Furong and Fenghang old town Private Day Tour from Zhangjiajie

If you’re looking to add a taste of history, culture, and striking scenery to your Zhangjiajie trip, this Furong and Fenghuang Old Town Private Day Tour offers an engaging way to do so. While we didn’t personally take this tour, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a picture of a well-organized, authentic experience that balances cultural insight with stunning visuals.

What really stands out are the knowledgeable guides, the beautiful old towns, and the thoughtful itinerary that allows for flexible exploration. On the downside, the tour does require a full day of travel—roughly 10 hours—so it’s best suited for those comfortable with long days on the move. This experience is perfect for history lovers, culture enthusiasts, or anyone eager to see some of China’s most atmospheric old towns in a single day.

Key Points

• Authentic cultural experience with visits to Furong (Hibiscus) and Fenghuang (Phoenix) old towns
• Comfortable private transportation and expert guides enhance the day’s flow
• Flexible options for dropping off at either Furong or Fenghuang, depending on your interests
• Rich history of Furong, dating back over 2,000 years, adds depth to your visit
• Stunning river views in Fenghuang, especially if you choose the Tuojiang River cruise
• Cost-effectiveness for a private tour, considering the personalized experience and inclusions

The Allure of the Itinerary: What to Expect

This tour is designed to give you a comprehensive taste of two distinctive old towns, each with its own story and visual appeal. Starting early from your Zhangjiajie hotel, the journey kicks off at 8:30 am, with a private driver and guide making your day smooth and hassle-free.

Stop 1: Xiangxi Hibiscus Town (Furong Old Town)

After a 1.5-hour drive, you arrive at Furong Old Town, also called Hibiscus Town. Originally known as Wangcun, this place boasts over 2000 years of history. Founded by the King Tusi as the capital of Youyang County in 202 BC, Furong’s history alone is worth the visit, but the town’s ongoing charm lies in its well-preserved architecture and local stories.

A key highlight here is its connection to Chinese cinema—the town’s name changed in 1997 to Furong after a film titled Hibiscus Town won a Golden Award in 1987. Visitors often comment on the atmospheric streets, traditional Tujia and Miao architecture, and the chance to stroll through a place where history feels alive.

While admission to Furong Town isn’t included, most travelers find the entrance fee worthwhile given the opportunity to wander its ancient streets and see local life firsthand. Expect to spend about an hour exploring, soaking in the sights, and perhaps snapping some photos of the traditional houses, old alleyways, and local markets.

Stop 2: Fenghuang (Phoenix) Ancient Town

Next, a scenic 1.5-hour drive leads you to Fenghuang—another ancient town with a reputation for its stunning riverside views and well-preserved Ming and Qing architecture. Here, there’s flexibility: you might prefer to linger in the old streets, enjoy a traditional meal, or even take a Tuojiang River cruise—a favorite for capturing the town’s postcard-worthy scenery at dusk or night.

Travelers who have visited mention the night views as particularly photogenic, with lantern-lit streets reflecting on the river. The town is small enough to explore comfortably in a few hours, and most visitors agree that the authentic feel of Fenghuang makes it a worthwhile stop.

Your guide can tailor the visit to your preferences, whether that’s more sightseeing, relaxing by the river, or enjoying local delicacies. The tour concludes with a return to Zhangjiajie before 8:30 pm, or you can opt to be dropped off directly at either Furong or Fenghuang, depending on your preferences.

What Makes This Tour Special?

This private tour offers a few key advantages that set it apart. Let’s look at what travelers really appreciate:

Personalized Experience

With a private guide and vehicle, you gain flexibility that larger group tours lack. You can spend more time at spots that catch your interest, or skip certain parts if you prefer a quicker visit. The guide, often praised for their knowledge, adds context and stories that bring history to life.

Comfort and Convenience

The air-conditioned vehicle ensures you’re comfortable during the roughly 3-hour total driving time, which is crucial given the distances involved. Pickup and drop-off from your hotel add to the convenience, especially after a long day of sightseeing.

Authentic Cultural Encounters

The towns themselves are deeply rooted in local traditions. Furong’s connection with Chinese cinema and Fenghuang’s well-preserved architecture make each stop more than just a pretty picture—you’re stepping into stories that have shaped these places for centuries.

Stunning Visuals

Both towns are picture-perfect, especially at sunset or night. Reviewers mention the spectacular views and the night lighting in Fenghuang as highlights. You’ll love the way the old town’s lanterns reflect on the river, creating a fairy tale atmosphere.

History and Local Life

Furong’s over 2000-year history, combined with Fenghuang’s Ming and Qing architecture, offers a layered experience that’s both educational and visually captivating. It’s a rare chance to see the historic towns that have largely maintained their original charm.

What to Keep in Mind

While highly praised, this tour also involves some considerations. The total duration is around 10 hours, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with long days. Meals are not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan for a late lunch or dinner in Fenghuang.

The entrance fee to Furong Town isn’t part of the package, so budget accordingly. Also, given the early start and late return, this day trip is best for those with good stamina and flexibility. Lastly, while most travelers had positive experiences, keep in mind that the tour is non-refundable, so it’s worth confirming all details before booking.

Why You Should Consider This Tour

This private day trip hits a sweet spot for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free way to explore two historic towns in one day. The focus on personalized attention means you can tailor your experience, spend more time where you’re most interested, and enjoy expert guidance along the way.

It’s an excellent option for those who enjoy wandering historic streets, appreciate stunning river views, and value authentic local culture. If you love learning about history through architecture, stories, and scenery, this tour offers a well-rounded experience that’s both enriching and visually rewarding.

For travelers on a tight schedule or those wanting to avoid the hassle of organizing transport and guides themselves, this private tour offers both convenience and depth.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but keep in mind the full-day nature and the walking involved in exploring old towns.

What transportation is provided?
You get a private, air-conditioned vehicle, which makes the long drives comfortable and efficient.

Can I be dropped off at different locations?
Absolutely, you can choose to be dropped off either at Furong or Fenghuang, or be returned to your hotel in Zhangjiajie.

Are entrance tickets included?
No, the entrance fee for Furong Old Town isn’t included, so you should prepare for that expense separately.

How early do we start?
The tour begins at 8:30 am, giving you plenty of time to explore each town before returning in the evening.

What do reviews say about the guides?
Reviewers have appreciated the guides’ knowledge, especially noting guides like Chris for making the experience memorable and informative.

Is food included in the tour?
No, meals are not included, but there’s flexibility to have lunch or dinner in Fenghuang or bring snacks for the day.

The Sum Up

This private Zhangjiajie day tour provides a rewarding way to see two of China’s most picturesque and historically significant old towns. With expert guides, comfortable transportation, and flexible options, it offers a personalized, immersive experience that’s hard to match in group tours.

Ideal for history buffs, culture lovers, or anyone wanting a snapshot of traditional Chinese life against stunning riverbackdrops, this tour balances sightseeing with storytelling. While the long hours might be a consideration, the rich history, authentic atmospheres, and breathtaking views justify the effort.

If you’re eager to explore beyond the modern cityscape and dive into China’s storied past, this tour delivers a well-curated, memorable day that enriches your journey through Zhangjiajie.