What time do we start and finish?

Pickup begins at 8 AM from your hotel in central Changsha. The full tour lasts 10 hours, returning to your hotel by approximately 6 PM.

Yes, lunch at a local restaurant in the Yueyang area is included in the tour.

How far is Yueyang Tower from Changsha?

Approximately 2.5 hours by private car, covering roughly 150 km.

What can we see on Junshan Island?

The island features bamboo groves, traditional bridges, a temple, and landscaped gardens. It's located on Dongting Lake and offers scenic walking routes.

Is this tour suitable for elderly travellers?

The tour involves walking on Junshan Island and climbing the Yueyang Tower. Confirm with the operator if participants have mobility concerns, as paths and stairs may be challenging.

What makes Yueyang Tower historically important?

Built in 220 AD, it's one of China's oldest surviving towers and is famous for appearing in classical Chinese poetry. The three-storey structure retains its original architectural style despite renovations over the centuries.

Private Day Tour to Dongting Lake, Yueyang Tower from Changsha 1

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Private Day Tour to Dongting Lake, Yueyang Tower from Changsha

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Changsha, China

Private Car Tours

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About this activity

Escape Changsha for a full-day private journey to two of Central China's most historically significant sites: the ancient Yueyang Tower (built 220 AD) and the scenic Junshan Island on Dongting Lake. This guided excursion combines classical Chinese architecture, literary heritage, and natural beauty in one immersive experience.

At 8am, you will be picked up by your tour guide from hotel lobby of centrally located Changsha hotel, then drive 2.5 hours to Yueyang which is an old city with a long history.
Upon arrival, you will visit the well-known Yueyang Tower firstly. Initially this three-storey tower was built in 220AD, and still preserves its original architectural style amazingly though it had been renovated in the history. The tower is well-know as it has been appeared many times in the Chinese poems. Facing to the Dongting Lake, this tower is a wonderful place to view the water scenery and enjoy the Chinese traditional culture in the tower. There is an old tomb for a famous lady Xiaoqiao is possible to visit near the tower.
After the lunch at a local restaurant, you will head for about 30-minutes ride to Junshan Island. You will wander around this beautiful island to visit the bamboos, old bridges, temple and gardens etc.
Later you will be transferred back to your hotel in Changsha, where the day tour concludes.

Highlights

✓Yueyang Tower: 1,800-year-old three-storey landmark immortalized in Chinese classical poetry
✓Dongting Lake views: China's second-largest freshwater lake framed by traditional architecture
✓Junshan Island: bamboo groves, ancient bridges, temple, and manicured gardens
✓Tomb of Lady Xiaoqiao: historical site near the tower with cultural significance
✓Local lunch included: authentic regional cuisine at a traditional restaurant

Insider tips

★Arrive at Yueyang Tower early (post-pickup) to beat tour groups and capture clearer lake views
★The tower's interior displays classical poems—ask your guide to translate key verses for context
★Junshan Island is less crowded mid-afternoon; the gardens are photogenic in soft afternoon light

Good to know

•Hotel pickup from central Changsha; confirm your accommodation address when booking
•Comfortable walking shoes recommended for Junshan Island exploration
•Total travel time: ~5 hours driving (2.5 hours each direction); 10-hour tour includes breaks and lunch
•Private car tour: ideal for small groups wanting flexible pacing

Who it's for

History and culture enthusiasts seeking classical Chinese heritage sitesSmall group travellers (families, friends) preferring private transport and flexible itinerariesPhotography lovers wanting iconic tower and lake landscape shotsTravellers based in Changsha wanting day-trip alternatives to urban attractions

Best time to visit

Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) offer mild weather and clear lake visibility. Avoid summer heat and winter fog, which obscure Dongting Lake views.