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The Border Town Scenic Area offers a variety of activities, including exploring traditional Miao culture, enjoying beautiful natural landscapes, and experiencing local performances. Visitors can also explore historical sites, walk along the picturesque riverside, and take part in local festivals and cultural events.
The Border Town Scenic Area, formerly known as Chadong Town, is not located in Fenghuang County. Technically, it sits at the junction of Hunan, Guizhou, and Chongqing, earning it the nickname "a place that straddles three provinces." It is one of the four famous towns in western Hunan. In literary master Shen Congwen's "Border Town," the town is described as picturesque with its neat and elegant bluestone paths, quaint stilt houses, towering white pagodas, and ancient ferry boats. While some scenic spots have since been destroyed, Cuicui Island, the stilt houses, and the stone streets remain intact. This quaint town is captivating.
Suitable for all seasons;
It has a subtropical monsoon humid climate with distinct four seasons, hot and rainy summers and warm and humid winters.
It is recommended to play for 1-3 hours;
Main attractions: Cuicui Island, Calligraphy Garden, Stilt Houses along the River, Ancient Human Sites in the South, Ancient City Wall, Lala Ferry, Minglianfang, and "Three Provinces in One Foot".
free
Open all day
The Border Town Scenic Area in Hunan is an important cultural and historical site, home to various Miao and Tujia ethnic communities. It showcases the unique heritage, traditions, and architecture of these groups. The area is also known for its rich history of trade and border culture, making it a fascinating place for those interested in ethnic cultures and history.
The Border Town Scenic Area is located in Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Hunan Province. Visitors can take a bus or taxi from Fenghuang Ancient Town, which is around 10 kilometers away. There are no metro connections to this rural area, so taxis or private transportation are the most convenient options.
The Border Town Scenic Area is generally open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months, when the weather is mild and pleasant. Avoid visiting during major holidays, as it can get crowded.
The entrance fee for the Border Town Scenic Area is approximately ¥60-¥100, depending on the season and attractions. Tickets can be purchased both online and offline, with online booking available through various travel websites and platforms.
It is recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. Booking 1-2 days ahead should suffice, but for holidays or festivals, consider booking a week in advance to ensure availability.
It typically takes around 3-4 hours to explore the Border Town Scenic Area. If you wish to experience cultural activities or take part in local events, you may want to allocate a full day.
Key highlights include the riverside area, traditional Miao villages, cultural performances, and local artisan shops. Be sure to visit the historical architecture and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
Guided tours are available in Chinese, and some guides may offer services in English. Audio guides are not commonly available, so it is recommended to book a tour for a more informative experience.
The riverside areas, traditional Miao architecture, and the surrounding hills offer excellent viewpoints. The best photography spots include the border bridges and the cultural performances that highlight the local traditions.
A recommended itinerary starts with a visit to the traditional Miao villages, followed by a riverside walk. Next, explore the cultural performance areas and end with a visit to the local artisan shops. Consider taking a boat ride along the river for scenic views.
Night visits are available, and some cultural performances may take place in the evening. However, light shows are not typically part of the attraction, so it is best to visit during daylight for the full experience.
The attraction can get crowded during holidays and weekends. The least crowded times are typically in the early morning or late afternoon during weekdays, particularly outside of peak travel seasons.
There are basic facilities including toilets, food stalls, rest areas, and small shops offering local crafts and snacks. It is advisable to bring water and snacks if you plan to stay for an extended period.
The area is mostly accessible, though some parts of the scenic area may involve walking up stairs or uneven paths, which could be difficult for elderly or disabled visitors. It is advisable to check the specific accessibility features upon arrival.
Cash is still commonly used, but mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted. Cards may not be as commonly accepted in smaller shops or rural areas.
There are several local restaurants offering Miao and Tujia cuisine. You can enjoy local specialties like sour fish soup and rice noodles. Nearby Fenghuang Ancient Town also has more dining options.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in the form of vegetable dishes and rice. Halal food options are limited, but visitors can find some offerings in nearby larger towns.
There are several guesthouses and small hotels near the Border Town Scenic Area. For a more comfortable stay, visitors may consider accommodations in Fenghuang Ancient Town, which is a short drive away.
Nearby attractions include Fenghuang Ancient Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage candidate and offers rich historical sites, riverside walks, and traditional architecture. The Tujia Folk Customs Park is also nearby and offers insight into the local ethnic culture.
Yes, there are souvenir shops selling local crafts such as Miao silver jewelry, handmade textiles, and ethnic clothing. These items are popular keepsakes from the region.
From the Border Town Scenic Area, visitors can take a bus or taxi to Fenghuang Ancient Town. From there, you can continue your journey to other attractions in Hunan or Xiangxi.
