Didn't see any army or police, could have done with a bit of assistance with directions in the big city (ChangSha). Did need to show ID to get on the train (as did everyone), but other than that no police stops or checks, 200km by train, 40km by bus to get to the park. No queues or questions at the airport (unlike the USA or Thailand), waved right through. Only encountered 2 other foreigners while I was there, none on the plane, train or bus.