Xinshao County Tourism, Shaoyang City, Hunan Province

Xinshao County, Shaoyang City, Hunan Province — a landscape city in the middle reaches of the Zijiang River, integrating exotic mountains and beautiful waters, cultural relics and historic sites. It has characteristic scenic spots such as Baishui Cave, Zijiang Scenic Belt, and Yueping Peak. Experience the diverse customs of 'cave waterfalls + river scenery + ancient roads and famous mountains' in 2 days.

1763
square kilometers of regional area
800,000+
permanent population
5
national and provincial-level cultural relic protection units
800+
historical and cultural heritage sites
Baishui Cave Landscape in Xinshao County, Shaoyang
Baishui Cave Scenic Area Waterfall - Iconic Landscape of Xinshao County
Baishui Cave is a national-level scenic spot, famous for its exotic caves, strange rocks, green mountains and clear waters. The waterfall group cascades down, the canyon is deep and serene, and ancient temples are scattered among them, showing the unique natural and cultural landscape of central Hunan.

2-Day Tour of Landscape and Culture in Xinshao County

Explore caves and watch waterfalls, stroll along the river, climb peaks for a distant view, seek ancient traces and visit seclusive spots

Trip Duration
2 Days
Main Destinations
Baishui Cave, Zijiang Scenic Belt, Yueping Peak, Wenxian Guan, Saishuangqing
Suitable For
Nature lovers, hikers, photography enthusiasts, family trips
Per Capita Budget
¥200-¥500
1
Tour of Exotic Caves, Beautiful Waters and River Scenery
Baishui Cave · Zijiang Scenic Belt · Saishuangqing
Itinerary Highlights

Explore Baishui Cave Scenic Area in the morning to watch the waterfall group and cave wonders; stroll along the Zijiang Scenic Belt in the afternoon to feel the river breeze; climb Saishuangqing Park in the evening to overlook the sunset over the Zijiang River.

Attraction Arrangement
Baishui Cave Scenic Area
A national-level scenic spot, consisting of Baishui Cave, Baiyunyan, and Zijiang Small Three Gorges. The core area has 18 waterfalls and 9 streams, with Baishui Waterfall being the most spectacular, with a drop of over 100 meters. The scenic area also has historic sites such as Yuwang Palace and Yinxian Bridge. The stalactites in the caves are in various shapes, making it a tourist resort integrating nature and culture.
Zijiang Scenic Belt
An ecological landscape belt built along the Xinshao section of the Zijiang River, with a total length of about 10 kilometers. Both banks are lined with green trees, equipped with water-friendly trails, viewing platforms, riverside parks and other facilities. You can walk, ride a bike or take a boat tour. There are oases dotted in the river, and ancient villages and modern buildings can be seen on both banks from time to time, showing the delicacy and vitality of the Zijiang River.
Saishuangqing Park
A landmark park located on the bank of the Zijiang River in the county seat, named for "surpassing Shuangqing" (Shaoyang Shuangqing Park). The park has buildings such as Lanyue Tower and Linjiang Pavilion. Climbing the tower, you can overlook the Zijiang River winding through the county seat, which is an excellent place to watch the river scenery and sunset, and also a good place for citizens to relax and exercise.
Practical Information
Transportation Guide
  • Take a bus from Shaoyang urban area to Xinshao county seat (about 30 minutes)
  • There is a tourist special line from the county seat to Baishui Cave Scenic Area (about 20 minutes)
  • Zijiang Scenic Belt and Saishuangqing Park are located in the county seat, accessible on foot or by bike
  • You can take a sightseeing bus (15 yuan/person) or walk to visit Baishui Cave Scenic Area
Ticket Information
  • Baishui Cave Scenic Area: 65 yuan/person (including core scenic area)
  • Zijiang Scenic Belt: Free
  • Saishuangqing Park: Free
Food Recommendations
  • Xinshao Blood Duck
  • Sweet Potato Vermicelli Sheet
  • Zijiang Fish Hot Pot
  • Farmhouse Bacon Stir-Fried with Bracken
2
Tour of Famous Mountains, Ancient Temples and Ecological Leisure
Yueping Peak · Wenxian Guan
Itinerary Highlights

Climb Yueping Peak Forest Park in the morning to appreciate the grandeur of the highest peak in central Hunan; visit Wenxian Guan in the afternoon to experience the tranquility and profundity of Taoist culture.

Attraction Arrangement
Yueping Peak Forest Park
Located in the northeast of Xinshao County, the main peak Yueping Peak has an altitude of 1513 meters, making it the highest peak in central Hunan. The forest coverage rate in the park is over 95%, with a variety of rare animals and plants. The mountain climbing trails wind through it, and streams, waterfalls, exotic pines and rocks can be seen along the way. There is a viewing platform on the top of the mountain, where you can overlook the central Hunan land, and the sea of clouds landscape is particularly spectacular.
Wenxian Guan
An ancient Taoist temple built in the Tang Dynasty, located on the southern foot of Yueping Peak, which is said to be the place where Lü Dongbin practiced. The temple has buildings such as Sanqing Hall and Lüzu Hall, and preserves relics such as ancient stone inscriptions and alchemy wells. Surrounded by ancient trees, the environment is quiet and peaceful, making it a good place for Taoist culture research and leisure vacation.
Practical Information
Transportation Guide
  • It is about 40 kilometers from the county seat to Yueping Peak Forest Park, self-driving or taking township buses is recommended
  • You can take a local van (about 10 yuan) from the scenic area entrance to the mountain climbing starting point
  • Climbing the mountain takes 3-4 hours, it is recommended to set out early
  • Wenxian Guan is located on the mountainside of Yueping Peak, which can be visited on the way
Travel Tips
  • Yueping Peak has a high altitude and large temperature difference, please prepare a coat
  • Some sections of the mountain climbing trail are steep, wear non-slip shoes and pay attention to safety
  • The signal in the mountain area is weak, it is recommended to go in groups
  • Keep quiet in Wenxian Guan and abide by the regulations of religious places

Must-Try Foods in Xinshao County

Xinshao Blood Duck

A traditional famous dish in Xinshao County, made by stir-frying local native duck with duck blood, chili, ginger and other seasonings. The finished product is bright red in color, tender in duck meat, sour and spicy, with a unique mountain flavor, and is a must-have dish for local banquets for guests.

Sweet Potato Vermicelli Sheet

A traditional farmhouse food in Xinshao County, made from local sweet potato starch. It can be stir-fried or boiled, with a smooth and tough taste. It is often served with bacon and green vegetables, which is a classic in home cooking and also a good gift for relatives and friends.

Zijiang Fish Hot Pot

Made with wild fish from the Zijiang River, boiled with ginger, chili, perilla and other seasonings. The fish meat is tender, the soup is delicious, with the characteristics of removing fishy smell and enhancing freshness, reflecting the dietary characteristics along the Zijiang River, especially suitable for eating in autumn and winter.

Farmhouse Bacon Stir-Fried with Bracken

A characteristic dish in the mountainous area of Xinshao, made by stir-frying homemade farmhouse bacon with bracken picked from the mountains. The bacon is fragrant, the bracken is tender, the meat and vegetables are reasonably matched, with a strong rural flavor, and it is a popular dish in local farmhouses.

Xinshao County Travel Tips
Best Travel Time
  • Spring (March-May): Yueping Peak is in full bloom with flowers and pleasant climate
  • Summer (June-August): Summer resort in Baishui Cave, boating on Zijiang River
  • Autumn (September-November): Clear sky and mild weather, suitable for mountain climbing and photography
  • Winter (December-February): Yueping Peak may be covered with snow, you can enjoy the snow scenery
Must-Experience Activities
  • Watch waterfalls and explore cave wonders in Baishui Cave
  • Cycling or boat tour on Zijiang Scenic Belt
  • Watch the sunset over Zijiang River in Saishuangqing Park
  • Climb to the top of Yueping Peak to watch the sea of clouds and sunrise
  • Experience the Taoist cultural atmosphere in Wenxian Guan
Budget Reference
  • Tickets and transportation: 100-200 yuan (including scenic spot tickets and transportation fees)
  • Catering: 80-120 yuan/day
  • Accommodation: 80-180 yuan/night (county seat hotels or scenic area homestays)
  • Shopping: 50-150 yuan (specialties such as sweet potato vermicelli, bacon)
  • Total: 200-500 yuan
Frequently Asked Questions
  • How long does it take to visit Baishui Cave Scenic Area? → 3-4 hours is recommended
  • Is climbing Yueping Peak difficult? → Moderate difficulty, suitable for people with certain physical strength
  • Can I take a boat tour on the Zijiang River? → Yes, there is a cruise terminal in the county seat, about 30 yuan/person
  • Where to taste the most authentic Xinshao Blood Duck? → Time-honored restaurants or farmhouses in the county seat