Hidden among the mountains and rivers of western Hunan, Furong Ancient Town (芙蓉古镇) is a charming Tujia-minority village defined by one breathtaking waterfall. If you want a travel experience that blends nature, culture, and untouched beauty, here’s your guide to Furong Ancient Town.
Where & Why Furong Ancient Town Matters
- Location: Yongshun County, Xiangxi Tujia & Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Hunan Province.
- What makes it special: Furong is over 2,000 years old. It sits between Zhangjiajie and the famous Fenghuang Ancient Town, yet it feels more hidden. The waterfall flows right through the town, creating mist, sound, and moments that feel magical. Locals from the Tujia minority have kept many of their traditions intact, making Furong an authentic village experience.
How to Get There
- Via Zhangjiajie or Jishou: Take a bus from Zhangjiajie to Furong (around RMB 30 depending on schedule). Once you arrive at Furong’s bus station, there’s a short shuttle-van ride to the scenic area.
- Travel tips: Check bus schedules ahead of time. Overnight options are available so you can stay in Furong and see the waterfall both day and night.
What to See & Do
- The Waterfall: This is the centerpiece of Furong Ancient Town. The waterfall cuts through the town’s architecture and cliffs. You can walk behind sections of it, see it framed by wooden stilted houses (“吊脚楼”) and riverside paths. The view is dramatic both by day and when it’s lit up at night.
- Village walks: After visiting the waterfall, stroll the stone-paved alleys, enjoy local shops and small restaurants overlooking the river. The area around the waterfall offers excellent vantage points for photos.
- Night views: Once dusk falls, lights on the buildings illuminate the waterfall and its surroundings—very atmospheric.
What to Eat
Even though the scenery is the main draw, the food adds local flavor:
Liu Xiaoqing Rice Tofu (刘晓庆米豆腐): A signature dish, tangy, spicy, very local.
Hunan-style Bacon (腊肉): Smoked and richly flavoured. Good to take home.
Osmanthus Fish (桂花鱼): Fresh water fish cooked simply so you taste the lake/river freshness.
Ginger-Sugar Candy (姜糖): Sweet with gingery bite; a good gift.
Snails in Spicy Sauce (螺蛳肉): Sour-spicy and chewy.
Tujia Bull Head Banquet (土家牛头宴): Big, festive meal for groups—rich, spicy, full of flavor.
Where to Stay & Photo Suggestions
- Stay overnight in a guesthouse near the waterfall or along the riverside to catch early morning light or evening glow on the waterfall.
- For photos, sunrise and early morning after rain bring mist and soft light; at night, the waterfall and town lights create memorable scenes.
Best Time & Tips
- Best months: June to September, when rainfall makes the waterfall full, the vegetation lush, and colors vivid.
- Bring rain gear and waterproof shoes, since paths near the waterfall tend to get wet and slippery.
- Visit outside major Chinese holidays, when lodging and crowds spike.
Conclusion
Furong Ancient Town is more than just a place to visit—it’s a scene from a story, where water, tradition, and village life all flow together. If your travel route in Hunan includes Zhangjiajie or Fenghuang, adding Furong will give you one of the most poetic and peaceful stops in your trip.
