Must-Visit Hidden Gem Ancient Town for Summer Vacation

Looking for a unique and fun off-the-beaten-path destination this summer? The Phoenix Ancient Town described by Shen Congwen is absolutely perfect! With stunning night views, ethnic charm, and plenty of exciting activities, this ultimate guide will help you explore Phoenix Ancient Town with ease.

1. Pre-Trip Preparation

Documents: ID card, student ID (for discounts)
Clothing: Light, breathable summer wear, plus sun-protective clothing and a light jacket
Essentials: Sunscreen, sunglasses, umbrella, mosquito repellent, skincare products
Electronics: Phone, camera, power bank
Other: Some cash (some small shops only accept cash)

2. Transportation Guide

High-speed rail: Arrive at Phoenix Ancient Town Station, then take a ¥7 shuttle bus directly to Qifeng Square or opt for the maglev train (ticket valid for 4 days with unlimited rides and scenic views along the way)
Flight: Land at Tongren Fenghuang Airport, take a bus to Fenghuang North Station, then transfer to a taxi to the ancient town
Bus: Direct long-distance buses available from nearby cities like Zhangjiajie and Jishou
Self-drive: Navigate directly to Phoenix Ancient Town; nearby parking lots like Hongqiao Underground Parking charge about ¥40/day

3. Accommodation Recommendations

Riverside B&Bs: Qinghua Pavilion, Sushe, etc., between Hongqiao Bridge and Wanming Pagoda, offering stunning Tuo River views (book early during peak season; riverside rooms may be noisy at night)
Downtown Inns: Phoenix Impression Boutique Inn, Laoyingshao Inn in Dongzheng Street and Cross Street areas—convenient but may be noisy in the early morning due to merchant activities
Artsy B&Bs: Yunyin B&B in Nanhuali Cultural District, Qingke Hostel in Huilongge—full of artistic vibes, though some alleys lack streetlights
Luxury Hotels: Phoenix International Hotel, Fengqi Mountain Villa—well-equipped but require shuttle rides to the ancient town

4. Ticket Information

Phoenix Ancient Town is free! Optional paid activities:
Tuo River Boat Ride (Day/Night): ¥85/person (day), ¥168/person (night—highly recommended for the beautiful lights!)
Nine-Scenic-Spot Combo Ticket: ¥128/person (includes Shen Congwen’s Former Residence, Xiong Xiling’s Former Residence, etc.—ideal for history and culture lovers)
Border Town Live Show: Starts at ¥180/person (grand production telling the story of Cuicui—a must-see!)

5. Local Delicacies

Blood Tofu Duck: A signature dish of Phoenix and western Hunan, combining duck blood with glutinous rice and duck meat—savory and sticky
Sour Fish Soup: A Miao ethnic favorite—spicy, sour, and appetizing with tender fish, best paired with dipping sauce infused with Litsea cubeba oil
Smoked Bacon: Wood-fire smoked with rich flavor—delicious even when simply stir-fried
She Rice: A fragrant mix of glutinous rice, wild mugwort, and diced smoked pork
Lei Tea: Thick and mellow, known for its heat-clearing and detoxifying effects
Shrimp Pancake: Crispy outside, tender inside, packed with shrimp flavor

6. Two-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Morning: Start at Nanhua Bridge, stroll to Tuo River Stepping Stones for a unique river-crossing experience, then head to North Gate Pier to soak up the town’s lively atmosphere and try local snacks.
Noon: Enjoy local specialties like blood tofu duck and sour fish soup at nearby restaurants.
Afternoon: Visit Shen Congwen’s Former Residence, Yang Family Ancestral Hall, and other core historic sites.
Evening: Capture the magical moment when Wanming Pagoda lights up at Hongqiao Bridge, then admire the ancient town’s stunning nightscape.
Night: Take a nighttime boat ride on the Tuo River, listen to the boatman’s western Hunan folk songs, and unwind at a bar with live folk music.

Day 2

Morning: Hike up Nanhua Mountain National Forest Park for a panoramic view of the town and fresh mountain air.
Noon: Dine outside the ancient town and try home-style local dishes.
Afternoon: Explore the mysterious karst caves of Qiliang Cave, marveling at stalagmites, stone pillars, and stalactites.
Night: Return to the night market for snacks, souvenirs, and vibrant nightlife.

7. Summer Special Activities (July - August)

Upgraded Viral Night Boat Tour: New additions include a launch ceremony, Longtan fishing lights, peach blossom silhouettes, and lantern parades for an immersive nighttime experience.
Republic of China-Themed Family Activities: Held at historic residences, featuring vintage photo booths, youth literature ceremonies, and performances of "Meeting Young Shen Congwen."
Water Carnival: Daytime boat rides now feature interactive experiences like "Legendary Hunters of Western Hunan" and "Robot Dog Adventures."

Pack this guide and head to Phoenix Ancient Town for a relaxing and fun-filled summer vacation!