2024 Liling Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in November)
Liling City is located in the east of Hunan Province, in the middle reaches of the Lu River (a tributary of the Xiang River), and along the northwestern section of the Luoxiao Mountains. Liling is the hometown of Li Tian, the father of firecrackers. The town is called the “hometown of fireworks” because it produces such a great quantity of fireworks and firecrackers. Liling has been home to what are called the “Eight Attractions of Liling” since ancient times. In modern times, the city is home to the Academy of Classical Chronicles, Ancient Bridge Over Grassy Islet, Xian Mountain Lookout, Five Color Ceramics Valley, Wei Mountain Area, Zen Music at Cloud Cliff, Guanzhuang and Pinghu villages, and Gengci Hefeng.
Today's Weather
Foggy 14-16℃
Hometown of the Top Scholar, Cultural Island.
Zhuangyuan Island is a famous attraction in Zhuzhou City. It is located in the Lushui River in Liling City, Zhuzhou City, Hunan Province, and is a cultural park. Here are some suggested travel tips:
1. **Transportation**:
- Driving route from Zhuzhou to Zhuangyuan Island Cultural Park: Zhuzhou - Binjiang North Road - Hongqi Middle Road - Wushen Expressway - Provincial Highway 329 - Zhuangyuan Island Cultural Park. The total length is about 50.7 km, and the driving time is about 55 minutes.
2. **Opening Hours**:
- Zhuangyuan Island Cultural Park is open all day, from 01:00 to 24:00.
3. **Itinerary Suggestions**:
- You can make Zhuangyuan Island Cultural Park the first stop of your Zhuzhou tour. Depart from Zhuzhou in the morning, drive to Zhuangyuan Island Cultural Park, and after visiting, you can drive to Yunyang Mountain Scenic Area in the afternoon. You can choose a hotel near Yunyang Mountain Scenic Area for the night.
4. **Nearby Attractions**:
- In addition to Zhuangyuan Island Cultural Park, there are other attractions worth visiting in Zhuzhou, such as Zhuzhou Fantawild Adventure, Yunyang Mountain Scenic Area, Yan Emperor Mausoleum, Lingfeng, Yanling County Shennong Valley National Forest Park, Xianyu Ridge Scenic Area, Shifeng Park, Shennong Park, etc.
5. **Food Experience**:
- Zhuzhou's food is also an unmissable part of the trip, and you can taste local snacks and dishes.
6. **Cultural Experience**:
- Zhuzhou has a rich history and culture, and you can visit Zhuzhou Museum to learn about the historical heritage of this city.
7. **Precautions**:
- Bring appropriate clothing according to the season and weather conditions.
- Plan your itinerary in advance to avoid congestion during peak holiday periods.
- Respect local customs, protect the environment, and do not litter.
I hope these suggestions can help you plan a pleasant trip to Zhuangyuan Island in Zhuzhou!
A Hidden Gem for a Day Trip Around Changsha - Liling
There is a hidden gem around Changsha - Liling. It is only 22 minutes away from Changsha by high-speed train, and an hour by train or car. It is not only known as the City of Porcelain but also the Capital of Fireworks. The scenery is very beautiful, with fewer people, beautiful views, and affordable prices, making it an ideal weekend travel choice for friends in Changsha.
Transportation🚆: High-speed train ticket one way ¥35, train ticket ¥15.5
Food🍛: Recommended restaurants are Nie's Restaurant and Nameless Noodle Shop, with an average cost of over forty yuan per person. The food is very filling and tastes good.
Itinerary🗺️: China Ceramic Valley ➖ Ceramic Museum ➖ Porcelain Street ➖ Xianshan Park ➖ Lujiang Academy ➖ Zhuangyuan Island ➖ One Island Two Banks ➖ Liling Gate ➖ Picking Porcelain ➖ Return
1⃣️ China Ceramic Valley, Ceramic Museum, Porcelain Street (Free)
Recommended visiting time: 2 hours (Opening hours: 8:30-21:00)
These three attractions are connected and are the iconic architectural complex of Liling, a paradise for ceramic enthusiasts. Here, you can not only admire various types of porcelain but also take highly creative photos. The museum is an important window to understand Liling's ceramic culture, displaying various exquisite porcelains from the Tang Dynasty to the present. Porcelain Street is full of ancient charm, where you can also experience picking and DIY porcelain.
2⃣️ Xianshan Park (Free)
Recommended visiting time: 1 hour (Open all day)
This is a great place for citizens to relax and exercise, and also an excellent spot to overlook the entire city of Liling. The majestic Wangjiang Tower at the top of the mountain is particularly photogenic.
3⃣️ Lujiang Academy (Free)
Recommended visiting time: 1.5 hours (Opening hours: 8:30-17:30)
An ancient academy built in the Song Dynasty, with a serene environment and lush greenery. Here, you can feel a strong learning atmosphere and understand the historical evolution and cultural contributions of the academy.
4⃣️ Zhuangyuan Island (Free)
Recommended visiting time: 1 hour (Open all day)
A river island named after the ancient prophecy "The island passes in front of the county gate, and Liling produces top scholars." The arch bridge and stone steps on the island were built during the Southern Song Dynasty and have a long history.
5⃣️ One Island Two Banks, Liling Gate (Free)
Recommended visiting time: 45 minutes (Open all day)
Liling Gate is the first of the nine major gates of ancient Changsha County, located on the south bank of the Lujiang River. It is one of the eight ancient scenic spots of Liling. Walking on the Qingyun Bridge, you can also catch a glimpse of Zhuangyuan Island and Wangjiang Tower.
6⃣️ Picking Porcelain
Recommended visiting time: 30 minutes
You can go to Meijia Ceramics, Huasheng, and Baihua Porcelain Factory to pick porcelain. Here, you can find cheap and beautiful cups and tableware.
This small county of Liling has made me fall in love with its beauty
Liling Gate
A poetic city by the river, a hundred-mile gallery on both sides
Creating the unique charm of Hanzhong's 'Watery Jiangnan'
Striving to showcase the cataloged beauty of Hanzhong, the small Jiangnan of Hanzhong
I have arrived at the two banks of Liling's river~
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🚶Itinerary: Liling Gate—Liling Fried Noodle Street—Two Banks of the River—Zhuangyuan Fanghua Mansion—Qingyun Bridge
📈All these places are on a single line
1️⃣Liling Gate: Standing on the stairs there, you can take great photos
2️⃣Fried Noodle Street: You can taste Liling's fried noodles (the noodles are very fine and flavorful) and other delicacies
3️⃣Two Banks of the River: You can enjoy the breeze (the best place to watch the sunset)
4️⃣Zhuangyuan Fanghua Mansion: Very ancient and quaint
5️⃣Qingyun Bridge: You can experience the glass bridge here, sit on it and enjoy the breeze
At night, the lights are on, and it's very beautiful. Take some night shots🌃
Take a walk with your family and enjoy the breeze of Liling~
📍Navigation: Liling Gate (then walk slowly along the road)
🌟 Liling's Luminous Lodging: Turandot Hotel 🌟
🏨 Nestled in the heart of Liling's Ceramics Valley, the Turandot Hotel at Area A, Fenghuang Avenue, is a beacon of modernity and tradition. This unique hotel, reminiscent of a glowing ceramic cup by night, is a must-visit for an Insta-worthy stay in Hunan, China!
🛌 Inside, you'll find spacious rooms that surprise and delight, with a bathroom design that's as convenient as it is chic. And the best part? The rates are incredibly wallet-friendly, with a stay often costing just a few hundred yuan.
🍳 Start your day with a satisfying breakfast before heading out. The hotel's location is just a 10-15 minute jaunt to the center, making it a perfect base for your urban explorations.
🖼️ Museum buffs rejoice! After a day of cultural immersion, come back to your large, comfy room. The staff's warmth and eagerness to assist ensure that everyone, from the tiniest travelers to the grown-ups, leaves with a big smile.
#LilingLuxe #LilingHotelHaven #TravelLilingChina
Do you know about the nearly thousand-year-old academy in Zhuzhou Liling?
Liujiang Academy is located in the Xishan of Liling, the academy is halfway up the mountain, and from the foot of the mountain to the academy, it's like a park. The location is very quiet, facing the Liujiang River, backed by green mountains, really suitable for reading. There are several camphor trees that are very lush, and it is said that they were planted by Mr. Yangming himself. The academy was founded in the Southern Song Dynasty, Zhu Xi and Wang Yangming once lectured here, and Zuo Zongtang once served as the mountain chief here. The architecture of the academy is fresh and elegant, and it is now a 3A tourist attraction and a national key cultural relics protection unit, one of the must-visit spots for tourists to Liling! Located in Xishan, Liling City, it was originally an imperial college, founded in the second year of Chunxi of the Song Dynasty (1175), and later moved from Dongzheng Street at the foot of Qingyun Mountain to Xishan. In the eighteenth year of Qianlong in the Qing Dynasty (1753), it was officially named Liujiang Academy. Liujiang Academy is surrounded by mountains on three sides, facing the Liu River, covering an area of nearly 7,000 square meters. Zhu Xi lectured here many times. Zuo Zongtang once served as the mountain chief of Liujiang Academy and was in charge of the academy. Li Lisan, Cheng Qian, Chen Mingren, Zuo Quan, and others studied here.
The virtuous Donglu, the fertile Xishan. Liujiang Academy was founded in the second year of Chunxi of the Southern Song Dynasty (1175), where great Confucian scholars such as Zhu Xi and Wang Yangming lectured, Zuo Zongtang served as the mountain chief for three years, and Li Lisan, Zuo Quan, Cai Shenxi, Song Shilun, Chen Mingren emerged from here.
Porcelain Capital for a Millennium, Colorful Liling (V): Lüjiang Academy
Located on the west bank of the Lüjiang River, Xishan is a sacred cultural site.
Walking through the stone path and ascending the steps, one encounters the ancient camphor tree of the academy, which is over a thousand years old, and its lush green shade immediately brings a sense of coolness to both body and mind.
The ancient camphor is more than 1500 years old; its thick branches and leaves block out the harsh sun, yet a gentle breeze filters through the mottled light. Light and shadow fall on the stone steps, evoking a sense of historical weight and the passage of time.
Liling can be described as a 'city of academies.' From the Southern Song Dynasty to the early Qing Dynasty, nine academies were established here: Lai Mountain Academy, (Li Family's) Lai Mountain Academy, Jinsi Academy, Zhaowen Academy, Xishan Academy, Jiangdong Academy, Tianshan Academy, Chaoran Academy (later renamed to Wencheng Academy), and Lüjiang Academy. Among them, Lüjiang Academy holds the most significant historical and cultural status.
As a cultural landmark of Liling, Lüjiang Academy is the longest-standing, largest, and most influential academy in Liling, and it is also the only academy that has been preserved to this day.
Lüjiang Academy was founded in the second year of the Chunxi era of the Song Dynasty (1175), originally known as Xishan Academy. After several damages, in the eighteenth year of the Qianlong era of the Qing Dynasty (1753), it was rebuilt by the county magistrate Guan Yue at the foot of Qingyun Mountain's Ladder Cloud Pavilion.
In the ninth year of the Daoguang era of the Qing Dynasty (1829), the county magistrate Chen Xinbing moved the academy to the site of the former Xishan Academy and built the current Lüjiang Academy. The main buildings include the front gate, lecture hall, ritual hall, dormitory, Jingxing Temple, and the shrine of famous Song Dynasty officials, covering a total area of 4,123 square meters.
In 1904, the academy was transformed into a school, beginning the promotion of new education. Lüjiang Academy has a tradition of having famous people in charge of teaching, such as Zuo Zongtang, who once served as the head of the academy.
The academy has a unique educational philosophy and method, contributing to the revitalization of education and the cultivation of talent. Renowned figures such as Ning Taiyi, Fu Xiongxiang, Li Lisan, Zuo Quan, Cai Shenxi, Zhu Kejing, Song Shilun, Li Minghao, and Chen Mingren once studied here.
In March 2013, Lüjiang Academy was listed as a 'National Key Cultural Relics Protection Unit'.
Millennial Porcelain Capital, Colorful Liling (Part 3): Liling Ceramic Museum (Continued)
Liling's ceramic production has a history of nearly two thousand years.
During the Eastern Han Dynasty, there were large-scale workshops engaged in pottery production in the suburbs near Liling County (now Xinyang Nan Bamboo Mountain, Wangping, Hetang and other villages). The production of celadon began during the Song and Yuan dynasties.
In 1908, Liling created and invented the famous underglaze polychrome porcelain, which is made by first painting patterns on the semi-finished product, then applying glaze and firing it in a high-temperature kiln. After firing, the pattern is covered by a layer of transparent glaze, making it appear crystal clear and bright.
It combines the beauty of the body, glaze, craftsmanship, shape, and color decoration, possessing high aesthetic value and cultural significance. The underglaze polychrome porcelain won the gold medal at the 1915 Panama-Pacific International Exposition in San Francisco, USA, which took Liling ceramics to the pinnacle of art and industrial development.
The production process of underglaze polychrome porcelain is extremely tedious and complex, and very difficult.
First, top-quality porcelain clay is selected for the embryo, and processes such as sedimentation, slag filtration, and iron absorption are carried out before shaping to ensure that the porcelain clay is free of other impurities.
Shaping requires the porcelain body to be polished very thin and smooth. The pigments used for porcelain painting come from glaze materials, rare earths, and colored metal minerals, some of which contain precious metals like gold, making them very valuable.
Polychrome porcelain is not only beautiful and generous but also has the advantages of being abrasion-resistant, acid and alkali-resistant, lead-free, and never fading.
Due to the environmentally friendly and lustrous characteristics of underglaze polychrome porcelain, since 1958, Liling ceramics have been selected as the daily-use porcelain, state banquet porcelain, display porcelain, and gift porcelain for Mao Zedong and other party and national leaders, becoming the prestigious 'national porcelain' and 'red official kiln'.
Liling's Qunli Porcelain Factory has repeatedly made daily-use porcelain for Chairman Mao, which is also known as 'Mao porcelain'. 'Mao porcelain' represents the ultimate in underglaze polychrome porcelain and also represents the highest level of Liling's porcelain-making industry at that time.
Since then, Liling has also made special porcelain for many leaders at home and abroad, further enhancing the reputation of Liling ceramics around the world.
'Wan Zi Qian Hong' Tableware (Picture 9): Hall 118 of the Great Hall of the People, which was Chairman Mao Zedong's favorite hall, where he worked, held meetings, received foreign guests, and rested all year round. The black ground full-flower Chinese tableware used in the hall was finely crafted in Liling. The painting adopts Liling's traditional underglaze color porcelain hand-painted Fen Shui decoration technique, ingeniously blending various precious flowers, with each containing elements of the other, some budding and some passionately blooming, competing in beauty, giving a sense of a splendid and luxurious floral tapestry, reflecting the prosperous scene of the harmonious coexistence of China's multi-ethnic family.
'Dan Feng Chao Yang' Tableware (Picture 10): Put into use in 2001, it is the first time since the founding of the People's Republic of China that the Great Hall of the People has officially used special tableware with a dedicated design for a state banquet. Due to the special nature of the state banquet, the design of this set of porcelain uses the national flower peony and the Chinese auspicious totem phoenix as decorative elements, and since the phoenixes all fly towards the national emblem, it is named 'Dan Feng Chao Yang'.
'Sheng Shi Fang Hua' Tableware (Picture 11): Put into use in 2018, it uses the national flower peony as the design material, and is exquisitely crafted using traditional entwined branch decoration techniques and Liling's pure hand-painting skills. The tableware pattern design is ingenious and continuous, with bright and gorgeous color matching, possessing a very strong Chinese cultural characteristic without losing a modern fashion sense.
Liling Ceramic Museum
Porcelain Capital for a Millennium, Colorful Liling (Part One): China's Ceramic Valley
Liling belongs to Hunan, a county-level city managed by Zhuzhou, located in the eastern part of Hunan province, bordering Pingxiang of Jiangxi to the east and Liuyang of Hunan to the north.
Liling is famous both domestically and internationally for its ceramics and fireworks. Together with Pingxiang of Jiangxi and its neighbor Liuyang, they form the three major 'Fireworks Capitals'.
Liling is also one of the three major 'Porcelain Capitals' in the country!
The Liling kiln has been producing ceramics since the Han Dynasty, with a history of over 2000 years, and is the original production site of underglaze polychrome porcelain in the world.
China's Ceramic Valley is a must-visit destination in Liling, consisting of 11 exquisitely constructed buildings shaped like ancient porcelain. Some are tall like cups, others low like plates, with smooth curves and rich colors, they stand out particularly striking and eye-catching against the backdrop of the city.
The buildings appear independent on the outside, but inside they are cleverly connected, housing the International Ceramic Exhibition Center, Turandot Hotel, Liling Ceramic Valley Art Museum, and Liling City Ceramic Museum, among others.
There's no need to ask for directions or use navigation to get to China's Ceramic Valley.
Coming off the highway, you can see several huge porcelain bowls, bottles, and jars from a distance, which are the works of the world-famous Italian Archea Architectural Firm. This firm has also designed Beijing's Tango nightclub, Florida Town, and the UBPAB3-2 Pavilion at the 2010 Shanghai World Expo, among others.
Unlike other unusual buildings in China that are often criticized, this huge complex of buildings made of porcelain elements has been praised since its construction, and many people will deliberately detour into the valley upon seeing it from afar.
These huge 'porcelain' exteriors that seem to be made of porcelain are actually large steel structures with smooth, soft, and beautiful curves.
They are like porcelain, as hard and as brittle as the material, yet capable of being drawn into the most delicate lines.
China's Ceramic Valley is located next to Phoenix Avenue in the Liling Economic Development Zone.
The Ceramic Valley has no gate, but the entrance marked with the blue-font 'China Ceramic Valley' connected buildings are often considered the gate of the valley, which at a glance looks like a butterfly spreading its wings to welcome guests, but upon closer inspection resembles a porcelain goblet for drinking.
The Ceramic Museum is that amber-colored large wine glass. Inside the Ceramic Museum, the history of Liling's ceramics, as well as that of China's ceramics, is preserved.
The Turandot Hotel is also very recognizable, with its shape being the classic spindle bottle form found in ceramic vases.
Therefore, the museum complex of porcelain is also known as a local landmark.
Liling Ceramic Valley
Experience the millennium porcelain culture in Liling during the May Day holiday
During the May Day mini-holiday, I embarked on a journey to Liling, a place known as the 'millennium porcelain capital'. It attracted my attention as a distant traveler with its exquisite ceramics and unique food culture.
Early in the morning, the streets of Liling were filled with the aroma of stir-fried rice noodles. I ordered a bowl just like the locals, steaming hot. Golden eggs, green bean sprouts, and colorful mixed noodles were stir-fried in the pan, topped with soy sauce and chili powder, making the aroma irresistible. With the first bite, the rich texture and unique taste marked the start of a Liling morning from this bowl of stir-fried noodles.
In the afternoon, I visited the Porcelain Valley Flower Sea, where the 'Sing a Song Together' event was being held. Despite the drizzle, the audience's enthusiasm was undiminished. The appearance of Gan Wangxing took the atmosphere to a climax. His singing, like flames, ignited everyone's hearts. In the rain, we waved our umbrellas to the rhythm of the music, as if the whole world was immersed in this joy.
Leaving the Porcelain Valley Flower Sea, I arrived at the 1915 block. It seemed like a world of ceramics, with exquisite handmade ceramic works and artistic trinkets everywhere. In a small shop, I encountered the internet-famous 'Xiao Hai Ge Fried Rice'. The fragrant fried rice made me stop to taste. On the 1915 stage, instrumental performances and rock dances were performed in turn, showing me the passion and vitality of Liling.
In the evening, I went to the Two Sides of One River. An immersive Hanfu parade was taking place. Members of the Liling Hanfu Association, dressed in gorgeous Hanfu, strolled by the river. Their flowing robes and exquisite makeup seemed to transport me to an ancient court. In the parade, I also saw many tourists dressed in Hanfu, moving forward with the procession, feeling the charm of Chinese culture.
During my days in Liling, I also participated in the Taorunhui event. Here you could play games for free and win prizes, and I was lucky to get some exquisite porcelain pieces. There were also young men offering free photography for tourists.
This May Day holiday, Liling gave me so many surprises and emotions. The porcelain and food made me linger, and the culture and warmth earned my respect.
You must visit Liuling this summer to witness a spectacular fireworks feast
📅 Itinerary:
Day 1️⃣: Arrive in Liuling, check into the hotel, and then you can choose to stroll around the Two Banks of the River scenic area to enjoy the leisurely charm of Liuling.
Day 2️⃣: During the day, you can visit the Liuling Ceramic Museum and the 1915 Ceramic Art District to experience the long history of ceramic culture. In the evening, head over to Liuling Stir-fried Rice Noodles Street to savor the local atmosphere and flavors.
Day 3️⃣: Go to the Liuling Ceramic Internet-famous Street and enjoy the fun of picking ceramics.
📌 Recommended Check-in Spots:
1️⃣ Liuling Ceramic Museum (China Ceramic Valley): Learn about the history and culture of Liuling ceramics, appreciate the fine ceramics from various periods, and experience the charm of Oriental ceramic art.
2️⃣ Liuling Stir-fried Rice Noodles Street: Filled with Liuling's delicious snacks, you can also check in at the ancient Liuling Gate and tour the Two Banks of the River district. Especially next to the river, you can enjoy fireworks freely, which is simply too delightful!
3️⃣ Ceramic Internet-famous Street: Navigate to Huasheng Ceramics, and you can take bus No. 2 or 5 from the city center.
🍽️ Food Recommendations:
1️⃣ Liuling Stir-fried Pork: Fragrant and tender, leaving a lasting taste.
2️⃣ Liuling Stir-fried Rice Noodles: Smooth and tasty, a local favorite.
3️⃣ Liuling Sauce Duck: Locals recommend Xiandu Spicy Sauce Duck (a bit pricey), so I chose Fengwei Sauce Duck, which is much more affordable and also tastes great! Friends who can't handle spicy food should be cautious when buying, after all, this is Hunan!
🚗 Transportation Recommendations:
You can take a high-speed train from Changsha, which takes about 25 minutes to reach Liuling.
Or you can drive there, about an hour's drive from Changsha, and you can even save on the toll fees during the May Day period!
💡 Tips:
1️⃣. Liuling Ceramic Museum is closed on Mondays, please plan your trip in advance.
2️⃣. The local food in Liuling is mostly spicy, so if you can't handle spicy food, remember to ask the waiter to adjust the flavor when ordering!
3️⃣. From May 1st to May 3rd, Liuling will also host the 'National Colors of Liuling' performance
⌚️Time | 19:30-21:30
Address | Taozi Lake·Peach Blossom Island
4️⃣. A series of activities such as free stir-fried rice noodles, free music listening, free matchmaking, etc.
⌚️Time | May 1st-May 3rd 10:00-18:00
Address | Two Banks of the River district
🎉 For May Day travel, don't just flock to Changsha! Come to Liuling to experience the charm of ceramic culture, taste authentic cuisine, and pick unique ceramics, and you're sure to create unforgettable memories!✨
Let's go for the May Day holiday~The second Zhuzhou Liling Fried Noodle Festival is set!
The second Zhuzhou Liling Fried Noodle Festival is set!
The millennium porcelain capital's fireworks show·The colorful Liling Fried Noodle Festival The second Liling Fried Noodle Festival is scheduled to be held from May 1st to 3rd on both sides of the Liling River~
At that time, there will be the creation of ancient-style scenes, and ten major themed activities will be launched:
1. Ten thousand bowls of fried noodles as a gift to the world
2. Ten thousand bundles of fireworks illuminate the porcelain capital
3. Ten thousand people's ancient street as beautiful as a painting
4. Ten thousand people singing the same song
5. Ten thousand pieces of beautiful porcelain for everyone to enjoy picking
6. Millennium industry exhibition of splendor
7. Millennium time-travel dance in neon dresses
8. Thousand river lanterns for blessings and fortune
9. Thousand eco-friendly bowls under the glaze
10. Millennium great plays non-stop
This May Day mini-holiday
Will you go to Liling for 'a bowl of fried noodles'?
🎈Navigation: Both sides of the Liling River (Fried Noodle Street is near the management center)
High-speed train reaches in just 22min! Not Jingdezhen, but the lesser-known 'Capital of Porcelain'
Due to the vastness of our country and its extensive territory, we have a wealth of tourist resources. For tourists who are unsure where to go, here is a place I recommend. It's the lesser-known 'Capital of Porcelain', accessible by high-speed train in just 22min! And it's not Jingdezhen. Curious friends might ask, where exactly is this place? What different landscapes does it offer? With these questions and curiosity in mind, let's talk today about the stories of Liling City. Liling City, a county-level city under the jurisdiction of Hunan Province, is managed by Zhuzhou City. The name Liling dates back to the Qin dynasty, with the county established during the Eastern Han dynasty, and in 1985, the State Council approved the establishment of the county-level Liling City. Liling is famous both domestically and internationally for its ceramics and fireworks. Moreover, it is worth mentioning that Liling City is not only the original production site of underglaze polychrome porcelain in the world and the location of China's 'National Porcelain' and 'Hongguan Kiln', but also the hometown of Li Tian, the master of fireworks, as well as being known as the 'Capital of Ceramics in China' and the 'Capital of Fireworks in China'. With the arrival of spring and blooming flowers, it's the season for spring outings! To visit Liling, just take a 22-minute high-speed train from Changsha, allowing for a smooth day trip without the need for a car.
Checked in at the Liling Ceramic Museum, with a surrounding travel guide included
Additionally, since there are so many exhibits inside
the museum has timed openings
I heard it's open from 9 am to 12 pm (no entry after 11 am)
and from 1 pm to 5 pm (closed at noon, no entry after 4 pm)
Usually closed on Mondays
Currently, Halls 1 and 2 are open to the public
There are also exhibition halls below, where you can buy ceramics on site
【Detailed Guide】
Morning: Breakfast at Liu Longzi Noodle Shop (Ceramics Mouth branch), both the soup noodles and fried noodles are delicious, Deng's Oil Fire (can't remember the full name, but they're all on the same street)
Morning: Visit the Ceramic Museum, which is quite large and requires about 2 hours
Noon: Dine at Ceramics Mouth nearby, where there are many shops, the God of Wealth Temple, and the Guanyin Temple for incense burning and praying, with ancient architectural charm
After dining, you can rest at the Porcelain Valley Book Bar
Afternoon: Considering the business hours of Taorun, go there first for photos and check-in, see if you need to buy ceramics based on your needs, if there's extra time you can go to the nearby Guoguang old factory to pick up ceramics (about a 10-minute drive), then visit the 1915 Liling International Ceramic Culture Characteristic District for fun, where you can also see art exhibitions
Evening: You can dine nearby, or choose a dining place based on the location of your hotel
Liling Ceramic Valley | Beautiful Liling, the Ceramic Valley of China
Compared to Jingdezhen, I prefer this porcelain city recommended by National Geographic.
When it comes to porcelain, everyone first thinks of Jingdezhen.
Compared to this city full of Eastern aesthetics,
I love this lesser-known treasure of a porcelain city in Hunan - Liling more.
With its profound cultural heritage and buildings of various shapes,
Additionally, this city also has the reputation of being the hometown of fireworks.
It is indeed a place worthy of being listed by National Geographic.
The Liling Ceramic Valley near Changsha is so beautiful
Liling Ceramic Valley is worth a visit, it is said to be designed by an Italian designer.
A whole area of unique architecture that embodies Eastern aesthetics. The architecture includes the Liling Ceramic Museum, Ceramic Valley Art Gallery, library, art gallery, ceramic workshops, Turandot Hotel, and more.
Visiting is all free, and staying at Turandot is not very expensive, experiencing living inside a ceramic piece is quite special, and the rooms are very large.
If you want to buy ceramics or appreciate the style of national ceramics, this is definitely the right place.
📍Address: Navigate to Hunan Zhuzhou Liling Ceramic Museum
The museum has 3 halls, opening hours: 9-12 am, 1-5 pm
Only about 1 hour away from Changsha, and not far from the Greater Bay Area of Hong Kong, Zhuhai, and Macao
🚗Transportation: Self-driving, about 30 minutes' drive from Liling East Station
✅Nearby attractions: Liling Gate, Zhuangyuanzhou
✅Specialty food: Liling fried noodles, Xiandu spicy sauce duck
When visiting Li Ling in Hunan, you must check in at this place
When visiting Li Ling in Hunan, you must check in at these 8⃣️ places|||It's not Jingdezhen, it's Hunan Li Ling
🚂Train: Li Ling Station
🏠Accommodation: Near Porcelain Avenue
💰Expense: Average of 200 for two days and one night
✅Tour Route:
Li Ling Porcelain Valley➡️Li Ling Ceramic Museum➡️Ciqikou➡️Taozi Lake➡️Zhuangyuanzhou➡️Li Ling Gate➡️Lujiang Academy➡️Wangjiang Tower
✅Some suggestions:
1⃣️Li Ling Porcelain Valley: The valley is particularly large, be sure to go early if you want to take photos
2⃣️Ceramic Museum: It's right there in the valley, the exhibition hall is small and you can wander around at will
3⃣️Ciqikou: A five-minute walk from the museum
4⃣️Taozi Lake: A ten-minute walk from Ciqikou, quite beautiful
5⃣️Zhuangyuanzhou: A park, a 20-minute stroll is enough, and there's a beautiful story behind it
6⃣️Li Ling Gate: A landmark building, with lots of snacks nearby
7⃣️Lujiang Academy: The yard is large and worth a visit
8⃣️Wangjiang Tower: Locals call it the Nine-story Pagoda, you can go up to the sixth floor, and it's about a 10-minute walk directly from Lujiang Academy!
✅Gourmet Strategy:
Furnace Bridge Crisp
Sauce Duck
Steamed Grass Carp
Li Ling Fried Noodles
Thin-skinned Shumai
Stir-fried Rice Intestines
Original Juice Mutton
Original Juice Loofah
✅Ceramic Picking Strategy:
If you still have time, be sure to come here to pick up some ceramics, the navigation has a foreign trade ceramic wholesale warehouse📍There are free ones, and some are just a few bucks, with a very large and very cute variety of styles❗️
Li Ling is really niche and beautiful, choose a weekend and set off quickly~
Liling Lujang Bridge and Lujang Academy
Liling is a stopover I passed by on my way to Xiangxi, a leisurely and slow small city. The nightfall Lujang Bridge and the people coming and going on the top scholar island, the Lujang Bridge, a building from the Republic of China period, has become a scenery. People in Liling can take a walk and enjoy the cool on the bridge, or admire it from a distance in the park by the Lujang River. Liling's Lujang Academy started in the Song Dynasty, and its cultural vein has been continuous to this day, producing many famous people. Among those who have lectured here are Zhu Xi and Wang Yangming of the Song Dynasty, Zuo Zongtang of the Qing Dynasty who served as the head of the mountain for two years, and Li Lisan and Zuo Quan of the modern times were students of the academy, adding strong evidence to the saying 'Only Chu has talent, and it is the most prosperous.'
The romance of Liling is waiting for you, Lujing Academy and National Color Liling are waiting for you
Liling, an ancient small city with historical heritage, is built along the river. Many years ago, a family of four had been there, and also went to the Ceramic Expo. At that time, it was because of the love of raising flowers to buy flower pots, to go to the ceramic market to pick up ceramics, the kind that merchants don't want, enjoying alone. I don't know when I can't pick it up, Liling has become popular, and it has become a joy for everyone. Everyone rushes to Liling to check in and pick up ceramics. The weekend 2 days and one night gave us a break in the sky, allowing us to revisit the old place and meet lovely friends again. The following check-in points are recommended:
1, Lujing Academy: "It's hard to find a teacher, and it's even harder to find a teacher." It was founded in the second year of Chunxi in the Southern Song Dynasty, located in the urban area of Liling, backed by Xianshan Park, and echoes with the ancient charm of the porcelain city·one river and two banks. Standing high and looking far, the viewing point is built according to the terrain and seamlessly fits with the natural texture. It is the largest, longest-running, and most influential academy in Liling, and it is also the only academy in Liling that has been preserved to this day. It is known as "the place where great scholars teach and important ministers come out." The baby has been here once, and once again feel the ancient charm of Lujing Academy, still under that ancient camphor tree, the story of Zhu Xi and Zhang Shi... There are also Shanchang and Confucius, far more than these, those who love learning can visit for a day.
2, "National Color Liling": Come to Liling to watch a big drama, a real-life stage drama, tell a good story of Liling, let you understand the beauty of Liling ceramics, the story of underglaze color painting. A large-scale porcelain culture fireworks real-life drama, through lighting, sound effects, dance beauty, water curtain, fireworks and other sea, land and air panoramic methods, combines stage art with the natural environment, allowing the audience to immerse themselves in the local customs of Liling, landscape scenery. After watching it at night, you can go to play with fireworks and realize the freedom of fireworks here.
3, Liling Ceramic Museum: A must-visit spot in Liling, a landmark building in Liling, can systematically and comprehensively understand the past and present of Liling ceramics. In the garage entrance of Ceramic Valley, the exhibition center on the first floor below, Phoenix Avenue, this is a large e-commerce warehouse, there are tail goods and a dollar area.
You guys might not know about this place around Changsha, which is known as the 'Mini Jiuzhaigou', right?
📍Liling Zhazi Pit
Folks, this is an abandoned mine. It is recommended to drive there by yourself 🚗. It takes about one and a half hours from Changsha. You can locate Liling Zhazi Pit on Gaode Map (accurate location), and you can drive directly to the destination. There is a place to park;
Once you enter the mountain ⛰️, you are near. The road is quite narrow, it is recommended for experienced drivers 🚙. Moreover, there is a place where a landslide has occurred, and the road is blocked by mud and stones. It's a bit narrow, so be careful;
📌TIPS
Swimming is not allowed, it's uncertain whether the water is toxic or not!!! 😑
When I went, it was cloudy, the water was blue and green, and the color might look better when the weather is good;
Friends who like this kind of niche landscape can go and take a look, taking pictures is quite good~
Liling Zhazi Pit Changsha Outskirts Travel My Niche Travel Guide Niche Scenic Spot Excavator
Hunan Liling | Zhuangyuanzhou, a less-known self-driving tourist destination around Changsha
The name of Zhuangyuanzhou comes from the Jiaqing 'Unified Records', which says: 'The island is in front of the county gate, Liling produces the top scholar', hence the name 'Zhuangyuan Fangzhou'. Zhuangyuan Fangzhou is located in the middle of the Lujiang River, the island is spindle-shaped, about 500 meters long and about 100 meters wide. It was a vegetable garden in the Ming Dynasty and was turned into a mulberry garden in the Qing Dynasty. In 1925, the Lujiang Bridge was built, and there is a bridge on the side of the bridge connected to Zhuangyuanzhou. The island is surrounded by stone railings, shaded by green trees, birds singing, flowers blooming all year round, and fragrant all over.
❣Transportation
👉🏻Train: Liling Station to Changsha Station→One hour→Ticket price: 15.5r
👉🏻High-speed rail: Liling East to Changsha South→Half an hour→Ticket price: 35r
🎫Ticket: Free
🚃Transportation: Liling 3 Road to Emergency Bureau
【🍲Liling Food】
🍴Restaurants:
Sail Building
Feather Alley
Wei Mountain Fishing Village
Liling Meets Jiangnan·Private Kitchen
Chen Grandma's Big Stall
Bear's Seafood Barbecue
Five Flavors Life Aesthetic Restaurant (Liling Quan Road Store)
🍢Snacks:
Xiandu Spicy Duck (Headquarters)
Deng's Old Brand Oil Fire Sugar Fried Baba (Construction West Road Store)
Jiuzhou Fried Chicken Fillet
Zhuangyuanzhou Cultural Park
The Liling Taorun Art Space is more photogenic than Xie Zilong
The black and white art space in Liling is really great to visit and photograph~
As photogenic as the Xie Zilong Image Museum, the black, gray and white circular minimalist industrial style building, whether for photography or visual appreciation, is very artistic. The pine trees dotted in it have a Chinese style, and the rooftop stairs are also a good place to take pictures.
In addition to taking photos and checking in, Taorun also has a ceramic original area, exhibition area, and manual area, which are good places to visit and take photos.
Address| Taorun Living Art Center, Zaihuang Road, Economic Development Zone, Liling City, Zhuzhou City
Photo check-in points
1 The entrance of the art center, the door head, the building, the sky, the lines formed are very artistic.
2 The sandy road at the entrance, the pine trees and the black and white gray background wall complement each other, and the rate of getting good photos is very high.
3 If you turn around at the entrance, you can also take pictures of the ceramic valley opposite. The ceramics and art are fully displayed in this space.
4 The entire venue center is a sandy road, dotted with pine trees, black and white gray buildings, any angle is easy to take a good picture, any angle is easy to take a good picture, if the weather is good and there is light and shadow, it will be even better.
5 The rooftop stairs, the spiral staircase connects the sky, which is very artistic.
Traffic strategy
Self-driving| 1h drive from Changsha, 10 minutes off the highway to reach Taorun
High-speed rail| Changsha South to Liling East 22min
Hidden gems in liling
#HiddenGemDiscovery: Serenity Unleashed at Zhangyuanzhou Culture Park! 🌳🏞️
#LilingEscapes #RiverRetreat #WeekdayBliss
📍Zhangyuanzhou Culture Park, Liling County
Escape to tranquility at Zhangyuanzhou Culture Park! 🌳🏞️ Nestled on a charming island with rivers on each side, this park promises a peaceful getaway.
#RiverOasis 🛶
picturesque bridge- immerse yourself in nature's embrace. 🚣♂️🌿 Stroll along the serene pathways, and let the river's melody soothe your soul.
#LocalDelights 🍔☕
Indulge in nearby snack streets and sip at drink shops - perfect refreshments to savor the moment. 🍟🥤 Relish the local Hunan flavors and treat yourself.
#WeekdayMagic 🌅
Seeking quietude? Weekdays are your golden ticket! 📅🌇 Embrace the calm, bask in solitude, and recharge your spirit amidst the pristine beauty.
🎉Pro Tips for Wanderers:
1. 🌤️ Timing Is Key: Opt for weekdays to fully relish the tranquility. Weekends might get busier but offer a livelier atmosphere. Everyone and their grandma would be out come weekends.
3. 📸 Picture-Perfect: Capture the mini island's charm! The park's beauty makes for worthy shots.
4. 🌆 Evening Enchantment: Consider an evening visit. Witness the park's transformation as the sun sets, painting the skies in breathtaking hues.
#LilingLove: Zhangyuanzhou Culture Park isn't just a park; it's an escape to nature's embrace. Whether you're an explorer, a foodie, or a soul in need of solace, this sanctuary holds a treasure for all.
Add Zhangyuanzhou Culture Park to your travel list if you are visiting liling anyway to see the pottery. Dive into a world of serenity, local flavors, and riverside enchantment! 🌟🌳🍔
#Liling county #ZhangyuanzhouMagic#Hidden gem
The site of Yunyan Temple has three main halls and three partial temples. The wooden materials are all ginkgo trees. There are two stone monuments in the temple. There are many towers in the tower, which is of great historical value.
Yuanyan Yunyan Temple, Daxiong Temple, Zuolan Lan, Youchan Hall, Zhongge in front, Zuo Zangchengju Temple...
Overview of Yunyan Temple Ruins, Back Yilong Chiman, facing Baotianman, the mountains are scattered, the first line is open, the terrain is winning, the world is rare. The temple is listed as the four famous temples of the Central Plains along with Shaolin Temple, Baima Temple and Xiangguo Temple. The Funiu Mountain, the Emei Mountain and the Wutai Mountain, which are mainly based on the temple, are also called the three Buddhist monks in the Ming Dynasty.
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