
Furong Town, located in Yongshun County within the Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, is a tourist destination that blends natural beauty with quaint ethnic customs. With a magnificent waterfall weaving through it, it's also known as the "Millennium Ancient Town Hanging on the Waterfall." Strolling through the drizzling Tujia stilt houses and bluestone pavements is a refreshing experience. As the gateway to the Mengdong River Scenic Area, it's a prime spot for exploring the ancient past.
The Waterfall Viewing Stilt House houses more than 300 Tujia cultural relics and has a strong cultural atmosphere. It is the best embodiment of Tujia civilization. The Xizhou Bronze Pillar and the Movie Poster Art Museum are also must-see places for tourists.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended number of days to visit: 1 day
100 yuan/person
Summer 7:00-17:30
Winter 7:00-18:00
Furong Town, also known as Hibiscus Town, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. It is famous for its traditional architecture, ancient temples, and vibrant ethnic culture, particularly that of the Tujia and Miao peoples. The town is often featured in Chinese films and has a deep connection to local folklore.
Furong Town is located in the Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, in Hunan Province, China. It can be accessed by bus or taxi from Jishou City (about 50 km away). There is no metro service in the area. Walking around the town is ideal for exploring its narrow streets and natural sights.
Furong Town is open year-round. The best time to visit is during spring (April-May) and autumn (September-November) when the weather is mild. Summer can be busy, especially in July and August, while winter is quieter and still enjoyable for exploring the town.
The entrance fee for Furong Town is approximately 80 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online through popular Chinese travel platforms like Ctrip or Fliggy.
It is not necessary to book tickets in advance, especially during off-peak times. However, during busy seasons, such as public holidays, it’s a good idea to book at least 1-2 days in advance to avoid long queues.
You can fully explore Furong Town in 1-2 days. If you wish to visit nearby villages or take part in additional cultural activities, you may want to stay longer.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some guides may offer services in English. Audio guides in Chinese are available at some attractions. It’s best to arrange a tour if you require an English-speaking guide.
Start your visit with Furong Waterfall, followed by a walk along Furong Ancient Street. Explore the local shops and traditional houses, and then visit the nearby ethnic villages for a cultural experience. A boat ride along the river can also be a relaxing way to end your trip.
Night visits are possible in Furong Town, especially for enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and local restaurants. Some areas may have light displays, but there are no major light shows or special night tours available.
Furong Town can be crowded during Chinese public holidays and weekends, especially in the summer months. The least crowded times to visit are in the winter months (December-February) or early spring (March), particularly on weekdays.
Furong Town has public toilets, food stalls, local restaurants, and shops selling souvenirs and local handicrafts. There are also rest areas and cafés where visitors can relax and enjoy the local atmosphere.
Furong Town is generally accessible for elderly and children. However, some areas, like the ancient streets and waterfall viewing platforms, may have uneven terrain. There may be some difficulty for wheelchair users due to the town's historic layout.
Mobile payments (Alipay and WeChat Pay) are widely accepted in Furong Town, and some places accept credit cards. However, it’s advisable to carry cash for smaller vendors or more remote areas.
There are several restaurants serving local Hunan cuisine, including spicy dishes, rice noodles, and tofu-based dishes. Small cafés and food stalls offer quick snacks and beverages. In nearby Jishou City, there are more dining options available.
Vegetarian options are available at some local restaurants, but options for vegan or halal food are limited in Furong Town. Visitors with dietary preferences may need to look for specific vendors or dine in Jishou City for more variety.
There are several budget-friendly hotels and guesthouses in Furong Town. For more comfortable accommodations, visitors can stay in Jishou City, which offers more choices ranging from mid-range hotels to boutique stays.
Yes, there are several souvenir shops in Furong Town selling local crafts, including hand-woven textiles, wooden carvings, silver jewelry, and ethnic clothing. Local snacks and tea are also popular souvenirs.