One of the must-visit attractions in Hunan is the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, famous for its towering limestone pillars. The park offers spectacular views, such as The Bailong Elevator, the world's largest and highest outdoor elevator. Dongting Lake has beautiful scenery and is home to various water birds and fish.

In addition to its stunning natural scenery, Hunan also has fascinating historical sites such as the ancient town of Fenghuang on the banks of the Tuo River. Known for its beautiful traditional architecture and winding cobblestone streets. For travelers interested in Chinese history and culture, Yuelu Temple in Changsha is a must-visit.

Signature dishes to try include "Mala Xiang Guo," a grilled or stir-fried dish of various ingredients such as meat, seafood, and vegetables soaked in spicy mala sauce. Additionally, "Dong'an Chicken" is another popular dish, consisting of chicken pieces cooked in a sweet and spicy sauce that provides a balanced combination of sweetness, spiciness, and umami.

For the adventurous eater, "Chou Doufu" or Hunan stinky tofu is an intriguing option. This tofu is fermented in a special way to give it a strong aroma, and then fried until crispy and served with a rich spicy sauce.

In Hunan, travelers can find affordable accommodation options according to their budgets. One option is hostels or guesthouses scattered throughout tourist cities such as Changsha, Zhangjiajie, and Fenghuang.

Additionally, many 2 or 3-star hotels offer affordable rates while still providing private rooms with basic facilities such as air conditioning, free WiFi, and breakfast. Local accommodation options such as family-run guesthouses or homestays managed by locals, offer a more intimate atmosphere and the opportunity to experience daily life in Hunan.

For most foreign tourists, including those from many countries in Europe, North America, and several other countries, a visa is a must before visiting China, including Hunan. A Chinese tourist visa can usually be obtained at the Chinese embassy or consulate in your home country before departure.

However, several countries have visa-free agreements with China or are included in visa-free programs for short visits. It is crucial to check if your country is on the list for this program or if there is a special visa-free agreement with China before planning a trip to Hunan.

In Hunan, the official language used is Mandarin, as the standard language throughout China. There are also local dialects in Hunan that are quite different from standard Mandarin. However, there's no need to worry in big cities like Changsha, Zhangjiajie, and some major tourist destinations where more locals can speak English.