Zhangjiajie, Furong Town and Fenghuang Ancient Town Tour

For our family of four, our eight-day trip to Zhangjiajie felt like a dream we couldn't bear to break. From the early morning high-speed train whistle at Shenzhen North Station to the twilight train that carried us homeward in Fenghuang Ancient Town, every step was filled with surprises and touching moments.

Before setting off, we were all hesitant about this journey, worried about the scorching heat and the arduous mountain trek. Indeed, the climbs and descents were challenging. We averaged over 16,000 steps per day, with a high of over 25,000 on one day—each person, not the total. Every night, we returned to the hotel eager to stretch our legs, exhaustion washing over our limbs like a tide. Fortunately, the weather was kind. Zhangjiajie typically experiences over 200 days of continuous rain a year, but these eight days were filled with sunshine. While the city swelters during the day, we felt a gentle breeze and a refreshing coolness in the mountains.

For our trip to Zhangjiajie City, we booked a tour with a local travel agency. Our guide, a young woman, accompanied us throughout the scenic excursion, providing exceptional service. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is a magnificent natural wonder, especially the Qiankun Pillars in Yuanjiajie, which seem like something from the world of "Avatar." Amidst the swirling clouds and mist, it seemed as if floating mountains would rise at any moment, and blue-skinned people would soar on dragons.

The night in Fenghuang Ancient Town was the most captivating moment of our trip. The lights of the Tuojiang River shimmered in the water, and the silhouette of the Rainbow Bridge was blurred by the night. We adapted to the local customs, donning Miao costumes and walking along the stone pavement, while a local photographer captured our ethnic portraits. Amidst the light and shadow, the girls' smiles blossomed, their joy radiating.

On the return high-speed train, I scrolled through photos on my phone: the clouds of Tianmen Mountain, the fish of Golden Whip Stream, the waterfalls of Furong Town, the lights of Fenghuang Ancient Town, and the steaming Tujia Hunan cuisine on the table. This trip wasn't just about seeing countless sights; it was about immersing myself in the folds of nature and humanity. I felt the shape of the wind, heard the sound of the water, and remembered those unfamiliar yet warm smiles. The wonder of Zhangjiajie and the gentleness of Fenghuang have become the curls that curl my lips when I recall them.

Post by Rsacasas | Aug 28, 2025