Huayanxi National Forest Park

A Visitor's Guide to Huayanxi National Forest Park

Nestled at the northern foothills of the Jiulong Mountains, an extension of the mighty Xuefeng Range, Huayanxi National Forest Park shares its stunning landscapes and waterways with the nearby famed Taohuayuan (Peach Blossom Spring) scenic area. This ecological haven boasts an impressive forest coverage rate exceeding 90%, creating a lush, verdant world that feels a world away from urban life.

The park is systematically divided into five main scenic zones: the Central Area, Wuxi Lake, Longfeng Lake, Qifeng Mountain, and Xianchi Mountain. This structure allows visitors to explore distinct yet harmoniously connected environments, from serene lakeshores to forested mountain paths. Within these zones, eighteen celebrated key landscapes captivate visitors. Among the most iconic are the "Egret Dance on Flowering Stream," a picturesque scene of grace and nature; "Farmhouse Sunset Glow," offering a pastoral evening panorama; the exhilarating "Speedboat Ride on Wuxi Lake"; and the tranquil "Boat Trip on Longfeng Lake."

The "Hometown of Chinese Egrets" Huayanxi holds the prestigious title of "China's Hometown of White Egrets," and the spectacle of "Egret Dance on Huayanxi Stream" is rightfully counted among the Top Ten Scenes of Hunan Province. This is not merely a seasonal occurrence but a defining characteristic of the park. Every year, from March through October, the park becomes a sanctuary for nearly 100,000 white egrets that migrate here to nest and breed. The sight of these elegant birds filling the skies and dotting the trees is unforgettable. For the best vantage point, visitors should head to the specially constructed Egret Observation Platform, where one can witness the daily rhythms and majestic flights of these beautiful creatures without disturbance.

Practical Information for Your Visit

Getting There The most convenient way to reach Huayanxi National Forest Park is by private vehicle. * From Changde City Center: * Route 1: Take Dongting Avenue onto the G55 Er-Guang Expressway, then exit onto County Road J49, followed by Township Road 259. The total distance is approximately 62.4 kilometers. * Route 2: Take Wuling Avenue, turn onto Yuan'an Road, then Shuangyong Road, continuing onto Changde Avenue and Taiyang Avenue. Enter the G5513 Chang-Zhang Expressway, connect to the G55 Er-Guang Expressway, and finally exit onto County Road J49 and Township Road 259. This route is about 58.8 kilometers. * From Yiyang City Center: Access the G5513 Chang-Zhang Expressway, transfer to the G55 Er-Guang Expressway, and exit at County Road J49. The drive is roughly 117 kilometers.

Admission Fees The park operates a clear ticketing policy with discounts available. * Standard Ticket: 20 RMB (valid year-round). * Concession Ticket (Half-price): Applicable to children with a height between 1.3 meters (inclusive) and 1.5 meters (inclusive); seniors aged 60 (inclusive) to 69 (inclusive) upon presentation of a senior citizen card or ID; and full-time university, college, and school students with a valid student ID. * Free Admission: Granted to children under 1.3 meters in height; seniors aged 70 and above (with senior citizen card or ID); individuals with disabilities (with disability certificate); and active-duty military personnel (with military officer certificate).

Operating Hours The park is open daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. However, the last admission is at 6:00 PM. It is advisable to plan your arrival accordingly to ensure ample time for exploration.

Suggested Duration To fully appreciate the park's scale, natural beauty, and key attractions like the egret observation, a visit of 3 hours or more is highly recommended. This allows for leisurely walks, boat rides, and immersive enjoyment of the tranquil environment.