Fenghuang Ancient Town lies in the Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture of Hunan, with the Tuo River running through it; stilt houses on both banks, the Rainbow Bridge and the old city wall give it a classic western-Hunan look. The town has a long history and deep cultural roots, with sites such as Shen Congwen's former residence scattered among its lanes.
At night, lights reflect on the Tuo River and a boat ride is especially atmospheric. Nearby, Miao villages and the Southern Great Wall can round out a visit. It is fairly far from Changsha, so it pairs well with Zhangjiajie over roughly two days.
