Meicheng Ancient Town
A 2,000-year-old Tujia village dramatically perched above cascading waterfalls, offering a unique blend of culture and nature.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Meicheng Ancient Town
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 2,000-year-old Tujia village dramatically perched above cascading waterfalls, offering a unique blend of culture and nature.
"This ancient town, famous for its waterfalls, is a must-see in China!"
📸 Capture the Waterfall Views
Get your camera ready for stunning waterfall vistas! Early morning light is magical.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Explore the ancient town's cobblestone streets with ease. Good walking shoes are a must!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cascading Waterfalls
Overlooking the town
Witness the breathtaking sight of a village perched above stunning waterfalls, a truly unique natural spectacle.

Tujia Ethnic Minority Culture
Throughout the town
Immerse yourself in the rich traditions and history of the Tujia people in this ancient settlement.
Ancient Stone Pathways
Cobblestone lanes
Wander through charming cobblestone lanes, soaking in the atmosphere of this 2,000-year-old village.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Meicheng Ancient Town
Getting to Meicheng Ancient Town
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Waterfall Views
Get your camera ready for stunning waterfall vistas! Early morning light is magical.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Explore the ancient town's cobblestone streets with ease. Good walking shoes are a must!
🚆 Easy Train Access
Just a 20-min train from Zhangjiajie. Perfect for a day trip or stopover!
⏳ Allow ample time
Don't rush! Soak in the atmosphere and enjoy the unique setting.
"Old towns" in China that are *actually* preserved historic old towns and not touristy make-overs?
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Waterfall Views
Get your camera ready for stunning waterfall vistas! Early morning light is magical.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Explore the ancient town's cobblestone streets with ease. Good walking shoes are a must!
🚆 Easy Train Access
Just a 20-min train from Zhangjiajie. Perfect for a day trip or stopover!
⏳ Allow ample time
Don't rush! Soak in the atmosphere and enjoy the unique setting.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Meicheng Ancient Town is widely praised for its breathtaking natural beauty, particularly the unique waterfalls that flow through the village. Visitors love the immersive experience of exploring the ancient Tujia settlement and its charming cobblestone streets. Some find the entrance fee a bit high, and during peak times, it can get crowded.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Meicheng Ancient Town (Furong Town) is easily accessible by train from Zhangjiajie, typically taking around 20 minutes. This makes it a popular day trip destination or a convenient stopover if you're exploring the Zhangjiajie region.
The most recommended way to reach Meicheng Ancient Town is by train from Zhangjiajie. You can also consider hiring a private car or taking a bus, though train travel is often more straightforward and scenic.
Meicheng Ancient Town is primarily visited in conjunction with Zhangjiajie. While it's part of a broader China trip, it's not directly adjacent to major hubs like Beijing or Shanghai. Plan your itinerary to include it as part of a Hunan province exploration.
Absolutely! Meicheng Ancient Town is an excellent day trip from Zhangjiajie, thanks to its close proximity and easy train access. You can easily spend a few hours exploring its unique waterfall setting and cultural heritage.
While both are ancient towns in Hunan, they are not directly adjacent. Travel between Meicheng and Fenghuang typically involves bus or train connections, often requiring a transfer. It's best to plan this as a separate leg of your journey.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is an entrance fee to explore Meicheng Ancient Town. It's advisable to check the latest ticket prices and operating hours before your visit, as these can change.
The entrance ticket typically grants access to the main areas of the ancient town, including viewing the waterfalls and exploring the historic streets. Some specific attractions within the town might have separate fees.
Information on discounts for Meicheng Ancient Town tickets can vary. It's worth inquiring about potential discounts for students, seniors, or group bookings when purchasing your tickets.
Meicheng Ancient Town is generally open throughout the day, but specific times for attractions and shops may vary. It's best to confirm the official operating hours closer to your travel date to ensure you can experience everything.
While online booking options might be available, purchasing tickets upon arrival at the entrance is also common. Checking official tourism websites or local booking platforms in advance is recommended.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The absolute must-see is the spectacular waterfall that flows through the town, creating a unique living landscape. Wandering the ancient cobblestone streets and experiencing the Tujia culture are also highlights.
You can explore the historic streets, enjoy the stunning waterfall views, learn about Tujia traditions, sample local snacks, and take plenty of photos. Boat rides near the falls might also be an option.
Meicheng Ancient Town is incredibly photogenic, especially with the waterfalls as a backdrop. The ancient architecture and cobblestone lanes also offer fantastic photo opportunities.
A visit to Meicheng Ancient Town can range from 2-4 hours, depending on your pace. This allows enough time to see the main sights, enjoy the atmosphere, and perhaps have a meal.
Yes, there are several designated viewpoints that offer excellent perspectives of the waterfalls cascading through the town. Walking along the pathways provides continuous scenic opportunities.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Look for local Tujia specialties, which often include dishes with unique spices and ingredients. Try local snacks and street food as you explore the ancient town.
Yes, Meicheng Ancient Town has a good selection of restaurants and eateries catering to visitors, offering both local and more common Chinese dishes.
Food prices in Meicheng Ancient Town are generally reasonable, especially for local snacks and simpler meals. Dining at more formal restaurants might be slightly more expensive.
While Tujia cuisine can be meat-heavy, many restaurants will offer vegetarian options. It's always a good idea to communicate your dietary needs clearly when ordering.
You can find small cafes and tea houses within the ancient town where you can relax and enjoy a beverage.
📸 📸 Photography
The areas directly overlooking the waterfalls offer the most iconic shots. Also, explore the narrow cobblestone alleys and traditional Tujia architecture for unique perspectives.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and capturing a softer glow. The waterfalls are impressive at any time, though.
A smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for capturing the beauty of Meicheng Ancient Town. However, if you have a DSLR or mirrorless camera, you can achieve even more professional-looking shots.
Generally, photography is allowed throughout Meicheng Ancient Town. However, always be respectful of local customs and private residences.
Expect stunning shots of waterfalls integrated with ancient architecture, charming street scenes, and cultural details of the Tujia people.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing snacks and drinks, as options might be limited in certain areas. The town is generally safe for walking, and the visual spectacle of the waterfalls can captivate kids for a good amount of time. It's a great opportunity to introduce children to different cultures and natural wonders.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for early morning or late afternoon for the best light. Experiment with different angles to showcase the scale of the waterfalls and the intricate details of the town. Don't forget to capture the atmosphere and the daily life of the locals.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Engage with the local culture, try the regional cuisine, and take your time to soak in the unique atmosphere. The visual appeal of the waterfalls and ancient streets provides ample opportunities for personal exploration and discovery.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enchanting Waterfalls of Meicheng
Visitors often describe the sight as surreal, with houses and pathways built right alongside or even behind the falling water. This natural wonder has shaped the town's history and culture for centuries, making it a truly distinctive destination. Experiencing the mist from the falls is part of the immersive charm of Meicheng.
For the best views and photo opportunities, explore the various vantage points scattered throughout the town. Early morning light can create a beautiful ethereal glow, while midday sun highlights the power of the water.
Exploring Tujia Culture and History
Learning about the Tujia traditions, customs, and history adds a deeper layer to your visit. Look for opportunities to engage with local culture, perhaps through observing traditional crafts or understanding their historical significance. The town serves as a living museum, preserving the legacy of the Tujia people.
Immersing yourself in the local way of life is key to appreciating Meicheng. From the food to the architecture, every element tells a story of this ancient community.
Navigating Meicheng Ancient Town
Wear comfortable shoes, as the cobblestones can be uneven. The town is relatively compact, making it easy to navigate without feeling overwhelmed. Allow yourself to get lost in the maze of alleys; you might discover hidden gems and picturesque corners.
While the town is built around waterfalls, there are safe walkways and bridges to cross. Be mindful of slippery surfaces, especially near the water.
Social
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