The crisp winter air brushed against my face as I strolled along the illuminated pathways of Orange Island, or Juzi Zhou, in Changsha. Located in the middle of the Xiang River, this iconic island blends nature, history and modern charm, offering a unique perspective of a city that has steadily climbed the ranks as one of China’s most dynamic urban centers.

Changsha’s appeal stems from its rich cultural heritage and economic growth. Recently ranked fourth in the Milken Institute’s report on the best-performing Chinese cities, it secured the top spot for employment growth, reflecting a city in the midst of transformative progress. Yet, amidst this rapid development, Orange Island remains a serene escape, exuding a timeless charm that connects visitors to Changsha’s past and present.

At the heart of the island stands the colossal 32-meter-tall statue of Mao Zedong (Former Chairman of the Communist Party of China) as a youthful revolutionary. Lit softly against the night sky, the granite sculpture captures a rarely-seen side of the leader — his windswept hair and confident gaze reflecting his spirit as a young man in 1925.

Unlike the typical portrayals of Mao as a statesman, this monument humanizes him, connecting visitors to his formative years in Changsha, where he took an active interest in politics.

As I stood before the statue, it was impossible not to feel the weight of history. Changsha’s connection to Mao extends beyond the island. Just kilometers away lies his hometown of Shaoshan, further anchoring the city’s role in China’s revolutionary narrative.

But Orange Island is more than a historical site. It’s a testament to Changsha’s modern identity.

Among ‘happiest cities in China’

With stunning lights from the mainland visible across the river, the city, dubbed the “entertainment capital” of China, has a thriving nightlife.

Changsha has been a centre of pop culture because to the provincial TV network, which produces popular variety and talent shows all throughout the country. Changsha, a city that has been listed among the top 10 happiest cities in China for 16 years running and has become an industry leader in sectors like heavy construction machines and smart manufacturing, is defined by this blend of innovation and tradition.

The warmth of the city’s energy helped to buffer the winter chill as one strolled along the island’s walkways. Since 2009, BYD, the massive Chinese electric car company, has prospered here because to effective local administration, which has drawn more than 200 Fortune Global 500 businesses to Changsha. Such financial successes coexist with cultural gems, transforming the city into a motivating place to work and play. The allure of Changsha is as diverse as the Xiang River’s glittering lights.

From its historical significance as the starting point of Mao’s journey to its ranking as a leader in science, technology and foreign enterprise growth, the city has carved out a unique identity.

Standing on Orange Island that winter night, with history at my back and the city lights ahead, I felt the heartbeat of Changsha—a city where the past and present live in harmony, paving the way for a bright future.