Yongzhou
Introduction
You will find Yongzhou situated in the southern reaches of Hunan province along the southern bank of the Xiang River. This river is formed by the confluence of the Xiao and Xiang Rivers, creating a landscape that borders Guangdong to the southeast and Guangxi to the southwest.
With a history spanning 2,000 years, you can explore this location as one of the four ancient counties in Hunan. The city encompasses two urban districts where much of the local population resides.
Before you go
Prepare for your visit by understanding the unique cultural landscape of Yongzhou, a region defined by its location on the southern bank of the Xiang River. You can explore the nearby area of Xiangnan, where you will find lush green mountains containing caves and waterfalls, rivers suitable for swimming, and ancient towns rich in history and literary culture. A notable cultural highlight to note before your arrival is the Nüshu script, a local script used exclusively by women in Jiangyong County.
Be mindful of the local environment and traditions as you plan your trip:
- The region experiences a mid-subtropical continental monsoon humid climate with four distinct seasons.
- You may encounter the Yongzhou dialect, which belongs to the Xiang branch of the Chinese language and differs from other Xiang dialects in the province.
- The area is characterized by its historical significance as a cultural and economic center since ancient times, featuring landscapes and relics that reflect its long history.
Getting there
You can reach Yongzhou by taking frequent trains from the north, including fast train options. If you are traveling from northern regions, heading south toward Guangxi puts you near Guilin, where you can explore karst formations and enjoy hiking and climbing opportunities.
Driving to Yongzhou provides you with more flexibility to organize your itinerary and experience the region in depth while enjoying the scenery along the way. Once you arrive, most attractions offer free parking for your convenience.
Getting aroundYou can navigate the city using a well-developed public transportation system. Taxis provide a convenient way to travel, while buses serve as a common and affordable method for getting around.
Where to stay
You can choose from various accommodations that cater to different needs within the city. For those seeking high-end amenities, you might stay at an establishment featuring Western restaurants, meeting rooms, and laundry services with a 24-hour front desk.
Alternatively, you can find centrally located options in the Lengshuitan District. These accommodations provide convenient access for getting around the city and offer additional conveniences such as transfer services, free parking, and round-the-clock front desk assistance.
Food & drink
You can explore a culinary landscape that mirrors the flavors of Guangxi while embracing the spicy preferences typical of Hunan. Sample various types of fen, a rice noodle dish featuring diverse toppings and regional styles. If you prefer milder flavors, you can request less chili at your chosen eatery. Local specialties offer a taste of authentic culture, including Dong'an Chicken known for its tender meat, and duck blood prepared with cool blood. For a traditional experience, try drinking snails, which are prized for their crisp texture and fresh soup, or sample local spirits like Foreign Snake Wine.
- Laolao Braised powder: A long-established lo mein featuring toppings such as chicken claws, chicken legs, and dried herbs, with options including beef, pig's trotters, or stir-fried fat intestines.
- Dong'an Chicken: A local delicacy recognized for its flavorful meat and unique culinary traditions.
- Drinking snails: A traditional food prepared with iron snails to achieve a crisp and tender texture.
- Foreign Snake Wine: A specialty made with various snakes, Chinese herbs, and aged grain wine.
- Milk tea: Visit local chains to choose from a wide variety of flavors.
What to see and do
While the urban area offers limited sights, you can find cultural landmarks in the Lingling District. You can visit the Yongzhou Museum to explore the city's main collection or travel to the Liuzi Temple, an old memorial dedicated to a famous Tang Dynasty writer. For a deeper look into traditional Chinese culture and unique architecture, the Ningyuan Temple of Culture serves as a significant site of historical heritage.
For a different experience, venture into the rural counties where many of the region's major attractions are located. In Jiangyong County, you can explore old villages where women once developed the Nüshu script, a unique phonetic tradition. You can also find leisure in the city center at Xiaoxiang Park, where you can enjoy local food and amusement rides, or take a walk along the Xiang River.
When to go
You can experience four distinct seasons in Yongzhou under a humid subtropical climate. During the winter months, you will encounter mild conditions characterized by occasional frost and light snow. As you move into spring and early summer, you will notice a transitional period where temperatures and humidity rise as the monsoon system strengthens.
The wet season occurs during the summer and early autumn, bringing the heaviest precipitation of the year. If your travels take you into the mountainous areas or the southern regions, you can expect significantly more rain than in the flatlands or northern parts of the region.
Three days in Yongzhou
Day one, you can begin your journey in the heart of the city by visiting the Yongzhou Museum to explore local history. You might then spend time exploring the surrounding area and sampling local dishes such as Laolao Braised Chicken or sipping on Foreign Snake Wine.
Day two, you can travel through the Lingling District or the Lengshuitan District to experience different neighborhoods. During your travels, you can enjoy the scenery of the Xiang River while taking in the local atmosphere.
Day three, you can explore more of the region. You might choose to spend time near the Xiangnan area or take a trip toward Jiangyong County to see more of the landscape.