Huaihua: The Code of Commerce and the Heavenly Melody of Dong Villages

If you haven't experienced the beauty of Huaihua, now is the perfect time to set foot on this magical land. Huaihua, a city located in western Hunan, shines like a brilliant pearl with its unique charm. Here, you'll find ancient history and culture, enchanting natural scenery, and unforgettable local delicacies that will make your trip truly worthwhile. Below is a travel guide to Huaihua: Accommodation Luxury Huaihua DaHan Hilton Hotel: Located at No. 65 Shuntian North Road, Hecheng District, this hotel offers luxurious facilities, attentive service, and stunning city views, along with a gym, swimming pool, and other leisure amenities. Comfort City Comfort Inn (Huaihua First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Medical University Branch): Rated 4.8, it's conveniently located near Huaihua Railway Station and Xintiandi City Plaza, offering buffet breakfast and free parking. Four Seasons Fashion Hotel (Huaihua High-Speed Rail South Station Sports Center Branch): Close to Hunan University of Medicine, with easy parking and charging stations available. Unique Homestays Qianyang First Inn: Nestled within the ancient town of Qianyang, this homestay exudes a rich historical atmosphere, making you feel as if you've traveled back in time to experience the tranquility and charm of the ancient town. Yunding Inn: Located in the Huangyan Ecological Tourism Area, surrounded by beautiful natural scenery and fresh air, it's an ideal spot to enjoy nature. Food Recommendations Zhijiang Duck: One of Huaihua's most iconic dishes, the duck is prepared with a unique cooking technique, resulting in crispy skin, tender meat, and a rich, savory flavor. Hongjiang Blood Rice Cake Duck: A dish where duck blood is mixed with glutinous rice to make blood rice cakes, then stir-fried with duck meat. The savory duck pairs perfectly with the soft, sticky rice cakes, offering a spicy and satisfying taste. Pickled Radish: Huaihua's pickled radish is crispy, tangy, and spicy, a common local snack that can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish. Xupu Goose: Known for its tender and nutritious meat, it's delicious whether braised or stewed. Dong-style Pickled Fish: A Dong ethnic specialty, the fish is pickled to develop a unique sour and aromatic flavor, creating a distinctive taste. Attractions Qianyang Ancient Town: One of the best-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty ancient towns in China, known as the "Gateway to Yunnan and Guizhou" and the "First Ancient Town of Western Hunan." It features numerous historical sites like Furong Tower and the Bell and Drum Towers. Hongjiang Ancient Commercial Town: Originating from the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods, it's hailed as "Little Nanjing" and the "Pearl of Western Hunan," with over 380 well-preserved ancient buildings from the Ming, Qing, and Republic of China eras. Tongdao Huangdu Dong Cultural Village: A "sea of songs and world of dance," it showcases unique Dong village architecture and folk culture, including village gates, drum towers, and wind-and-rain bridges. Visitors can also experience activities like the "Bowl-Smashing Wine" ritual. Huaihua Grand Canyon: A destination for sightseeing, fitness, summer retreats, and adventure, featuring attractions like the UFO Forest Observatory, Atomic Roller Coaster, and Via Ferrata climbing. Site of the Surrender Ceremony for the Victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japan: A significant historical site commemorating China's victory in the war, including the Surrender Memorial Arch and Surrender Hall. Itinerary Day 1 Morning: Arrive in Huaihua and check in at your hotel. If staying at City Comfort Inn, take a short rest and explore the nearby area. Noon: Try Zhijiang Duck at a local restaurant to savor Huaihua's signature flavor. Afternoon: Visit the Huaihua Museum to learn about the city's history, culture, and customs. Open Wednesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM). Evening: Sample snacks like pickled radish at a night market and experience Huaihua's nightlife. Day 2 Morning: Head to Qianyang Ancient Town, stroll along its cobblestone streets, admire Ming and Qing architecture, and visit landmarks like Furong Tower and the Yi Yangqianxi Library. Noon: Enjoy local dishes like You's Spring Rolls and Ancient Town Duck Egg Noodles in the town. Afternoon: Take a boat tour along the Yuan River to admire the ancient town's riverside scenery, then continue exploring and taking photos. Evening: Stay overnight at a homestay in the ancient town to experience its peaceful night atmosphere. Day 3 Morning: Visit Hongjiang Ancient Commercial Town and explore its historical buildings, such as the Tax Bureau, Flood Control Office, and Tianjun Theater, to feel the bustle of "Little Nanjing." Noon: Savor local specialties like Hongjiang Blood Rice Cake Duck and Hongjiang Duck Noodles. Afternoon: Wander through the Misty Rain Hongjiang district, enjoy the riverside views, and experience local folk culture. Evening: Dine at a restaurant near the ancient town before returning to your hotel. Day 4 Morning: Travel to Tongdao Huangdu Dong Cultural Village to admire its unique architecture, watch folk performances, and participate in activities like the "Bowl-Smashing Wine" ritual. Noon: Try Dong ethnic dishes like pickled fish and oil tea. Afternoon: Explore the village freely, interact with the local Dong people, and learn about their customs. Evening: Join a bonfire party to experience the warmth and hospitality of the Dong people. Day 5 Morning: Visit Huaihua Grand Canyon and try thrilling activities like the glass water slide, high-altitude zip line, and speed grass sliding. Noon: Recharge at a restaurant in the scenic area. Afternoon: Continue exploring the canyon, enjoy the natural scenery, and take photos. Day 6 Morning: Visit the Site of the Surrender Ceremony for the Victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japan to reflect on history and the monumental era. Noon: Enjoy local cuisine in Zhijiang. Afternoon: Prepare for your return journey, concluding your delightful trip to Huaihua. We look forward to welcoming you to Huaihua for this journey full of surprises and emotions. The city's landscapes, culture, and people are sure to leave a lasting impression, creating unforgettable memories.