Name: Fenghuang

Chinese name: 凤凰县

Province: Hunan

Status: District

Population: 350,195 inhabitants

Area: 1,751 km²

Fenghuang, literally the Phoenix city, is a captivating destination in the southwest of Hunan province. The Fenghuang district is divided into two parts: the new town and the old town, which draws all the attention.

History

The ancient city of Fenghuang may date back to the Spring and Autumn Period (770 BC – 476 BC).

The ancient city of Fenghuang as we know it today was constructed in the 43rd year of Emperor Kangxi's reign during the Qing dynasty (1704). The well-preserved ancient buildings perfectly reflect the architectural style of the Qing dynasty.

Its long history has given it over 300 cultural heritage sites to discover during your stay in Fenghuang.

Today

The new town of Fenghuang holds little appeal compared to the old town, which sits on either side of the Tuo River below. The two areas are connected by a succession of bridges.

The Phoenix city is a perfect example of what villages looked like before modernization began. Fenghuang will captivate you at first glance with its wooden stilt houses, city walls, and time-worn cobblestone streets. Despite massive tourism development, Fenghuang has managed to preserve its authentic charm and medieval atmosphere.

Primarily inhabited by the Miao people, you'll encounter women dressed in traditional costumes in the streets, or you can indulge in a well-spiced local specialty.

The best way to discover Fenghuang is to wander the alleyways and stop at the numerous stands or artisanal shops. Watch women washing clothes on the riverbanks, boats ferrying visitors on short cruises along the river, or craftsmen hand-making ginger candy.

On the south bank of the Tuo, take a leisurely stroll along the city walls up to the watchtowers and enjoy views of the rooftops and river stretching before you. Head down and let yourself be tempted by a small boat cruise, which offers an excellent panorama of the stilt houses.

Cross to the other bank via the wooden footbridge or by hopping across the stepping stones scattered from one side to the other.

The red wooden covered bridge stands proudly above the river and harbors numerous shops selling local goods.

During your visit, you can stop at several temples bearing witness to Fenghuang's past.

As night falls, neon lights illuminate the city, giving it an entirely different yet equally fascinating aspect. Professional photographers take advantage of the evening bustle to offer you traditional costumes for unique photographs.

About ten kilometers away, the Great Wall of the South, built by the Ming, allows you to find tranquility and enjoy magnificent views over the region's landscapes.

Climate

Fenghuang's weather is influenced by a subtropical monsoon climate. All four seasons are humid with considerable rainfall.

The average annual temperature is 16°C. July is the hottest month with an average of 29°C, while January, the coldest month, records an average temperature around 4°C.

The best time to visit Fenghuang is between March–June and September–November. The heat is less stifling and rain somewhat rarer. Still, remember to bring rain gear.

From Changsha's four bus stations, buses run regularly to Fenghuang. Allow approximately 8 hours of travel and expect winding roads toward the end of the journey.

Buses also connect Fenghuang from Zhangjiajie, Tongren, Huaihua, and Jishou.

Fenghuang has no railway lines or airport.

From the bus station to the old town, you can take a taxi or a tuk-tuk.

Since the old town is entirely pedestrian, everything is done on foot or by boat on the Tuo River.

What to do in Fenghuang?

• Appreciate the old town from the heights of the city walls and watchtowers.
• Stroll through the narrow cobblestone alleyways and stop at stands to taste local specialties.
• Cross the river via the red bridge.
• Visit the Great Wall of the South, built by the Ming.