Xiangxi Isn’t Just Fenghuang! A 2-Day Hidden Gem Itinerary
by Fly with Jess
Apr 16, 2025
Dehang Miao Village is located in Dehang Village, Aizhai Town, Jishou City, Xiangxi Prefecture, Hunan Province. In the Miao language, "deut hangd" means "beautiful valley."
Situated at the heart of the Dehang Scenic Area, the Miao Village is built against the mountains, surrounded by countless waterfalls. The traditional houses feature upturned eaves, partially concealed structures, fireproof walls, stilted buildings, and carved windows, all showcasing unique shapes, distinctive styles, and vibrant colors, exuding an atmosphere of ancient heritage.
The architecture of the Miao Village is uniquely charming, with houses built in a staggered layout along the mountainside, complementing the surrounding green hills and clear waters, forming a picturesque rural scene that is incredibly beautiful.
Xiangxi is truly more than just Fenghuang Ancient Town. This time, we chose the lesser-known Dehang Grand Canyon. Here’s a 2-day travel guide for you.
Transportation
You can first take a ✈️ or 🚄 to Changsha, then take a 🚄 from Changsha to Jishou (2.5 hours). From there, hire a car or rent one to reach the scenic area.
Itinerary
Day 1: Qianzhou Ancient Town - Qianzhou Ancient Town streets - Sanmenkai City Tower - Wanrongjiang Dock - Take a boat ride - Nightless City
Day 2: Aizhai Cliff Walkway - Aizhai Bridge - Wentian Platform - Dehang Grand Canyon
Ticket prices are a bit complicated, so pay attention:
Aizhai Wonder Scenic Area is divided into Dehang Canyon Scenic Area, Jidou Miao Village Scenic Area, and Aizhai Bridge Scenic Area (which includes the Cliff Walkway and Aizhai Bridge sightseeing). ⚠️ The paragliding 🪂 at Aizhai Bridge is an additional fee.
🎫 Combo ticket: 💰265 (available online)
Aizhai Bridge combo ticket: 180 (includes Aizhai Bridge, Jidou Miao Village, and Wentian Platform)
Dehang Canyon ticket: 80 yuan
What to do?
✅ Qianzhou Ancient Town
🎫 Free
On the first day, you can stay overnight in Jishou city and visit the night view of Qianzhou Ancient Town. Then, take a boat 🚢 to Xiangxi Nightless City (boat ticket: 39/person). Enjoy the night lights and performances up close. The night scenery is magnificent, and Nightless City also has a food street and performances, making it lively and vibrant.
✅ Aizhai Bridge
A bridge marvel with four world records. Walk along the cliff walkway to the viewing platform, or walk beneath the bridge to overlook Dehang Grand Canyon.
✅ Wentian Platform
This is the place described in the poem "Heavenly Questions" by Qu Yuan, a poet of the Chu State. Surrounded by cliffs on three sides, with towering peaks and rock pillars, you can overlook Yuquan Stream below. It’s breathtaking, especially on rainy days when you can see misty clouds. Aerial photography here is spectacular. It’s also a place where the Miao people pray and hold ceremonies, and it’s the only Chinese filming location for "Wonder Woman."
👉 Accommodation: We stayed at the Jishou Xiangxi Sunshine International Hotel in Jishou city. The environment and dining were quite good.
👉 Dining:
- Furongli Changsha Cuisine Restaurant (Shengshi Haoting Branch) in Jishou city
- Aizhai Bridge Viewing Farmhouse Firewood Restaurant
The Hunan cuisine is truly delicious, with a slightly stronger flavor. Must-try dishes include farmhouse stir-fried pork, Xiangxi cured meat, and rice flower fish 🐟.
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Post by Foster_61~Oliver | Jun 29, 2025















