Fenghuang, Hunan province

Fenghuang Ancient Town, aka Phoenix Ancient Town and Feng Huang Gu Cheng in Chinese, is situated on the western boundary of Hunan Province in an area of outstanding natural beauty where mountains, water, and blue skies prevail. Fenghuang Ancient Town has a legend that two of these fabulous birds flew over it and found the Fenghuang Town so beautiful that they hovered there, reluctant to leave.

Upon arrival, visitors will be impressed by its air of mystery, elegance, and primitive simplicity. The scenic spots inside the Fenghuang Old Town remain attractive the whole year, but the best time to visit is July to September when the weather is rather pleasant. It is a world that is dominated by the color green. The green foliage cover mountain slopes, fields, and even the Tuo Jiang River reflects the greenery. The bridges over the water and unique houses built on stilts display a harmony often portrayed in traditional Chinese paintings. It is particularly true when mist pervades the scene in the early morning or after rain.

Fenghuang Ancient Town is a beautiful village, where dozens of alleys paved with flagstones run between the houses, each showing wear caused by the feet of generations of local people who have used them when going about their daily business. For the visitor, these alleys are the way to see the typical high gabled wooden houses built on stilts along the banks of the Tuo Jiang River at close quarters. You can hike up to the Southern Great Wall and enjoy the striking views of the rice terraces. Fenghuang has a bustling feel, and there are plenty of street vendors who sell local foods at great prices (make sure you try the Ginger Candy).