When dusk falls over Furong Ancient Town in Hunan Province, the "Cliffside Fairyland" transforms into one of China's most breathtaking nightscapes. The 2,000-year-old Tujia minority settlement becomes a living painting as its 30-meter waterfall turns golden under carefully designed lighting, cascading behind clusters of traditional stilt houses.
Must-See Night Attractions:
The Illuminated Waterfall (7:30-10:30 PM daily)
The town's centerpiece becomes a radiant curtain of light, with mist creating natural light diffusers for dreamy photography. Pro tip: Stand on Moonlight Bridge for reflections doubling the spectacle.
Five-Mile Flagstone Street
Over 300 red lanterns ignite simultaneously at dusk, guiding visitors through Ming-Qing dynasty architecture now housing artisan shops and tea houses serving local "blood duck" hotpot.
Tujia Stilt House Clusters
Wooden houses clinging to cliffs glow like fireflies, their silhouettes mirrored in the You River. Overnight guests enjoy private balconies overlooking this UNESCO-listed cultural landscape.
Photography Secrets:
Golden hour (6-7 PM) blends natural twilight with artificial lights
Use slow shutter (≥2s) to capture waterfall silk effects
Rent traditional Tujia costumes (¥50/hour) for atmospheric portraits
Visitor Essentials:
Entry: ¥108 (valid 3 days)
Best season: April-Nov (waterfall flows strongest)
Nearest transport: Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport (1.5h drive); Zhangjiajie West Railway Station (2h drive)
As night falls deeper, floating tea houses begin Guzheng music performances while the scent of spicy rice tofu (must-try!) wafts through lantern-lit alleys—proof that Furong's beauty doesn't sleep with the sun.