[2025 Shuangfeng Attraction] Travel Guide for The Former Residence of Tseng Kuo-Fan (Updated Oct)

Hidden Treasure Town in Hunan! 3 Days 2 Nights in Loudi, Terraces, Caves, and Intangible Cultural Heritage All Covered > Watching golden waves of rice at Ziquejie, exploring the heart of the earth at Meishan Dragon Palace, this small town conquered me with its mountains, waters, and culture **Contents** - Trip Highlights: What to do at a glance - Detailed Itinerary: Follow along for 3 days and 2 nights - Practical Tips: Transportation and accommodation suggestions ✨ **Trip Highlights at a Glance** - **🏞️ World-Class Agricultural Wonder**: Admire 80,000 acres of golden rice waves at **Ziquejie Terraces**, experiencing the wisdom of a millennium-old gravity irrigation system. - **🕳️ Explore the Underground Art Palace**: Discover the "Underground Art Palace" **Meishan Dragon Palace**, marveling at the diverse and spectacular stalactite formations. - **🎎 Intangible Cultural Heritage Immersion**: Enjoy performances of **Xinhua Mountain Songs**, **Meishan Martial Arts**, and other intangible cultural heritage, feeling the unique charm of Meishan culture. - **🏯 Cultural and Historical Exploration**: Visit the **Former Residence of Zeng Guofan**, experiencing the late Qing dynasty atmosphere in the best-preserved rural marquis mansion. - **🍜 Authentic Food Tasting**: From **Xinhua Sanhe Soup** to **Zhu Mei Native Chicken**, savor Loudi’s distinctive mountain pepper-flavored delicacies. 🗓️ **Detailed Itinerary** 🏞️ **Day 1: Ziquejie Terraces → Qujiangyuan Tea Fragrance** **Morning**: Depart from Changsha, about a 3-hour drive to **Ziquejie Terraces**. Standing on the viewing platform, I was stunned by the scene—**80,000 acres of terraces shimmering with golden rice waves under the autumn sun**, like a palette of the earth. Walking along the ridges, I saw tourists learning to harvest and bundle rice stalks with local elders, children running and chasing butterflies between the terraces, their laughter carried away by the mountain breeze. **Afternoon**: I joined the scenic area's "**Farming and Reading at Ziquejie**" parent-child farming activity, personally experiencing the fun of **making glutinous rice cakes**. Freshly cooked hot rice cakes coated with soybean flour, one bite filled with the sweet and smoky flavor of home. Then I headed to **Qujiangyuan**, wandering through 80,000 acres of lush tea gardens, learning tea-picking skills from tea farmers. The faint tea fragrance on my fingertips became the most special "souvenir" of the trip. **Evening**: Stayed at a homestay near **Qujiangyuan**, participating in a **bonfire party** at the village square at dusk. Villagers led tourists in hand-waving dances and mountain song duets, dissolving the sense of unfamiliarity with laughter. Under the old camphor tree, a red film played with the evening breeze; elders sat on small stools watching attentively, while children gathered nearby listening to stories from the past. 🏯 **Day 2: Meishan Dragon Palace → Intangible Cultural Heritage Experience** **Morning**: After breakfast, I went to **Meishan Dragon Palace**. This cave wonder, known as the "**Underground Art Palace**," amazed me. The diverse stalactites inside, illuminated by lights, looked dreamlike and surreal—no wonder it’s called the "Cave Museum." **Afternoon**: Returning to Loudi city, I was lucky to catch the "**Cultural and Natural Heritage Day**" event, enjoying intangible cultural heritage performances like **Xinhua Mountain Songs** and **Meishan Martial Arts**. The most impressive was **Meishan Palm Leaf Weaving**; the inheritor’s skillful hands wove lifelike grasshoppers from palm leaves in under 10 minutes. I also took part in the "**Intangible Heritage Passport**" check-in activity, collecting six heritage experience stamps to redeem a limited edition intangible heritage blind box. **Evening**: Watched the "**Beautiful Loudi**" concert at the **City Cultural Center**. When the street dance of "Youth in Motion" was in full swing, a handsome top scholar rode a fine horse, parading slowly with young men and women dressed in Hanfu. As their robes fluttered, the boundary between tradition and modernity quietly dissolved. 🍜 **Day 3: Former Residence of Zeng Guofan → Food Exploration** **Morning**: After breakfast, I went to **Hehua Town, Shuangfeng County**, to visit the **Former Residence of Zeng Guofan, Fuhoutang**. Standing before **Banyuetang Pond**, I felt the solemnity and grandeur of the marquis mansion. The family precepts in the residence’s "**Babentang**" were impressive, especially the thought-provoking phrase "Holding office should be based on not seeking money." **Afternoon**: Tasted local specialties in Loudi city. **Xiangdong Street Beef Rice Noodles** is a must-try breakfast; although it looks spicy with red oil soup, it’s actually mild with a unique aroma. For lunch, I chose authentic **Zhu Mei Native Chicken**; the chicken was fresh and sweet, the skin elastic, and the tofu and pork belly inside soaked up the broth, making it delicious. **Evening**: Ended the pleasant Loudi trip and prepared to return. Before leaving, I specially bought some Loudi specialties: **Xinhua Black Tea**, **Ziquejie Purple Rice**, and **Wula Mama** spicy food—great gifts for friends and family. 💡 **Practical Tips** **Transportation Guide** - **External Transportation**: Loudi is conveniently accessible by high-speed rail. - **City Transportation**: Attractions are scattered; **self-driving is the most convenient option**. **Accommodation Recommendations** - **Characteristic Homestays**: Many unique homestays near **Ziquejie** and **Qujiangyuan** offer a better experience of local rural life. - **City Hotels**: Choose central areas like **Louxing District** for convenient transportation and abundant dining options. **Budget Reference (3 Days 2 Nights)** | Item | Budget (CNY) | Comfortable (CNY) | |------------|--------------|-------------------| | Accommodation/person | 150-300 | 400-600 | | Meals/day | 80-100 | 150-200 | | Transportation | 100-150 | 200-300 | | Tickets | 100-150 | 200-250 | | Total | 490-700 | 950-1350 | **Best Travel Time** - **Autumn (September-October)**: The **Ziquejie Terraces** are golden with rice waves, offering magnificent scenery and the best photography opportunities. - **Summer**: Participate in special cultural tourism events like "**Cultural and Natural Heritage Day**." **Avoid Pitfalls** 1. **Itinerary Planning**: Both Ziquejie and Meishan Dragon Palace scenic areas are large; it’s recommended to **allocate a full day for each**. 2. **Special Activities**: Follow official "**Loudi Cultural Tourism**" information to stay updated on intangible heritage experiences and farming activities. 3. **Food Experience**: Loudi cuisine often uses **mountain pepper oil** for seasoning; if you’re not used to it, inform the restaurant in advance. On the way back, I flipped through the photos on my phone—**from the golden rice waves of Ziquejie, to the cave wonders of Meishan Dragon Palace, to the historical atmosphere of Zeng Guofan’s former residence**. Loudi, this secret place in central Hunan, gave me a holiday full of visual shock and cultural enrichment with its magnificent natural scenery, profound cultural heritage, and unique Meishan charm. If you want to escape the hustle and bustle for a weekend and experience the charm of world heritage and the uniqueness of intangible cultural heritage, Loudi is definitely worth your visit. I believe this land of "**Legendary Loudi in its Youth**" will bring you a different kind of shock and emotion!

Hey everyone👣! Today, let's uncover the "name secrets" of Shuangfeng in Loudi and learn about the historical stories behind this small town. At the end, there's a super comfy accommodation guide—make sure to save it!​ ⛰️Shuangfeng: Named After Mountains, Carrying a Thousand-Year Legacy​ The name "Shuangfeng" is closely tied to its geographical features! Located in the central region of Hunan Province, the county is named after two adjacent mountain peaks in its eastern area—"Shuangfeng Mountain" (also known as Shuangfeng Fort). These two peaks have similar elevations and resemble twin brothers standing proudly in the landscape, becoming a distinctive geographical landmark. The name "Shuangfeng" has been passed down ever since.​ Tracing back in history, Shuangfeng's administrative status has undergone several changes. During the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods, it was part of the Chu Kingdom. After the Qin Dynasty unified China, it was incorporated into Changsha Commandery. During the Eastern Han Dynasty, it belonged to Xiangnan County; in the Sui Dynasty, it was merged into Hengshan County. It wasn't until the Qing Dynasty that it became part of Xiangxiang County. In 1951, for administrative convenience, part of Xiangxiang County was separated to establish Shuangfeng County, which was under the jurisdiction of Yiyang Prefecture. In 1983, it was reassigned to Loudi Prefecture (now Loudi City). Since then, the name and administrative status of "Shuangfeng County" have remained stable.​ Beyond its unique name origin, Shuangfeng boasts a rich cultural heritage. It is the hometown of Zeng Guofan, a prominent official in the late Qing Dynasty. Historical sites like Fu Hou Tang and Bai Yu Tang in Heye Town, which were residences of the Zeng family, witnessed the rise of "Xiang Army Culture." It is also the birthplace of proletarian revolutionaries Cai Hesen and Xiang Jingyu. The Cai Hesen Memorial Hall showcases artifacts that tell the passionate stories of revolutionary pioneers. Additionally, Shuangfeng's folk culture is distinctive, with intangible cultural heritage such as Yongfeng Chili Sauce making techniques and Shuangfeng Shadow Puppetry, reflecting the wisdom and emotions of local life. These elements add a touch of human warmth to this mountain-named town.​ 🏨Dongting Chun Hotel: A Warm Haven for Travelers​ After learning about Shuangfeng's historical stories, staying at Dongting Chun Hotel is the perfect choice! The hotel is located in the heart of Yongfeng Street in Shuangfeng County, at the northwest corner of the intersection of Cai Hesen Road and Yingbin Road, offering an excellent location. Nearby, you'll find Bubugao Supermarket and Yongfeng Pedestrian Street, making shopping and strolling super convenient. Within a 10-minute walk, you can discover authentic Shuangfeng eateries and savor local flavors like Yongfeng Chili Sauce Stir-fried Pork and Qingshuping Rice Noodles. From the hotel, it's only about a 20-minute drive to attractions like Zeng Guofan's Fu Hou Tang and the Cai Hesen Memorial Hall, making transportation very convenient.​ Step into the hotel, and you'll find a spacious and bright lobby with minimalist yet elegant decor complemented by warm lighting, instantly relieving travel fatigue. The front desk staff are friendly and attentive, offering efficient check-in services and thoughtful recommendations for nearby attractions. The guest rooms are clean and tidy, with soft and skin-friendly bedding that allows you to fully relax. The bathrooms feature separate wet and dry areas, and the toiletries are of high quality, showcasing attention to detail. In the morning, the hotel restaurant serves a hearty breakfast, including Shuangfeng specialties like steamed mugwort cakes and sweet wine egg soup, as well as common porridge and pastries, ensuring a vibrant start to your day. Whether you're visiting Shuangfeng for sightseeing or on a business trip, this hotel offers excellent value for money.​ Come to Shuangfeng, explore the historical origins of its mountain-inspired name, and enjoy the comfort of Dongting Chun Hotel. Embark on a journey that combines culture and relaxation✨～​

| Zeng Guofan's Former Residence. 🌟Highlights: Located in Heye Town, Shuangfeng County, Loudi City, Hunan Province, China, Zeng Guofan's Former Residence is the family mansion of Zeng Guofan, an important official in the late Qing Dynasty. Its main buildings, including Fuhoutang and Baiyutang, are typical traditional residential styles of central Hunan, blending the solemnity of Qing Dynasty official residences with the simplicity of Hunan culture. 👍Most Recommended: Fuhoutang is the core building, constructed in 1865, covering an area of approximately 40,000 square meters. It features a courtyard layout with blue bricks and gray tiles, containing a study, ancestral hall, and courtyards. The design of the residence is simple and grand. Its library once housed tens of thousands of ancient books, reflecting Zeng Guofan's philosophy of "farming and studying to pass down through generations." Baiyutang, where Zeng Guofan lived in his early years, is smaller in scale and boasts a tranquil environment. The former residence displays Zeng Guofan's manuscripts, family letters, and historical relics, especially the renowned "Zeng Guofan Family Letters," which showcase his thoughts on scholarship, military affairs, and family management. Now a national key cultural relic protection site, it combines historical research and cultural tourism value, serving as an important window to understand the politics, culture, and history of the Xiang Army in the late Qing Dynasty.

We left Shaoshan and drove to Hengyang City, taking the Huyu Expressway and Xuguang Expressway. When we passed the boundary of Shuangfeng County, Loudi City, we saw a sign for Zeng Guofan's Former Residence, so we followed the sign to Futu Village, Heye Town. Later, we learned that Heye Town is a National Characteristic Scenic Tourism Town and a Hunan Provincial Historical and Cultural Town. There is a parking lot at the entrance of the village that can accommodate 20 to 30 cars, and parking is free. It was the Lunar New Year, and there were many stalls selling New Year goods on the streets of the town. The streets were crowded, and the festive atmosphere was strong. After passing through the street, we saw a large body of water, and across the water was a tall purple flag with the word "Shuai" (handsome) on it. The house by the water is Zeng Guofan's Former Residence, called Fuhou Hall, originally called Baben Hall, also known as Yiyong Hou Mansion, which was Zeng Guofan's marquis mansion. The house is about 130 meters long from east to west and about 140 meters wide from north to south, with a total area of more than 40,000 square meters and a building area of about 10,000 square meters. The main buildings include Baben Hall, Qiuque Study, Guipu Study, Yifang Hall, Siyun Hall, etc. In May 2006, Fuhou Hall was announced by the State Council as the sixth batch of national key cultural relics protection units.

🏝Zeng Guofan's Former Residence, also known as Fuhou Hall, is the former residence of Zeng Guofan, the leader of the Hunan Army in the late Qing Dynasty. It is located in Fuhou Hall Village, Heye Town, Shuangfeng County, Hunan Province. Fuhou Hall was built in the fourth year of the Tongzhi reign of the Qing Dynasty (1865). The entire building includes the half-moon pond in front of the gate, the gate tower, the main building of the Baben Hall, the Gongji, the Puji, the Diguang Study, the library, the lotus pond, the Niaohe Tower on the back mountain, etc. It covers an area of more than 40,000 square meters, with a building area of more than 10,000 square meters. 🏝Fuhou Hall has a unique architectural style, combining the characteristics of traditional Chinese architecture and Western architecture. The main building is a brick-wood structure, using a large number of architectural techniques such as dougong, sparrow replacement, and flower windows, with high artistic value. At the same time, Fuhou Hall also preserves a large number of historical relics, including calligraphy and paintings, furniture, and clothing of Zeng Guofan and his family, which are important physical materials for studying the history of Zeng Guofan and his family. 🏝Fuhou Hall was announced by the State Council as a national key cultural relic protection unit in 2006, and was rated as a national 4A-level tourist attraction by the National Tourism Administration in 2013. It is one of the important cultural tourist attractions in Hunan Province. 🚥[Transportation Guide] ⭐️Self-driving or chartered car is recommended for convenience. ⭐️Take the high-speed train to Loudi, turn right at the exit and wait for the bus from Loudi to Shuangfeng under the bridge. Take the bus from Shuangfeng West Station to Shuangfeng East Station for CNY 2, and from Shuangfeng East Station to Heye Town for CNY 16. Take a motorcycle to Zeng Guofan's Former Residence.

It takes about an hour to drive out of Shao Mountain and get on the highway. When I saw the sign on the highway that said "Zeng Guofan's Former Residence", I immediately thought of Zeng Guofan being from Hunan. My brother casually said to go and take a look. It took 20 minutes to get off the highway and arrive at a small mountain village. Nearby are the former residences of Zeng Guoquan, Qiu Jin, Tang Qunying, etc. There are many celebrities around, it is really a place where humanities gather. Zeng Guofan's former residence, Fuhou Hall, is Zeng Guofan's mansion, located in Futuo Village, Heye Town, in the eastern part of Shuangfeng County, Loudi City, Hunan Province. It covers a total area of more than 40,000 square meters, and the main building is nearly 10,000 square meters. It is a typical Ming and Qing Dynasty corridor-style building group along the central axis. The overall building is grand (large area) and simple (there is very little elaborate work in the building), which is consistent with the gentleman's ambition.