Xiangtan, Hunan province, has seen a notable increase in tourism following a series of cultural and urban renewal initiatives aimed at revitalizing its historic sites and expanding its cultural tourism offerings. The efforts are highlighted by the successful transformation of the Yaowan historical and cultural district and associated developments along the Xiangjiang River.
During the recent May Day holiday period, Yaowan attracted approximately 37,600 visitors, marking a 22.86 percent increase compared to the previous year. Often referred to as “the first bend of the Xiangjiang River,” Yaowan’s roots trace back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907), when the area flourished before declining over centuries. Recent urban renewal programs have rejuvenated its ancient buildings and repurposed the district to appeal to contemporary cultural tourism trends.
The district integrates various businesses, including intangible cultural heritage workshops, traditional teahouses, and contemporary markets, blending millennia-old history with modern tourism demands. Visitors frequently enjoy traditional Chinese music and tea ceremonies while wandering the scenic riverbank locations, which include Tangxing Temple and Wangheng Pavilion. The area has also become a popular site for tourists to wear traditional Chinese costumes and participate in photo opportunities. To broaden access, a shuttle train service now connects Yaowan with the nearby Changsha Dawang Mountain scenic area, facilitating travel within the Changsha-Zhuzhou-Xiangtan city cluster.
Complementing Yaowan’s transformation, the nearby Wanlou Youth Wharf has undergone upgrades and hosts regular cultural activities. The May Day Carnival there featured stunt performances, ribbon parades, and clown acts, drawing large crowds. Evening events include street performances, open-air movie screenings, a giant illuminated Ferris wheel, and a bustling night market with more than 80 stalls selling both local snacks and trendy goods. Signature Xiangtan dishes such as chopped chili fish head, Mao-style braised pork, sugar oil cakes, and scallion pancakes are among the popular offerings, while traditional local products like Hetang Chicken and handmade lotus root starch are sought as souvenirs.
In addition to riverside attractions, rural homestays in the city’s outskirts offer visitors an immersive experience in the region’s natural environment. These accommodations host nearly 1,000 guests on peak days and provide educational programs focusing on family traditions, traditional Chinese studies, and nature-based activities, allowing families to engage directly with rural life.
Further afield, the Maohu Water Town in the Xiangxiang region has undergone extensive upgrading since 2024. Historically significant as the site where Qing Dynasty official Zeng Guofan trained the Xiang Army’s naval forces, Maohu had limited tourism due to its remote location. The ongoing renovation has introduced new amenities such as a cruise terminal, an amusement camp, a flower island, and a horse ranch, along with facilities aimed at enhancing visitor comfort, including restaurants and homestays.
These combined efforts reflect Xiangtan’s broader push to modernize and diversify its cultural tourism infrastructure while preserving historic and natural heritage, attracting increased domestic tourism and fostering regional connectivity.