One of China’s most beautiful towns, Fengshuang is a sublimely well-preserved city with ancient roots going back thousands of years to the Qin Dynasty. Found in Hunan Province, this is also an excellent place to learn about the Tujia and Miao minority cultures.
Fenghuang is divided into new and old towns, the latter being of equal interest to domestic and international tourists. The town dates to the 8th century BC and is currently being considered by UNESCO as a World Heritage site candidate. Much of the architecture is truly ancient and badly in need of repair, and it’s expected that UNESCO status would prompt more investment in this area.
Rowboats ply the waterways and carry tourists into the surrounding countryside where stilted houses are poised over the riverbanks. Among the historic sections of town is the former house of Shen Congwen, a famous Chinese writer. Other sites include the Longevity Palace, Huang Si Qiao Castle and the Southern Great Wall.
Getting There & Away
Jishou is the local transport hub with regular connections to Fenghuang. Buses depart on a regular basis and take an hour to connect. Huaihua is a secondary launching point and can be reached by bus in 2 hours. Jishou sits on a prominent railway with trains regularly departing for Chansha (8 hours) where there’s an international airport.
Things to Do
Fenghuang Attractions
- Shen Congwen’s House
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The famous author lived here just over 100 years ago, and his residence is now one of the town’s most cherished attractions.
- Longevity Palace
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Beyond the east city gate, this opulent palace was built in the 18th century, and its more than 20 rooms now house the fenghuang folk custom museum.
Side trips from Fenghuang
- Huang Si Qiao Castle
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About 15 miles outside of town, this castle was built in the 7th century and is one of the region’s many popular attractions.
- Southern Great Wall
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Built to suppress the miao ethnic minority, the southern great wall stretches well over 100 miles and passes squarely through fengshuan county.