Overview
Established in 1704 during the Qing Dynasty, Fenghuang Ancient Town (凤凰古城) is a cultural treasure in Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Hunan. Named after the mythical phoenix, its 10-square-kilometer area blends Han, Miao, and Tujia heritage with dramatic landscapes. The town's 300-year-old stilted houses, stone streets, and ancient gates earned UNESCO recognition in 2008.
Architectural & Natural Highlights
- Diaojiaolou Stilted Houses: Over 120 wooden houses line the Tuojiang River, featuring Miao-style cantilevered balconies and intricate carvings.
- Tuojiang River: A 96.9-km lifeline for fishing and boat tours, framed by red-sandstone walls and the iconic Hongqiao (Rainbow Bridge).
- Ancient Gates: The East Gate (Wenchang Ge) and North Gate (Chaoyang Lou) retain Qing-era iron doors and watchtowers.
Cultural Heritage
- Ethnic Diversity: Home to Miao and Tujia minorities, the town hosts vibrant festivals like the Miao Silver Jewelry Parade and Tujia Hand-Waving Dance.
- Literary Legacy: Visit Shen Congwen's Former Residence, where the author penned The Border Town, depicting local life.
- Religious Sites: Explore Wanshou Palace (Taoist temple) and Tianwang Temple, adorned with Ming-Qing woodwork.
Key Attractions
- Huilong Pavilion: A cliffside cluster of Diaojiaolou houses with panoramic river views.
- Qiliang Cave: A karst cave with neon-lit stalactites and an underground river.
- Southern Great Wall: A 190-km Ming Dynasty fortification near the town.
- Night Market: Sample Xueba Duck (blood tofu stew) and Miao sour-spicy soups.
Visitor Experience
- Best Time: April–October for festivals and mild weather.
- Transport: Fly to Tongren Fenghuang Airport, then take a 1-hour bus.
- Tickets: ¥138 (includes entry to Shen Congwen’s home and boat rides).
Conservation & Recognition
Designated a National 4A Scenic Area, Fenghuang balances tourism with preservation, restoring flood-damaged sites like the 2014 Hongqiao Bridge collapse.
Quote: "Fenghuang is where time stops—a painting of cobbled lanes, singing boatmen, and silver-clad Miao women." — Rewi Alley.