Best Places to Visit in Hunan | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat

Food & Drinks To Try In Hunan

1. Spicy Crayfish: Hunan is famous for its spicy cuisine, and one of the must-try dishes is the Spicy Crayfish. These freshwater crustaceans are cooked in a fiery blend of chili peppers, garlic, and other spices, resulting in a mouthwatering and addictive dish.

2. Dong'an Chicken: Another iconic dish from Hunan is Dong'an Chicken. It is made by braising chicken pieces in a flavorful sauce made with soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and other aromatic spices. The dish is known for its tender and succulent chicken, infused with rich flavors.

3. Stinky Tofu: Stinky Tofu is a unique street food that originated in Hunan. Despite its pungent smell, it is a beloved snack among locals and adventurous food enthusiasts. The tofu is fermented and then deep-fried, resulting in a crispy exterior and a soft, flavorful interior.

4. Hunan Rice Noodles: Rice noodles are a staple in Hunan cuisine, and they are often served in a spicy broth with various toppings such as minced pork, pickled vegetables, and peanuts. The combination of the chewy noodles and the flavorful broth makes for a satisfying and comforting meal.

5. Mao's Braised Pork: Named after the famous Chinese leader Mao Zedong, Mao's Braised Pork is a classic Hunan dish. It consists of tender pork belly cooked in a savory sauce made with soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and spices. The dish is known for its melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich flavors.

6. Hunan Smoked Meat: Hunan is also known for its smoked meats, particularly smoked pork and duck. The meat is marinated with a blend of spices and then smoked over a wood fire, resulting in a smoky and flavorful taste. It is often served as a side dish or used as an ingredient in other dishes.

7. Hunan Chili Sauce: Hunan Chili Sauce, also known as "Laoganma," is a popular condiment that adds a spicy kick to any dish. Made with chili peppers, garlic, and various seasonings, this sauce is a staple in Hunan cuisine and can be found in almost every household and restaurant.

8. Hunan Green Pepper Fish Head: This dish may sound unusual to some, but it is a delicacy in Hunan. The fish head is cooked with green peppers, chili peppers, and other spices, resulting in a flavorful and spicy dish. It is often enjoyed with steamed rice or noodles.

9. Hunan Rice Wine: To complement your meal, don't forget to try Hunan Rice Wine. This traditional alcoholic beverage is made from fermented rice and has a mild and slightly sweet taste. It is often served as an aperitif or enjoyed with spicy dishes to balance out the flavors.

10. Hunan Tea: Hunan is also known for its tea production, particularly black tea and green tea. The region's tea gardens produce high-quality teas with unique flavors and aromas. Don't miss the opportunity to try some locally grown tea and experience the rich tea culture of Hunan.

Flight Calendar For Hunan

Use our flight calendar to discover the Cheapest Days and Months to Book Flight to Hunan.

Transportation To Hunan

There are several transportation options to Hunan, China. You can fly into one of the major airports in the province, such as Changsha Huanghua International Airport or Zhangjiajie Hehua Airport. From there, you can take a taxi, bus, or train to your desired destination within Hunan.

If you are already in China, you can also take a high-speed train to Hunan. The province is well-connected to the national railway network, and there are multiple train stations in cities like Changsha, Zhangjiajie, and Yueyang.

Additionally, if you prefer a more scenic route, you can take a boat or cruise along the Yangtze River, which passes through Hunan. This option allows you to enjoy the beautiful landscapes and visit various cities along the river.

Once you are in Hunan, there are also local transportation options available, such as buses, taxis, and subway systems in major cities like Changsha.