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Visit the historic Wanshou Palace to explore its architecture and cultural significance, enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding mountains, and learn about the region’s unique Tujia and Miao cultures. It’s also a great spot for photography, especially around the palace gardens and historical structures.
Hunan's Phoenix Wanshou Palace boasts an exquisite design and intricate carvings, covering over 4,000 square meters. The front hall features a main hall flanked by a pair of meticulously carved stone lions. The rear hall is home to the main hall, where a plaque hangs in front, inscribed with the powerful characters "Iron Pillars of Merit." It is a truly magnificent architectural masterpiece, encompassing a diverse collection of palaces, pavilions, and towers.
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;
Nearby attractions: Wanming Pagoda, Hongqiao, Tuojiang Diaojiaolou, Xiangxi East Gate Tower, etc.
148 yuan/person
07:30-18:00 (Summer), 08:00-17:30 (Winter) (Monday-Sunday, January 1st - December 31st)
The Wanshou Palace, located in the Phoenix County of Hunan, is a historic site that serves as a cultural and religious hub. The palace is dedicated to the Taoist deity, the Queen of Heaven, and has been a place of pilgrimage for centuries. It showcases the architecture and traditions of the Tujia and Miao ethnic groups.
The Wanshou Palace is located in the Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, in the city of Fenghuang (Phoenix), Hunan Province. It can be accessed by taxi or local bus from the Fenghuang city center. Walking from the city center is also an option, as the palace is within a reasonable distance.
The Wanshou Palace is typically open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild, and the gardens are in full bloom.
The entrance fee is usually around 50-80 RMB per person. Tickets can be purchased both online through official websites and onsite at the entrance.
It is recommended to book tickets in advance during peak travel seasons, such as Chinese holidays. Booking a few days ahead is usually sufficient.
A visit to the Wanshou Palace typically takes about 2-3 hours, depending on how much time you spend exploring the architecture and taking photos.
Key highlights include the main palace building, the surrounding gardens, the temple dedicated to the Queen of Heaven, and the panoramic views from the palace grounds.
Guided tours are available in Chinese, but you may need to inquire at the entrance for English-speaking guides. Audio guides may also be available in multiple languages.
The best photography spots include the panoramic view of the surrounding mountains from the palace steps, the tranquil palace gardens, and the intricate carvings and architecture of the temple.
Start with a tour of the main palace building, then visit the temple. Afterward, stroll through the gardens and enjoy the scenic views before exiting through the nearby gift shop.
Night visits are not commonly available, but special tours may be arranged for cultural performances or ceremonies during festive seasons.
The Wanshou Palace can be crowded during Chinese holidays, especially in the summer. To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning on weekdays or during the off-season in autumn or winter.
There are toilets available within the palace grounds, as well as a few rest areas. Food and drink are available at nearby vendors, and souvenir shops offer local handicrafts.
The palace grounds have some steep areas and stairs, so it may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Children and families should have no problem navigating the site, but be prepared for some walking.
Both cash and mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay and Alipay) are accepted. Credit cards may not be widely accepted, so it's advisable to have cash or mobile payment options ready.
There are a few local restaurants near the entrance offering traditional Tujia and Miao cuisines, such as spicy hotpot and rice-based dishes.
Vegetarian options are available at local eateries, but halal food may be limited. It’s recommended to check with restaurants before ordering if you require specific dietary options.
There are several guesthouses and hotels in the nearby Fenghuang ancient town area, offering a range of options from budget to mid-range stays.
Other nearby attractions include Fenghuang Ancient Town, the Tuojiang River, and the Phoenix Ancient City Wall. These can easily be combined in a day trip.
There are souvenir shops selling traditional Tujia and Miao crafts, including handmade textiles, pottery, and ethnic jewelry.
Taxis and buses are available to continue your journey. Fenghuang’s bus station offers routes to other parts of Xiangxi and beyond.
