Finally went! Fenghuang Ancient Town travel guide

Finally went to Fenghuang Ancient Town! It was a great trip. ✨ Here is a fresh travel guide for you. All based on my personal experience. Save it now!

Itinerary

Recommended duration: 2–3 days. This way, you can enjoy the ancient town at a leisurely pace.
Day 1: Former Residence of Shen Congwen → Former Residence of Xiong Xiling → Ancient City Wall → East Gate Tower → Yang Family Ancestral Hall
Day 2: Boating on the Tuo River → Wanshou Palace → Chongde Hall → Wanming Tower → Bonfire Party (evening)
Day 3: Qiliang Cave → Free Shopping → Prepare to Return

Attractions

Former Residence of Shen Congwen 📖: CNY 45. A must-see for literature lovers! Here, you can see the desk and manuscripts used by Shen Congwen, and learn about his life. You will feel closer to this literary giant.

Boating on the Tuo River 🚢: CNY 150 per person. A must-do in Fenghuang Ancient Town! Sit on a black awning boat, listen to the boatman's chant, and slowly move forward. The stilted buildings on both sides are staggered, as if you have traveled back to the border town a thousand years ago.

Qiliang Cave 🕳️: CNY 60. A large karst cave with stalactites of various shapes. Under the light, it is beautiful and looks like a fairyland.

Food Recommendations

Duck with Blood Rice 🦆: A must-try signature dish in Fenghuang! Stir-fried blood rice and tender duck meat. The aroma is mouth-watering. Every bite is satisfying. CNY 50–80 per person.

Miao Sour Fish 🐟: Rich sour soup and tender fish. A bite of soup and a bite of fish. Appetizing and satisfying. CNY 40–60 per person.

Mugwort Cake 🌿: Unique grassy aroma. Sweet and salty fillings. Soft and glutinous. About CNY 5 each. Chewy.

Accommodation Recommendations

Riverside Inn: A must for those with a sufficient budget! Open the window to a beautiful view of the Tuo River. Fall asleep to the sound of flowing water. Great atmosphere. CNY 300–800 per night.

Ancient Town Homestay: Best value for money! Close to attractions. Convenient to travel around the ancient town. CNY 150–300 per night.

Travel Guide

External Transportation: Go to Huaihua, Hunan first. Then take a bus from Huaihua West Bus Station to Fenghuang Ancient Town. About 2 hours. CNY 40.

Ancient Town Transportation: The ancient town is small. You can walk to all the attractions. The stone road is not suitable for cycling. Walking is the best way to explore. 🚶‍♀️

Tips

Bargain: When buying local specialties and souvenirs in the ancient town, be sure to bargain! For ginger candy and bacon, cut the price by at least half.

Beware of touts: There are many touts at the entrance of the ancient town and by the river. They recommend accommodation, food, boat trips, etc. Don't trust them easily. They may be scams.

Bonfire Party: If you want to attend a bonfire party, ask about the price and included items in advance. Some may have hidden costs.

Take this guide to Fenghuang Ancient Town and enjoy your romantic trip! 💕