Xiantao

Xiantao is a directly-administered city in the Jianghan Plain of central Hubei, part of the low-lying, water-laced 'land of fish and rice' along the Han River. Historically known as Mianyang, it is renowned for the classic 'three steamed dishes' of local cuisine and for its huge exports of non-woven protective garments. It was the birthplace of Chen Youliang, a rebel emperor at the end of the Yuan dynasty, and has produced many champion gymnasts. For an international student, Xiantao offers authentic Hubei river-plain life, hearty cuisine and easy rail access to Wuhan.