Embracing spring on Shanghai-Kunming high-speed train: Part II
In the first part of this series, we traced the visit-worthy spots in eastern China along the Shanghai-Kunming high-speed railway, covering the cities of Shanghai, Jiaxing, Hangzhou and Nanchang.
In part two, we continue our journey to discover the unique charms on the rest of the route. Altogether three provinces are on the list: Hunan, Guizhou and Yunnan.
Changsha South Railway Station
About an hour and a half from Nanchang is Changsha, the capital of Hunan Province. Though not as old as Beijing or Xi'an, the history of Changsha dates back 3,000 years, and is home to a rich historical and cultural heritage.
At the center of the Xiangjiang River, a main tributary of the Yangtze River, is a huge inland island – Orange Isle, also known as Juzi Isle. It abounds with sweet and delicious oranges, thus the name.
Mao Zedong's Statue on Orange Isle in Changsha, central China's Hunan Province. /VCG Photo
In 1925, Mao Zedong, the founder of the People's Republic of China, wrote a famous poem here. A statue that depicts him in his youth was unveiled in 2009 to commemorate the 116th anniversary of his birth.
On certain holidays, you'll witness stunning firework shows. There will be one on the upcoming May Day. Certain areas along the river such as, Middle Xiangjiang Road and Poet Du Fu's Pavilion are recommended spots to get the best views of the fireworks.
Fireworks over Xiangjiang River, Changsha, central China's Hunan Province. /VCG Photo
After Changsha, next on the route is southwestern Guizhou Province, which has the most World Heritage Sites in China. It's also known for its transformation from one of the most underdeveloped regions to a popular tourist destination in recent years.
Tongren South Railway Station
Nestled in the northeast of Guizhou Province is Tongren, famed for its UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mount Fanjingshan. Its breathtaking views of the peaks will definitely blow your mind.
Mount Fanjingshan in Tongren, southwest China's Guizhou Province. /VCG Photo
There are three main peaks – Old Golden Summit, Fenghuang Summit, and New Golden Summit with over 8,000 stone steps to the top.
Read more: Mount Fanjingshan: China's best kept secret
Guanling Railway Station
Another must-see spot in Guizhou Province is Huangguoshu Waterfall, which is a 30-minute drive from the Guanling Railway Station. With a height of 77.8 meters and width of 101 meters, the giant Huangguoshu Waterfall is one of the largest waterfalls in China.
Though not a beaten path for foreign travelers, Huangguoshu National Park is adored by domestic visitors for its majestic natural landscape. Here you are able to view a cluster of waterfalls, water-curtain cave, and Rhinoceros Pool. A kind reminder that an umbrella is needed whenever you go near the falls.
Kunming South Railway Station
Our last stop is Kunming, the capital of southwestern Yunnan Province known as "the City of Eternal Spring" for its balmy climate and and its year-long flowers.
Covering an area of 330 square kilometers with an elevation of 1886 meters above sea level, the Dianchi Lake Scenic Area is often dubbed the "Sparkling Pearl Embedded in a Highland."
The Dianchi Lake in Kunming, southwest China's Yunnan Province. /VCG Photo
The boundless and shimmering water often makes visitors lose track of time and space. But the lake is more than that. The Yunnan Nationalities Village nearby will provide you with an opportunity to experience local customs.
Don't forget to try local delicacies when you visit here in Yunnan, such as Er Kuai, Guo Qiao Mi Xian and Bamboo Rice.
Read more: My Chinese Appetite: Yunnan cuisine