Fenghuang Ancient Town

Situated in the western border area of Hunan Province, Fenghuang (Phoenix) Ancient Town is a famous historic and cultural city. It was ever praised as "the most beautiful small city in China" by Rewi Alley, a renowned author in New Zealand.
 
Fenghuang Ancient Town was originally built in the early Qing Dynasty (1636-1912) and maintains its initial appearance after three hundred years of vicissitude. At present, the eastern and northern gate towers are well preserved. Classical characteristics can be found everywhere, including streets paved with bluestone blocks in the city, stilled buildings at the riverside, as well as Zhaoyang (Rising Sun) Palace, Tianwang (Heaven Gods) Temple, Dacheng Palace, Wanshou (Longevity) Palace and other buildings.
 
The place is divided into two parts: the old town and the new town. The old one leans against hills and faces the crystal-clear Tuojiang River flowing through it. A rampart built of red sandstones stands by the riverside, and the Nanhua Mountain adds radiance to the age-old gate tower. The gate tower was built in the Qing Dynasty, with the rusted iron gate still retaining its imposing presence as usual. Over the vast river is a narrow wooden bridge with a stone pier. It is so narrow that two persons walking towards each other have to pass sideways. However, it used to be the only passage leading to the outside world.
 
Fenghuang Ancient Town is a national 5A-level tourist attraction.