This attraction introduction is compiled from historical materials in the "Zhangjiajie Tour Guide Network" (33519.com · Scenic Spots section). Ticket prices, opening hours, transportation, and contact information mentioned in the text may be outdated. Please refer to the latest official announcements from the scenic area before traveling; some content consists of historical background/cultural introductions and is for reference only.
Yanlake (pronounced "yan-la-ke"), called "KHAODROUB" in ancient Miao language (Miao script), meaning "Miao village where strange rocks converge," is located north of the famous Xiangxi Fenghuang scenic spot Huangsiqiao Ancient Town, on the 150-meter Yuntai Mountain, at the central settlement of the eastern dialect branch of the Chinese Miao people. The village has a simple and ancient appearance, profound historical and cultural heritage, primitive natural ecology, and rich folk customs. In particular, it has mysterious and thrilling Nuo witchcraft religious cultural phenomena such as "corpse driving," "poison placing," "climbing the mountain of knives," and "spirit summoning," which still survive today in their original ecological form. This is a window for understanding Chinese Miao culture and exploring Xiangxi.
Yanlake Miao Village is located along the line of the Southern Great Wall of China and was a frontline position where the Miao rebel army and the historical feudal dynasties fought bloody battles. Within its territory, the remaining beacon towers, ancient official roads, watchtowers, and village walls bear witness to that earth-shaking national war history from 200 years ago. In 2006, Yanlake Miao Village was officially designated by the Hunan Provincial Miao Society as a "China Miao Military Culture Research Base."
Yanlake Miao Village has China's largest stone arch bridge aqueduct—the Yanlake Great Stone Bridge, known as "China's Pont du Gard" (compared with the famous ancient Roman Pont du Gard, this bridge has the same function and similar structure, and is one of China's largest stone arch bridge aqueducts).
Transportation
To go to Yanlake Miao Village, first go to Fenghuang County. Various means of transportation can get you there conveniently. After arriving in Fenghuang County, take a local minivan directly to Yanlake Miao Village.
