Xingmazhou Island: 3 Places to See Near Changsha, China
Explore Xingmazhou, an isolated island in the Xiang River near Changsha, Hunan Province, accessible only by ferry. This 6km island route showcases traditional rural life beneath the Shanghai-Kunming High-Speed Railway, where approximately 800 residents maintain agricultural practices and village culture despite modern infrastructure overhead.
- Mode
- Places
- Start
- Welcome to Xingmazhou
- End
- Ferry Crossing
- Stops
- 3
- Video author
- travmap
- Updated
Stops on this route
- Welcome to Xingmazhou — An isolated island community in central China accessible only by ferry, preserving traditional riverside settlement life separated from mainland development.
- Changsha and the Hidden Island — Provincial hub serving as the gateway to remote island communities, offering contrast between urban infrastructure and untouched rural island existence.
- Ferry Crossing
Useful for your trip
- Transport
- Ferry costs 5 RMB per person for a round trip, or 20 RMB for a car. The crossing takes about 5 minutes.
- Timing
- During the day, the ferry runs every 40 minutes. Check ferry schedule before planning your visit, as service stops during heavy winds or rain.
- Transport
- Xingmazhou is the only island in Changsha without a bridge—ferry is the only way to access it. Plan extra time for ferry crossings.
- Avoid
- Avoid visiting during heavy winds or rain, as ferries stop operating and the island becomes temporarily isolated.
- Tip
- The island is 6 km around and perfect for biking or walking. Bring or rent a bicycle to explore the circular road.
- Where to stay
- Guesthouses, campsites, and cozy cabins are available on the island. Accommodation options have been developed in recent years.
- Save money
- Daily essentials cost more on the island than in the city due to limited access and shipping costs. Buy supplies before taking the ferry.
- Tip
- High-speed trains pass overhead every 3 minutes at speeds exceeding 300 km/h. Expect noise and vibrations throughout the day.
- Timing
- About 800 people live year-round on the island. Visit during off-peak times for a quieter, more authentic experience.
- Tip
- The island has minimal commercialization and retains traditional rural life. No industrial pollution—air quality is very fresh.
Video on this route
China’s Lost World Under the Tracks — Life on an Isolated Island with No Bridge