Hunan Xiangxi Autonomous Prefecture

1.Fenghuang Ancient Town

Fenghuang Ancient Town is a mesmerizing gem that transports you back in time.Known as the "Phoenix Ancient Town," this 1,300-year-old riverside settlement is famed for its well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture,cobblestone streets,and rich ethnic culture.

Strolling along the Tuojiang River,you'll be enchanted by the iconic stilted houses,arched bridges,and misty mountains that have inspired poets and painters for centuries.Don't miss the chance to glide on a wooden boat under the Rainbow Bridge,where the reflection of traditional wooden dwellings shimmers on the water like a living ink painting.

As a cultural crossroads of the Tujia and Miao ethnic groups,Fenghuang offers vibrant traditions-from intricate silver jewelry and handwoven textiles to lively folk songs and dances.Be sure to explore the former residence of Shen Congwen,one of China's greatest writers,whose stories immortalized this town's charm.

When night falls,lanterns illuminate the alleys,turning Fenghuang into a dreamy wonderland.Savor local delights like ginger candy,blood duck,or a cup of fragrant Miao tea while soaking in the timeless atmosphere.

Fenghuang isn't just a destination;it's a poetic escape where history,nature,and culture blend seamlessly.

2.Dehang Miao Village

Dehang Miao Village is a hidden paradise where nature and ethnic culture unite in perfect harmony.Known as the "Hometown of Miao Customs," this enchanting village is surrounded by towering green mountains,cascading waterfalls,and terraced fields that seem to touch the sky.

As we walk through the village,you'll notice the traditional stilted wooden houses,where the warm-hearted Miao people still preserve their centuries-old way of life.The sound of lusheng (a reed-pipe wind instrument) and the sight of women in exquisite embroidered costumes dancing to folk songs will make you feel like you've stepped into a living museum of Miao traditions.

One of the highlights here is the awe-inspiring Liusha Waterfall,one of China's most beautiful waterfalls,plunging down from a height of over 200 meters.If you're up for adventure,we can hike along ancient trails,cross swaying rope bridges,and even witness thrilling Miao martial arts performances.

Don't leave without tasting authentic Miao cuisine-sour fish soup,sticky rice cakes,and homemade pickled vegetables are just a few of the mouthwatering dishes you'll find here.And if you're lucky,you might even be invited to join a lively long-table banquet,a grand feast filled with singing,toasting,and laughter.

Dehang isn't just a village;it's a doorway to the soul of the Miao people and the untouched beauty of Xiangxi.

3.Aizhai Suspension Bridge

Aizhai Suspension Bridge,Spanning the mighty Dehang Grand Canyon in Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture,this architectural wonder isn't just a bridge;it's a dance between human ingenuity and nature's grandeur.

At 1,176 meters long and 355 meters high,Aizhai Bridge holds the record as one of the highest and longest suspension bridges on the planet.But what makes it truly special?Imagine driving across a sky-high roadway suspended between misty peaks,with panoramic views of emerald-green valleys and cascading waterfalls below.It's like walking on a cloud highway!

This bridge isn't just about stunning views-it's a lifeline for the local Tujia and Miao communities,cutting travel time through the rugged Wuling Mountains from hours to minutes.Before its construction,villagers had to navigate treacherous mountain paths;now,they cross the canyon in just seconds!

For thrill-seekers,the bridge offers a glass walkway where you can look straight down into the dizzying depths of the canyon.And if you're lucky enough to visit on a misty morning,you might see the bridge floating above the clouds like a scene from a fantasy movie.

Aizhai Bridge is more than steel and concrete-it's a symbol of progress,adventure,and harmony between mankind and nature.

4.Furong Ancient Town

Furong Ancient Town,one of China's most dramatically beautiful ancient towns!Perched spectacularly on a sheer cliffside in Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture,this 2,000-year-old gem is where history,ethnic culture,and nature collide in the most breathtaking way.

The moment you enter,you'll hear the thunderous roar of the mighty waterfall that cascades right through the heart of town!This isn't just any waterfall-it's the stunning 60-meter-wide Furong Waterfall,creating a magical scene where traditional Tujia stilted houses appear to float above the misty spray.At night,when the lights illuminate the tumbling waters,it transforms into a dazzling golden curtain you'll never forget!

Wander through cobbled alleys lined with Ming and Qing dynasty architecture,where the scent of spicy Tujia cuisine fills the air.Don't miss tasting the town's famous "Rice Noodles with Sour Soup" or the mouthwatering Tujia Sticky Rice Cakes sold by friendly locals in colorful traditional dress.

This town gained fame as the filming location for the classic movie "Furong Town",and you'll feel its cinematic charm everywhere-from the ancient opium merchant's mansion to the cliffside teahouses where you can sip tea while watching boats drift down the You River.

Furong Town isn't just a place to visit-it's an immersive journey through time,where every waterfall splash tells a story and every lantern-lit street whispers ancient secrets.

5.Laosicheng

Laosicheng is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers a fascinating glimpse into the ancient Tusi system of China.This remarkable ruins was once the political,economic,and cultural center of the Tujia people,ruled by the powerful Peng clan for over 800 years during the Yuan,Ming,and Qing dynasties.

As you explore,you'll discover well-preserved relics,including grand palace foundations,sacred temples,ancient tombs,and intricate stone carvings.The site's strategic layout-blending military defense,ethnic traditions,and natural harmony-reflects the wisdom of the Tusi chieftains.Don't miss the Sacred Path,where history seems to whisper under your feet!

Beyond its historical significance,Laosicheng captivates with its stunning scenery.Surrounded by terraced fields and winding rivers,it's a perfect blend of human heritage and nature's beauty.

6.Wulong Mountain Grand Canyon

Wulong Mountain Grand Canyon is a breathtaking natural wonder that will leave you in awe.Known for its towering cliffs,lush forests,and mysterious caves,this hidden gem is a paradise for adventurers and nature lovers alike.

As we explore,you'll be amazed by the canyon's dramatic landscapes-sheer rock walls,cascading waterfalls,and emerald-green rivers winding through the valley.The area is also famous for its karst caves,including the magnificent Feihu Cave (Flying Tiger Cave),one of Asia's largest underground caverns,filled with stunning stalactites and stalagmites.

Beyond its natural beauty,Wulong Mountain is steeped in Tujia and Miao culture.You might encounter local villagers in traditional dress or hear ancient folk songs echoing through the mountains.Don't forget to try some authentic Xiangxi cuisine-spicy,flavorful,and full of local charm!

Whether you're hiking along scenic trails,exploring mystical caves,or simply soaking in the serene atmosphere,Wulong Mountain Grand Canyon promises an unforgettable adventure.

7.Southern Great Wall

Southern Great Wall (Nanfang Changcheng) is a fascinating historical treasure often overshadowed by its northern counterpart.Built during the Ming Dynasty (1554-1622),this 190-kilometer-long fortress was designed to guard the empire's frontiers and suppress rebellions among the local Miao ethnic groups.

As we walk along these ancient stone walls,you'll notice how they wind through rugged hills,watchtowers,and fortified gates,blending seamlessly with the dramatic landscape.Unlike the Great Wall in northern China,this structure was not meant to fend off foreign invaders but to control trade and maintain order in a culturally diverse region.

Beyond its military significance,the Southern Great Wall tells a story of cultural exchange and conflict between the Han Chinese and the Miao people.Today,it stands as a symbol of resilience and harmony,surrounded by picturesque terraced fields and traditional Miao villages.

For the best experience,climb up to one of the watchtowers-the panoramic views of the rolling green hills and distant villages are simply unforgettable!

8.Miao People's Valley

Miao People's Valley is a hidden paradise where nature's beauty and ethnic culture blend in perfect harmony.This breathtaking valley,often called the "Hometown of Miao Fairies," offers a rare glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of the Miao ethnic group,untouched by modern hustle and bustle.

As we enter the valley,you'll be greeted by towering cliffs,cascading waterfalls,and emerald-green pools that seem straight out of a painting.The real magic,however,lies in the ancient Miao villages perched on the mountainsides,where time seems to stand still.Here,you can admire stilted wooden houses,intricate silver ornaments,and vibrant hand-embroidered costumes that have been passed down for generations.

Don't miss the chance to witness the Miao people's lively customs-perhaps a spirited lusheng (bamboo flute) performance,a traditional wedding ceremony,or even a thrilling pole-climbing contest!And of course,no visit is complete without savoring Miao delicacies like sour fish soup,sticky rice cakes,and homemade rice wine.

Whether you're hiking through the lush landscapes,crossing swaying rope bridges,or simply soaking in the serene atmosphere,the Miao People's Valley promises an unforgettable journey into China's rich cultural heritage.

9.Aizhai Scenic Area

Aizhai Scenic Area,one of Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture's most spectacular natural wonders!This breathtaking destination combines engineering marvels,dramatic landscapes,and rich ethnic culture into an unforgettable experience.

Our journey begins with the world-famous Aizhai Suspension Bridge,an engineering masterpiece stretching 1,176 meters across the Dehang Grand Canyon.As we walk across this dizzying height,you'll feel like you're floating above clouds with panoramic views of emerald mountains and winding rivers below.Don't worry-it's completely safe,though your knees might tremble at the sheer magnificence!

Next,we'll explore the historic Aizhai Highway,an incredible mountain road with 13 sharp hairpin turns built in 1936.This "Road in the Sky" clings to sheer cliffs,showing the ingenuity of Chinese engineers.Local drivers navigate these curves with amazing skill-you'll understand why it's called the "Eighteen Bends Road"!

The area's natural beauty shines in Dehang Miao Village,where traditional stilt houses dot the landscape.Here,we'll experience authentic Miao culture-from their magnificent silver headdresses to lively lusheng flute performances.Time seems to stand still as we watch artisans create beautiful batik textiles using ancient techniques.

For adventure seekers,we'll hike through fantastic karst formations and maybe even spot rare wildlife.The area's waterfalls and caves add to its mystical charm-legend says some caves lead to underground Miao kingdoms!

As the sun sets,painting the canyon walls gold,you'll understand why Aizhai is considered one of China's most awe-inspiring destinations.

10.Xiong Xiling

Xiong Xiling is a visionary scholar,reformist,and the first Prime Minister of the Republic of China.His legacy as an educator and philanthropist still resonates today,and this house is where his remarkable journey began.

As we enter,you'll immediately feel the charm of traditional Western Hunan architecture-the carved wooden beams,gray-tiled roofs,and tranquil courtyards reflect the elegance of late Qing Dynasty design.Notice how the layout balances private living spaces with scholarly halls,showing Xiong's dual role as a family man and a national leader.

Inside,you'll find fascinating exhibits,including Xiong's personal letters,calligraphy,and historical photos,offering a glimpse into his intellectual world.Pay special attention to his study-it was here that he developed his progressive ideas on education and social reform.The family ancestral hall and reception rooms also reveal the lifestyle of a prominent 19th-century Chinese intellectual.

Take a moment in the serene backyard garden,where Xiong once sought inspiration.The blend of nature and history here is simply magical!