We almost skipped visiting Zhangjiajie and Furong Ancient Village due to time constraints, and I am so happy we didn't - if you're seeking a blend of nature, culture, and ancient history in China, Furong Ancient Village is an unmissable destination.
Known for its iconic waterfall cascading through the village and its rich Tujia ethnic heritage, Furong Town offers a unique cultural escape.
Here's an updated guide, including travel tips for families, to make the most of your visit to this picturesque village.
Quick summary
🗺️ Location: Hunan Province, China
⏱️ Ideal Duration: 0.5-1 days
💰 Budget: $40-70 per day (including village ticket around $12)
🌡️ Best Time: Spring (March-May) or Autumn (September-November)
🏠 Where to Stay: Tuwang Palace Babutang
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Furong is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild, and the surrounding landscape is at its most vibrant.
Spring brings blooming flowers and fresh greenery, while autumn offers a cooler climate and stunning views of the changing leaves.
The waterfall is at its fullest during the rainy season, typically from May to August, though this period can also bring higher humidity and frequent showers.
Getting there
Getting to Furong Ancient Village has never been easier with several convenient transportation options:
- From Zhangjiajie: A direct high-speed train from Zhangjiajie Xi Train Station takes only 23 minutes to Furong. From there, it's just a quick 10-minute taxi or minibus ride to the village.
- From Changsha: A 2.5-3 hour train ride will get you there comfortably.
- From Beijing or Hong Kong: You can take a direct high-speed train to Furong in around 10 hours (depending on the train). This allows visitors from major cities to easily access this hidden gem!
Furong Village is now more accessible than ever, making it a perfect stop for travelers exploring Hunan!
If you are really short on time and prefer an organised tour, you can book a private day tour to Fenghuang and Furong villages.
Where to stay
The town is small and majority of hotels offer similar standard. Prices are also in a very reasonable $20-$60 range.
The only differentiator is the waterfall view, so make sure to pick a hotel on the hill side with a view, like Tuwang Palace Babutang.
A short history of Furong
Furong, originally named Wangcun, is a village with over 2,000 years of history. It rose to prominence during the Qin and Han Dynasties as a bustling trading center along the You River. However, it became internationally recognized after the success of the Chinese film Furong Town (1986), which showcased its natural beauty and cultural significance, prompting the town to adopt its current name. Today, it remains a well-preserved gem where visitors can experience both the architectural grandeur of ancient stilt houses and the living traditions of the Tujia ethnic group.
A Waterfall in the Heart of the Village
The Furong Waterfall, which stands at 60 meters high and 40 meters wide, is the centerpiece of the town. Unlike other waterfall destinations where the natural wonder is remote, this waterfall flows directly through the village, creating a majestic sight that can be enjoyed from multiple vantage points. Visitors can walk down to the base of the waterfall to feel the mist or explore the caves hidden behind it for a more intimate experience.
The symbiosis between the village and the waterfall adds to Furong’s unique charm. Whether you’re admiring it from a stilt house balcony, a bridge, or standing at the base, the waterfall’s presence is a constant reminder of nature’s beauty.
Tujia Ethnic Culture: A Living Tradition
Furong is home to the Tujia ethnic minority, and their culture is woven into the village’s daily life.
The stilt houses (吊脚楼), with their wooden structures, showcase the Tujia's architectural ingenuity, designed to withstand the challenging mountainous terrain and local flooding risks. These homes, some of which are now guesthouses, feature intricate wooden carvings and decorations, offering visitors a glimpse into Tujia traditions.
Things to do
As I mentioned, Furong is a really small walkable town, so the main activity for the day would be walking around and looking at the waterfall from all possible angles.
The town really comes to life in the evening when everything is beautifully lit up, so even though you can "do" the village on a day trip, it is worthwhile staying there for the night.
Every night there multiple performances that are included in your village ticket price. I highly recommend seeing the evening ones - it is at night time when lit by hundred thousands of lights is when the village truly shows its magic.
The performances are a perfect family activity - our kids simply loved them. The combination of music, dance and lights make a mesmerising show!
Traveling with Kids
Furong Ancient Village is an excellent destination for families, offering both educational and enjoyable experiences.
Children will be enchanted by the spectacular waterfall and the adventure of exploring the stone-paved streets and hidden caves behind the falls. The village offers a safe environment with plenty of outdoor space for kids to roam.
To immerse yourself in the local culture, explore the evening performances, which were by far our kids‘ favourite thing there! They are held outside and open for everyone (included in your ticket price) so you don't need to worry if your kids cannot make it till the end.
In the evening, the whole village is lit up, making it truly mesmerising.
Practical tips for families:
- Comfortable walking shoes are a must as the village’s cobblestone streets can be uneven.
- Bring snacks and water for children, as dining options may be limited to local cuisine.
- Stroller-friendly paths are hard to find, so a baby carrier is much more advisable.
Local Delicacies: A Taste of Hunan
Hunan is known for its bold and spicy flavours, Hunanese food is an integral part of the experience.
Signature dishes include Tujia-style preserved pork, sour fish soup, and stinky tofu, all of which reflect the region’s love for rich, robust flavours.
Keep in mind that in tourist spots, restaurants vary in quality and might not give you the best dining experience. Always take a look how busy the restaurant is and how the dishes looked like.
We ate a dinner in a small family-run restaurant that proudly displayed pictures of all famous people that once visited it (including Chinese president Xi Jinping). The food was simple and tasty, and the outdoor tables directly overlooked the busy streets, allowing you to glimpse over the village life while eating your dinner.
Where to go next
Furong Village is an excellent starting point for exploring other parts of Hunan Province.
The nearby Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, famous for its towering karst pillars, is a must-see destination and can easily be visited as part of a longer trip through the region.
Other nearby attractions include:
- Mengdong River, where visitors can enjoy rafting adventures,
- Fenghuang Ancient Village
- Dehang Miao Village, another ethnic minority village that offers more insight into China’s diverse cultural heritage.
Final thoughts
Furong Ancient Village is a destination that offers a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty in one picturesque package.
Whether you're drawn by the cascading waterfall, the rich Tujia culture, or the opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of China’s cities, Furong promises an experience like no other.
Its well-preserved architecture, scenic views, and friendly locals make it the perfect spot for travellers who want to immerse themselves in the past while enjoying the stunning landscapes of Hunan.
For families, Furong offers a safe, interesting, and scenic environment where both parents and kids can enjoy a slower pace of life while learning about China’s cultural diversity.
So next time you plan your journey through Hunan, make sure Furong Ancient Village is on your list – you won’t regret it!
Ready to Plan Your Hunan Adventure?
✈️ Book your flights
🏨 Find hotels
🚂 Reserve train tickets
🎫 Book kid-friendly activities
🚌 Book a tour
Member discussion