In Hunan Province, there's a city named "Xiangtan," where the magnificent Xiangjiang River takes its biggest U-turn, and the local culture radiates brilliance across a wide spectrum — from revolutionary history to geographical uniqueness.

Soaked in inspiring history

Zhaoshan Mountain is a famous mountain located on the border between Xiangtan and Changsha in Hunan Province. It is named after King Zhao of Western Zhou Dynasty (1046–771 BCE), because he paid a visit to it.

Located in central Hunan, Xiangtan is the homeland of many important figures.

Chairman Mao Zedong (1893–1976); military leaders Peng Dehuai (1898–1974), Chen Geng (1903–1961) and Tan Zheng (1906–1988); and early communist leaders Huang Gonglue (1898–1931) and Luo Yinong (1902–1928) are all sons of this land. There are 339 revolutionary sites, former residences of prominent figures and memorial halls throughout Xiangtan, forming a cluster landscape reflecting the past century of China.

At the square where a bronze statue of Mao Zedong stands in Shaoshan, visitors come in tides all year round to admire the great man, relive the revolutionary sentiments and get inspired.

The Peng Dehuai Memorial Hall in Wushi Town, Xiangtan County, is also swamped by visitors who come to pay homage to the legendary marshal and his magnificent military career.

Xiangtan is exploring ways to develop into a world-renowned tourist destination featuring modern and contemporary Chinese history.

Here you can watch the grand stage play, The Most Memorable Shaoshanchong, which, with special effects technology engaging the senses, will take you on a journey of Mao Zedong's growth as a revolutionist.

Take a class to experience Mao's school life in Yintian, Shaoshan, and travel to seven historical sites, including the South Bank, Li's Family Temple and Guangong Bridge, to resonate with his aspiration as a young student "not to return until I make my mark."