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Zhangjiajie Tour of
Feng Huang Cheng (Phoenix Town)
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'Feng Huang' is Chinese for 'Phoenix', the
mythical bird of good omen and longevity that is consumed by fire to
be re-born again from the flames. Feng Huang Cheng or Phoenix Town
is so called as legend has it that two of these fabulous birds flew
over it and found the town so beautiful that they hovered there,
reluctant to leave. The town is situated on the western boundary of
Hunan Province in an area of outstanding natural beauty where
mountains, water and blue skies prevail. Upon entering the town the
visitor will be impressed by its air of mystery, elegance and
primitive simplicity. This is a world that is dominated by the
colour green. The mountain slopes are covered with green foliage,
the fields are green and even the Tuo Jiang River reflects the
greenery. The bridges over the water and unique houses built on
stilts display a harmony that is so often portrayed in traditional
Chinese paintings. This is particularly true when mist pervades the
scene in the early morning or after rain. It soon becomes apparent
that the claim to being one of the two most beautiful towns in the
whole of China is more than justified; the other town is Chang Ting
in Fujian Province.
Feng Huang Cheng is a wonderful example of what
villages were like prior to the onset of modernization. Here dozens
of alleys paved with flagstones run between the houses, each showing
wear caused by the feet of generations of local people who have used
them when going about their daily business. For the visitor, these
alleys are the way to see the typical high gabled wooden houses
built on stilts along the banks of the Tuo Jiang River at close
quarters.
Stretching diagonally from the northwest to southeast
of the town, Tuo Jiang River is a life force of the local people.
Here in its waters women wash their clothes and the men fish with
their nets, while on the bank food is prepared in much the same way
as it has for centuries. The river also provides a means for boatmen
to support their families by ferrying tourists up and down stream so
that they may admire the many splendours of the town.
The Miao ethnic minority is predominantly settled here
and a visit to a Miao village is a must when going to Feng Huang
Cheng. The Miao women have a natural beauty that renders the use of
cosmetics quite unnecessary. They love to dress in traditional blue
garments set off with a white scarf. They love also their silver
jewellery especially during festivals. Visitors will find a large
array of hand made items of silver ornaments for sale in the local
shops. Home made tie-dyes, printed and batik cloths are other local
specialities that make wonderful souvenirs. The Miao are friendly
and hospitable and like nothing more than to interact with visitors
with a variety of traditional entertainments and activities. Food
here also is different from that found elsewhere in China. Pickled
red peppers are a particular local delicacy and their appetizing
smell wafts from the many small family run restaurants.
Feng Huang Cheng was home to the versatile writer Shen
Congwen (1902-88) who contributed greatly to the development of
modern Chinese literature. Venerated by the local residents, the one
time home and the tomb of this famous writer have become tourist
attractions.
Tour Zhangjiajie
with Great Wall Adventure Club, the best
Zhangjiajie
tour agent to help
you with your hotel booking and transfers.
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