Orange Isle Scenic Area

Historical Overview
Orange Isle’s history dates to the Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE), when it became a retreat for scholars. In 1913, Mao Zedong, then a student, frequented the island, contemplating China’s future. His 1925 poem Qinyuanchun·Changsha immortalized the island, with lines like “Independent amid the autumn cold, I gaze at the rolling Xiangjiang River.” During the Cultural Revolution, it was renamed Mao Zedong Isle, but reverted to Orange Isle in 1982. Today, it honors Mao’s legacy while promoting ecological preservation.

Structural Layout
The island is divided into five zones:

• Core Revolutionary Zone: Features the Mao Zedong Youth Art Sculpture (32-meter bronze statue) and Asking-Sky Platform (where Mao composed his poem).
• Cultural Experience Zone: Includes the Changsha Historical Museum and Orange Isle Poetry Wall inscribed with Mao’s works.
• Leisure Zone: Boasts a 5,000-square-meter lawn, cherry blossom garden, and riverside promenade.
• Entertainment Zone: Offers a 3D cinema, music fountain, and nightly light shows.
• Ecological Zone: Preserves wetlands, migratory bird habitats, and the ancient Zhu Xi Garden.
  Key structures include the Whooping Crane Fountain and Bamboo Forest Gallery.

Major Attractions

1. Mao Zedong Youth Art Sculpture: A 32-meter bronze statue of Mao gazing toward the Xiangjiang River, unveiled in 1993.
2. Asking-Sky Platform: A 19-meter pavilion with engravings of Mao’s poem and panoramic river views.
3. Changsha Historical Museum: Showcases artifacts from the Han Dynasty to the Republic of China era.
4. Orange Isle Poetry Wall: A 180-meter stone carving featuring 300 poems about Changsha.
5. Bamboo Forest Gallery: A shaded path flanked by 200-year-old bamboo and quotes from The Analects.
6. Music Fountain: Nightly 20-minute shows synchronized to classical music and laser lights.

Suggested Itineraries

1. Classic Route (1.5 hours):
   Main Entrance → Mao Sculpture → Asking-Sky Platform → Poetry Wall → Riverside Promenade.
   Highlights: Core revolutionary sites and river views.

2. Cultural Route (3 hours):
   Main Entrance → Changsha Museum → Bamboo Gallery → Zhu Xi Garden → Poetry Wall → Music Fountain.
   Highlights: History, philosophy, and nightly fountain show.

3. Comprehensive Route (4–5 hours):
   Main Entrance → Mao Sculpture → Asking-Sky Platform → Historical Museum → Bamboo Gallery → Zhu Xi Garden → 3D Cinema → Riverside Promenade → Music Fountain.
   Highlights: Full immersion with multimedia experiences and sunset river views.

Ticket Purchase

• Online: Free entry, but reserve via the official WeChat mini-program (Orange Isle Reservation) for peak seasons.
• On-Site: Scan QR codes at entrances (limited slots during holidays).
• Prices: Free (core areas); ¥40 for 3D Cinema, ¥30 for boat tours.

Transportation

• By Subway: Line 2 to Orange Isle Station (Exit 1), 5-minute walk to the Main Entrance.
• By Bus: Routes 1, 11, 171, or 407 to Orange Isle Stop.
• By Taxi: Direct to the Main Entrance (address: 139 Orange Isle Road, Changsha).
• By Boat: Ferries from Xiangjiang River Cruise Terminal (¥50 roundtrip).

Best Time & Tips

• Peak Hours: Avoid 10 AM–2 PM; visit early (7:00 AM opening) or late (after 5 PM).
• Crowds: Weekends and May–October are busiest; weekdays in winter are quieter.
• Weather: spring (March–April) for cherry blossoms; autumn (October–November) for cool temperatures.
• Essentials:
  • Wear comfortable shoes (8,000+ steps possible).
  • Bring sunscreen and a hat (limited shade in open areas).
  • Photography allowed (no drones without permission).
  • Prohibited items: Outside food, smoking, and bicycles.