Furong and Fenghuang: The Perfect Complements to Zhangjiajie

🚄 Transportation Logistics
From Zhangjiajie to Furong:
Train: Zhangjiajie West → Furongzhen (20 minutes, ¥40)
From Zhangjiajie to Fenghuang directly:
Train: Zhangjiajie West → Fenghuang Guchen (1 hour, ¥80)
From Furong to Fenghuang:
Train (recommended): Furongzhen → Fenghuang Guchen (40 minutes, ¥40)
From Fenghuang back to Zhangjiajie:
Train: Fenghuang Guchen → Zhangjiajie West (1 hour, ¥80)

🏞️ Furong — A Hidden Gem
Highlight: The only ancient town in China with a waterfall in its center! The 60-meter cascade creates an incredible atmosphere.
Recommended visit duration: 4-6 hours
Must-see attractions:
- Trail behind the waterfall — a unique experience
- Traditional Tujia houses with carved balconies
- Viewing platforms at different levels

🏛️ Fenghuang — The Romance of Ancient China
Highlight: Stilted houses along the Tuojiang River, especially stunning with nighttime lighting.
Recommended visit duration: At least 1 night for full immersion
Must-do activities:
- Evening river cruise (¥120, 1 hour) — the main highlight!
- Walk across the Rainbow Bridge at sunset

Where to stay:
- Premium: Wyndham Grand Plaza (¥600/night) — with hot springs
- Budget: Guesthouse in the ancient town (¥150/night)

💰 Optimal Budget (3 days/2 nights)
- Transportation: ¥160 (all train rides)
- Accommodation: ¥800 (2 nights in mid-range lodging)
- Tickets: ¥220 (Furong + river cruise)
- Food: ¥450 (¥150/day)
- Total: ~¥1630 (~$245 USD)

🚄 Alternative Routes
- Option 1 - Classic (through both towns): Zhangjiajie → Furong → Fenghuang → Zhangjiajie
- Option 2 - Direct to Fenghuang: Zhangjiajie → Fenghuang → Zhangjiajie (if short on time)
- Option 3 - Extended: Zhangjiajie → Furong → Fenghuang → other cities in Hunan

⏱️ Ideal Itinerary
Day 1: Zhangjiajie → Furong (morning) → Fenghuang (evening)
- 7:00 — Depart for Furong
- 8:00-14:00 — Explore Furong
- 16:00 — Travel to Fenghuang
- 19:00 — River cruise in Fenghuang

Day 2: Full day in Fenghuang
- Morning: Stroll through the ancient town
- Afternoon: Museums and temples
- Evening: Sunset photoshoot

Day 3: Fenghuang → Zhangjiajie (morning)

🎯 Tips from Experienced Travelers
- Weather: Autumn (September-November) is the best time. Avoid national holidays.