2025 Luxi Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in May)

#discoverchina Luxi Tianqiaoshan Provincial Nature Reserve is a protected area located in Luxi County, Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Hunan Province, China. Established as a county-level reserve in 1998 and upgraded to provincial status in 2011, it covers 13,878 hectares with an impressive forest coverage rate of 94%. The reserve serves as a crucial biodiversity hotspot in the Wuling Mountains-Snow Mountains transitional zone. Ecological Significance The reserve protects: -Unique purple sandstone ecosystems rarely found in central-southern China, -Subtropical evergreen broad-leaved forests with complex, stable structures, -1,373 plant species (including 27 fern families, 161 seed plant families), -231 vertebrate species across 5 classes, -2,073 insect species from 18 orders. The reserve boasts two remarkable millennium-old ginkgo trees: 2,600-year-old "Ginkgo King": 28m tall, 8m circumference at Huayan Pavilion 2,300-year-old "sister tree" at Juntingjie These ancient trees have survived lightning strikes, frost, and heavy snow, remaining vital parts of the local ecosystem and cultural heritage. Geological Landscape The reserve features: -Tianqiao Ancient Path: A breathtaking cliffside trail only 1-person wide, -70-degree steep ridges with ingenious temple constructions, -Unique purple sandstone formations with fragile but well-preserved ecosystems. Tianqiaoshan combines ecological and cultural significance: -Buddhist-Taoist integration: Rare coexistence of both religions, -Historical sites: Temples dating back to Tang-Song dynasties, -"Five Wonders": -Summit views, -Buddhist-Taoist harmony, -Cliffside paths, -North Pole celestial ladder, -Millennium ginkgos. The reserve serves as: -Biological gene bank for subtropical species, -Ecological research base for purple soil vegetation recovery, -Biodiversity monitoring station with 13 newly discovered Hunan species records. Researchers from multiple universities have recognized its value for studying fragile purple soil ecosystems and their restoration. Luxi Tianqiaoshan Provincial Nature Reserve exemplifies China's ecological conservation efforts, protecting unique purple sandstone ecosystems, ancient flora, and diverse wildlife while maintaining cultural heritage. Its successful integration of protection, research, and sustainable tourism makes it a model for nature reserves in subtropical area.

#favouriteitinerary Chayan Yuese, a popular milk tea chain based in Changsha, Hunan Province, China. It is known for its Chinese-style branding and is considered a "net red" or internet-famous brand. Key facts about Chayan Yuese: Founded in 2013. Operates over 500 stores, mainly in Hunan. Known for long queues and scalpers reselling drinks. Incorporates traditional Chinese elements in its branding. Offers a variety of tea-based drinks, including milk tea with whipped cream and crushed pecans. Focuses on the domestic market and currently has no plans for overseas expansion.

#chinatravelitinerary The Tusi Site in Hunan, China, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that preserves the history and culture of the Tusi system, a form of indigenous governance used by ethnic minorities in China. This archaeological site showcases ancient Tujia and Miao heritage, featuring well-preserved fortresses, tombs, and administrative buildings. The site reflects the unique blend of imperial Chinese and local tribal traditions, offering insights into a lesser-known yet fascinating aspect of Chinese history. Surrounded by lush landscapes, the Tusi Site is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and those interested in China’s diverse cultural heritage.

Xinzhaiping, Xiangxi, Hunan, Hunan. #### Discover a treasure place~ It looks like this is an ordinary village. When you walk in, you will find that it is not ordinary. Unlike the stone houses in the Laha Village of Fenghuang, the houses in the Xinzhaiping old house in Xiangxi, Xiangxi are mostly wooden structures. The landscape of the virgin forest between the mountains and forests hides a variety of precious plants and herbs. The Miao people in the stockade sang the old Miao songs and guarded the old houses that have lived for decades...