Furong Tunnel
A 2,000-year-old ancient town in Hunan, China, uniquely built around and over a magnificent waterfall.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Furong Tunnel
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 2,000-year-old ancient town in Hunan, China, uniquely built around and over a magnificent waterfall.
"This ancient town hanging on a waterfall left me speechless!"
👂 Pack Earplugs
Rooms near the waterfall can be noisy! Consider earplugs for a peaceful sleep.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven, ancient stone paths.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Cascading Waterfall
Center of the town
A breathtaking waterfall flows directly through the ancient town, creating a unique and stunning spectacle.
Stilted Architecture
Along the waterfall
Explore traditional Tujia ethnic minority stilted houses built precariously along the cliffside.
Nighttime Illumination
Throughout the town
Witness the ancient town transform at night with magical lighting that highlights the waterfall and architecture.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Embrace the Waterfall's Roar
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👂 Pack Earplugs
Rooms near the waterfall can be noisy! Consider earplugs for a peaceful sleep.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven, ancient stone paths.
📸 Golden Hour Photography
Mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for capturing the town's beauty.
🏨 Unique Stays
Consider staying in a hotel with waterfall views for an unforgettable experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
👂 Pack Earplugs
Rooms near the waterfall can be noisy! Consider earplugs for a peaceful sleep.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven, ancient stone paths.
📸 Golden Hour Photography
Mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for capturing the town's beauty.
🏨 Unique Stays
Consider staying in a hotel with waterfall views for an unforgettable experience.
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond the Main Path
Wander through the smaller alleys to discover hidden gems and local life.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Furong Town is widely praised for its unique and stunning natural beauty, with the waterfall flowing through the ancient village being a major highlight. Visitors are captivated by the traditional Tujia stilted architecture and the magical nighttime illuminations. Some guests note that accommodations near the waterfall can be noisy, and the town can get crowded during peak times.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Furong Town is by high-speed train to Jishou Station, followed by a bus or taxi to the town. Some travelers opt for direct buses from Changsha, which can take around 4-5 hours.
Yes, you can drive to Furong Town, and there are parking facilities available. However, navigating Chinese roads and parking can be challenging for some visitors.
Furong Town is best explored on foot. The ancient streets and pathways are not suitable for vehicles.
The nearest major airport is Changsha Huanghua International Airport (CSX). From there, you would typically take a train or bus to reach Furong Town.
Traveling from Zhangjiajie to Furong Town can take approximately 2-3 hours by car or bus, depending on traffic conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, an entrance ticket is required to explore Furong Town. It's recommended to purchase tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Furong Town is generally open year-round, with specific hours for attractions within the town. It's best to check the official website or local listings for the most up-to-date information.
Ticket prices can vary, but expect to pay around 100-150 RMB for admission. Prices may be subject to change.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or children. It's advisable to inquire about potential discounts when purchasing your ticket.
Often, the nighttime illumination is included with the general admission ticket, but it's wise to confirm this when you purchase your entry.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main attractions include the spectacular waterfall, the ancient stilted houses, the Tujia ethnic minority culture, and the illuminated night views.
Yes, Furong Town can be a fascinating experience for families. Children will be captivated by the waterfall and the unique architecture. However, be mindful of the uneven terrain and the proximity to the water.
You can explore the ancient streets, visit local craft shops, enjoy traditional Tujia food, and take countless photos of the stunning scenery.
A half-day to a full day is generally recommended to fully experience Furong Town, especially if you plan to stay overnight and see the night illuminations.
Furong Town can get very crowded, especially on weekends and during public holidays. Visiting on weekdays and during the off-season is advised for a more peaceful experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Be sure to try local Tujia specialties like smoked meat, spicy stir-fries, and various rice dishes. Many restaurants offer authentic regional cuisine.
Yes, several restaurants are built along the cliffside, offering diners spectacular views of the waterfall while they eat.
You'll find a range of dining options, from small local eateries serving traditional dishes to more established restaurants.
Dining prices are generally reasonable, especially at local eateries. Restaurants with prime waterfall views might be slightly more expensive.
While many dishes are meat-centric, you can usually find vegetarian options like stir-fried vegetables and tofu dishes. It's best to communicate your dietary needs.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire town offers incredible photo opportunities! Key spots include viewpoints overlooking the waterfall, the stilted houses, and the illuminated streets at night.
Early mornings offer soft light and fewer crowds, while evenings provide a magical ambiance with the town's illuminations. The golden hour before sunset is also stunning.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. However, a wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the scale of the waterfall and town.
Generally, photography is allowed throughout the town. However, always be respectful of private property and local customs.
Popular shots include the waterfall cascading behind the stilted houses, panoramic views of the town, and the vibrant night scenes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Practical tips for families: Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain can be uneven. Keep a close eye on children near the waterfall and cliff edges. Consider packing snacks and drinks, as options might be limited in certain areas. The nighttime illumination is also a magical experience for kids, but be mindful of potential noise if staying nearby.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
For the best light, aim for early mornings to capture the soft glow and fewer crowds, or stay for the evening illuminations which transform the town into a magical wonderland. Experiment with different angles, from wide shots capturing the scale of the waterfall to close-ups of the intricate details of the Tujia buildings.
🏨 Travelers Seeking Unique Stays
Be aware that rooms located very close to the waterfall can be quite noisy due to the constant roar of the water. If you're a light sleeper, it's worth packing earplugs or requesting a room slightly further from the main cascade. Waking up to the sight and sound of the waterfall right outside your window is a truly unique travel memory.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of the Waterfall
Visitors are mesmerized by the sight of the water plunging down, creating a unique spectacle that is rare to find in ancient towns. The way the town is integrated with the waterfall is a testament to the ingenuity of its inhabitants. During different seasons, the waterfall's volume can change, offering varied visual experiences throughout the year.
For an immersive experience, consider dining at one of the restaurants that offer direct views of the waterfall. The sound and sight of the water while enjoying local cuisine is truly unforgettable.
Tujia Culture and Stilted Architecture
Exploring the narrow, winding stone streets, you'll encounter traditional Tujia dwellings, many of which have been converted into guesthouses, shops, and restaurants. The intricate woodwork and design of these buildings offer a glimpse into the historical lifestyle of the Tujia people. You can often see local crafts and experience their unique customs.
Many travelers find the stilted houses particularly fascinating due to their precarious placement and the blend of natural beauty with human construction. The town's history as a vital trading post for the Tujia people adds another layer of cultural depth to your visit.
Experiencing Furong Town at Night
The lighting accentuates the unique architecture and the dramatic flow of the waterfall, making it feel like stepping into a fairytale. Many visitors recommend staying overnight to fully appreciate this enchanting experience. The sound of the waterfall combined with the soft glow of the lights creates a serene yet captivating ambiance.
While the daytime offers stunning natural beauty, the nighttime illuminations provide a unique visual feast that many find to be the highlight of their visit. It's a perfect time for photography and for simply soaking in the magical atmosphere.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit