trips. For a quieter stay, choose high-floor rooms at the hotel, and communicate with the front desk in advance about facilities like air conditioning and elevators.