Ethnic people in Fenghuang old town. [Photo/IC]

Fenghuang began to charge admission in 2013 in the face of protests by local store owners who claimed it would reduce their revenue. Before that, tourists could enter the town for free.

Fenghuang, which means "phoenix" in Chinese, is known for its wooden buildings and traditional river town scenery. Over the years, it has developed into a popular tourist destination with numerous hotels, bars and guest houses.