Dongting Lake Town: A Revitalized Cultural Landmark in Yueyang.

Strolling along the antique stone-paved roads, surrounded by idyllic architecture, visitors and locals alike enjoy a slower pace of life, experiencing the transformation from Chenjiazui Village to Dongting Lake Town. Listen to the stories of long-time residents and glimpse into the unique past of this charming locale. 1. Dongting Lake Town is located south of Nanhu Lake in the Dongting Lake Tourist Resort, encompassing the area from Zhilan Road to Ganshan Road. With a total planned area of 3,200 mu, the project centers around the original village, integrating the surrounding mountains, forests, and farmland to create a leisure and holiday destination showcasing Dongting culture. With a total investment of approximately CNY 780 million, Dongting Lake Town focuses on the "water and countryside" cultural core of Dongting Lake, aiming to become a benchmark for innovative rural cultural tourism. It offers a new type of rural resort complex centered around creative agricultural, cultural, and tourism experiences within artistically designed spaces, all promoting a better life. 2. "I've lived here since 1991, so by the time of the renovation and relocation, I will have lived here for almost 30 years," says Liu Lan, a member of the Huxingshan Community Residents' Committee, setting the stage for the story of this transformation. 3. In her memory, this was once an old village enveloped by the modern city. Before officially becoming Dongting Lake Town, it was known as Chenjiazui. Residents primarily relied on farming and tree planting for their livelihood. The hills were covered with fruit trees and scattered farmlands, which characterized the area. Village roads were narrow and difficult to navigate, chickens and ducks roamed freely, and dilapidated brick houses were a common sight. Apart from relatives, few outsiders visited, painting a picture of a typical urban village. 4. Today, rustic and elegant houses nestle among the trees, complementing the landscape of Nanhu Lake. The town is divided into three main sections: the original village area, a cultural and art experience area, and a science and technology innovation experience area. It integrates hotels and homestays, restaurants, nature education, technological innovation, and artistic experiences. Characteristic hotels and rows of renovated bungalows now house distinctive eateries, all breathing new life into the old structures. The old houses near the ancient park tree in the village center have been transformed into the Taibai Tea House, a popular spot for conversation and tea. Every corner of the town bears witness to the remarkable changes. 5. "When I have free time, I like to bring my children here for a stroll and enjoy a slower pace of life," says Zhang Meng. Now, with clean roads, well-structured houses, and a constant flow of people enjoying leisurely walks, the "slow life" has become a unique feature of Dongting Lake Town. The old village has shed its former dust and grime, quietly transforming with an infusion of new energy, reborn with a fresh perspective. 6. At night, Dongting Lake Town sparkles with lights, and the Planetarium's special light show is a feast for the eyes. "The technologically advanced lighting here is truly beautiful," says Ms. Liu, a visitor with her child. Although not a resident of Chenjiazui, she grew up in the lakeside area and has witnessed its transformation. From demolition to reconstruction, and from reconstruction to gradual improvement, the relatively short period of time feels like a whirlwind of change. Today, Dongting Lake Town has become a popular weekend destination for locals, attracting numerous visitors for leisure, entertainment, and photo opportunities. It is gradually becoming a landmark cultural tourism project in the Nanhu New District. 7. The birth of Dongting Lake Town marks a new era for cultural tourism development in the Nanhu New District. The old park tree stands guard, a silent witness to the history of generations in Chenjiazui. After centuries, it remains a landmark in the heart of Dongting Lake Town, its rings marking the passage of time and the remarkable transformation of this once-forgotten village.