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Fenghuang Ancient Town, located in the Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture of Hunan Province, was hailed as "China's most beautiful small town" by renowned New Zealand author Rewi Alley. Its fame is further celebrated through the writings and paintings of uncle and nephew Shen Congwen and Huang Yongyu. The ancient town's bluestone streets, riverside wooden stilt houses, numerous ancient buildings, and rich Miao customs create a unique atmosphere within the town.
We recommend starting at the North Gate Tower and walking along the city wall, past the Yang Family Ancestral Hall, to the East Gate. Afterward, explore Dongzheng Street, where the former residences of Xiong Xiling and Shen Congwen, as well as the Ancient City Museum, are all nearby. In the evening, return to Hongqiao, just outside the East Gate, where the stunning nightscape of Phoenix awaits.
Suitable for all seasons
The main attractions in Fenghuang Ancient Town include: Tuojiang River rafting, admiring the Miao family stilt houses along the river, the former residence of the great writer Shen Congwen, the former residence of the first Prime Minister of China, Xiong Xiling, the Yang Family Ancestral Hall, the East Gate Tower, the Hongqiao Fengyu Tower, the Wanshou Palace, the Chongde Hall, the Ancient Town Museum, etc.
Recommended number of days for visiting: 1-2 days
Entrance to the ancient city is free, but tickets are required for the eight scenic spots in the scenic area. The ticket package is 148 yuan (the ticket is valid for 2 days)
The ancient city is open all day, and some attractions in the ancient city are open from 8:00 to 18:00
Phoenix Ancient Town, also known as Fenghuang, has a rich history dating back over 2,000 years. It was an important military and commercial hub during the Ming and Qing Dynasties. The town is known for its well-preserved ancient architecture, particularly its wooden houses and stone bridges. It's also culturally significant, home to the Miao and Tujia ethnic groups, who still maintain traditional customs. The town's beauty and historical value make it one of the most popular tourist destinations in Hunan Province.
Phoenix Ancient Town is located in Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture in Hunan Province, China. It is accessible by bus or taxi from the nearby city of Zhangjiajie (about 2–3 hours away). If you’re traveling from Changsha, buses and trains are available, taking around 4–5 hours to reach the town. Once in the town, walking is the best way to explore its historic sites.
Phoenix Ancient Town is open to visitors year-round. The best time to visit is during the spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November) when the weather is mild, and the town is less crowded. The town tends to be busiest during Chinese public holidays, especially the Spring Festival and National Day.
The entrance fee to Phoenix Ancient Town is approximately 148 RMB. This ticket gives access to various historical sites within the town. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through various travel platforms.
It is recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. Booking 1–2 days before your visit should be sufficient. During holidays, consider booking tickets at least 3–5 days in advance.
To fully explore Phoenix Ancient Town, including its historical sites, ethnic villages, and scenic areas, you should allocate at least 1–2 days. For a more relaxed visit, you can spend an entire day exploring the town.
Guided tours are available in Chinese, but English-speaking guides may be harder to find. Audio guides in both Chinese and English are available at various sites within the town. It's advisable to book a guide in advance if you want a detailed tour in English.
Start by visiting the Tuojiang River for a boat ride, then head to Hongqiao Bridge for some scenic photography. Explore the ancient streets, followed by a visit to the Fenghuang Ancient City Museum. If time permits, visit the nearby Miao and Tujia ethnic villages to learn about local culture. You can conclude your visit with a walk along the riverside to enjoy the view of the ancient wooden houses.
Yes, Phoenix Ancient Town is beautifully illuminated at night, and a night visit offers a completely different atmosphere. The town is often less crowded in the evenings, and you can enjoy a peaceful stroll along the riverbanks with the lights reflecting on the water. Special cultural shows or performances may also be available during peak seasons.
Phoenix Ancient Town can get crowded during Chinese holidays, weekends, and summer months. To avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit on weekdays, especially in the early mornings or late afternoons. Spring and autumn are the least crowded seasons.
Facilities such as toilets, rest areas, and food stalls are available throughout the town. There are also numerous shops selling local souvenirs, snacks, and drinks. However, since it’s a historical town, some of the facilities may be less modern than those found in major cities.
Most of Phoenix Ancient Town is accessible to elderly, children, and disabled visitors, though some areas may involve stairs or uneven surfaces. It’s advisable to check in advance if you or your group require specific accommodations, as some areas may be challenging for those with mobility issues.
Mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted, and credit cards are also used in some places. However, it’s a good idea to carry cash, especially for smaller shops or in more remote areas.
There are various restaurants serving traditional Hunan cuisine near Phoenix Ancient Town. You can enjoy spicy dishes, hotpot, and local specialties like fish and rice noodles. Many riverside restaurants offer beautiful views of the town while you dine.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some restaurants, particularly in the larger tourist areas. Halal food is rare, but you may find some options in larger cities nearby like Zhangjiajie or Changsha.
Several hotels are located near Phoenix Ancient Town, including budget options and mid-range accommodations. Popular choices include Fenghuang International Hotel, Xihua Hotel, and various guesthouses or boutique hotels that offer scenic views of the town.
Yes, there are plenty of souvenir shops in Phoenix Ancient Town. Common items include traditional Miao and Tujia handicrafts, silver jewelry, embroidered fabrics, bamboo products, and local snacks.
