Don't miss out! How many of these hidden gems in Fenghuang Ancient Town do you know?

Fenghuang Ancient Town, one of the most beautiful towns in China, attracts countless tourists with its unique Xiangxi charm, Tuojiang River scenery, and Miao culture. While you mentioned "Fenghuang Guzheng," which might be a typo (it should be "Fenghuang Ancient Town"), if you are interested in guzheng culture, the traditional music atmosphere and folk performances in Fenghuang Ancient Town will also allow you to experience a rich artistic atmosphere. Here's a travel guide combining the characteristics of Fenghuang Ancient Town with a musical and cultural experience: --- ## **Fenghuang Ancient Town In-depth Travel Guide: Tuojiang River Poetry and Xiangxi Charm** ### **I. Overview of Fenghuang Ancient Town** Fenghuang Ancient Town is located in the Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Hunan Province, and is famous for Shen Congwen's novel *Border Town*. The ancient town is nestled between mountains and rivers, with the Tuojiang River flowing through it. Stilt houses line both banks, and bluestone roads crisscross, creating a poetic and picturesque scene. The ancient town not only has rich historical relics but also a strong Miao and Tujia culture, making it suitable for literature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and slow travelers. **Best Time to Travel** - **Spring (March-May)**: Misty rain and morning fog over the Tuojiang River, ideal for photography. - **Summer (June-August)**: Lively nights, with a vibrant bar street and bonfire party atmosphere. - **Autumn (September-November)**: Fewer tourists, crisp air, perfect for leisurely strolls. - **Winter (December-February)**: Occasional snow scenes, quiet and simple. --- ### **II. Must-See Attractions and Musical & Cultural Experiences** **1. Tuojiang River Scenic Belt (Boating, Stepping Stones, Wanming Pagoda)** - **Tuojiang River Boating**: Take a wupeng boat down the river and admire the stilt houses on both sides. The boatmen occasionally hum Xiangxi folk songs, adding to the charm. - **Stepping Stones**: Fifteen stone piers span the Tuojiang River, once the main access to the ancient town, now a popular photo spot. Best for photos in the early morning or evening. - **Wanming Pagoda**: Brilliantly lit at night, its reflection on the river surface is perfect for capturing ancient-style photos. **2. Hong Bridge Wind and Rain Pavilion** - A landmark building in Fenghuang Ancient Town. The bridge offers a panoramic view of the Tuojiang River. There's a teahouse on the second floor where you can enjoy tea while listening to folk artists play traditional instruments like the guzheng and erhu. **3. Shen Congwen's Former Residence & Xiong Xiling's Former Residence** - Shen Congwen's Former Residence displays the manuscripts of the literary master, perfect for literature enthusiasts. - Xiong Xiling's Former Residence showcases the life of the first democratically elected premier of the Republic of China. The architecture blends Chinese and Western styles. **4. Huilong Pavilion Stilt House Complex** - With a total length of 240 meters, it is the most ethnically characteristic building complex in Fenghuang. Some buildings feature Miao music performances, where you can enjoy traditional instruments like the lusheng and guzheng. **5. Nanhua Mountain Shenfeng Cultural Area** - Climb to the top for a panoramic view of Fenghuang. The mountain is quiet and serene, with occasional folk artists playing ancient tunes. Ideal for meditation and gathering musical inspiration. **6. Shanjiang Miao Village (Miao Music and Folklore)** - About 20 kilometers from the ancient town, experience traditional Miao performances such as the gate-blocking wine ceremony, drum dances, and lusheng dances. Some activities include guzheng and bamboo flute performances. --- ### **III. Special Experiences (Music and Folklore)** **1. *Border Town* Forest Live Performance** - Adapted from Shen Congwen's novel, it combines Xiangxi folk songs, dances, and instrumental music (including guzheng and lusheng). The performance takes place in a forest theater, combining lighting and natural scenery for a spectacular experience. **2. Miao Bonfire Party** - Held in Miao villages around the ancient town, enjoy performances such as "climbing the knife mountain" and "walking on fire," as well as Miao folk songs and duets. **3. Tuojiang River Night Tour & Bar Street** - The Tuojiang River is brilliantly lit at night. Some bars have folk singers. Order a glass of glutinous rice wine and listen to modern adaptations of folk songs played on guitar or guzheng. **4. Traditional Handicraft Experience** - The ancient town has batik, Miao embroidery, and silver jewelry workshops. Some shops offer displays and trial playing of traditional instruments like the guzheng and guqin. --- ### **IV. Food Recommendations** Fenghuang cuisine is mainly sour and spicy. Specialties include: - **Blood Cake Duck** (made with duck blood and glutinous rice, fragrant and delicious) - **Sour Soup Fish** (Miao specialty, sour and spicy, appetizing) - **Fenghuang Rice Noodles** (a must-try for breakfast) - **Ginger Candy & Wooden Hammer Pastry** (traditional handmade snacks) Recommended restaurants: Junzi Restaurant, Old Street Restaurant, Hongqiao Middle Road Food Street. --- ### **V. Accommodation Recommendations** - **Upstream Tuojiang River (Quiet)**: Suitable for those who prefer tranquility, such as "Fenghuang Yebuguisu Inn." - **Near Hong Bridge (Lively)**: Rich nightlife, such as "Lanjiangshe" and other riverside rooms. - **Outside the Ancient Town (Cost-effective)**: Such as "Tianxia Fenghuang Hotel," with complete facilities. --- ### **VI. Practical Tips** 1. **Transportation**: Take the high-speed train to Fenghuang Ancient Town Station, or fly to Tongren Fenghuang Airport and transfer (about 40 minutes). 2. **Tickets**: The ancient town is free, but some attractions require tickets (such as the Nine Scenic Spots combined ticket). 3. **Best Photo Spots**: Nanhua Bridge (panoramic view), Stepping Stones (portraits), Wanming Pagoda (night view). 4. **Avoid Tourist Traps**: Avoid being overcharged on Bar Street; ask about prices in advance. --- Fenghuang Ancient Town is not only a historical city but also a cultural town full of music and poetry. Whether it's boating on the Tuojiang River listening to boat songs, enjoying tea and music in the Hongqiao teahouse, or experiencing authentic folk songs and dances in a Miao village, you'll be immersed in the unique charm of Xiangxi. I hope this guide makes your trip even more perfect!