Changsha Culture Park, on the western edge of the old city near the Xiang River, is a large public park that hosts the city's annual book fair, cultural festivals, and outdoor exhibitions. The park itself is pleasant enough — tree-shaded paths, a small lake, pavilions — but it is most worth visiting when an event is in progress. The Changsha Book Fair, held in the park each autumn, is one of the largest regional book fairs in central China and draws publishers, collectors, and browsers from across Hunan.
Outside event periods the park is used primarily by local residents for morning exercise and evening recreation. The western section near the river has a good view of the Xiang and of Orange Island. Entry is free. The park is accessible from the riverfront promenade and connects naturally to the Jiefang West Road area for evening food and entertainment.