Cities in Hunan

Introduction

Hunan is located in south-central China, bordered by Hubei, Jiangxi, Guangdong, Guangxi, Guizhou, and Chongqing. The province features mountains, hills, rivers, and lakes, with the Xiang River running through its center. Hunan is known for its rich cultural heritage, spicy cuisine, revolutionary history, and natural landscapes, making it a key region for tourism, education, and agriculture.

Changsha is in central Hunan, on the Xiang River plain. The city has a population of about 8 million and is the provincial capital. Changsha is a modern city with a long history as a cultural and educational hub.

The city is known for its historical sites, educational institutions, and economic development. It hosts Hunan University and Central South University, major centers for research and innovation. Changsha has a diversified economy, including electronics, manufacturing, and media industries. The city also preserves cultural landmarks from the Han dynasty and revolutionary history, blending tradition with modern urban life.

📍 Main places to visit include Yuelu Academy, Orange Island, Hunan Provincial Museum, Aiwan Pavilion, Tianxin Pavilion.

Changsha (长沙)

Xiangtan (湘潭)

Xiangtan lies south of Changsha, on the Xiang River plain. The city has a population of about 3 million and is roughly 50 km from Changsha. Xiangtan is historically and culturally significant.

Xiangtan is famous as the hometown of Mao Zedong and for its revolutionary heritage. The city also has industrial and educational significance, with institutions such as Xiangtan University supporting science and culture. Its economy includes machinery, textiles, and food processing, combining historical importance with modern industry.

📍 Main places to visit include Mao Zedong Former Residence, Yuhu Park, Yuelu Academy Xiangtan Branch, Shanxia Scenic Area, Tianxin Temple.

Yueyang is located in northeastern Hunan on the eastern shores of Dongting Lake. The city has a population of about 5 million and is about 130 km from Changsha. Yueyang has a long history as a lakeside trading and cultural center.

The city is known for its historic Yueyang Tower, ancient temples, and literary connections. Its economy relies on shipping, agriculture, and tourism, supported by educational institutions. The city blends cultural tourism and regional commerce, highlighting its historical significance along Dongting Lake.

📍 Main places to visit include Yueyang Tower, Junshan Island, Dongting Lake Scenic Area, Yueyang Museum, Baimahu Park.

Yueyang (岳阳)

Loudi (娄底)

Loudi is located in central Hunan, between Changsha and Shaoyang. The city has a population of about 3 million and acts as an industrial and transport center.

Loudi is known for coal mining, metallurgy, and agriculture. It also has scenic spots and educational institutions that support regional development. The city combines industry and tourism in a balanced way.

📍 Main places to visit include Loudi Museum, Shengtang Mountain, Dongshan Park, Xiaoxiang Scenic Area.

Changde (常德)

Changde is in northwestern Hunan along the Zi River. The city has a population of about 5 million and is approximately 350 km from Changsha. It functions as a regional economic and cultural hub.

Changde is known for its historical battles, river commerce, and tea production. The city also supports education and local industry, with universities contributing to research. Its riverside location encourages tourism and regional trade.

📍 Main places to visit include Lincheng Ancient City, Changde Poem Wall, Tianmenshan Park, Huguang Guild Hall.

Yongzhou (永州)

Yongzhou is located in southern Hunan, near the borders with Guangxi and Guangdong. The city has a population of about 5 million and serves as a regional agricultural and historical hub.

Yongzhou is known for ancient cultural relics, forests, and rivers. Tourism focuses on natural scenery and historical sites, while the economy combines agriculture, forestry, and light industry. Education is supported by local universities and vocational schools.

📍 Main places to visit include Lingling Ancient Town, Mount Heng Scenic Area, Yongzhou Museum, Dongjiang Lake.

Shaoyang (邵阳)

Shaoyang is in southwestern Hunan, on the Xiang River tributaries. The city has a population of about 6 million and is around 300 km from Changsha. Shaoyang is historically important and agriculturally rich.

Shaoyang is known for traditional culture, ancient towns, and educational institutions, including Shaoyang University. Its economy blends agriculture, light industry, and cultural tourism, making it a diverse regional center.

📍 Main places to visit include Wugang Ancient Town, Tianyuan Mountain, Shaoyang Museum, Baishui River Scenic Area.