Recently, the China Meteorological Administration released a national map highlighting popular destinations for escaping the summer heat during the main event of the 2026 National Summer Culture and Tourism Consumption Season. A total of 45 premium summer getaways were selected nationwide, including the Hengshan Mountain Scenic Area in Hengyang City and the Wanyang Mountain Scenic Area in Guidong County, Hunan Province.

The map was jointly produced by the National Climate Center and the China Meteorological Administration. It was compiled based on multi-dimensional data, including regional summer climate characteristics, ecological environments, disaster risks, and climate trend forecasts, in combination with input from local meteorological and cultural tourism authorities. Summer retreat resources across the country are classified into four types based on climatic features: plateau, mountain, coast, and forest.

Hengshan Mountain was recommended under the "mountain retreat" category. As one of China's Five Great Mountains, Hengshan Mountain features a multi-layered climate due to a dramatic vertical drop from the foot of the mountain to the 1,300.2-meter Zhurong Peak. The core scenic area has an average summer temperature of approximately 21.4°C, with abundant and stable rainfall. It offers a cooling sensation without dryness and truly delivers diverse seasonal experiences. Its forest coverage rate exceeds 90%.

The Wanyang Mountain Scenic Area in Guidong County was recommended under the "forest retreat" category. Located in Guidong County, the scenic area boasts over 100,000 mu (6,666.67 hectares) of contiguous alpine meadows, with a forest coverage rate up to 95%. It features an extremely high concentration of negative oxygen ions and an average summer temperature of around 23°C. As a "forest oxygen-rich type" summer resort, the scenic area has a forest coverage rate of no less than 60%, with over 75 comfortable summer days. Its lush vegetation regulates temperature and humidity while releasing negative oxygen ions, making every breath a healing experience. The scenic area has developed experiential attractions such as Rainbow Campsite, Alpine Heavenly Lake, and Cloud Grass Sliding, along with distinctive accommodations including cliffside guesthouses and space capsules.

This article is from Hunan Provincial Government. www.enghunan.gov.cn.

Translator: Xiao Juan

Chinese source: hunantoday