Changsha to Yingtan

Changsha City Guide

Language

The official language of Changsha is Mandarin Chinese. However, Yue Chinese (Cantonese) is also widely spoken.

Currency

The official currency of Changsha is the Chinese yuan (RMB). It is recommended to exchange your currency before arriving in China, or use a credit card or debit card to withdraw cash from ATMs.

Distance

Changsha is located in central China, approximately 1,200 kilometers (746 miles) southwest of Beijing. It is a major transportation hub, with an international airport and high-speed rail connections to other cities in China.

How to Reach

There are several ways to reach Changsha:

• By plane: Changsha Huanghua International Airport (CSX) is the main airport serving Changsha. It is located about 25 kilometers (16 miles) from the city center. There are direct flights to Changsha from many major cities in China and some international destinations.
• By train: Changsha Railway Station is the main railway station in Changsha. It is located in the city center and offers high-speed rail connections to other cities in China.
• By bus: There are several bus stations in Changsha. The main bus station is located in the city center and offers bus services to other cities in China.

Expenses

The cost of living in Changsha is relatively low compared to other major cities in China. Here is a breakdown of some average expenses:

• Accommodation: A hotel room in Changsha typically costs between 100 and 200 yuan (US$15-30) per night.
• Food: A meal at a mid-range restaurant costs around 50 yuan (US$7.50). A street food meal costs around 10 yuan (US$1.50).
• Transportation: A taxi ride within the city costs around 10 yuan (US$1.50). A bus ride costs around 2 yuan (US$0.30).
• Activities: A ticket to visit the Hunan Provincial Museum costs 30 yuan (US$4.50). A ticket to see a movie at a cinema costs around 50 yuan (US$7.50).

Best Time to Go

The best time to visit Changsha is in the spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November) when the weather is mild. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters can be cold and dry.

What to Eat

Changsha is known for its delicious food. Here are some of the most popular dishes:

• Stinky Tofu: This is a fermented tofu dish that has a strong smell but is surprisingly delicious.
• Mao Zedong Red Braised Pork: This is a pork dish that is cooked in a savory sauce.
• Changsha Steamed Fish Head: This is a steamed fish head dish that is served with a spicy sauce.
• Spicy Lobsters: This is a stir-fried lobster dish that is cooked in a spicy sauce.
• Fried Rice Noodles: This is a fried rice noodle dish that is served with a variety of toppings.

Where to Go

Here are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Changsha:

• Hunan Provincial Museum: This museum is home to a large collection of artifacts from Hunan Province, including many from the Mawangdui Han Dynasty tombs.
• Orange Isle: This is a scenic island located on the Xiangjiang River. It is a popular spot for locals and tourists to relax and enjoy the scenery.
• Yuelu Mountain: This is a mountain located on the outskirts of Changsha. It is home to Yuelu Temple, one of the most famous Buddhist temples in China.
• Tianxin Pavilion: This is a pavilion located in the center of Changsha. It is a popular spot for tourists to get panoramic views of the city.
• Hunan Martyrs Park: This is a park located on the outskirts of Changsha. It is home to a memorial to the martyrs of the Chinese Revolution.

FAQ

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Changsha:

• Is it safe to travel to Changsha?
  Yes, Changsha is generally a safe city to travel to. However, it is always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty crime.
• Can I get a visa on arrival in Changsha?
  No, you cannot get a visa on arrival in Changsha. You must apply for a visa from a Chinese embassy or consulate before you travel.
• What are the customs in Changsha?
  The customs in Changsha are similar to those in other parts of China. It is considered polite to greet people with a handshake or a nod. It is also important to be respectful of Chinese culture and traditions.
• What is the nightlife like in Changsha?
  Changsha has a vibrant nightlife scene. There are many bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. The city also has a number of live music venues.
• What are the best places to shop in Changsha?
  Changsha has a number of shopping malls and markets. The city is also home to a number of traditional handicraft shops.