Complete Guide to Visiting Orange Isle in Changsha: Take a Photo with Chairman Mao + Immersive Experience Away from the Crowds

Coming to Changsha, how can you not check in at Orange Isle? This "green pearl" in the center of the Xiang River not only carries the youthful marks of a great leader but also features a 32-meter-high youth art sculpture of Mao Zedong, misty river views, and contrasting cityscapes on both banks, making it a must-visit "landmark of Changsha" for tourists. But crowded holidays and low cost-effectiveness of the small train? This guide teaches you how to tour efficiently and easily capture "exclusive" shots! Transportation Guide: Subway Direct Access, Easy and Worry-Free • Subway: Take Line 2 from Wuyi Square, 8 minutes direct to Orange Isle Station, exit from Exit 1 or 2 to reach the scenic area entrance immediately, no need for taxis or detours. • Driving: Reserve parking on the island in advance (15 RMB per car per visit), but parking is tight on holidays, subway is recommended first. • Storage Service: There are lockers next to the scenic area entrance for storing large or small bags, travel light for more ease. Tour Routes: Walking + Small Train, Off-Peak Check-In More Efficient Option 1: Deep Walking Tour (Recommended for those with good stamina) Walk from the subway exit to Chairman Mao’s statue (about 3 km one way, 6 km round trip), feel the river breeze along the way, enjoy close-up views of the Xiang River. The east side features the brightly lit Changsha city center business district (night view is stunning), the west side is the quiet Yuelu Mountain and university town, fewer people and beautiful scenery. Suitable for visitors who like slow travel and photography. Option 2: Small Train + Walking Combination (Best for saving energy) • Ticket Purchase: Buy sightseeing train tickets (40 RMB round trip, can get on and off once midway) after entering the park, do not buy at the parking lot! • Route: First ride to the terminal station to admire Chairman Mao’s statue (most crowded, recommended to go in the morning), on the return trip get off at the "Intangible Cultural Heritage Museum" stop to visit the exhibition and take river views, avoiding crowds. • Hidden Photo Spots: The small hill behind the statue and the viewing platform next to the Intangible Cultural Heritage Museum have fewer people and unique angles, easily capturing "exclusive" shots. Pitfall Tips: These Details Make Your Visit Smoother 1. Small Train Cost-Effectiveness: 40 RMB round trip is a bit pricey, but walking round trip takes 2 hours; those with limited stamina should choose the train ticket, and getting off midway to visit the Intangible Cultural Heritage Museum is worth the price. 2. Photography Tips: • Arrive before 8 AM or after 5 PM at the statue for the fewest people; • On rainy, misty days, wear light-colored clothes for better photos; • The side and back small hill of the statue have fewer people and unique perspectives. 3. Preparation: • Water and snacks inside the scenic area are double the price, buy them outside the subway station in advance; • Sunscreen and sun hats are essential, UV rays are strong by the river in summer; • Wear comfortable sports shoes for easier walking. Nearby Combined Activities: One-Stop Check-In for Changsha Highlights • Daytime: Orange Isle → Yuelu Mountain (10-minute walk to Aiwan Pavilion and Yuelu Academy); • Night: Orange Isle night view → Wuyi Square for snacks and light shows (direct subway Line 2). Why Recommend Orange Isle? • Blend of History and Nature: Great leader’s sculpture, Xiang River scenery, contrasting city and mountain views at every step; • High Cost-Effectiveness: Free scenic area (except small train), subway direct access, suitable for family trips; • Off-Peak Tips: Fewer people on weekdays, go early on holidays to avoid crowds, doubling the experience. “Alone in the cold autumn, the Xiang River flows north, at the head of Orange Isle…” Standing in front of the statue, you can almost hear the echoes of history. Whether you feel the river breeze on foot or quickly check in by small train, Orange Isle lets you find your own Changsha memory. Next time you come to Changsha, remember to use this guide to shoot “exclusive” photos that will blow up your social media! 📸🌉