Fenghuang is Chinese for Phoenix and refers to the mythical sacred firebird that can be found in the mythologies of the Persians; Greeks; Romans; Egyptians; Chinese; and (according to Sanchuniathon) the Phoenicians.

Legend suggests that two phoenixes on discovering the town hovered overhead for some considerable time before reluctantly flying away.

Fenghuang town is a well-preserved ancient town supposedly dating back to 248 BC. It is home to the Miao and Tujia minorities. The distinctive architecture includes Ming and Qing styles.