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Explore the historic architecture of Phoenix Town, stroll along the riverside, visit ancient temples, and enjoy the beautiful bridges and alleys. The town is also great for photography, particularly the well-preserved buildings and the scenic river views. Don't miss out on tasting local snacks and visiting the ancient city wall.
Fenghuang Town is located in the southeastern part of Zhashui County, Shangluo City, Shaanxi Province, on the southern slopes of the Qinling Mountains. Nestled between mountains and rivers, Fenghuang Town is home to the Shechuan, Zao, and Shuidigou Rivers, forming a delta. Fengzhen Street, where the town government is located, is 45 kilometers from Zhashui County.
Fenghuang Town became a key commercial town south of the Qinling Mountains, connecting the Yangtze and Yellow River systems. Northern mountain goods and local specialties were brought here by caravans and people, then shipped south by water. Silk and rice from the south of the Yangtze River were also shipped here by water, then transported by land across the Qinling Mountains to Guanzhong. Later, with the decline of water transport and the improvement of road transportation, Fenghuang Town gradually lost its former significance. Despite this, many old workshops and traditional crafts still survive in Fenghuang Town and the surrounding areas.
Fenghuang Town's ancient buildings, predominantly built during the Ming and Qing dynasties, remain remarkably well-preserved despite centuries of history. The project primarily features courtyard houses, and the buildings largely adhere to the Huizhou style, reflecting local characteristics. In December 2002, it was listed as a provincial-level fourth-batch "Ancient Residential Building Complex" cultural relic protection site.
The warm temperate semi-humid monsoon climate features four distinct seasons, with rain and heat occurring in the same season, and distinct dry and wet seasons in the summer and winter. Avoid the cold winter and travel in spring, summer, and autumn.
Fenghuang Town's winding streets and the sparsely lined old houses from the Ming and Qing dynasties are its defining features. Traditional papermaking and forging still continue here, and over 60 Ming and Qing dynasty dwellings remain intact along this 2,000-meter-long stretch.
Along the main street runs a small, flagstone-covered stream, while another perpendicular stream runs through the town, forming a crisscross pattern. Shops line both sides of the old street, with residences behind them. Street-facing gates are typically constructed of durable walnut or lacquered wood, stained with earthen lacquer for a bright, polished finish; the doorposts feature stone carvings of flowers. Shops are less than a foot wide, while homes can reach depths of thirty or forty meters. It's said that the number of shop rooms and the depth of the houses reflected the wealth of the owners at the time.
The wooden dwellings of Fenghuang Town are compact and exquisitely designed, offering excellent protection against rain, moisture, and fire. Compared to traditional northern dwellings, they possess many southern characteristics. Walking along Fenghuang Town's Old Street, you'll notice a stark difference between the architecture and the residences of Guanzhong. From the outside, they resemble Huizhou dwellings, with whitewashed walls and green tiles. The roofs are decorated in the center and along the sides, with a lotus or plum blossom in the center and animal ridges or dragon heads on either side.
It is recommended to visit for about 1 day.
free
Open all day
Phoenix Town is a historically rich town in Shaanxi, known for its traditional Chinese architecture, ancient streets, and ethnic minorities' culture. It holds deep cultural significance, preserving ancient customs and offering a glimpse into China's past.
Phoenix Town is located in Shaanxi Province. The easiest way to get there is by taxi or private car. Local buses may also be available from nearby towns, and walking is possible within the town itself for sightseeing.
Phoenix Town is open all day for tourists. The best times to visit are during spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant, and early mornings or evenings for fewer crowds and better light for photography.
Entrance to Phoenix Town is generally free for public areas. However, some specific attractions like temples or museums inside may require an entry fee, typically around 30-50 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the site or online.
For most attractions within Phoenix Town, advance booking is not required. However, during peak tourist seasons, it’s advisable to book tickets a few days in advance to avoid long lines.
A full exploration of Phoenix Town, including the main historical sites and riverside, takes around 3 to 4 hours. If you're interested in visiting more remote areas or museums, you might spend up to half a day.
Must-see highlights include the ancient city wall, riverside area, traditional wooden houses, and bridges. The local temples and ethnic villages also offer a deep dive into the town's cultural heritage.
Guided tours are available, typically in Mandarin, with some guides offering English-speaking services during peak seasons. Audio guides are available in Mandarin, and some places may offer English options.
The best viewpoints are along the riverside, particularly at sunrise or sunset, as well as from the city wall, which offers stunning views of the entire town and the surrounding countryside. The old wooden houses and bridges are also excellent for photographs.
Start with a walk along the riverside, explore the historic buildings and temples, then head towards the ancient city wall. If time allows, visit the local markets and ethnic villages to experience the culture in more depth.
Night visits are available, and the town is beautifully lit at night. Special light shows or performances are occasionally held during festivals or holidays, offering a vibrant experience after dark.
Phoenix Town can get crowded, especially during weekends and national holidays. The least crowded times are during weekdays in the early morning or late evening, particularly in the off-season (winter or early spring).
Facilities include public toilets, food stalls, rest areas, and local shops selling souvenirs and snacks. Restaurants in the area serve traditional Shaanxi food and snacks.
The main areas of Phoenix Town are accessible to elderly and children, though the ancient streets can be narrow and uneven. There are some steps and inclines, which may be challenging for disabled visitors.
Mobile payments (like Alipay or WeChat Pay) are widely accepted. Credit cards may not be as common in smaller shops, so it’s good to have some cash on hand, especially for local food stalls or markets.
There are a variety of restaurants offering local Shaanxi cuisine, such as noodles, dumplings, and grilled meats. There are also cafes serving coffee and tea for a more relaxed atmosphere.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in most restaurants, though some dishes may contain dairy or eggs. Halal food options are available due to the presence of Muslim communities in the region.
There are various accommodation options in and around Phoenix Town, ranging from budget hostels to mid-range hotels and boutique guesthouses. Some offer traditional-style rooms for a more immersive experience.
Nearby attractions include the Qianling Mausoleum, the tomb of Emperor Gaozong, and the Famen Temple, which are all within a couple of hours' drive from Phoenix Town and make for great day trips.
Souvenir shops in Phoenix Town sell local handicrafts, ethnic jewelry, handmade paper fans, and traditional Chinese clothing. The area is also known for its tea and preserved foods.
After visiting Phoenix Town, you can take a taxi or bus to nearby attractions like the Qianling Mausoleum or continue your journey to other parts of Shaanxi Province via trains or buses. Renting a car is also a convenient option for exploring the region at your own pace.
