【Hunan】Orange Isle (Juzizhou)​

Orange Isle, the largest mid-river island in Changsha's Xiangjiang stretch, unfurls like a 5-km ribbon. At its tip stands a 32-meter sculpture of young Mao Zedong—commemorating his age when writing Spring in a Garden: Changsha—with stylized hair evoking leaping flames. Orange and pomelo groves cover the isle; autumn fruits glow beside historic sites: Zhuzang Ferry (where Zhu Xi and Zhang Shi lectured) and Tang Shengzhi's mansion. Newly planted plum forests scent winter air, while summer breezes rustle bamboo paths. Saturday fireworks ignite the sky above Yuelu Mountain, reflecting "emerald waters and racing boats" onto the river. Subway Line 2 runs directly here; biking or sightseeing trains reveal the bustling riverbanks.

Tip: Address: No. 2 Orange Isle Head, Yuelu District, Changsha; Ticket: Free entry, sightseeing train ¥40.

Night View: Reserved seats at "River Twilight Tea House" during fireworks (Wed/Sat 20:00), min. spend ¥100 with free jasmine-orange drink.

Combo Ticket: Joint ticket with Yuelu Academy (¥120) includes English audio guide tracing Mao Zedong's youth.