Loudi is a prefecture-level city located in central Hunan province, China. It is situated approximately 110 km (68 mi) southwest of Changsha, the provincial capital. The city covers an area of 8,117 km2 (3,134 sq mi) and had a population of 3,785,627 inhabitants as of the 2010 Census.
Due to its geographical location and transportation infrastructure, Loudi has served as a main strategic hinterland for Hunan Province since ancient times. It is considered a key point connecting the north and south as well as the east and west regions. In 2007, it was recognized as one of China's top ten livable cities by the Chinese Cities Brand Value Report.