"Phoenix Ancient Town Travel Guide: Immersive Experience of Western Hunan Culture"

Here's a comprehensive travel guide to Phoenix Ancient Town in Western Hunan: Pre-Trip Preparation - Documents: Bring ID card, student ID, senior citizen card, etc. for ticket discounts and identity verification. - Clothing: Pack long-sleeved jackets for spring/autumn; lightweight breathable clothes, sun-protective clothing, and hats for summer; down jackets, scarves, and gloves for winter. - Other items: Daily necessities like skincare/cosmetic products, toiletries, plus umbrella/raincoat, sunglasses, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and common medicines. Transportation Guide - High-speed rail: Take train to Phoenix Ancient Town Station, then transfer to Line 1 shuttle bus to Qifeng Square or choose maglev train. - Flight: Arrive at Tongren Fenghuang Airport, take bus to Fenghuang North then taxi to ancient town. - Bus: Direct coaches available from nearby cities like Zhangjiajie and Jishou. - Self-drive: Navigate to Phoenix Ancient Town with parking options like Hongqiao Underground Parking. Accommodation Recommendations - Riverside B&Bs: Qinghua Pavilion, Sushe between Hongqiao Bridge and Wanming Pagoda with Tuo River views. - Downtown Inns: Phoenix Imprint Boutique Inn, Laoyingshao Inn in Dongzheng Street/Cross Street area for convenience. - Artistic Hostels: Yunyin B&B in Nanhuali Cultural Zone, Qingke Hostel in Huilongge with bohemian vibe. - Luxury Hotels: Phoenix International Hotel, Fengqi Mountain Villa with premium facilities. Must-Visit Attractions - Core Nine Scenic Spots: Includes Shen Congwen's Former Residence, Xiong Xiling's Former Residence, Yang Family Ancestral Hall, East Gate Tower, Tuo River Boat Ride, Wanshou Palace, Chongde Hall, Chen Baozhen's Old Residence, and Hongqiao Wind-Rain Bridge - available as combo ticket. - Tuo River Cruise: The town's mother river offers daytime views of ancient architecture and emerald waters, and dazzling nightscapes. - Tuo River Stepping Stones: Iconic photo spot - exercise caution when crossing. - Nanhua Mountain National Forest Park: Hike for panoramic town views through lush forests and scenic trails. - Qiliang Cave: Mysterious karst landscape with stunning stalactites and the unique Yin-Yang River underground wonder. Culinary Exploration - Local Dishes: Blood Cake Duck (regional specialty); Sour Fish Soup (Miao favorite); Smoked Bacon (rich wood-fired flavor). - Street Food: She Rice, Pounded Tea, Tung Leaf Cakes, Rice Tofu, plus must-try shrimp pancakes, ginger candy, and Que Cakes. Itinerary Suggestions Day 1: Start at Nanhua Bridge → Tuo River Stepping Stones → North Gate Pier. Afternoon visits to core attractions. Evening photography at Hongqiao Bridge and night cruise with folk songs. Day 2: Morning hike at Nanhua Mountain. Afternoon trip to Qiliang Cave. Night market exploration. Day 3: Miao Village experience with welcome wine ceremony, Miao King Cave visit, and long-table banquet. Afternoon souvenir shopping at Cuicui Street.