Fenghuang Ancient Town (凤凰古城) is a charming riverside town in Hunan known for its traditional wooden stilt houses, ancient stone bridges, and glowing red lanterns at night. Often called “Phoenix Town,” Fenghuang beautifully preserves its centuries-old architecture and strong ethnic heritage, especially from the Miao and Tujia communities. Walking through its cobblestone streets feels like stepping back in time.
For travelers, Fenghuang offers a peaceful and romantic atmosphere that contrasts with the dramatic mountain scenery of nearby Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. It’s the perfect place to slow down, enjoy riverside views, take stunning photos, and experience traditional local culture in a relaxed setting.
Where is Fenghuang Ancient Town Located?
Fenghuang Ancient Town (凤凰古城) or Phoenix Ancient Town, though often associated with Zhangjiajie due to its proximity, is actually located in western Hunan Province, in Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture. It’s about a 2 hour away from Zhangjiajie by train, making it a popular side trip for travelers visiting the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park.
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How to Visit Fenghuang Ancient Town from Zhangjiajie
Start at Zhangjiajie West Station
Head to Zhangjiajie West Station to catch your train.Take the High-Speed Rail (HSR)
– Board the HSR to Fenghuang Station.
– Travel Time: Approximately 51 minutes.
– Cost: Starting from RMB 100 per person.Arrive at Fenghuang Station
Once you arrive at Fenghuang Station, follow the signs to the Maglev (magnetic levitation) MRT .Board the Maglev MRT
– The MRT will take you directly to Phoenix Ancient Town.
– MRT Stop: Fenghuang Lansheng Station.
– Cost: RMB 15 per person.
What to Do in Fenghuang Ancient Town
Once you arrive in Phoenix Ancient Town, there are plenty of activities to enjoy:
- Dress Up in Ancient Costumes: Capture memorable photos in traditional clothing that reflects the town’s rich history.
- Savor Hunan Cuisine: Indulge in the delicious local dishes that Hunan is famous for.
- Enjoy Scenic Views: Take a leisurely stroll along the riverside and admire the beautiful architecture and landscapes.
- Watch a Dance Show: Don’t miss the mesmerizing dance performances that take place in the middle of the river.
- Take a Boat Ride: Experience the town from the water with a relaxing boat ride on the river.
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When to Visit Fenghuang Ancient Town
Best Time:
The ideal time to visit is from March to November, when the weather is generally comfortable and suitable for sightseeing. Spring (March–May) brings mild temperatures and blooming scenery, while autumn (September–November) offers cooler air, clear skies, and vibrant colors — making it perfect for walking around and photography. Summer is also lively, though it can be warmer and more humid.
Avoid:
Try to avoid major Chinese national holidays, especially Golden Week (early October). During this period, domestic tourism peaks, hotels sell out quickly, ticket prices increase, and popular attractions become extremely crowded. Traveling outside peak holiday periods will give you a much more relaxed and enjoyable experience.
Before Visiting Fenghuang Ancient Town
Pro Tip:
To make the most of your visit, consider arriving in the late afternoon. You can spend your time enjoying local street food, relaxing at a riverside café, or strolling through the old town while waiting for sunset. Make sure to stay until at least 6 PM, as the atmosphere begins to transform and the town slowly lights up.
Arriving after 5 PM also allows you to catch the beautiful golden hour before the lanterns glow around 7 PM. Once night falls, the reflections on the river and illuminated wooden houses create a truly magical scene — perfect for photography and soaking in the vibrant evening atmosphere.
Where to Stay at Fenghuang Ancient Town
- Atour Hotel Hongqiao Fenghuang Ancient City
A China flagship hotel and one of the largest local hotel chains in China, located near Fenghuang Ancient Town. It offers modern facilities and a comfortable stay for travelers. - Fenghuang Jinshuian River View Hotel
A riverside hotel with beautiful views of the Fenghuang River directly from your room window, perfect for enjoying the scenic atmosphere. - Floral Hotel Fengyu Chenxi Hotel
Located inside Fenghuang Ancient Town, this hotel offers easy access to attractions, restaurants, and the river, making it a convenient choice for visitors.
Tour Recommendation Around Fenghuang
- 1-day tour of Fenghuang Ancient Town
This full-day tour takes you through the charming streets of Fenghuang Ancient Town, where you can explore traditional wooden stilt houses, ancient bridges, and vibrant local markets. Enjoy riverside views, cultural heritage sites, and the magical atmosphere that makes this town one of the most beautiful in Hunan.
- Fenghuang Ancient Town and Furong Old Town Tour
This tour combines two picturesque ancient towns in one trip. Discover the historic charm and riverside beauty of Fenghuang, then continue to Furong Old Town, famous for its stunning waterfall flowing through the village. It’s a perfect experience for travelers who want culture, scenery, and unique photo spots in one day.
Watch our Fenghuang Ancient Town vlog!
Explore More Hidden Gems in China
If you’re planning a longer trip, check out our other China travel blogs featuring Zhangjiajie, Shanghai, and Guangzhou — each offering its own unique blend of nature and culture.
For detailed routes and insider travel tips, download our China Travel eBook, which includes itineraries, hidden attractions, and local experiences curated from our own journeys.
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