This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Fenghuang.
Fenghuang (named after the mythological bird which is often associated with the Western phoenix), is a small county located in the Xiangxi Prefecture of the Hunan Province of China. Fenghuang is chiefly known for being an historic site, known for its authentic period structures, roadways, and architectural marvels, many of which date back from the early Ming to late Qing Dynasties of Imperial China. Built sometime during the early eighteenth century, Fenghuang is well known for its breathtaking setting, as it is situated against the backdrop of the Hunan Mountains, and is surrounded by a large body of jade-green water that flows from an inlet that originates from the mountains itself, making the place ideal (then and now) for human habitation. The chief inhabitants of the area since its inception were Miao and Tujia minorities, although later on, Fenghuang also came to be populated by a number of Han Chinese.
If you’re looking for the best place to shoot a short film or even simply to immerse yourself in history, Fenghuang is the place to be. As it is among the select few places chosen to be part of the Tentative List of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Fenghuang is a veritable museum of a city, complete with well-preserved period architecture from no fewer than two dynasties and a rich cultural history and population that proffers amazing art and cuisine.
If you even find yourself in Fenghuang, be sure to check out the Phoenix Ancient City Scenic Area, the Ancient Tower, the Hong Bridge, and the Southern China Great Wall (Zhongguo Nanfang Changcheng), as these are the four most popular sites that Fenghuang has. Of course, it is also home to a number of other historical sites, with the Zhunti Temple at Huilong Tower, the Huangsi Bridge west of Fenghuang proper, and the Shanjiang Miao Village -- these are true testaments to the rich historicity of the city. Here, you no longer need any museums or amusement parks, when you can immerse yourself in some seven hundred years or more of history. You won’t ever run out of wonderfully interesting places to visit while in Fenghuang!
Fenghuang does not lack for excellent places to grab some more-than-decent grub either. You are sure to find something to delight your palate. As with any popular tourist destination, it’s best to book your Fenghuang hostel reservations at least a few weeks in advance prior to visiting to ensure that you get the best accommodations possible.
Written by local enthusiast for Fenghuang hostels
Angelica Burrage