Changsha is the historically and culturally renowned capital of Hunan Province. It is the cradle of the ancient Chu Xiang civilizations, rooted in Central China. Changsha was the home town of many great figures in the history of China, including Qu Yuan, Jia Yi, Zhu Xi, Zeng Guofan, Mao Zedong and Liu Shaoqi.
Changsha is among the first group of Chinese cities which were opened up to the outside world. It enjoys fast economic growth and immense vitality.