The Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture is located in the northwestern part of Hunan Province, China. This region is known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes, including numerous caves, canyons, and waterfalls. The area spans 15,500 square kilometers and is predominantly inhabited by people from the Tujia and Miao ethnic groups, who constitute 72% of its population.
Xiangxi boasts profound cultural and historical significance with many places of historic and cultural interest, such as the ancient Liye town and Fenghuang Ancient Town. It also hosts a wide array of traditional ethnic customs and intangible cultural heritage, including singing, dancing, and embroidery unique to the Miao and Tujia peoples.
Economically, Xiangxi is largely agricultural, although there has been significant infrastructural development in recent years, such as the Zhangjihuai High-speed Railway, which boosts tourism by connecting the region to major scenic and cultural sites. Despite its development, Xiangxi remains one of the poorer areas in China, emphasizing the ongoing focus on poverty alleviation within the region.
Internationally, Xiangxi maintains friendship city relationships with several cities, including Chinon in France and Sestroretsk in Russia, further showcasing its cultural and cooperative ties on a global scale.
1. Fenghuang Ancient Town
Description
Fenghuang Ancient Town, also known as Phoenix Town, is a well-preserved ancient town that spans over 300 years. It is renowned for its unique blend of natural beauty and traditional Chinese architecture. The town is nestled next to the Tuojiang River, featuring varied wooden houses built on stilts along the riverbanks. Fenghuang’s picturesque scenery, along with its historical bridges, ancient city walls, and traditional Miao culture, attracts numerous visitors every year.
Highlight
- Historical Sights: Explore ancient city walls and gates, traditional Miao stilted houses, and vibrant markets.
- Cultural Experience: Engage with local Miao and Tujia minority cultures, witnessing their traditional attire, crafts, and performances.
Useful Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) for mild weather.
- Local Cuisine: Try local delicacies such as ginger candy, blood glutinous rice, and various Tujia dishes.
How to Get There
- From Zhangjiajie: Take a bus from Zhangjiajie Central Bus Station (approximately 4 hours).
- From Jishou: Buses are available from Jishou Long-distance Bus Station, taking around 1.5 hours.
2. Furong Town
Description
Also known as Hibiscus Town, Furong Town is famous for its scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage. The town is highlighted by a striking waterfall that cascades down from the red cliffs into the You River, creating a stunning backdrop against the ancient village. The traditional Tujia architecture, including the well-preserved stilt houses, adds to the town’s charm. Furong Town has also served as a filming location for several Chinese movies, which has added to its popularity.
Highlight
- Waterfall: The majestic Furong Waterfall, which is especially spectacular during the rainy season.
- Cultural Sights: Experience Tujia culture through traditional performances, local crafts, and a visit to the Tujia Folk Museum.
Useful Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Summer and early autumn when the waterfall is most impressive.
- Accommodation: Opt for local guesthouses to get an authentic experience and support local businesses.
How to Get There
- From Jishou: Take a bus from Jishou Long-distance Bus Station (approximately 2 hours).
- From Fenghuang: There are direct buses available from Fenghuang Bus Station.
3. Tuo River
Description
The Tuo River runs through Fenghuang Ancient Town, adding to the town’s scenic charm. It is not only an important transportation route but also a cultural hotspot. The river offers a tranquil environment where you can take a leisurely boat ride, witnessing the traditional stilt houses and stone bridges that line its banks. The waterway is also a focal point for various festivals and activities, making it a dynamic part of both daily life and tourist experiences in the town.
Highlight
- Boat Rides: Enjoy a peaceful boat ride, offering stunning views of the ancient town and its stilt houses.
- Cultural Experience: Participate in local festivals that often feature performances on the river.
Useful Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
- Photography: Bring a camera to capture the picturesque scenery, especially during sunrise or sunset.
How to Get There
- From Fenghuang: The Tuo River flows directly through Fenghuang Ancient Town, making it easily accessible on foot.
4. Dehang Miao Village
Description
Dehang Miao Village is a picturesque village that showcases the unique culture and lifestyle of the Miao ethnic group. Surrounded by beautiful karst mountains and lush greenery, the village offers a serene escape into nature. Traditional Miao wooden houses, ancient customs, and vibrant festivals make Dehang a culturally enriching destination. Visitors can also explore the nearby Dehang Canyon, which is known for its breathtaking waterfalls and hiking trails.
Highlight
- Cultural Experience: Immerse yourself in Miao traditions, including their distinctive music, dance, and crafts.
- Natural Beauty: Explore Dehang Canyon for its stunning waterfalls and scenic hiking paths.
Useful Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for pleasant weather and vibrant festivals.
- Local Crafts: Purchase handmade Miao textiles and silver jewelry as souvenirs.
How to Get There
- From Jishou: Buses to Dehang Miao Village are available from Jishou Long-distance Bus Station (approximately 1 hour).
5. Southern Great Wall
Description
The Southern Great Wall, or the Miaojiang Great Wall, is a historic fortification built during the Ming Dynasty to protect against invasions by ethnic minorities. Stretching across the mountains in western Hunan, this structure offers a unique perspective on Chinese history outside the more famous Great Wall. The wall is now a scenic hiking trail, providing panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and an opportunity to explore various watchtowers and gates along the route.
Highlight
- Historical Architecture: Walk along the ancient wall and explore its well-preserved watchtowers and gates.
- Scenic Views: Enjoy stunning views of the rural landscapes and mountains.
Useful Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for comfortable hiking conditions.
- Hiking Gear: Wear sturdy walking shoes and bring water and snacks for the hike.
How to Get There
- From Fenghuang: Take a taxi or join a local tour from Fenghuang to the wall’s entrance, which is about an hour’s drive.
6. Mengdong River
Description
Mengdong River, also known as the “Mist River,” is famous for its pristine waters and dramatic river gorge. The river is a popular spot for white-water rafting, offering thrilling rapids and stunning natural scenery. The surrounding area is rich in biodiversity, with dense forests and diverse wildlife. Mengdong River also holds cultural significance for the Tujia people, and visitors can experience traditional Tujia lifestyle and customs in the nearby villages.
Highlight
- White-Water Rafting: Experience the excitement of navigating the river’s rapids.
- Natural Scenery: Enjoy the lush forests and unique rock formations along the river.
Useful Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Summer when the river is at its fullest for the best rafting experience.
- Safety: Follow all safety instructions provided by the rafting guides.
How to Get There
- From Zhangjiajie: Take a bus or hire a car from Zhangjiajie to Mengdong River (approximately 3 hours).
7. Qiliang Cave
Description
Qiliang Cave is one of the largest and most impressive karst caves in Xiangxi Prefecture. The cave features a series of stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and underground rivers. Inside, visitors can marvel at the vast chambers and intricate rock formations that have been naturally sculpted over millions of years. Qiliang Cave is also equipped with pathways and lighting, making it accessible for visitors of all ages.
Highlight
- Cave Formations: Explore the breathtaking stalactites, stalagmites, and other limestone formations inside the cave.
- Underground River: Witness the subterranean river that flows through the cave, adding to its mystical ambiance.
Useful Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round, as the cave maintains a consistent temperature.
- Footwear: Wear comfortable walking shoes with good grip for navigating the cave.
How to Get There
- From Jishou: Buses or taxis are available from Jishou to Qiliang Cave (approximately 1 hour).
8. Shibadong Village(十八洞村)
Description
Shibadong Village, known for its picturesque setting and significant role in China’s poverty alleviation program, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The village is surrounded by mountains and lush greenery, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers. Shibadong is inhabited by the Miao ethnic group, who have preserved their traditional way of life, including distinctive clothing, music, and festivals. The village has gained fame as a model for rural development and sustainable tourism.
Highlight
- Cultural Heritage: Experience the Miao people’s traditional lifestyle, including their unique crafts and agricultural practices.
- Scenic Beauty: Enjoy the serene environment and beautiful landscape surrounding the village.
Useful Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for mild weather and vibrant local festivals.
- Local Markets: Visit local markets to buy handmade Miao crafts and taste traditional food.
How to Get There
- From Jishou: Take a bus or hire a car from Jishou to Shibadong Village (approximately 2 hours).
9. Mo Rong Miao village(墨戎苗寨)
Morong Miao Village is a place rich with traditional Miao folk customs, often referred to as the “Little Thousand Households” of Xiangxi. Located in Morong Township, Guzhang County, within the Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture of Hunan Province, the village offers a unique and immersive cultural experience for visitors.
Highlight
- Historical Significance: Exploring General Yang Zhan’ao’s former residence provides a profound sense of the Miao people’s patriotism and national pride. .
- Vibrant Performances: The “Four Square Flower Drum,” which has been performed at significant events like the Olympic Convention and Exhibition, is an example of the village’s vibrant cultural expressions.
- Cultural Heritage: The craftsmanship of Miao handmade silver jewelry is particularly noteworthy, showcasing intricate designs that reflect generations of artisanal skill.
Useful Tips
- Address: Beside 229 Provincial Highway, Morong Town, Guzhang County, Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture.
- Opening Hours: 08:00-18:00
- Entrance Fee: CNY 3
- Best Time to Visit: Early summer is ideal for appreciating the village’s beautiful scenery and experiencing its cultural charm when many tourists visit.
How to Get There
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From Jishou City:
- Take a bus from Jishou City, approximately a 20-minute journey.
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From Zhangjiajie City:
- The village is about 140 km away from Zhangjiajie City, so plan accordingly for a longer travel time.
10. Red Stone Forest National Geopark
The Red Stone Forest National Geopark, also known as Hongshilin, is a spectacular karst landform located in Guzhang County, within the Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture in Hunan Province, China. Covering an area of approximately 20 square kilometers, this geopark is famed for its unique red carbonate rock formations that have been shaped over millions of years. These formations, once submerged under the sea, were eventually raised about 1000 meters above sea level due to tectonic activities.
Walking into the park feels like stepping into a dreamlike world filled with towering red stone columns, cliffs, and peaks. You will find ancient wisteria flowers entwined with the stone forests, creating a vivid contrast of colors. The park also features canyons, streams, clear springs, and vast lawns that resemble woven carpets. The crimson peaks rise like humps, resembling galloping horses, and various fascinating geological formations such as flying stones and natural bridges.
The park is not just a visual feast; it also holds significant geological and paleontological value. Fossils of ancient animals, including the notable “Chinese Corner Stone,” can be found throughout the area, offering insights into earth’s stratigraphic history from the Ordovician Period (500 million to 425 million years ago).
Highlights
- Unique Red Carbonate Rock Formations: These stunning rock formations change color with the weather, ranging from black to red.
- Geological and Paleontological Significance: The park houses ancient fossils and formations that are crucial for studying the geological history.
- Natural Beauty: The park includes picturesque canyons, streams, and lush lawns, providing a perfect setting for nature lovers.
Useful Tips
- Opening Hours: The park is open year-round from 08:00 to 18:00.
- Suggested Visit Duration: Plan to spend 2-3 hours exploring the park to fully appreciate its beauty and geological features.
- Accommodation: Consider staying at nearby accommodations such as Erzhuo Valley in Furong Town or Xiyun Time Inn for a comfortable visit.
- Admission: The entrance fee is CNY 168.
How to Get There
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Mengdonghe Railway Station, which is about 26 kilometers from the park.
- By Air: The closest airport is Zhangjiajie Hehua Airport, 82 kilometers away from the park.
- By Car: If you’re driving from Zhangjiajie or Fenghuang, follow the golden tourism route that connects these popular destinations with the park