Changsha Private Guided Tour: Explore the Must-Sees in One Day
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Changsha Private Guided Tour: Explore the Must-Sees in One Day

Active
(13 reviews)
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

* Tailor-Made Itineraries for Any Purpose
Whether you’re traveling for leisure, business or shopping, we offer a 100% customizable guiding service. Your ideas—big or small—are welcome, and we’ll craft an itinerary that perfectly aligns with your goals.

* Professional, Stress-Free Support
Enjoy peace of mind knowing you'll receive professional English‑speaking guides, seamless transportation support (including metro, high-speed train, or private car/van), and 24/7 communication via WeChat or WhatsApp.

* Flexible Booking & Hassle-Free Travel
We'll handle all reservations—from attraction tickets to restaurant bookings—with free cancellation up to 24 hours and ongoing itinerary updates. No rigid schedules—just a smooth, personalized experience from start to finish.

* Local Expertise with a Personal Touch
Our guides aren’t just translators—they’re your local insiders. Gain access to authentic cultural experiences, business facilitation, orphanage visits that go beyond typical tours.

Available options

Private English Guide Service

Pickup included

What's included

Private English Guide Service
Guided Support for Public Transportation

Detailed itinerary

1

As part of your Changsha must-see private day tour itinerary, visiting Mount Yuelu is a breathtaking experience not to be missed. Located in Hunan Province, Mount Yuelu offers stunning natural scenery, lush greenery, and historic sites nestled at the foot of the mountain. Explore peaceful walking trails, visit the famous Aiwan Pavilion, and enjoy panoramic views of Changsha city and the Xiangjiang River. This scenic mountain perfectly combines nature, culture, and history, making it an essential highlight for your private guided tour in Changsha.

2

Aiwan Pavilion (Love After Dusk Pavilion), located on the scenic slopes of Yuelu Mountain in Changsha, Hunan Province, is one of China's most famous traditional pavilions. Originally built during the Qing Dynasty, Aiwan Pavilion is best known for its connection to Chinese poets and revolutionaries—including Mao Zedong, who visited the site frequently during his youth.

Surrounded by ancient trees, bamboo groves, and tranquil mountain paths, the pavilion is a peaceful retreat offering visitors a deep sense of history, poetry, and nature. It’s also a must-see cultural stop on any Changsha private day tour, especially for those exploring the nearby Yuelu Academy.

Whether you're interested in Chinese literature, historic architecture, or photography, Aiwan Pavilion offers a serene and meaningful experience that captures the essence of Changsha's cultural heritage.

3

Enjoy a short walk to Pozi Street or Taiping Street—two of Changsha’s most famous historical streets. These vibrant pedestrian areas are perfect for sampling authentic Hunan Street food and exploring traditional architecture.

Must-try local specialties include:

* Changsha Stinky Tofu – crispy on the outside, soft inside, with a bold fermented flavor.

* Sugar-Glazed Rice Cakes – sticky, sweet, and chewy local dessert.

* Chopped Chili Fish Head – a spicy and iconic Hunan dish

* Hunan Rice Noodles – a classic comfort food found in every corner of the city.

Immerse yourself in the lively street culture, discover hidden snack stalls, and enjoy the rich culinary heritage of Changsha during your one-day tour.

4

Tianxin Pavilion (Tianxin Ge), a must-see historical site in central Changsha. This ancient pavilion is part of the old city wall ruins, offering visitors a chance to explore the city’s rich heritage and enjoy panoramic views of modern-day Changsha.

As one of the few remaining traces of ancient Changsha’s city defenses, Tianxin Pavilion reflects the city’s historical evolution through various dynasties. The surrounding garden is beautifully landscaped, making it a peaceful place to stroll, take photos, or relax during your day tour.

Tianxin Pavilion is the perfect stop for those interested in Changsha’s cultural history, traditional Chinese architecture, and scenic urban viewpoints—all within walking distance of key downtown attractions.

5

End your Changsha private day tour with a relaxing visit to IFS (International Finance Square), a modern shopping and entertainment complex in the heart of the city. Don’t miss the chance to take photos with the famous IFS rooftop panda sculpture, one of Changsha’s most iconic landmarks and a social media favorite.

Afterward, stroll through Huangxing Road Pedestrian Street, a bustling shopping area filled with local boutiques, global brands, snack vendors, and street performers. This is the perfect place to shop for souvenirs, try one last bite of Changsha street food, or unwind at a cozy café before concluding your day.

Whether you're into luxury shopping, urban photo spots, or simply people-watching, this final stop offers a vibrant glimpse of modern Changsha city life.

6

A key stop on your Changsha must-see private day tour itinerary, Orange Island Park (Juzizhou) is a stunning river island located in the heart of the Xiangjiang River. Known for its lush landscapes, peaceful walking paths, and rich cultural history, the island is home to the iconic Mao Zedong Youth Sculpture, one of Changsha’s most recognized landmarks. Orange Island Park offers breathtaking views of both Mount Yuelu and the city skyline, making it a perfect location for sightseeing and photography. Famous for its connection to ancient Chinese poetry and citrus orchards, it’s an ideal destination for travelers seeking both nature and history in one unforgettable stop.

What's not included

Public Transportation
Entrance Fee
Food and Drinks
Gratuities for Good Service

Available languages

Guide guide
CMN EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0
1 reviews
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1
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Tripadvisor 5.0
12 reviews
5★
12
4★
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3★
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2★
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1★
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Important information

Wheelchair accessible
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Important notes

You can present either a paper or an electronic voucher for this activity.

About Changsha

Changsha, the capital of Hunan Province, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, spicy cuisine, and modern urban landscape. It blends ancient traditions with contemporary development, offering travelers a unique experience in southern China.

Top Attractions

Yuelu Mountain

Yuelu Mountain is a scenic area with a rich history, featuring temples, pavilions, and beautiful natural landscapes. It is also home to the famous Yuelu Academy, one of the four ancient academies in China.

Nature/Historical 2-3 hours ¥50

Orange Island

Orange Island is a symbol of Changsha, located in the middle of the Xiang River. It is famous for its statue of Chairman Mao and offers beautiful views of the city.

Historical/Scenic 1-2 hours Free

Hunan Museum

The Hunan Museum showcases the rich history and culture of Hunan Province, featuring a vast collection of artifacts, including ancient pottery, calligraphy, and paintings.

Museum 2-3 hours ¥20

Must-Try Local Dishes

Changsha Steamed Fish Head

A spicy and aromatic dish made with steamed fish head, chili oil, garlic, and other seasonings.

Main Course Contains fish, gluten, and spices.

Stinky Tofu

Fermented tofu with a strong aroma, deep-fried and served with spicy sauce.

Snack Vegetarian, contains gluten and soy.

Changsha Spicy Chicken

Chicken cooked with a spicy sauce made from chilies, garlic, and other seasonings.

Main Course Contains chicken, gluten, and spices.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Yuelu Mountain Exploring Zhangjiajie National Forest Park Tea tasting in local tea houses Strolling along the Xiang River Visiting historical sites and museums Exploring traditional markets and streets Boat rides on the Xiang River Visiting indoor attractions and museums

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)

These seasons offer pleasant weather with mild temperatures and less rain, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Chinese (Mandarin)
  • Widely spoken: English (limited)
  • English: Limited

Currency

Chinese Yuan (CNY)

Time Zone

GMT+8

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Changsha is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, as with any major city, it's important to stay vigilant and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:
  • • Use licensed taxis or app-based services like Didi.
  • • Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas.
  • • Book tours through reputable agencies or hotels.

Getting there

By air
  • Changsha Huanghua International Airport • 25 km from city center
By train

Changsha South Railway Station, Changsha Railway Station

By bus

Changsha West Bus Station, Changsha East Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The metro system is clean, efficient, and affordable. It is the best way to get around the city, especially during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Didi, T3

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Yuelu District Furong District Tianxin Pavilion District

Day trips

Shaoshan
120 km from Changsha • Full day

Shaoshan is the birthplace of Chairman Mao Zedong, featuring historical sites and museums dedicated to his life and the Chinese Revolution.

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
300 km from Changsha • Overnight

A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning sandstone pillars, lush forests, and breathtaking landscapes.

Lushan Mountain
350 km from Changsha • Full day

A scenic mountain area known for its beautiful landscapes, temples, and historical sites.

Festivals

Changsha International Marathon • November Changsha Chrysanthemum Festival • October to November Hunan New Year Fair • January/February (Lunar New Year)

Pro tips

  • Learn a few basic Mandarin phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals.
  • Use the official Changsha Metro and Bus apps for real-time updates and route planning.
  • Try local specialties like Changsha Steamed Fish Head and Stinky Tofu for an authentic culinary experience.
  • Visit historical sites and museums early in the morning to avoid crowds and long queues.
  • Explore the city's vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene, particularly in the Furong District.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 8-99
1
Childs
Age 4-7
0
Infants
Age 0-3
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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