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We've all heard of the unique charm of Xiangxi. Nestled in the heart of the Wuling Mountains, it boasts a crisscrossing landscape of mountains and rivers, countless caves, canyons, and waterfalls, creating breathtaking scenery. The prefecture is home to numerous cultural relics, including the ancient city of Laosi, which boasts numerous natural and cultural sites and is considered one of the birthplaces of Wuling culture.
At the same time, Xiangxi is also the settlement area of ethnic minorities such as the Miao. The Miao people's stilt houses and the bluestone paths make this place exude an ancient flavor.
The four seasons are distinct and suitable for visiting all year round, with spring and autumn being the best.
Phoenix Ancient Town
Renowned New Zealand author Rewi Alley called it "China's most beautiful small town," and its fame is further celebrated in the writings and paintings of uncle and nephew Shen Congwen and Huang Yongyu. The ancient city's bluestone streets, riverside wooden stilt houses, numerous ancient buildings, and rich Miao customs create a unique atmosphere in Fenghuang.
Furong Town
This ancient town boasts over 2,000 years of history. Because of the magnificent waterfalls running through it, it's also known as the "Millennium Town Hanging on the Waterfall." It's also known as Youyang's Majestic Town and "Little Nanjing." Later, after the film "Furong Town," starring Jiang Wen and Liu Xiaoqing, was filmed here, it was renamed "Furong Town."
Border Town Chadong
Literary master Shen Congwen's famous novella "Border Town" integrates the beautiful scenery, kind customs and simple human feelings of Chadong, sketching out the idyllic border town style, attracting countless literati and poets from home and abroad to come for sightseeing and collection of folk songs.
Recommended number of days for a visit: 2-3 days
Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture is a culturally rich region in Hunan, home to the Tujia and Miao ethnic groups. It has a long history of ethnic traditions, ancient villages, and unique architecture, preserving customs, festivals, and crafts that reflect the diversity of Chinese minority cultures.
The prefecture is in western Hunan province. Access is via Zhangjiajie Hehua Airport, train to Jishou or Huaihua, or long-distance buses from major Hunan cities. Local travel requires taxis, buses, or guided tours to reach scenic and village areas.
Most scenic areas are open from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM. Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are ideal for mild weather and vibrant landscapes.
Entrance fees vary: Dehang Canyon around 120 CNY, Langshan about 90–100 CNY. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online via travel platforms like Ctrip or Fliggy.
Booking 1–3 days in advance is recommended during peak season or holidays to secure tickets and guided tours.
2–4 days are recommended to cover major scenic areas, villages, and cultural experiences.
Guided tours are available in Chinese, with English tours possible via travel agencies or arranged in advance.
Start with Langshan Mountain, visit Dehang Canyon the next day, explore nearby villages, and finish with cultural performances and local markets.
Limited night visits; cultural performances and local festivals may offer evening shows during certain seasons.
Weekdays are less crowded. Avoid Chinese holidays such as National Day or Spring Festival for a quieter experience.
Facilities include restrooms, snack stalls, small restaurants, tea houses, and souvenir shops at main attractions.
Some trails and cliff areas are steep; not all areas are wheelchair accessible. Elderly and children should focus on village visits and main scenic viewpoints.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely accepted; cash is useful for small vendors and remote villages.
Local eateries offer Tujia and Miao cuisine, riverside restaurants, tea houses, and small cafes in towns and scenic areas.
Vegetarian options are available; vegan and halal choices are limited and should be requested in advance.
Options include boutique guesthouses, hotels in Jishou or Huaihua, and eco-lodges near scenic mountains and villages.
Souvenirs include embroidery, silver jewelry, traditional crafts, local teas, and cultural artifacts.
Travelers can use buses, taxis, or private cars to reach Jishou, Huaihua, or Zhangjiajie for further exploration in Hunan.
