2025 Jishou Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in October)

September 16th, cloudy, 74 km, steps: 12083 I thought Aizhai Bridge was a niche attraction, because it is a bit far from the city. Unexpectedly, he exclaimed as soon as he saw me. China's largest suspension bridge is like the Tsing Ma Bridge in Hong Kong. It is stunning whether viewed from a distance or up close. There are three free viewing platforms along the way where you can enjoy the view from a distance. If you want to go up to the bridge to take pictures or want to challenge yourself (bungee jumping, etc.), you have to buy a separate ticket. There are also Miao village scenic spots and paragliding experiences nearby, which are also charged separately. "Aizhai Bridge is a high-speed passage in Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Hunan Province, China, located above Dehang Grand Canyon. The terrain is dangerous, and the height difference between the bridge deck and the bottom of the canyon is 355 meters." #Cycling in China #Green Tourism #See the Earth in an Instant

#wondersofchina # Aizhai bridge , Aizhai Suspension Bridge is located in Aizhai Grand Canyon, about 20km from Jishou City, Aizhai Suspension Bridge is honored to be one of the greatest engineering wonders, with length of 1073.65 meters. The bridge looks like a flying dragon lying between two large mountains. The wonders of Aizhai, include the bridge, strange road, queer valley, odd waterfall and customs. Aizhai, Dehang and Dragon cave, whose total area are 108 square kilometers. With the super large suspension bridge crossing canyon opening to traffic on the March 31, 2012.

Getting There - High speed train to Jishou Attractions - All around Xiangxi there are small towns, hills and places to escape from the crowds of the cities. Here in particular is a small mountain range - very similar to Zhangjiajie, albeit far smaller - that you can do in just a few hours. While the size is smaller, that also means less people, which is only ever a good thing when travelling around and visiting new places. Food & Restaurants - Not much to speak of to be honest. Especially up in the mountains but most hotels will be able to cook up a nice home meal in a warm area if you fancy it. Shopping - Not much to speak of to be honest. #thisischina

Just out of town of the QianZhou old town is the winding roads that lead up to these misty mountains. Tickets are around 80rmb or so for the day and - when visiting in the off season - you can be fairly sure that you’ll have the place basically all to yourself as i did. Oh, if you’re coming through wet season I would recommend bringing a spare set of shoes or extra socks as the path can become flooded and basically turn into just one big waterfall. But hey, it’s all part of the experience. get to the top and you’ll be rewarded with a sweet platform to look over the canyon and a awesome place to sit down and relax. #thisischina

About 30km or so outside of Jishou in Xiangxi, Hunan province sits a small park that’s filled with multiple waterfalls lining the sides of the canyon area. Getting There - Jishou town is connected via a high-speed train and sits on the line to Zhangjiajie so, if you can get the train to Zhangjiajie then you’ll be able to get a high speed to Jishou. Attractions - old town/ canyon area. Food & Restaurants - food places are quite few and far between when it comes to notable places so I would highly recommend having some coffee drip cup things so you don’t rely on a café for your caffeine. #thisischina #nationalpark #naturalwonders

Deep into the hills in the Xiangxi area to the West of Hunan is a bridge across a canyon that, in the mornings is engulfed in clouds. Wandering around the area is a great way to take in all the clean non-city air and, with a bit of luck. you’ll have the area all to yourself as it’s not the most popular tourist destination in the area. Just a short train ride out from both Furong, Fenghuang, and Zhangjiajie - the town is a solid way to add a day or two to your local travel itinerary. Oh, but bring your own coffee - there’s really not too many places around to grab anything ☕️ #thisischina #nationalpark #naturalwonders

Very well preserved old city. It was almost empty on Monday. People can be seen washing clothes in the river. Don't go into the temple. They offer you free incense, then give you a blessing. Suddenly a WeChat QR code is produced. They suggested I pay 400 Yuan but I gave 100 just to get out of there and no hassle.

Very nice at sunrise if you are lucky with the weather. Very nice viewing points. I ran back to the Aizhai town, great experience if you are a runner. It's about 20km.

The Ganzhou Confucian Temple was built in the 7th year of Emperor Yongzheng of the Qing Dynasty. The main buildings include Minglun Hall, Wenchang Palace, Dacheng Hall, Dacheng Gate, Zhuangyuan Bridge, Qixingmen, Chongsheng Ci, etc., covering an area of 4,887 square meters. There is a shadow wall about 18 meters long in the front of the Temple of Literature. The middle of the shadow wall is made of stone-shaped four-petaled window, which can be seen from the street. There is a door on each side of the window. The title of "German World" on the left door means the hall of the school school, and the title of the road on the right door is "the ancient crown and the present", indicating that it is a place dedicated to Confucius. Admission is from the left, and the worshipper enters from the right. Crossing the Shifangmen, there is a half round pool, about 1 foot 2 feet deep, clear water clear, named Yuechi. There is a stone arch bridge on the moon pond, commonly known as the Yuegong Bridge, also known as the Zhuangyuan Bridge. Anyone who has academic success will come to the bridge and worship the hole, expressing gratitude and praying for a great future. Or the students will step into the bridge before the exam, and they will be able to make a name for themselves. There are two tall osmanthus trees on both sides of the bridge. After the bridge, there is a row of blue-and-mortar brick-and-wood structure, leaving the middle gate. It was originally a place dedicated to the chief executives of the dry state of Ganzhou. The name is named and the right side is dedicated to the local celebritys tablet. Xiangxian Yin, such as Yang Yuebin, Luo Rongguang, Yang Weishu and other people's tablets. Passing through the middle door, the left and right sides are Dongpu and Xiqiao. It used to be a place dedicated to the 72nd disciple of Confucius. Later, it was used as a classroom for the National Eighth Middle School. In front of it is the Dacheng Hall. In front of the temple, there is a "Yu Dao" for the emperor to pay homage. On the carving of the dragon pattern, this road can only go to the emperor. Other ministers or meritors can only be left and right.

Aizhai Wonder Scenic Area has welcomed the most brilliant moment of the year. After the autumn rain, the forest is dyed in layers, with yellow, red, and dark green intertwined, like a magnificent oil painting, vividly showcasing the romance of late autumn. Among them, the Liusha Waterfall after heavy rain is especially spectacular, with a drop of 216 meters, roaring water sounds, and mist spraying, bringing coolness and healing. Standing on the waterfall viewing platform, you can truly feel the shock of "a waterfall plunging three thousand feet," and every shot you take is a masterpiece, easily earning likes on social media. Here, visitors can stroll through the forest, enjoy the colorful autumn scenery, and feel the tranquility and beauty of nature; or stand in front of the waterfall, listen to the roaring water, and experience the grandeur and power of nature. Whether to relax the body and mind or to seek inspiration, Aizhai Wonder Scenic Area can meet your needs. The autumn colors are rich, the weather is just right, the waterfall is lively, and Aizhai has prepared the most beautiful scenery. Come check in and meet a different self in the late autumn of Aizhai!

#OverseasTravel Jishou International Hotel is a conveniently located 4-star hotel in the heart of Jishou, Hunan Province. Its central location makes it easy to get around, and the rooms are clean and tidy, making it a great choice for a staycation for around 50,000-60,000 won. The rooms are spacious and well-appointed, with comfortable mattresses and bedding, making it perfect for a one-night stay. The front desk staff was friendly, and the location is convenient for travelers, with local restaurants, convenience stores, and shopping nearby. The breakfast was also excellent, making it a great value. If you're looking for a clean place to stay in Jishou, I highly recommend this place!

Chadong Ancient Town | Exploring the mysterious Xiangxi in Shen Congwen's writings✨ Chadong Ancient Town, located at the junction of Hunan, Guizhou, and Chongqing provinces, is the prototype of "Border Town" in Shen Congwen's works, full of unique cultural charm. Here is a travel guide within 500 words👇 📖 Itinerary - 🌄 Day 1: Stroll through the ancient town - Arrive at Chadong Ancient Town in the morning, visit Beimen Old Street, admire the bluestone roads and stilted buildings, and take photos. Then take the Lala ferry, costing 2 yuan, to Hong'an Town in Chongqing to visit the Chairman Mao Quotations Tower, the former site of the Second Field Army Headquarters, and more. - In the afternoon, walk across the Hongcha Bridge and check in at the "One Foot in Three Provinces" boundary marker. In the evening, enjoy the night view of Chadong Ancient Town and consider staying in a riverside stilted building. 🚗 Transportation - Fly into Tongren Fenghuang Airport, then take a 1.5-hour taxi ride to the town. After arriving at Jishou East High-Speed Railway Station, take a taxi for about 2 hours. You can also drive and navigate to "Chadong Ancient Town." The town has parking lots, and from Hong'an in Chongqing, you can take a ferry to Chadong in Hunan. 🏠 Accommodation Guide You can choose to stay in a riverside stilted building guesthouse, with prices ranging from 300-400 yuan/night in the Hunan area and 150-200 yuan/night in the Chongqing area. 🛍 Shopping Guide You can buy some handicrafts with Xiangxi characteristics as souvenirs. 🍜 Food Guide Be sure to try specialty foods like jiao jiao fish, rice tofu, and Tujia cured meat sticky rice. ❗ Notes - The ferry only runs one way from Chadong in Hunan to Hong'an in Chongqing; return trips require taking a vehicle. - Try to avoid peak holiday crowds for a better travel experience.

In-depth Xiangxi Travel Guide (Budget 3000 RMB, 5 days 4 nights) —— Avoid the popular routes and explore a more authentic Xiangxi Trip Highlights ✅ Fewer crowds, beautiful scenery: Skip the crowded Fenghuang Ancient Town and choose more off-the-beaten-path spots ✅ Deep experience: Visit Miao villages and Tujia settlements to feel the real life of Xiangxi ✅ Excellent value: Accommodation, transportation, and food all within budget 📅 Itinerary Day 1: Arrive in Jishou → Aizhai Bridge → Dehang Miao Village Morning: Arrive in Jishou, take a bus to Aizhai Bridge (bus fare about 30 RMB, ticket 80 RMB), experience the shock of this world-class engineering marvel Afternoon: Hike the Dehang Grand Canyon (ticket included), visit Dehang Miao Village, experience Miao culture Evening: Stay at a characteristic guesthouse in Dehang Miao Village (about 150 RMB/night), taste Miao sour soup fish and cured meat Day 2: Dehang → Biancheng Chadong (the "Border Town" in Shen Congwen's writings) Morning: Take a bus to Chadong Ancient Town (bus fare about 50 RMB), stroll along the Qingshui River, feel the tranquility at the junction of Hunan, Guizhou, and Chongqing provinces Afternoon: Take the Lala ferry (2 RMB) to the opposite bank to Hong'an Ancient Town in Chongqing, check in at the spot "one step across three provinces" Evening: Stay at a characteristic inn in Chadong (about 120 RMB/night), enjoy a bowl of authentic rice tofu Day 3: Chadong → Liye Ancient City (Qin Bamboo Slips Museum) → Rebala Tujia Village Morning: Take a bus to Liye Ancient City (bus fare about 40 RMB), visit the Qin Bamboo Slips Museum (free), learn about Qin Dynasty history from 2000 years ago Afternoon: Head to Rebala Tujia Village (bus fare about 30 RMB), see Tujia wind-and-rain bridges and stilted buildings, try weaving brocade and pounding glutinous rice cakes Evening: Stay at a characteristic guesthouse in Rebala (about 100 RMB/night), eat Tujia community meals Day 4: Rebala → Furong Town (the millennium-old town hanging on a waterfall) Morning: Take a bus to Furong Town (bus fare about 60 RMB), tour the ancient town, visit the big waterfall (ticket 75 RMB) Afternoon: Walk the old street, eat Liu Xiaoqing rice tofu, watch the waterfall night view at dusk Evening: Stay at a riverside inn in Furong Town (about 150 RMB/night) Day 5: Furong Town → Red Stone Forest (geological wonder) → Return Morning: Hire a car or carpool to Red Stone Forest (bus fare about 50 RMB, ticket 80 RMB), explore the 400-million-year-old underwater wonder Afternoon: Return to Jishou (bus fare about 60 RMB), end of trip 💰 Budget Breakdown (Total about 3000 RMB) Item Cost (RMB) Notes Transportation 500 Bus + carpool + local transport in scenic areas Accommodation 600 4 nights in characteristic guesthouses/inns Tickets 300 Aizhai Bridge, Dehang, Furong Town, Red Stone Forest, etc. Food 500 About 100 RMB per day, taste all Xiangxi delicacies Others 200 Souvenirs, snacks, etc. ⚠️ Notes Transportation: Xiangxi attractions are scattered; it is recommended to check bus schedules in advance or carpool for better cost efficiency. Accommodation: Prices are lower in the off-season (non-holidays), bargaining on-site is possible. Food recommendations: Sour soup fish, cured meat, rice tofu, blood duck, community meals. Pitfall tips: Fenghuang Ancient Town is heavily commercialized; it is recommended to visit more authentic places like Chadong and Dehang. 🌟 Why recommend this route? Fewer crowds, beautiful scenery: Avoid popular spots like Fenghuang and Zhangjiajie, truly feel the tranquility and originality of Xiangxi. Cultural experience: Enter Miao and Tujia villages, interact with locals, more meaningful than just taking photos. Budget control: Stay in characteristic guesthouses throughout, eat authentic food, no wasted money. 📌 Suitable for: Backpackers, students, photography enthusiasts who like niche travel and want to deeply experience Xiangxi culture. Let's go! Explore a different Xiangxi! 🌄

Most visitors at Dehang Grand Canyon only wander around the Miao village at the valley bottom and near the waterfall, unaware that there is an excellent spot to overlook the entire canyon and Miao village panorama! This viewpoint requires a bit of an "adventurous" spirit, but the view is absolutely worth it, and there are very few people! 【“Map Route” Descriptive Style (Panoramic Exploration Route)】 My secret route: Start from the central square of Dehang Miao Village → follow the signs toward Tianwen Platform → but don’t take the steep steps directly up to Tianwen Platform → watch for a small mountain path branching off to the right and back (more primitive but clearly visible) → climb along this path for about 15-20 minutes → reach a natural giant rock platform → this is the perfect viewpoint! You can overlook the entire Dehang Miao Village, the river, and part of the canyon scenery. You can return the same way or continue on to Tianwen Platform. 【Hidden Experience: Be a Miao for a Day】 Learn a Miao song: After watching the folk performance, boldly go on stage and learn to sing a simple Miao song with a Miao girl; it’s a very fun interactive experience. Try Miao embroidery: The village sells Miao embroidery crafts, and you can also try some simple embroidery under guidance to feel the art at your fingertips. Early morning market visit: If you stay in the village, you can visit the small morning market to experience the daily life of the locals. Stargazing at night: The canyon has little light pollution, and on clear autumn nights, you can see a sky full of stars—very romantic. 【Photo Outfit/Prop Guide】 In the ethnic-flavored Miao village and canyon, you can try ethnic-style outfits or outdoor workwear, which also matches well. Girls can bring a large printed shawl, which is both warm and a great photo prop. At the viewpoint or other open areas, wearing a cowboy hat adds a sense of adventure. At dusk, using the village lights as decoration can create very atmospheric photos. 【Cost Breakdown Reference (Inside the Canyon)】 Tickets: Dehang Grand Canyon scenic area tickets cost about 80-100 RMB. Accommodation: Miao village homestays cost about 100-200 RMB per night. Food: Miao cuisine costs about 50-80 RMB per person per meal; long table banquets about 100 RMB per person. Performances: Folk performances are usually included in the ticket or require a small additional fee. Total: For 1 day and 1 night, the average cost per person is about 300-500 RMB (excluding major transportation). 【⚠️ Pitfall Avoidance Guide】 The path to the secret viewpoint is a wild trail, so be sure to pay attention to safety; do not go on rainy days as it is slippery. You can bargain moderately when shopping in the village, but don’t overdo it; respect the local people’s labor. If you are unfamiliar with Miao customs, observe and ask more to avoid unintentional offense. Protect the environment; do not leave trash in the mountains or fields. This off-the-beaten-path route lets you see scenery that 99% of tourists miss. Keep this guide and become a true adventurer in Dehang!

📅 Itinerary Day1：Changsha Day2: Jishou Day3: de hang Miao village 🏨 Accommodation Viena hotel 🍴 Food Recommendations Honey Bar in Jishou old town nice bar tender young guy sings live and mix drinks 📌 Tips take a Didi to Miao village for day visit

While people flock to Fenghuang Ancient Town, I took a solitary turn into Dehang Grand Canyon in Western Hunan. Hi, I am Xiaoxi, a seeker of pristine scenery. This place is known as the "Natural Gallery of Western Hunan," and autumn is undoubtedly its most beautiful season. The weather is dry and crisp, the creek water clear, and the mountains and forests on both sides are dyed in vibrant autumn colors by the breeze. Compared to the lush greenery of spring and summer, it adds a layer of depth and grandeur. 【“X days Y nights” Detailed Itinerary (combined with Fenghuang Ancient Town)】 Day 1: Depart from Jishou or Fenghuang Ancient Town, arrive at Dehang Miao Village by noon, and check into a homestay in the village. In the afternoon, visit key attractions such as Liusha Waterfall and Yudai Waterfall, and feel the autumn atmosphere along the canyon trail. Day 2: In the morning, challenge Tianwentai to experience the thrill of cliff edges and overlook the panoramic view of the canyon. In the afternoon, enjoy Miao ethnic folk performances and participate in interactive activities. In the evening, savor a long table feast in the Miao village and experience Miao hospitality. Day 3: Spend the morning strolling through the quiet Miao village, then return to Fenghuang or Jishou to continue your journey. 【Autumn Exploration Highlights】 ✅ The clear beauty of the waterfalls: Liusha Waterfall, Yudai Waterfall, and others scattered throughout the canyon. The water flow in autumn is moderate, not as fierce as in summer, but more elegant and clear. ✅ The autumn life vibe of the Miao village: Dehang Miao Village is nestled in the canyon. In autumn, corn and chili peppers are dried in the village, full of harvest joy and rich life atmosphere. ✅ The steep views from Tianwentai: A natural viewing platform that requires some climbing to reach. Standing on it, you can overlook the entire autumn scenery of Dehang Canyon with excellent views. 【In-depth Experience: Getting Drunk at the Miao Village Long Table Feast】 That night, we sat around a long wooden table with tourists from all over the country and Miao brothers and sisters from the village. The table was filled with Miao specialty dishes: sour soup fish, cured meat, blood rice duck... Miao girls sang toast songs, holding horn cups to toast. The rice wine was mellow at first sip but had a strong aftertaste. After several rounds, the atmosphere became lively, and strangers began to toast and chat with each other. Outside was a chilly autumn night, inside was warm human warmth. At that moment, all strangers and barriers melted away in this enthusiastic atmosphere. I was not only drunk on the rice wine but also intoxicated by the simple and passionate human life of Western Hunan. 【Practical Information TIPS】 ✍🏻 Dehang Grand Canyon is not far from Jishou City and Fenghuang Ancient Town; you can take a chartered car or a shuttle bus to get there. ✍🏻 The homestays in the village are relatively simple but offer an immersive experience of Miao village life. ✍🏻 Respect Miao customs, such as not touching children’s heads casually and responding politely to toasts at the long table feast. ✍🏻 Wear comfortable shoes for canyon hiking; some sections are slippery. ✍🏻 There is a big temperature difference between morning and evening in autumn, so dress accordingly. This autumn, if you go to Western Hunan, don’t just stay in Fenghuang. Spend a day at Dehang Grand Canyon, and you will see a more original and vivid side of Western Hunan.

Hunan hidden gem alert! I’m afraid this thousand-year-old Miao village will become famous😭 Weekend trips with kids or girlfriends in Changsha, stop squeezing into Fenghuang! Last week I rushed to Dehang Miao Village, fewer people, beautiful scenery, and cooler weather. I regret not discovering it earlier! An original ecological Miao village + Liusha Waterfall + world-class bridge, two days of fun that make you not want to leave✨ Dehang Miao Village | A secret place wrapped by mountains! It’s a 3.5-hour self-drive from Changsha to the parking lot. Entering the village was breathtaking! Surrounded by green mountains on all sides, looking up is full of greenery🌿 There’s currently the “Crab Encounter at Dehang” event, where kids can do crab DIY, stream trekking with melon eating, and catch loaches. Both adults and kids had a blast! The stone paths in the village have a great vibe, every photo looks like an original ecological masterpiece, and it’s so nice to take pictures away from the crowds! Jielong Bridge | The birthplace of the cover photo! You must cross this bridge to get to Liusha Waterfall. The creek flows around the arch bridge, with mountains behind it, a real-life “Yearning for Life” scene📸 I took photos here for 20 minutes. When the sunlight shines down, the water sparkles, and the original photos straight from my phone all look great! Walking on the bridge listening to the sound of the creek, the wind carries the scent of grass and trees, 100 times more comfortable than an air-conditioned room~ Liusha Waterfall | A fairyland on the cliff! It’s a 10-minute walk along the path. The waterfall hangs on the cliff like a thin veil flowing down🌊 The pool below is stunningly green. Standing by the pool, you can feel the mist on your face, instantly cooling off the summer heat! I recommend wearing light-colored clothes and taking photos from the side of the waterfall to maximize the atmosphere. Your friends will flood you with questions about the location! Aizhai Bridge | A must-see even if your legs go weak! This world-class bridge is truly amazing! It spans the entire canyon. Standing on it looking down makes your palms sweat😱 You can also try bungee jumping and cloud walking. If you’re brave, you must try it! In the afternoon when the sun is good, the bridge looks stunning against the blue sky and green mountains. Every casual shot is a breathtaking landscape photo~ Dehang Illusion | A show you watch while eating! One of the most interesting performances I’ve seen in recent years! It’s not a seated show but “walk, watch, and eat” along the way, with Miao snacks served🍘 At the end, you sit in a circular open-air theater where you can see the surrounding mountains. The performance is very immersive, definitely worth it with your eyes closed! Transportation & Tips💡 1. Drive directly from Changsha and navigate to “Dehang Miao Village Parking Lot.” The road conditions are good, even beginners can drive~ 2. Take the high-speed train to Jishou East Station, then a half-hour taxi to the village, which saves more time! 3. Remember to bring slippers and a change of clothes for stream trekking. The stones are slippery, so don’t wear white sneakers! 4. There are many farmhouse dishes in the village. I recommend sour soup fish and cured meat, very authentic! This hidden Miao village is truly a treasure, with few people, beautiful scenery, and lots of fun. I’m afraid it will be popular next time I come! If you don’t know where to go this summer vacation, trust me and rush here. You definitely won’t regret it!

Be sure to visit Aizhai Bridge and Dehang Canyon in Western Hunan; the stunning scenery and experiences here will definitely leave you unforgettable! 🌉 Aizhai Bridge: A World Engineering Marvel Spanning Dehang Canyon, Aizhai Bridge is undoubtedly an architectural wonder. It stretches 1,779 meters in total length, with a main span of 1,176 meters, making it one of the world's largest steel truss suspension bridges crossing a canyon. Standing on the bridge, hundreds of meters above the deep canyon below, the breathtaking view is beyond words. The bridge features a glass observation deck for the brave to challenge themselves and feel the thrill of a racing heartbeat. If that’s not enough, there’s also a 355-meter-high bungee jump and a high-altitude swing, letting you experience extreme excitement in the clouds. 🏞️ Dehang Canyon: A Gift from Nature Dehang Canyon is a typical karst landform, stretching about 15 kilometers long with depths of several hundred meters, flanked by steep cliffs and magnificent scenery. It is home to the Liusha Waterfall, one of China’s tallest waterfalls with a drop of 216 meters. In summer, the mist resembles silk, and if you’re lucky, you might see a rainbow hanging between the canyon walls. Stroll along Jiulong Stream, where the water is crystal clear and you can spot crabs scurrying under the rocks, evoking childhood memories. 👯 Cultural Experience: Feel the Miao Ethnic Charm Near the canyon lies Dehang Miao Village, a great place to experience Miao culture. Here, you can drink traditional welcome wine, watch Miao drum dances, and feel the warm hospitality of the Miao people. There are exciting folk performances every day at 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM. You can also learn batik dyeing from Miao grandmothers and join the evening bonfire party, dancing around the fire and fully enjoying the joyful Miao festivities. 🍲 Must-Try Food: The Flavors of Western Hunan When in Western Hunan, don’t miss the local cuisine. For sour soup fish, be sure to order freshly caught paddy field fish; its tangy and appetizing flavor paired with the sound of water outside the wooden stilt houses is simply perfect. Also try stir-fried cured meat with fern cake, where the smoky aroma blends with the sticky texture for an unforgettable taste. Bamboo tube rice wine is also excellent—sweet and refreshing, but beware of its strong aftereffects. Friends, quickly plan your trip and come to Western Hunan to experience the unique charm of Aizhai Bridge and Dehang Canyon! 💖

Xiangxi Tujia Miao Autonomous Prefecture has been known for its mysterious Xiangxi since ancient times. This time, taking advantage of the holiday, I played around the Phoenix Ancient City, Dehang Miao Village, and Aozhai Bridge in one go, and felt a completely different beauty of Hunan The highlight of the trip is that you can feel the art and ethnic style of Xiangxi at once: see the night view of the stilted building in the ancient city of Phoenix, cross the Miao style in a second in Dehang Miao Village, and the super shocking Dwarf Village Cliff Highway and Bridge, whether it is a selfie or a note of air is super healing! Xiangxi attractions recommended courier 1. Phoenix Ancient City The ancient city of Phoenix is ​​​​a famous literary and artistic town in the country. Walking around the ancient city at night in midsummer, you can see the reflection of the stilted building and the water color. You can feel the fireworks of Hubei and Miao fusion. Then it is recommended to be sure to hang out in the early morning, fewer tourists, more able to feel the tranquility. 📍Address: Phoenix County, Xiangxi Autonomous Prefecture, Hunan Province 🕒 The ancient city is open all day, some scenic spots sell tickets (such as Shen Congwen's former residence) 8:00-18:00 Specialty snacks recommendation: blood dumpling duck, spicy and sour fish meal 2. Dehang Miao Village Dehang Miao Village is about 20 kilometers away from Jishou City and is one of the largest Miao settlements in western Hunan. It is recommended to reserve half a day to watch the Miao song and dance performances, as well as the clusters of stilted buildings and natural mountains and rivers, which are beautiful without deliberately taking pictures. 📍Address: Dehang Miao Village, Jishou City, Xiangxi Autonomous Prefecture, Hunan Province 🕒Opening hours: 8:00-17:30 (performance can be checked in advance on Miao Village official website) Scenic Area Transportation: Jishou City can be reached by bus or chartered car 3. Dwarf Village Bridge & Dwarf Village Canyon The Aizhai Bridge is known as one of the most beautiful bridges in China. Standing on the bridge feels like walking in the clouds. Under the bridge is a spectacular canyon. The best angle for taking pictures is recommended at the observation deck on the west side of the bridge (with a transparent glass canyon!). The nine bends and eighteen turns of Aizhai Highway are extremely challenging, and it is extremely comfortable to drive and take pictures. 📍Address: Aizhai Town, Jishou City, Xiangxi Autonomous Prefecture, Hunan Province 🕒Open all day, tickets required for some areas (sightseeing platform 8:30-17:00) #tips collection 1. Phoenix Ancient City is most comfortable in the morning and evening, avoiding the crowds to take pictures much better, in summer it is recommended to bring a hat and mosquito repellent water. 2. Dehang Miao Village basically does not have to follow a group, the villagers are very enthusiastic, can self-guided wandering. 3. Be careful when driving in the canyon, the route has sharp bends, rainy days need to check the weather in advance. 4. Xiangxi specialty food all pepper and spicy, do not eat spicy friends ask in advance, the ancient city has many fusion small shops. Transportation guide There are high-speed buses or high-speed trains directly from Zhangjiajie and Changsha to Phoenix. After arriving in Phoenix, you can rent a battery car or enjoy the ancient city on foot. For peripheral attractions such as Aizhai and Dehang Miaozhai, it is recommended to charter a car from Jishou City for more flexible schedules. Food recommendations The blood dumpling duck and Miao family sour fish soup in the alleys of Phoenix Ancient City are not to be missed, and the Miao village's home-brewed rice wine tastes peculiar and is worth trying. Xiangxi is suitable for all seasons, spring and summer folk activities are rich, autumn is the most beautiful mountains and rivers, highly recommended 3 days in-depth small reunion trip, feel different native fireworks colors! #Xiangxi Guide #Phoenix Ancient City #Dehang Miao Village #Dwarf Village Bridge #In-depth self-guided tour

Attraction in Jishou City, Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Hunan Province Dehang Miao Village is located in Dehang Village, Aizhai Town, Jishou City, Xiangxi Prefecture, Hunan Province. In the Miao language, deut hangd means "beautiful canyon." This scenic area is also one of the main sites for the "Mysterious Xiangxi Cool Summer" event led by the Propaganda Department of the Xiangxi Prefecture Committee. Due to the undulating mountains, towering cliffs, and overlapping peak forests, many cliffs, rock walls, peak forests, waterfalls, and primeval forests have formed. The area is crisscrossed by streams and rivers, enjoys a spring-like climate year-round, and has abundant plant and animal resources. The natural scenery is exceptionally beautiful and charming. Dehang Miao Village is located 24 kilometers west of Jishou City, covering an area of 580 square kilometers. This is a magical land, a masterpiece of natural scenery. Within this self-contained Dehang scenic area, streams run through deep gorges, waterfalls cascade, peaks compete in beauty, ancient trees and exotic flowers flourish, rare birds and beasts abound, and Miao ethnic landscapes are all present.

🌿Border Towns Depicted by Shen Congwen | A Slow Travel Guide for 600 Yuan Per Person "Going from Sichuan to Hunan, there's an official road to the east..." Finally checked out Chadong Ancient Town. The Qingshui River and stilt houses are just like something out of a book! Comes with a comprehensive guide 👇 📍Specific Location: Chadong Scenic Area, Biancheng Town, Huayuan County, Xiangxi Prefecture, Hunan Province (at the junction of Hunan, Guizhou, and Chongqing) 🚗What's the most convenient way to get there? 1. High-speed Rail + Transfer: Take a 1.5-hour taxi from Jishou East Station, or a 2.5-hour tourist bus from Tongren South Station. 2. Self-Drive: Take the Baomao Expressway to the "Biancheng" exit. Enjoy views of the terraced fields and sea of ​​clouds along the way. 3. Waterway: Take a 20-minute antique boat ride from Chongqing Hong'an Wharf to Chadong Ancient Ferry, 30 yuan per person. 💰 2-Day, 1-Night Cost (Per Person) • Transportation: 200 yuan (round-trip bus/shuttle bus) • Accommodation: 200 yuan (riverside stilt house with river views) • Food: 150 yuan (eating until full of jiaojiao fish and rice tofu) • Experiences: 50 yuan (2 yuan for Lala Ferry, 30 yuan for Cuicui Island, 25 yuan for the boat ride) ✅ Total cost: approximately 600 yuan, excellent value! 🌟4 Must-See Literary Scenes 1. Lala Ferry: Cross the Qingshui River for 2 yuan, a 5-minute ride from Hunan to Chongqing. Capture stunning photos in the early morning mist. 2. Cuicui Island: 30 yuan to visit the 9-meter-tall Cuicui statue. A stone tablet inscribed with the full text of "Border Town" is also featured. The suspension bridge offers stunning photo ops. 3. Three Provinces Boundary Monument: Free check-in for "Three Provinces in One Foot." Nearby is the site of Liu Bei and Deng Xiaoping's army crossing the river. 4. White Pagoda Hill: 20-minute hike to the summit for panoramic views of the ancient town. The morning mist surrounding the White Pagoda resembles an ink painting. 🍜Border Town on Your Tongue • Cornerfish: Wild Qingshui River fish cooked in a spicy sour broth, a refreshing and appetizing dish. • Oil-baba: 1 yuan for 4, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, enjoy as you walk. • Three Provinces in One Pot: Hunan, Chongqing, and Guizhou-style hot pot, a must-try in the ancient town. 💡 Tips ▫️ The ancient town is free to enter, so avoid National Day! A deserted environment evokes the tranquility of the novel. ▫️Stay at the "Border Town Story" B&B and experience different versions of "Border Town." ▫️Visit the Qingshui River in the evening to see the lanterns; the night scene is even more romantic than the daytime. There's no commercial bustle here, only the echoes of boatmen's songs and bluestone slabs, perfect for a leisurely stroll.

#SeptemberDestinations2025 #Hunan #JishouCity #Xiangxi #DayongNightView Jishou's new district is also quite beautiful. Silver is the soul of Xiangxi, and there are many silver-related decorations and artworks. Dayong's night view is a must-see, with a unique flavor. We stayed at the Crowne Plaza in Jishou, a very clean and comfortable hotel. While there's no bathtub, the space is ample, and the hotel's exterior is quite unique. #ImperialPalaceHoliday #LuxuryHotel

"Waiting for a city of mist and rain, only for you; crossing a lifetime of love, only with you" — In the hometown of "Border Town," I finally found poetry and the distant place ✨ 📍Detailed address: Biancheng Town, Huayuan County, Xiangxi Prefecture, Hunan Province (where Hunan, Guizhou, and Chongqing meet) 🚦Transportation guide ✈️ Airplane: Tongren Fenghuang Airport → Transfer to a bus for 1 hour direct 🚆 High-speed rail: Get off at Jishou Station / Tongren Station → Carpool 60 RMB/person or charter 300 RMB to get there (Newcomers don’t miss the carpool from Jishou East Station, starting at 106 RMB, super cost-effective!) 🚗 Self-driving: Navigate directly to "Chatong Ancient Town," get off at the Chatong toll station on G65 Baomao Expressway~ 🏡 Accommodation recommendations 1️⃣ Qingshui Pavilion Inn 👉 Right on the old street! ✔️ Each room comes with the original "Border Town" novel ✔️ Open the window to see the clear water river ✔️ Around 150 RMB per person 2️⃣ Moran Homestay 👉 5 minutes walk to the old street ✔️ River view rooms are super beautiful ✔️ Breakfast included, very cost-effective ✔️ The owner will even teach you how to make Youbaba (fried glutinous rice cake) 3️⃣ Riverside Stilt House 👉 A true ethnic style experience! ✔️ Includes a Miao embroidery experience voucher ✔️ Rooms are all purely wooden construction ✔️ Falling asleep to the sound of the river at night is so healing 🥢 Must-eat delicacies 🐟 Jiao Jiao Fish | A wonderful "one bite across three provinces" experience! Hunan spicy + Guizhou sour + Chongqing numbing = absolutely amazing 🤩 🐟 Around 60 RMB per person 🍮 Chatong Rice Tofu | Crystal clear and super tempting Paired with secret sauce + fish mint, sour and spicy, always delicious! ☕ Cuicui Tea | A must-buy souvenir! The packaging incorporates Miao embroidery elements, and the empty canisters can be used as art pieces ✨ 📸 Must-visit attractions 1️⃣ Lala Ferry 💰 2 RMB per ride Take the ferry carrying Cuicui’s story, just 2 RMB to cross from Hunan to Chongqing! 2️⃣ Three-Province Boundary Monument 📍 Perfect for social media with 99+ likes 3️⃣ Cuicui Island 🚣♀️ Take a boat to the island, 50 RMB including a guide The statue of Cuicui on the island is incredibly authentic! 4️⃣ Chatong Riverside Street 🌿 Stilt houses + small bridges and flowing water + Shen Congwen’s poetry = full atmosphere ✒️ 5️⃣ White Pagoda 🏯 Climb to the top for a panoramic view of the entire ancient town, an excellent photo spot! ✨ Travel tips: 📅 Recommended to visit on market days (days with 5 or 0 in the lunar calendar each month) You can find lots of Miao embroidery handicrafts ⏰ Suggested visit duration: 1-2 days 🌅 Best photo times: Early morning 6-8 AM / Evening 5-7 PM (The ancient town in the morning mist is incredibly photogenic!)

📍 Secret realm of Xiangxi! Aizhai Wonder one-day tour guide 🕒 Opening hours: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM 🎫 Tickets: Package 280 RMB (includes Aizhai Bridge + Dehang Canyon + Jidou Miao Village) or separate tickets for each attraction (package recommended for better value!) ✨ Keywords: Aizhai Bridge, mountain road wonder, flowing sand waterfall, Miao village customs 🌟 Must-visit TOP 5 | A visual feast from heaven to earth 1️⃣ Aizhai Bridge · Walking in the clouds 🌌 - A 300-meter-high suspension bridge, with the abyssal Dehang Grand Canyon below! You can try bungee jumping and paragliding, or for the faint-hearted, safely walk the plank road to overlook the panorama. - 📸 Best photo spot: beside the “Pioneer” statue under the bridge, looking up at the magnificent bridge is truly stunning! 2️⃣ Aizhai Mountain Road · A historical miracle 🚗 - The “Death Bend” built during the 1936 War of Resistance! 13 sharp turns + 26 parallel road sections, the most dangerous road in the country. - 📝 Fun fact: The “Pioneer” bronze statue and martyrs’ cemetery on the mountaintop honor over 200 road-building heroes from that era. 3️⃣ Wentian Platform · The place where Qu Yuan questioned the heavens 🌌 - A natural viewing platform open on three sides, legend says Qu Yuan wrote “Heavenly Questions” here. In the early morning mist, it looks like a fairyland! 4️⃣ Flowing Sand Waterfall · The highest drop in the country 🌊 - A 216-meter-high waterfall that falls like a veil; after rain when water volume is full, you can even see rainbows in the mist! 5️⃣ Jidou Miao Village · Miao life on the cliffside 🏡 - Step into a century-old Miao village, see stilted buildings built along the mountain, experience Miao silver jewelry and batik intangible cultural heritage crafts. Don’t forget to try a bowl of sour soup fish, tangy and appetizing! 🍜 Food & Accommodation | Miao village flavors + canyon camping 🍲 Must-try list - Miao sour soup fish: fish cooked in sour soup fermented with natural mountain spring water and rice wine, tangy and appetizing! - Blood tofu: smoked cured meat mixed with pig’s blood and fried, savory and flavorful. - Artemisia rice cake: a special snack around Qingming Festival, made by steaming mugwort mixed with glutinous rice, fragrant and soft. ⛺ Accommodation recommendations - Dehang Yashe: A guesthouse by the canyon, open the window to see mountains and water, stay overnight to capture starry sky camping shots! - Jiulongxi Inn: Close to Flowing Sand Waterfall, cost-effective, experience Miao family hearthside night talks. 💡 Tips to avoid trouble | Local hidden tips 1️⃣ Wear non-slip shoes: canyon trails are slippery, especially after rain! 2️⃣ Visit off-peak: arrive before 11 AM to avoid large tour groups, fewer people means more freedom for photos! 3️⃣ Transportation options: There is a direct bus from Jishou Train Station (10 RMB/person, 1 hour direct), self-driving is recommended via the national highway for stunning scenery along the way! 4️⃣ Photography bonus: Shoot the glass plank road on the bridge at 4 PM against the light for dreamy silhouettes!

【3 days 2 nights, about 2800 RMB per person! Western Hunan Guide: Secret Miao Villages, Double Hits of Scenery and Culture】 Day 1: Take the high-speed train to **Jishou East Station** (round trip from Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen about 900-1200 RMB), then charter or carpool to **Fenghuang Ancient Town** (1.5 hours, 60 RMB). Stay at a stilt house guesthouse by the Tuojiang River (such as Huazhu·Qian, 500 RMB/night). In the evening, stroll along the ancient town’s stone-paved streets, watch the night sky lit by thousands of red lanterns, and listen to folk ballads by the river. Dinner includes blood rice duck and sour soup fish, about 60 RMB per person. Day 2: In the morning, take a bus to **Dehang Grand Canyon** (30 RMB fare), check in at the “World’s First Bridge” **Aizhai Bridge**, walk the cliff plank road, and explore **Liusha Waterfall** and **Jiulong Valley**. In the afternoon, experience **Miao Village customs**—visit **Jidou Village** or a **family Miao village**, wear Miao costumes for photos, play Miao drums, and drink gate-blocking wine. Return to Fenghuang in the evening and freely browse tie-dye workshops and silver jewelry shops. Day 3: Early morning, photograph the Tuojiang riverside homes in the mist, climb **Nanhua Gate** for a panoramic view of the town. After breakfast, visit the **Shen Congwen Former Residence** (40 RMB ticket) and the **Xiong Xiling Former Residence** to feel the deep cultural heritage. Check out before 12:00, then take a car back to Jishou or Changsha to catch the high-speed train home. 💰Budget details: Transportation (high-speed train + local) 1200 + Accommodation 1000 + Meals 300 + Tickets + Scenic transport 300 ≈ **2800 RMB** 📌Tips: - Fenghuang Ancient Town is free to enter; internal small attractions offer a combined ticket (148 RMB) to buy as needed; - Dehang Scenic Area is not fully commercialized, wear comfortable non-slip shoes; - Respect ethnic minority customs, do not casually photograph elders or ritual activities. ⚠️Warnings: ❌ “Free guiding” in the ancient town is often a shopping trap, use your own navigation; ❌ Do not sit on privately set-up paid stools by the river when taking photos to avoid disputes. Three days and two nights, step into the border town world described by Shen Congwen. Western Hunan offers not only stunning landscapes but also the breath and heartbeat of a thousand-year-old Miao and Dong civilization. Come here to encounter the most original and poetic southern China.

Xiangxi – Believe in a thousand-year-old beauty! Hidden deep in the mountains, Miao villages seem straight out of an ancient tale: stilted wooden houses by clear streams, babbling waterfalls, and century-old stone bridges quietly telling stories of time. At night, the village transforms into a live-action stage – eat, drink, and watch performances as if you’re part of the daily life of Xiangxi locals. Don’t miss Ai Village Bridge – a wonder suspended in the sky. One step feels like touching the clouds, one leap reveals the majestic nature below.

Starting from Meixi Lake in Changsha, driving to Shibadong Village is a journey full of both scenery and meaning✨. After getting ready in the morning, the trip to western Hunan begins～ After about 5 hours of driving, the first encounter is Aizhai Bridge—this "sky bridge" spanning the Dehang Grand Canyon🌉, whose visual impact alone is stunning! The steel truss suspension bridge has a main span of 1,176 meters and is built 355 meters above the canyon. Driving on it feels like "walking on clouds"☁️. Through the car window, you can overlook the winding streams and scattered Miao villages below. When mist swirls around, it feels like being in a fairyland～ Stopping the car and walking to the viewing platform lets you better appreciate the engineering marvel of the bridge💪: it is not only a transportation hub connecting Hunan and Chongqing but also a flagship work of "Chinese bridges." Standing on the platform and looking into the distance, the canyon scenery perfectly blends with the modernity of the bridge. Every photo you take is a masterpiece that can blow up your social media📸. It’s recommended to reserve about an hour to leisurely explore and feel the grandeur of this "natural barrier turned thoroughfare"! Leaving Aizhai Bridge, after about an hour’s drive, you arrive at Shibadong Village🏞️. This is the pioneering site of "targeted poverty alleviation," which has transformed from a once-poor Miao village into a beautiful countryside with ecological beauty and thriving industries. Walking into the village, the bluestone paths connect stilted houses🏠. Along the study trail by the rice fields, you can visit the "targeted poverty alleviation" exhibition hall, Shidong Miao embroidery workshop, and other spots. Listening to the guide tell the story of Shibadong’s transformation and seeing how villagers increase income through kiwi fruit planting🥝 and Miao ethnic tourism, you truly feel the power of rural revitalization❤️. It’s recommended to have a guide explain. If time allows, you can also experience the Miao door-blocking wine🍶 and learn a few Miao phrases for an immersive cultural experience～ That night, stay at the Crowne Plaza Xiangxi🏨, located in Jishou city center with convenient transportation and complete facilities. After a day of travel, try local specialties like Xiangxi cured meat and sour soup fish🐟, then enjoy the comfortable room service to perfectly end this fulfilling journey✅. The entire self-drive route is smooth, allowing you to enjoy natural wonders and learn red history, suitable for family trips or study tours👨👩👧👦. The beauty and significance of western Hunan are worth experiencing in person～ Tips📝 1. For navigation🧭 to Aizhai Bridge, you can park at the classic parking lot. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the visitor center or online, both are convenient. 2. An ID card is required to enter the scenic spot. If you don’t have an ID card, you can scan a code on-site to generate a QR code for entry. 3. A reminder🔔: If you don’t have an ID card, you can scan and enter your ID number on-site to generate a QR code, then screenshot and save it. Especially when leaving the scenic spot, you can take the sightseeing bus, but the entrance there does not scan QR codes, so you cannot scan on-site. To avoid trouble, it’s recommended to bring your ID card or save the first entry QR code for easy access to other attractions. Aizhai Bridge is quite impressive, very grand and magnificent. How such a long bridge was built is also a marvel. There aren’t many tourists at Aizhai Bridge, and it’s not very hot in summer, so it’s definitely worth a visit.

Attraction: Aizhai Bridge Accommodation: Tianqiao Xianju Things to do: On the Aizhai Bridge, there are: Free fall (bungee jumping) High-altitude swings