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Fenghuang

Once a frontier town, Fenghuang (凤凰; Fènghuáng) marked the boundary between the Han civilisations of the central plains and the Miao (苗), Tujia (土家) and Dong (侗) minorities of the southwest mountains. Protective walls went up in the Ming dynasty, but despite the implications Fenghuang prospered as a centre of trade and cultural exchange. Its diverse residents built a breathtaking riverside settlement of winding alleys, temples and rickety stilt houses, which these days attract tourists by the bucketload. Do try to stay overnight – the town is bursting with accommodation options, and the sight of an illuminated Fenghuang at night is quite awesome.

Explore Fenghuang

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Top attractions

These are our favorite local haunts, touristy spots, and hidden gems throughout Fenghuang.

  • Bridge

    Hong Bridge

    In the style of the Dong minority’s Wind and Rain bridges, this attractive structure vaults the waters of the Tuo River and is illuminated at night. Like…

  • Bridge

    Stepping Stones

    Stones laid out for crossing the river. Not a great idea to cross them after too many glasses of the local strong stuff.

  • Historic Site

    Yang Family Ancestral Hall

    Built in 1836, this building's exterior (by the door) still has some faded slogans from the Cultural Revolution. There are two lovely black-and-white…

  • Historic Site

    Fenghuang City Wall

    Restored fragments of the city wall lie along the south bank of the Tuo River. Carvings of fish and mythical beasts adorn the eaves of the North Gate…

  • Historic Site

    Chongde Hall

    The town’s wealthiest resident, Pei Shoulu, has his personal collection of antiques on display in his former residence on Shijia Long. The collection of…

  • Historic Site

    Wanshou Temple

    Built in 1755, this assembly hall north of Wanming Pagoda served as the Jiangxi guildhall for almost 200 years. It now has dance performances every half…

  • Architecture

    Southern Great Wall

    The Ming dynasty defensive wall, 13km west of town, once stretched to Guizhou province. It's been largely rebuilt, though it does provide nice views of…

  • Park

    Nánhuá Shān

    Rising above the old town's eastern flank is this small hill, which affords views over town. A few modern buildings grace the park. Admission is not…

  • Village

    Huangsi Bridge Old Town

    A Tang dynasty military outpost, this village is well preserved and of interest to architecture buffs. Located 25km west of town, you'll need to take a…

  • Pagoda

    Wanming Pagoda

    This elegant and slim pagoda was built during the reign of Emperor Jiaqing. It cannot be climbed, but is gloriously illuminated at night and makes for…

  • Gate

    North Gate Tower

    Carvings of fish and mythical beasts adorn the eaves of the North Gate Tower, one of four original main gates. The town ticket office is located on the…

  • Taoist Temple

    Chaoyang Temple

    This small, one-time Taoist temple is now home to a silversmithing training centre.

  • Historic Site

    Former Home of Shen Congwen

    The famous modern novelist was born here in 1902. (His tomb is east of town.) His most famous novel – Border Town (边城) – is definitely worth a read.

  • Bridge

    Wooden Footbridge

    One way to get across the river. It's a bit narrow but just about wide enough for two people to pass going in opposite directions.

  • Gate

    West Gate

    The old city gate leading into Wenhua Sq from Sanwangge Lu is a robust and impressive chunk of architecture.

  • Temple

    Tianhou Temple

    Off Dongzheng Jie, this temple was once dedicated to the patron of seafarers. It's not open to the public.

  • Museum

    Gucheng Museum

    A survey of the old town’s history; sadly, most of the captions are in Chinese only.

  • Confucian Temple

    Confucian Temple

    This 18th-century walled temple is now a middle school and cannot be entered.

Top experiences

Whether it’s a guided tour of a historic landmark, private tasting of local delicacies, or an off-road adventure — explore the best experiences in Fenghuang.

  • Activities