China Travel Itinerary - 大象旅行网

December Snowy Zhangjiajie: Hunan 5-Day 4-Night Private Tour Package

allenzhou — Tue, 11 Nov 2025 02:23:20 +0000

Going to Zhangjiajie in December is not a “big injustice”! At the time of this wave of “picking up leaks”, the local tour guide will teach you how to avoid pits.

Stop being misled by the saying that “it’s not cost-effective to go to Zhangjiajie in winter’! Zhangjiajie in December was obviously a good time to “pick up leaks” when the price was full.

As a local tour guide who has led the group on the front line for many years, I know too much about the pit that everyone is afraid of stepping on. At this time, the prices of tickets and hotels have fallen directly to freezing point, so there is no need to spend more money on the premium during the peak season.

More importantly, the beauty is not vague at all. In Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, the rime is covered with branches, crystal clear; Tianmen Mountain is covered with snow, like a wonderland. The “little Tudou’ in the south doesn’t need to run all the way north, so you can check in at the door of your house for the beautiful snow scenery.

Day1: Arrive in wonderland and start a comfortable winter journey

Core experience: Arriving in Zhangjiajie from your hometown, put down your luggage and adapt to the winter atmosphere first, and feel the first impression of the ”City of Fairyland’.
Accommodation: In the off-season, the per capita cost is 100 yuan to stay in a four-star luxury hotel, which is cost-effective.
Gourmetfood: The first must-eat Zhangjiajie standard-Tujia three-pot, “tame” the appetite of the journey with spicy and fresh fragrance.

Zhangjiajie Gourmet under Three Pots

Day2: Break into the Avatar world and check in to the snow scenery of Tianzi Mountain

Core attractions & experiences：
1. Take the Bailong Elevator: go to the top of the mountain in 88 seconds, and instantly “load” the same fantasy secret realm of Avatar, punch in to the Universe Pillar, the Vertigo Platform, and the world’s first bridge.
2. Stroll around Tianzi Mountain: The snow scenery in winter is picturesque, “snow-covered peaks, trees hanging on the ice’, and the shots are all ink-style blockbusters (known as the ”King of Wind chimes’, which is even more quiet in winter).
3. Take the Ten-Mile Gallery train: slowly shuttle through the winter mountains and forests, watching the ice and rime along the way, romantic and comfortable.
Evening activities: Watch the classic ethnic drama ‘The Charm of Xiangxi’ and feel the Tujia culture in an immersive way.

张家界森林公园雪景

张家界森林公园

Day3: Roaming in the sea of clouds in Tianmen Mountain, challenging the excitement of high altitude

Core attractions & experiences：
1. Take the longest alpine passenger cableway in Asia: through the sea of clouds in winter, overlooking the 99-bend Tongtian Avenue, the peaks are looming in the clouds and mist, like a fairyland.
2. Three views of the high altitude: the glass plank road at an altitude of 1500 meters(the snow scene of the sea of clouds is under the feet, and the film is exciting), the thrillingghost Valley plankroad, and the net celebritysky Road.
3. ake the mountain escalator: go directly to the square in front of Tianmen Cave, and make a winter wish in front of the “Tianmen Holy Realm”.

Day4: Millennium Ancient Town + Phoenix Night View, unlock the charm of Western Hunan

Morning: Furong Town: Visit the ‘thousand-year-old town hanging on the waterfall”, step on the stone road, watch the waterfall pass through the town, and feel the weight of 800 years of toast culture.
Afternoon-night: Fenghuang (or Phoenix) Ancient City : Stay at Linjiang Inn, watch the Tuojiang River (corrected by the subtitle “Tuojiang”) in the evening, the fairy aura lingers, and enjoy the glorious lights of the ancient city at night-“There is heaven above, and Suzhou and Hangzhou below, but the lights of the ancient City of Phoenix are dim.”

凤凰古城春节夜景

Day5: Slow Phoenix, farewell to western Hunan in winter

Returntrip: With the memory of winter snow scenery and fireworks in the ancient town, end the worry-free and money-saving journey.

Core experience: Walk the magnificent Red Bridge(corrected by the subtitle “Huihong”), stroll along the Tuojiang River, see the peaceful charm of the ancient city in winter, and feel the gentleness of Shen Congwen’s “Simple Xiangxi”, as if walking into the ‘heart of Chang’an City’ (with the subtitle “Mengmeng Xin Xin Xin Nian’).Read ‘correction).

Phoenix Ancient City

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This private tour package includes food, accommodation, tickets, tour guide, and pick-up and drop-off. You don’t need to bother to make a strategy for the whole journey. You can play from “Avatar Wonderland” to “Millennium Ancient Town”. In December, there are fewer people and the scenery is beautiful, and the price is full!

If you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy Zhangjiajie’s winter rime and sea of clouds exclusively, hurry up and collect this local private route, pay attention to Zhangjiajie Xiaoshuang, or directly consult for a detailed itinerary-this winter, don’t miss the “snow fairy Tale” in the south again!

Enshi in November faded the crowds and sultry heat of the summer, and ushered in the “golden peak season” of autumn. At this time, the lush green of the canyon has not faded, and the stream is still clear, and there is a surprise that “there are fewer people and the scenery is beautiful, and the cost is halved”. From weather, clothing, itinerary to precautions, this guide will help you easily unlock Enshi’s autumn secret realm.

If you want to continue to explore more attractive places, our team of professional travel consultants can serve you. The consultants are familiar with the attractions, terroir and popular routes in various regions of the mainland, and can tailor exclusive trips according to your preferences, budget and time, so that the journey is full of surprises.

Don’t hesitate, contact our travel consultant!

Contact information

December Snowy Zhangjiajie: Hunan 5-Day 4-Night Private Tour Package最先出现在大象旅行网。

Hong Kong→Zhangjiajie high-speed rail 5 days 4 nights in-depth tour: Fenglin enters the painting, the ancient city enters the dream

elephanttrip — Mon, 03 Nov 2025 01:36:02 +0000

First, go to a thousand-year covenant between landscape and ancient city

From the bright neon lights of Victoria Harbour to the peaks, forests and seas of Zhangjiajie; from the speed of the times of high-speed rail shuttles to the slow flow of time in the ancient city of Phoenix-this journey across thousands of miles will use the convenience of direct high-speed rail to connect the ingenuity of the world natural heritage with the cultural heritage of the ancient city of Xiangxi. We select core attractions, collect tickets and key transportation, explore the Strange Tower at night, climb the peak Forest during the day, and go boating on the Tuojiang River, making every moment an unforgettable memory fragment. Now, let us start this “one scene at a time, one frame at a time” journey to Western Hunan together!

2. Overview of Zhangjiajie’s core charm

Zhangjiajie is located in the northwest of Hunan Province. It isa world natural heritagesite anda global geopark. It is famous for its unique quartz-sandstone peak forest landscape-more than 3,000 stone peaks rise from the ground, with a height difference of more than 1,300 meters. It is like a “zoomed-in bonsai, a zoomed-in wonderland.” This is not only the filming prototype of “Avatar” and ‘Hallelujah Mountain’, but also gave birth to the clear and agile Golden Whip Creek and the surging sea of clouds of Tianzi Mountain, which combine natural wonders with the style of Western Hunan.

The core experience areas covered by the itinerary have their own characteristics：

3. Detailed itinerary path (high-speed rail round trip + scenic spot connection)

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park: The location of the ‘King of Peaks and Forests”, Yubifeng in Tianzi Mountain and the world’s first bridge in Yuanjiajie can be called geological miracles, and Jinjiaoxi is a natural oxygen bar (negative oxygen ion content of 100,000 pcs/CM3)；

Seventy-two Strange Buildings: A new Internet celebrity landmark, with “the world’s tallest hanging tower Building” as the highlight, the night view is brightly lit, showing the wisdom of Tujia architecture；

Furong Town: A thousand-year-old town hanging on a waterfall, Slate street and hanging foot building are built along the stream, hiding the taste of ”Liu Xiaoqing rice tofu’ in the market.；

Fenghuang or Phoenix Ancient City: “Pingyao to the north, Phoenix to the south”, Tuojiang Hanging Foot Tower, Hongqiao Wind and Rain Tower are integrated with Shen Congwen’s poetry. It is hailed as “the most beautiful small town in China” by New Zealand writer Louis Ali.

Day one: The high-speed rail is flying fast, and I first saw Xiangxi Qilou for the first time.

Itinerary path: Meet at Hong Kong West Kowloon Station (please arrive 60 minutes in advance and cooperate with your tour guide to handle group tickets) → Take the high-speed rail to Zhangjiajie West (reference frequency: G6080, Hong Kong West Kowloon departs at 08:07, Zhangjiajie West arrives at 14:53, the duration is 6 hours and 46 minutes;the flight time is onlyFor reference, if there are any transfers and changes, everything is subject to the final announcement of the Railway Bureau) → Take a special car to the hotel to rest → go to the 72nd Strange Tower(including tickets) in the evening for a night tour → stay at a hotel in Zhangjiajie City.
Special note for high-speed rail: Priority is given to arranging direct flights. If the outbound high-speed rail is full, it will be changed to transfer at Shenzhen North/Futian/Guangzhou South Railway Station. Guests cannot use this as a reason for withdrawing the group. Please be aware; Round-trip high-speed rail tickets are group tickets, and they cannot be refunded or changed after the ticket is issued. The seats are all provided by the railway.The computer system of the bureau is automatically assigned, and guests in the same group may not be assigned to adjacent seats or different carriages. Please forgive me.
Core experience: Check in to the world’s tallest hanging tower complex, look at the Tujia totems outlined by the lights, taste specialty snacks such as Xiangxi Xiaobu and pueraria mirifica, and feel the magical atmosphere of “looking at the building during the day and the lights at night”.

Seventy-two Odd Towers

Day 2: Fenglin Secret Realm, encounter Avatar World

Itinerary path: After breakfast at the hotel→ go to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park (about 40 minutes by car) →Take a one-way up Tianzi Mountain Cable Car (including tickets + circular bus in the scenic area) to climb Tianzi Mountain → visit Helong Park (view the bronze statue of Helong in memory of the proletarian revolutionaries), fairy scattered flowers (the stone peak is shaped like a fairy hand)Holding a flower basket and sprinkling flowers), Yubi Peak (the peaks point to the blue sky like a brush), Xihai Observation Deck (overlooking the wonders of Fenglin Yunhai) →After lunch, take a scenic environmentally friendly car to Yuanjiajie → stroll the world’s No. 1 bridge (natural stone bridge span 35 meters, 357 meters from the bottom of the valley), Vertigo Platform(The peaks and forests are dense and dizzying), check in to the filming location of “Avatar” and ‘Hallelujah Mountain’→take the one-way downhill Bailong elevator(ticket included, 2 minutes to the foot of the mountain, experience the shock of “crossing the peaks and forests in the air”)→ Return to the hotel to rest.
Intimate reminder: Bailong Elevator is the only cliff sightseeing elevator in Asia. During peak season (April-October, holidays), there may be a queue of 30-60 minutes. It is recommended to leave before 7:30 in the morning to avoid the flow of people. You can voluntarily participate in professional drone aerial photography services in scenic spots (about 100 yuan/person) to freeze suspended mountains and characters.Beautiful scenery in the same frame.

Bailong Elevator

Day 3: Stroll through the valley and walk ten miles.

Itinerary path: After breakfast at the hotel→ go to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park→ Take the Shili Gallery train back and forth(including tickets, the whole journey is 3.5 kilometers, and the drive is 20 minutes) to visit, and watch the birthday star welcome along the way (The stone peak is shaped like a birthday star on crutches), and the husband and wife hug each other (the two peaks hug each other, sandwiched in the middle).A fine peak), the elderly picking medicine (the peak body is like the elderly picking medicine in a basket), the three sisters Peak (the three stone peaks are shaped like sisters side by side) and other pictographic stone peaks→ Hiking the essence of the Golden Whip Creek Canyon (the water goes around the four gates to Camel Peak, about 2 kilometers, it takes 1.5 hours), view the Long Live sign (the word “Long Live’ is engraved on the natural rock), listen to the sound of streams and birds, and meet wild macaques by chance→Take the scenic area environmentally friendly car out of the scenic area →return to the hotel.
Natural eggs: The wild macaques of Golden Whip Creek are protected animals of the second level of the country. They are frequently active from 9:00-11:00 and 15:00-17:00 every day. Do not carry plastic bags (easily mistaken for food snatching by macaques), do not feed, and do not tease at close range. If you encounter a macaque, stay calm and do not run.

Three Sisters Peak

Day 4: Looking for tranquility in the ancient town, staying overnight in the phoenix lights

Itinerary path: After breakfast at the hotel→ take a special car to Furong Town (about 1.5 hours by car) → visit the Zhenjie Arch (Qing Dynasty architecture, witness the history of the ancient town), slate side street (bluestone slab road carrying thousands of years of footprints), climb to the observation deck to view Wangcun Waterfall (the waterfall passes through the town with a drop of 60 meters), The water flow is more turbulent in the rainy season)→ Taste Furong Town’s specialty rice tofu for lunch (recommend “Liu Xiaoqing Rice Tofu Shop” to experience net celebrity cuisine) → go to Phoenix Ancient City (about 2.5 hours by car) → Night tour of the ancient city after check-in→ Freely taste Phoenix ginger candy, blood baba duck and other specialtiesGourmet food.
Highlights of the night tour: The lights of the Wind and Rain Tower in Hongqiao reflect the Tuojiang River, and the jumping rocks are looming in the night. Along the stream, you can listen to the folk songs of the Miao Family Amei and feel the slow rhythm of the ancient city “The more beautiful the night”.

Day 5: Rafting on the Tuo River, returning full of memories

Itinerary path: After breakfast at the hotel→ In-depth tour of the Ancient City of Phoenix →visit the former residence of Shen Congwen (learn about the life of the author of ‘Border City’ and feel the feelings of the literary master of Xiangxi), Wanshou Palace (Jiangxi Hall building, exquisite woodcarving craftsmanship), ancient City Wall (ruins of Ming Dynasty military defense projects) →Take a characteristic cruise to Tuojiang RiverRafting (ticket included, 40 minutes, see the panoramic view of the hanging foot towers and jumping rocks, and enjoy the scene of the Miao Family girl washing on the shore)→ After lunch, go to Phoenix Ancient City Station (about 15 minutes by car) → take the high-speed rail back to Hong Kong West Kowloon Station (reference frequency: G6079, Phoenix Ancient City departs at 14:00, Hong Kong West(Arrive at 20:58;t he timetable is for reference only, subject to the final announcement of the Railway Bureau) →The itinerary is dissolved.
Special note for high-speed rail: During the peak season (Christmas/Easter/Chinese New Year), if the return high-speed rail is full, it will be transferred to Shenzhen North/Futian/Guangzhou South Railway Station instead. Guests cannot use this as a reason to withdraw from the group. Please be aware; If the guest holds a China Railway 12306 app account, the system will automatically issue it when participating in the group.For information related to high-speed rail tickets, please do not reply and operate. If the high-speed rail ticket is invalid due to personal behavior, you need to repurchase the ticket yourself.
Tips for returning: The waiting hall of Phoenix Ancient City Station is small. During peak season, it is recommended to arrive at the station 2 hours in advance to reserve time for security check and ticket collection. Before returning, you can buy souvenirs such as ginger candy and bacon at the Ancient City specialty store (be careful to keep shopping vouchers).

Former Residence of Shen Congwen

4. Core precautions for Foreign tourists

1. Special notes for High-speed rail travel

Documents and ticket purchase: The necessary documents are the Hong Kong-Macao pass within the validity period (including valid travel endorsement), and the high-speed rail group ticket shall be handled by the tour guide. The tour guide will notify the meeting time and the ticket collection method 1 day before departure; if you purchase your own ticket at 12306, you need to inform the tour guide in advance to avoid repeated ticket purchases.Ride.
Baggage regulations: The weight of each adult passenger’s baggage does not exceed 20kg, children do not exceed 10kg, and the total length, width, and height do not exceed 130cm; additional baggage check-in fee is required for exceeding the regulations, the specific fee is subject to the announcement of the Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong High-speed Rail on-site; flammable and explosive items and knives are not allowed in the luggage(The length of the blade exceeds 15cm) and other contraband items, for details, please refer to 【http://www.highspeed.mtr.com.hk 】.
Boarding specifications: Boarding at Hong Kong West Kowloon Station requires double inspection by the Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department and the Mainland Customs. It is recommended to arrive 60 minutes in advance; when boarding, you need to sit in the carriage and seat according to the ticket display, and keep the ticket safe throughout the journey. It needs to be recycled when leaving the station; Smoking in the carriage (including electronic cigarettes) is prohibited during the operation of the high-speed rail., Violators will be fined 500-2000 yuan.

2. Instructions for Scenic Spots

Reservation and admission to the park: Zhangjiajie National Forest Park needs to make an appointment through the “Zhangjiajie One Machine Tour” WeChat mini program 1 day in advance, select the ”Team Ticket’ channel, and enter the team number provided by the tour guide; for the first time to enter the park, you need to swipe the Hong Kong and Macao Pass + face recognition, you can enter the park multiple times within 4 days, lostTickets need to be re-purchased (147 yuan/ticket).
Transportation and equipment: The operating time of scenic environmental protection vehicles is 7:00-18:00 (extended to 19:00 in peak season), with an average of 20 minutes, and ticket inspection will stop 10 minutes before the last bus. Do not be late; It is recommended to wear high-top non-slip sports shoes (golden whip creek, ancient city stone road slippery on rainy days), carry foldingSunny and rainy umbrellas (rainy in western Hunan, 10 yuan/piece for raincoats in scenic spots), 20,000 mAh power bank (10 yuan/hour for rental in scenic spots).

3. Food and accommodation tips

Gourmet avoidance pit: Zhangjiajie City recommends “Master Hu’s three pots” and “straw hat Noodles” (often visited by locals, 50 yuan per person), Shenxin soliciting restaurants in scenic spots (Yi Mantian asks for a price); Furong Town looks for ‘Liu Xiaoqing Rice Tofu Shop” (10 yuan/bowl), Phoenix Ancient City eats bloodBaba Duck chooses a shop with a clear price tag (60 yuan per person) to avoid buying ‘sky-high ginger candy” (it is recommended to choose a regular product with a production date printed on the package).
Accommodation options: Zhangjiajie City, near the bus station (convenient to enter the park the next day, budget hotels are 150 yuan per person/night), Phoenix Ancient City priority Tuojiang Upstream homestay (quiet and beautiful night view, avoiding bar street, mid-end homestay 200 yuan per person/night); check the room facilities at check-in, valuables are stored at the front desk.

4. Safety and cultural respect

Safety warning: Do not deviate from the trail without authorization when hiking (some areas of the scenic area are undeveloped and easy to get lost), and avoid approaching the cliff observation deck on rainy days; you must wear a life jacket for rafting on the Tuojiang River and do not go down to the river to play in the water at will (the water in some waters of the Tuojiang River is turbulent); Take care of your personal belongings during the trip, and beware of pickpocketing in densely populated areas of the scenic area..
Customs and taboos: Western Hunan is a settlement area of the Tujia and Miao ethnic groups. Entering the Miaozhai, you should not touch shrines or ancestral tablets at will, and obtain the consent of the locals before taking pictures; when participating in the Miao family bonfire party, follow the guidance of the host and do not interrupt the ethnic song and dance performance at will; scenic macaques are protected animals, and those who feed them will be fined 200 yuan/times.

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Let the landscape remember every step of the way

When the whistle of the high-speed rail awakens the return journey, are the peaks and forests of Zhangjiajie still standing in your mind? Is the flowing water of the Tuojiang River still ringing in your ears? On this journey, we use speed to measure distance, use our footsteps to get close to nature, and be inspired by the temperature of Western Hunan-from the prosperity of Hong Kong to the simplicity of western Hunan, from geological wonders to humanistic fireworks, every landscape is a gift of time.

Don’t let “longing” stay only in imagination! Pack your bags, prepare your Hong Kong-Macau pass, and let the high-speed rail carry you to the peaks, forests and seas of Zhangjiajie to touch the fantasy of ‘Avatar’ and listen to the poetry of the ancient City of Phoenix. The wind in Xiangxi is waiting for you, the fog in Fenglin is waiting for you, and the lights of Phoenix are waiting for you-let’s go, this landscape covenant will eventually become your most precious travel memory!

Don’t hesitate, contact our travel consultant!

Contact information

Hong Kong→Zhangjiajie high-speed rail 5 days 4 nights in-depth tour: Fenglin enters the painting, the ancient city enters the dream最先出现在大象旅行网。

Zhangjiajie 4-Day Tour: Uncover the Magic of Avatar’s Floating Mountains & Beyond

allenzhou — Sat, 01 Nov 2025 03:00:40 +0000

If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into a real-life fairyland—where towering sandstone pillars rise from the mist, glass bridges span dizzying canyons, and ancient forests echo with the whispers of nature—this 4-day Zhangjiajie tour is your gateway to wonder. Blending iconic landmarks with authentic cultural moments, it’s perfect for travelers seeking breathtaking scenery and unforgettable adventure. Discover the magic that awaits—your journey into the heart of nature’s masterpiece begins here!

Ready to explore? Let’s begin your unforgettable 4-day journey through Zhangjiajie—where every step leads deeper into legend and landscape.

Quick Glance: 4-Day Itinerary Overview

Day	Core Theme	Key Attractions & Experiences	Duration of Main Activities
1	Arrival & Evening Charm	Airport/railway pickup; 72 Wonders Building visit	2-3 hours (evening only)
2	Avatar-Inspired Landscapes	Bailong Elevator; Hallelujah Mountain; Tianzi Mountain; Ten Miles Gallery	6-7 hours (full day)
3	Thrills & Serenity	Grand Canyon (glass bridge, adventure activities); Baofeng Lake cruise & Tujia folk songs	7-8 hours (full day)
4	Sky-High Wonders	Tianmen Mountain cable car; Tianmen Cave; Glass Skywalk; 99-Turn Sky Road	6-7 hours (full day)

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Evening Charm of Zhangjiajie

Your adventure begins the moment you land in Zhangjiajie (by flight or high-speed train). We’ll greet you at the airport or railway station and take you to your accommodation—no stress, just a smooth start.As the sun sets, head to 72 Wonders Building—a stunning mix of traditional Chinese architecture and modern design. Wander its lit-up corridors, grab a cup of local tea, and get a first taste of Zhangjiajie’s warm atmosphere before resting up for the days ahead.

72 Wonders Building

Day 2: Wulingyuan National Forest Park – Step Into “Avatar”

Today is all about the park that inspired James Cameron’s Avatar—Wulingyuan National Forest Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Start with the Bailong Elevator: This glass elevator climbs 326 meters along a cliff, giving you jaw-dropping views of the surrounding rock formations as you rise.
Next, explore Hallelujah Mountain (the real-life “floating mountain” from Avatar). Stand among the misty peaks and feel like you’ve entered a sci-fi movie—don’t forget your camera!
Later, hike to Tianzi Mountain to see more of Zhangjiajie’s signature sandstone pillars, then take a leisurely walk through Ten Miles Gallery, where the mountains look like dragons, fairies, and even animals (let your imagination run wild!).

Bailong Elevator 百龙电梯

Hallelujah Mountain 哈利路亚山

Tianzi Mountain 张家界天子山

Day 3: Grand Canyon Thrills & Baofeng Lake Serenity

Balance excitement and relaxation on Day 3—perfect for adventure lovers and nature fans alike!

Morning: Grand Canyon Adventure

The Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon is where fun meets wonder:

Glass Bridge 张家界大峡谷

Walk across the World’s Longest Glass Bridge (430 meters long, 300 meters above the canyon). Feel the rush as you look down at the river below through the transparent glass!
Choose from optional thrills: Try via ferrata (climb a cliff with safety gear), zip-line over the canyon, or even take a bungee jump (for the brave!). There’s also an MR Cinema to learn about the canyon’s geology in a fun way.

ferrata 张家界大峡谷飞拉达

Afternoon: Peace at Baofeng Lake

Trade adrenaline for calm at Baofeng Lake—known as “Zhangjiajie’s Gem.” Take a 30-minute cruise around the lake, surrounded by lush hills. Listen to

Baofeng Lake张家界宝峰湖

authentic Tujia folk songs sung by local boatmen—their voices echoing across the water will stay with you long after the tour ends.

Day 4: Tianmen Mountain – Sky-High Wonders

Your final day is dedicated to Tianmen Mountain, a place of natural marvels and record-breaking feats:

Cable Car 张家界天门山最长索道

Ride the World’s Longest Alpine Cable Car (7.5 kilometers long!). The 30-minute ride takes you from the city to the mountain top, offering panoramic views of forests, valleys, and even distant peaks.
Visit Tianmen Cave—a massive natural archway that looks like a “gate to heaven.” Hike up the steps (or take an elevator) to stand beneath it and feel its grandeur.
Walk on the Glass Skywalk: A narrow glass path built on the side of a cliff—hold your breath (and your phone!) as you look down at the clouds below.
Before leaving, admire the 99-Turn Sky Road—a winding mountain road with 99 sharp bends that’s famous worldwide (it’s even used for international wing-suit flying competitions!).

Tianmen Cave 张家界天门洞

99-Turn Sky Road 天门山盘山公路

Ready to start your adventure?

👉 We’re a professional local tour operator in Zhangjiajie with years of experience hosting international travelers. If you’re planning a trip to China, contact our travel advisor today! We’ll help you plan your perfect itinerary, book hotels, arrange private guides, and handle every detail—so your journey is seamless and unforgettable.

Contact us now and turn your Zhangjiajie dream into reality!

Contact information

Zhangjiajie 4-Day Tour: Uncover the Magic of Avatar’s Floating Mountains & Beyond最先出现在大象旅行网。

Enshi five-day tour: Exploring the secret landscape and encountering the customs of the Tujia family

elephanttrip — Thu, 30 Oct 2025 02:24:11 +0000

🌿Opening: Walk into the folds of the earth and meet the true wild beauty

In the southwest corner of Hubei, there is a secret realm surrounded by mountains-Enshi.
It is called the ‘selenium Capital of the World”, but it is more than the name of health. It is a land of miracles at 30°north latitude: the canyon is as deep as the center of the earth, the Qingjiang River is as green as jade, the stone forest stands like a maze, and the ancient road winds through thousands of years.
More importantly, there are also enthusiastic and simple Tujia people living here, guarding the most authentic western style of Huxiang with hanging foot towers, hand dances and wax-flavored fireworks.

In the past five days, we will go deep into the hinterland of Enshi, through strange peaks, clear waters, secluded valleys and ancient cities, and start a landscape journey that combines natural shock and cultural immersion.

Itinerary overview

Day 1	Arrive in Enshi｜ Taste the taste of Tujia for the first time and enjoy the fireworks of the city slowly
Day 2	Enshi Grand Canyon｜Walk the Cliff Plank Road and overlook the wonders of karst
Day 3	Sobuya Stone Forest + Enshi Daughter City ｜ Explore the green Stone Forest and visit the Tujia Style at night
Day 4	Sobuya Stone Forest + Enshi Daughter City ｜ Explore the green Stone Forest and visit the Tujia Style at night
Day 5	Valley of the Heart of the Earth｜Cross the Bachu Ancient Road and say goodbye to the secret landscape

Detailed itinerary

Day 1｜Arrived in Enshi· First Acquaintance with Tujia Fireworks

After arriving, check in at the hotel, take a break, and start a time to roam the city.
The kindness of the night is a feast on the tip of the tongue.
Two must-try classics：

Zhang Guanhe Slag: Rich bean flavor, dense and fresh fragrance, the soul of Tujia home cooking；
Cured fish and bacon: smoked and slow-drying, salty and fragrant to the bone, and return to the mountain family in one bite.

Enshi Gourmet Cured Fish Bacon

At the food stalls in the streets and alleys, Kang potatoes, Youxianger, and bean skins are also worth checking in one by one, so that the taste buds will precede the footsteps and fall in love with the city.

**Day 2｜Enshi Grand Canyon *Epic on the Cliffs**

The Enshi Grand Canyon, known as ‘comparable to Colorado”, is the highlight of this trip.
In the morning, visit [Qixing Village Scenic Area] and step on the cliff plank road hanging from a 100-meter cliff. The abyss under your feet is vast, and the peaks and forests in front of you are like swords. During the walk, thrills and magnificence coexist.
In the afternoon, I walked into the [Yunlong River Crevice], the canyon was deep, there were groups of waterfalls, and the water mist was like a wonderland.
Step by step, they are all the ingenuity of nature.

Enshi Grand Canyon

Day 3｜ Great Qing River Cruise · Jiangshang Gallery Tour

Take a boat tour of the [Daqingjiang Scenic Area] and watch the clear water winding between the mountains, with wonders on both sides of the river emerging one after another.：

Safflower flowing stoneforest: strange rocks are jagged, like sculptures standing in groups；
Thousand Falls Gorge: Cascading Waterfalls like Bai Lian Hanging Down；
Butterfly Rock: A huge boulder with wings spread out and standing on the banks of the river, it is an iconic landscape of the Qingjiang River.

Along the way, there are also attractions such as Rainbow Bridge, Smiling Sleeping Buddha, Qingjiang murals, etc., which can be turned into wallpaper with a single shot.

Enshi Daqing River Cruise

Day 4 ｜ Sobuya Stone Forest × Enshi Daughter City

In the morning, I walked into the [Sobuya Stone Forest], which is densely vegetated and is known as the ”Dai Guan Stone Forest’.
Shuttling between mushroom stones, a line of sky, and the ancient riverbed, it is as if stepping into a green maze, cool and quiet, step by step wonders.

Enshi Sobuya Stone Forest Scenic Area

In the afternoon, I transferred to [Enshi Daughter City], a folk culture city built in antique style, which condenses all the poetry of Tujia life.：

Wear Tujia costumes to take pictures and check in；
Pintujia sauce Fragrant Cake, Hop Residue Powder, Kang Potatoes；
There are oftenhand-waving dance performances in the evening, with melodious drums and brightly lit lights, which are extremely lively.
It is recommended to stay in a style inn and feel the night of Tujia in an immersive way.

Enshi Tujia Daughter City

Day 5｜The valley of the Heart of the earth·Towards the depths of the earth

At the last stop, visit the ”oldest scar on Earth’-[Valley of the Heart of the Earth].
Go down alongthe Bachu AncientRoad, through the deep canyon, accompanied by clear streams, the cliffs are like knives and axes, the vegetation is verdant, and the air is refreshing.
There is the Yuntou River, known as the “No. 1 ancient river in China”, as well as the remains of hanging coffins and plank roads for thousands of years. History and nature blend here.
Walking in it, it was as if I heard the breathing of the earth.

Returning in the afternoon, with the memory of the landscape in his heart, he embarked on his way home.

Enshi Earth Heart Valley Scenic Area Earth Heart Valley Canyon

end：

I left for a better reunion

The five-day journey of Enshi is a deep journey from the city to the secret realm.
You have walked on a 100-meter cliff, and you have also rowed in the clear water gallery;
you have touched the rocks for hundreds of millions of years, and you have also listened to the singing of the Tujia daughter.

This land, with its wildness, spiritual beauty and warmth, has opened a door to the secret realm of China for you.

The meaning of travel is never just how many landscapes you have seen, but
whether there is a moment when you feel that you are really alive.

Do you want to take a leisurely dip in Enshi?
provides a one-stop service for [Enshi 5-day boutique small group/chartered car customization/ticket explanation], scan the code to get free itinerary planning, so that every departure can be worry-free.

The mountains are high and the rivers are long, Enshi is waiting for you, see you again.

Don’t hesitate, contact our travel consultant!

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Enshi five-day tour: Exploring the secret landscape and encountering the customs of the Tujia family最先出现在大象旅行网。

7-Day Enshi Itinerary: Explore Grand Canyon Cliffs, Tusi City

elephanttrip — Thu, 30 Oct 2025 02:21:29 +0000

Above the mysterious latitude of 30°north latitude, Enshi hides “the most beautiful karst secret realm in China”-there are the cliffs of Enshi Grand Canyon that can touch the clouds, the Pingshan floating boat that “boats float in the water, and people swim in the painting”, the Tujia Tu Shi Wangcheng that dates back thousands of years, and the Tujia Tu Shi Wangcheng.Primitive villages like Luyuanping and Yumuzhai that are “raised in the deep sea’. The 7-day itinerary is not rushed or crowded. It will not only take you to check in to the core attractions of “must-see in a lifetime’, but also go deep into the niche secret realm to avoid the crowds, and you can experience the living culture of Tujia camellia, Silankapu, and swing dance in an immersive manner, allowing you to truly ‘read the mountains of Enshi and fall in love.’The love of the soil family’.

Itinerary overview

date	Itinerary theme	Core attractions	Place to stay
Day1	First sight of Enshi・First experience of Tujia Culture	Enshi Tushi City, Tujia Daughter City	Enshi City Hotel
Day2	Wonders of the canyon・Touch the cliffs in the clouds	Enshi Grand Canyon (Qixing Village + Ground Seam)	Near the Grand Canyon Scenic Area
Day3	Wonderland Rafting・Pingshan Floating Boat	Pingshan Canyon (suspension boat, first sky, Taohuadu)	Hefeng County Hotel
Day4	Exploring the Stone Forest・A Geological Miracle of Hundreds of millions of Years	Sobuya Stone Forest (Qinglong Temple, Lianhuazhai, Mozigou)	Enshi City Hotel
Day5	Cave Adventure・Asia’s Largest Cave	Tamron Cave (Dark River Cruise, laser Show, Song and Dance performance)	Lichuan City Hotel
Day6	Niche Secret Realm・Hiking Primitive Village	Luyuanping (ground seam waterfall, ancient village, terraces)	Enshi City Hotel
Day7	Qingjiang Gallery-Farewell on the Return Journey	Qingjiang Butterfly Cliff Scenic Area (Cruise + Canyon Scenery)	None (drop-off / station)

Detailed itinerary

Day1: First sight of Enshi・First experience of Tujia Culture (Live: Enshi City)

Morning: Arrive in Enshi and start the journey

Arrive at Enshi Xujiaping Airport / Enshi Railway Station by yourself, take a special car to the city hotel to check in (it is recommended to choose Wuyangba Business district for shopping and eating), take a break and adjust to adapt to Enshi’s humid climate and slow pace.

Afternoon: Explore the city of Tu Shi Wang and read the history of the Tu Family

Go to [Enshi Tushi City] (1.5 kilometers from the city, 10 minutes by car): This is the only well-preserved Tushi cultural site in China. Follow your guide to visit the ‘Tushi Palace’-see the majestic gatehouse and the towering bell Tower, walk the ‘Wind and Rain Bridge’ to feel the wisdom of Tujia architecture, and you can also encounter it by chance.Tujia girls dressed in ethnic costumes danced and waved their hands, and checked in to the ”Toast City Wall’ to take pictures of ancient style blockbusters.

Evening: Visit Daughter City and taste Tujia fireworks

Go to [Tujia Daughter City] (8 kilometers from the city, 20 minutes by car): This is the ‘blind date Capital of China”. During the day, you can watch the ”bowl of Wine’ performance (you can experience it at your own expense, and the auspicious meaning is thrown out), and visit the Silankap handmade shop; eat authentic Tujia at night.Cuisine-Recommend Zhang Guanhe dregs (braised bacon with tofu dregs), Kang potatoes, bacon and stir-fried ferns. After the meal, watch a live performance of ‘Daughter’s Club’ and feel the Tujia marriage and love culture.

Enshi Tujia Daughter City

Enshi Toast City

Day2: Wonders of the Canyon・Touch the cliffs in the clouds (Live: Near the Grand Canyon Scenic Area)

Morning: Hike to Qixing Village and challenge the cliff Plank Road

Depart from the city (1.5 hours by car), arrive at [Enshi Grand Canyon] and take the cableway to Qixing Village: walk along the cliff plank road, with an abyss under your feet, and in front of you is “a stick of incense” (a lonely peak 150 meters high, standing for tens of millions of years), ”mother and child love’ (shaped like a mother holding a child), and ‘mother and child love’ (shaped like a mother holding a child).The child’s rock), if you are lucky, you can still meet the sea of clouds, as if walking in the clouds.

Noon: Dining in the scenic area

Have a light meal in the Qixingzhai Service Area (Tujia bacon rice and Heji soup are recommended) to replenish your strength.

Afternoon: Explore the cracks in the Yunlong ground and watch the waterfall flying down

Take a sightseeing bus to [Yunlong Seam]: This is a rare “U-shaped seam” in the world. Follow the stone steps to the bottom of the valley and watch the ‘Yunlong Waterfall” pouring down from an altitude of 30 meters. The splashing mist is cool and pleasant, and you can also check in to the ‘Rainbow Bridge”. On a sunny day, it’s probablyRate meets rainbow.

Evening: Stay near the scenic area and enjoy a quiet time

Leave the scenic area and stay in a nearby homestay (mostly in the style of Tujia hanging foot building). For dinner, you can eat farm dishes made by the homestay owner (such as stewed chicken and stir-fried seasonal vegetables). After dinner, you can listen to insects in the courtyard and feel the tranquility of the mountain village.

Enshi Qiqingzhai

Enshi Yunlong Seam

Day3: Rafting in Wonderland・Pingshan Hovercraft (Live: Hefeng County)

Take a boat trip [Big morning: Go to Pingshan and go to the ‘Floating Covenant”

Depart from the Grand Canyon (2.5 hours by car) and arrive at [Pingshan Canyon] (where the net celebrity “floating boat” is located): After putting on your life jacket, take a boat into the canyon. When you reach the vicinity of ‘First Line of Sky”, the boatman will stop and let you experience the ‘floating boat”-the clear river is as transparent as glass., The ship seemed to be floating in the air, and it was all shot in the same style of the “Xianxia Drama” blockbuster.

Noon: Dining in the canyon

Eat Chinese food at the Pingshan Canyon Visitor Center (fish soup hot pot is recommended, the ingredients are local Qingjiang fish).

Afternoon: Hiking in the canyon, looking for quiet and exploring

Hike along the canyon trail to see the ‘peach Blossom Crossing’ (the peach blossoms on both sides of the strait are beautiful when they are in full bloom, and the best in spring and autumn) and the ‘five-foot gate” (a narrow rock-walled passage that can only be passed by one person), listen to the guide tell the historical story of Pingshan’s “Tushi Tibetan Soldier Cave”, and feel the canyonThe tranquility and mystery.

Evening: Stay in Hefeng County and relax

Leave Pingshan, go to Hefeng County City (30 minutes by car), and stay at the county hotel. For dinner, you can taste Hefeng’s specialty “Gexianmi Egg Stew” (a rare local ingredient, rich in nutrition).

Enshi Daqing River Cruise

Day4: Exploring the Stone Forest・A geological Miracle of hundreds of millions of years (live: Enshi City)

Morning: Walk into Sobuya and see the ‘Billion-year-old stone Forest”

08:30 Depart from Hefeng (2 hours by car) and arrive at [Sobuya Stone Forest]: This is an Ordovician stone forest formed 460 million years ago, 200 million years earlier than the Yunnan Stone Forest! Follow your guide to visit the four major areas: ‘Qinglong Temple“ to see the ”Longtou Stone“ vividly, ”Lianhuazai“ to see the ”Lianhuatai“ layered on top of each other, ”Mozigou“ to walk the ”first line of heaven’ to feel the changes in light and shadow, as if traveling through ancient times.

Enshi Sobuya Stone Forest Scenic Area

Noon: Farm vegetables near Shilin

At 12:00, I will have a meal at the farmhouse restaurant at the exit of Shilin. “Shilin bacon stewed potatoes” and “fried wild mushrooms” are recommended. The ingredients are fresh and authentic.

Afternoon: Non-human body examination, made by the Tujia family

14:30 Return to Enshi City (1.5 hours by car), and go to [Tujia Intangible Cultural Heritage Workshop] on the way: experience ”Silankapu“ weaving (Tujia ”brocade“, follow the non-genetic inheritor to learn to weave simple patterns, you can take away your own works), or learn to make ‘Tujia’ weaving.Home camellia soup’ (boiled with tea, sesame seeds, and peanuts, take a sip to warm up and be appetizing).

Evening: Free shopping and eating in the city

When you return to the city at 18:00, you can go to the “Selenium Tea City” to buy Enshi specialties (such as selenium-rich tea and Enshi yulu). For dinner, “Ba Rentang” is recommended to eat authentic Tujia dishes (steamed bacon, potatoes, pumpkin).

Day5: Cave Adventure・Asia’s Largest Cave (Live: Icheon City)

Morning: Explore Tamron Cave and feel the wonders of ‘cave to Cave’

08:00 Depart from Enshi City (1.5 hours by car) and arrive at [Tenglong Cave] (Asia’s largest cave, which can accommodate 200 Boeing 747s): First take a sightseeing bus to the entrance of the cave to see the ”Wolong Tun River’ Waterfall (Qingjiang water flows into the cave, majestic), and then walk into the cave: The constant temperature in the cave is 18℃, cool in summer and warm in winter. Look at the ‘thousand Hills Field“ (stalactites shaped like terraces) and the ”fairy Cave’ (stalactites dancing like fairies).

Enshi Tenglongdong

Noon: Meal near the cave

At 12:00, have Chinese food at the Tam Longdong Visitor Center. I recommend “Icheon Heji’ and ‘Stir-fried bacon with Sea Pepper’ (Icheon specialty home-cooked food).

Stir-fried bacon with sea pepper

Afternoon: Watch laser show + cabaret show, taste Tujia art

Watch the [laser show] in the cave at 14:00 (15 minutes, with the rock wall of the cave as the curtain, telling the legend of Tenglong Cave); watch the [Tujia Song and Dance Performance] at 15:30 (‘Yishui Lichuan’, showing the Tujia marriage customs and labor scenes, the actors have solid singing skills, and the pictureBeautiful); After that, you can freely visit the “intangible cultural heritage shop” in the cave and buy handmade embroidery from the Tujia family.

Evening: Live in downtown Icheon and enjoy a slow life

At 17:30, go to Icheon City (30 minutes by car). After checking in at the hotel, you can visit “Icheon Binjiang Road” (see the night view of the river and blow the river breeze), and eat “Icheon Dragon Boat Water Village Fish” for dinner (Qingjiang fish is freshly killed and cooked, tender and delicious).

Day6: Niche Secret Realm・Hiking Primitive Village (Live: Enshi City)

Morning: Hiking to Luyuan Ping, looking for ‘Xanadu”

08:00 Depart from Icheon (1.5 hours by car) and arrive at [Luyuanping] (the only ancient village in Enshi that is not connected to the highway, you need to walk 1,500 stone steps down to the bottom of the valley, it is recommended to wear comfortable sports shoes): The original Tujia hanging scaffolding and terraces are preserved here. Walk along the trail to see “Luyintan Waterfall’ (the pool under the waterfall is crystal clear and you can play in the water), “ground crevice Plank Road” (built along the ground crevice, looking at the lush green plants on both sides).

Enshi Luyintan Waterfall

Noon: Eat farm rice in the village

At 12:00, I had a meal at the home of the villagers in Luyuanping. They ate “farmhouse pork trotter hot pot”, “cold ear root salad” and “fried shredded potatoes”, which are all ingredients grown by the villagers themselves. The taste is simple.

Afternoon: Visit ancient villages and listen to the stories of the Tujia

13:30 Visit the ancient village of Luyuanping: chat with local elders and listen to them talk about “the origin of Luyuanping” (Legend has it that deer drank water here in ancient times, and the villagers named it Luyuanping after they settled), and watch the ‘Tujia waterwheel” (an ancient tool used for irrigation, you can experience pushing water).Car), check in at the ‘centennial hanging foot building” (wooden structure, well-preserved, suitable for filming cultural blockbusters).

Evening: Return to the city to summarize the journey

At 16:00, follow the stone steps back to the top of the valley, and take a car back to Enshi City (a 2-hour drive). After checking in at the hotel, you can have dinner freely and share photos and stories from the 7-day tour.

Day7: Qingjiang Gallery-Farewell on the return journey (including drop-off / station)

Morning: Tour the Butterfly Cliff of Qingjiang River and watch the ”Water Karst’

Depart from the city (1 hour by car) and arrive at [Qingjiang Butterfly Cliff Scenic Area]: Take a cruise to visit Qingjiang (the whole journey is about 4 hours) to see the ”Butterfly Cliff“ (named after the shape of a butterfly spreading its wings, the waterfall flows down from the cliff during the rainy season, like a butterfly flying with water), ‘Five Brothers Peak’ and ‘Butterfly Cliff’ (named after the shape of a butterfly spreading its wings, the waterfall flows down from the cliff during the rainy season, like a butterfly flying with water).”(Five mountain peaks are connected, shaped like brothers side by side), ‘smiling Sleeping Buddha” (the mountain peaks are shaped like sleeping Buddha, with a serene expression), on the way to the boat trip, the guide will explain the legend of Qingjiang and listen to Tujia folk songs.

Noon: Meal on board

Eat Chinese food on the cruise ship (buffet, including Tujia specialties such as Qingjiang fish nuggets, bacon fried bamboo shoots).

Afternoon: Return trip, end the journey to the secret realm

The cruise ship docks and returns to Enshi City by car (1 hour by car). According to the flight/train time, a special car will drop off/drop off at the station to end the 7-day Enshi trip.

Enshi Butterfly Cliff

end：

Have you long been tired of traveling “to see the flowers and flowers”? Do you want to find a place where you can not only see the wonders of the landscape, but also taste the temperature of the humanities? This 7-day tour of Enshi will help you avoid the trap of crowds, so you don’t have to check your own strategy, book a hotel, and plan your route; from ‘net celebrity floating boat” to ‘primitive ancient village”, from ‘cliff canyon” to ‘underground cave’, from ”Tujia cuisine“ to ‘non-traditional’.Experience’, every place allows you to feel the charm of Enshi in an immersive manner.

While now, the mountains and waters of Enshi are green, the camellia of the Tujia family is still steaming hot, and the pride of throwing a bowl of wine is still waiting for you to experience-don’t let “no time” and ‘fear of trouble’ become a regret, pack your bags and come to Enshi for a “30° North latitude’. ‘The Secret Covenant’, let the landscape and customs here become the most vivid chapter in your memory!

Don’t hesitate, contact our travel consultant!

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7-Day Enshi Itinerary: Explore Grand Canyon Cliffs, Tusi City最先出现在大象旅行网。

8-Day Tour of Chadong Ancient Town, Fenghuang & Zhangjiajie

elephanttrip — Thu, 30 Oct 2025 02:03:14 +0000

When speaking of Western Hunan, one cannot avoid the “Border Town” where Cui Cui grew up under the sun and wind, as described by Shen Congwen. It also holds the lantern lights of stilted houses along both banks of the Tuojiang River, and the awe-inspiring sight of Zhangjiajie’s pinnacles piercing through the clouds. This 8-day journey eschews the rush of tourist checkpoints, instead inviting you to slowly immerse yourself in the soul of Western Hunan. Begin with the gentle waters of the Qing Shui River at the Lala Ferry in the ancient town of Chadong. Wander the cobblestone streets of Fenghuang Ancient Town, touching the wooden windows of century-old residences. Then venture deep into Zhangjiajie’s Wulingyuan, where you can almost reach out and touch the fantastical “floating mountains” reminiscent of Avatar. Over eight days, we’ll weave together frontier culture, ancient town vibes, and natural wonders, filling your travel memories with the romance and depth of this tri-province border region. Start your journey by diving headfirst into the picturesque Phoenix Ancient Town, with equally thrilling adventures awaiting. And for your convenience, we’ve included a hassle-free return itinerary at the end. Let’s embark on this extraordinary journey together!

Itinerary summary

days	Morning itinerary	Noon arrangement	Afternoon itinerary
Day1	Arrive at Chadong Ancient Town, check in at Linjiang Inn, and take a simple rest (adapt to the climate and environment)	For dining in restaurants in the ancient town, horned fish and sour soup fish are recommended	Experience the 2 yuan Lala Crossing (across the Qingshui River), stroll through the ancient wharf; stroll through the alleys of the ancient town and see the hanging foot buildings
Day2	Climb to Cuicui Island (admire the statue of Cuicui, visit the White Tower); visit Shen Congwen’s former residence (learn about the literary background)	For dining in ancient town restaurants, Blood baba duck is recommended	Punch in the “Stele across the Three Provinces with one foot’ (take a photo as a souvenir); visit the main street of the ancient town and choose the characteristic souvenirs of Western Hunan (such as Miao Yin ornaments)
Day3	From Chadong to Hong’an Ancient Town, Chongqing (Lala Crossing / 10 minutes by car), visit the former site of Liu Deng’s army’s “Advance into the Great Southwest” Command.	Hong’an Ancient Town eats special meals, rice tofu and braised vegetables are recommended	Drive to Deming Miaozhai (30-40 minutes by car) to enjoy the quicksand waterfall; you can choose to experience Miao costumes and take pictures
Day4	Go to Aizhai Bridge (30 minutes by car), climb to the observation deck to enjoy the bridge, and experience the cliff plank Road (optional)	For a light meal near the bridge, Tujia bacon and stir-fried bamboo shoots are recommended	Drive to the ancient City of Fenghuang (1.5-2 hours by car), check into the Tuojiang Inn; after a break, visit the outskirts of Hongqiao
Day5	Rafting on the Tuojiang River (there are few people in the early morning, enjoying the morning mist on the river); visit the former residence of Shen Congwen and Xiong Xiling	For dining in the Ancient City of Fenghuang , Miaojia sour fish soup is recommended	Visit Dongzheng Street and Cross Street to buy ginger candy and silver jewelry; climb the Ten Thousand Towers (overlooking the panoramic view of the ancient city)
Day6	From Phoenix to Zhangjiajie (2.5-3 hours by car /chartered car), stay in hotels around the city / Tianmen Mountain	For dining in Zhangjiajie City, three pots and slag are recommended	Climb Tianmen Mountain: Take the cableway up the mountain, take the glass plank road, and check in to Tianmen Cave (you can choose to take the mountain escalator)
Day7	Go to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park (1 hour drive), take the Bailong Ladder to Yuanjiajie, and check in at the ‘Avatar Suspended Mountain” (Qiankun Pillar)	Light meals in Yuanjiajie Scenic Area (such as burgers, bento)	Visit the Yangjiajie Scenic Area to see the “Natural Great Wall” and ‘Wulongzhai’; take an environmentally friendly car back to Wulingyuan District
Day8	Wulingyuan District purchases specialty products (Eucommia tea, Pueraria mirifica powder); pack your bags	Light meal at airport/high-speed rail station (such as Changde rice noodles)	Go to the airport / high-speed rail station, take a flight / high-speed rail return trip

Detailed itinerary

Day1: First sight of the border city/ Floor-to-ceiling tea house, night tour of the hanging foot building with lights

Afternoon: Arrival and check-in

High-speed rail: Changsha South Railway Station→ Jishou East Railway Station→ Chadong Ancient Town

Note: Visitors from Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan can take high-speed rail directly from Kowloon Station in Hong Kong, Shenzhen North Station, or Guangzhou to Changsha South Station. By air, arrive at Changsha Huanghua International Airport, then transfer to the subway or take a taxi for a 20-minute ride to South Station.

Evening: River breeze and cross-border experience

Strolling along the ancient wharf of Chadong, blowing the wind of the Qingshuijiang River, overlooking the first light of the ancient town of Hong’an, Chongqing, on the other side

Experience the Lala Crossing (2 yuan /person): Cross the river with a cable in your hand, and take the same framed photos of both sides of Hunan and Chongqing while sailing the river.

Evening: Food and night tours

Dinner: Taste authentic horned fish (freshly stewed without fishyness, the soup is fresh and tender) or sour fish soup (spicy and sour appetizer, relieve greasy meal)

Night tour of the ancient town: stroll along the stone road to the dimly lit streets and alleys, watch the lights of the hanging foot tower reflect the river, and feel the tranquility of the border city

Pass by Shen Congwen’s former residence (check in for the appearance, you can visit in depth the next day)

Former Residence of Shen Congwen

Food recommendation
Horned fish, sour soup fish (live fish in local ponds, freshly made)

Practical tips

It’s slightly cooler by the river at night, so it’s recommended to bring a thin coat even in summer.

If you want to take beautiful photos of an unmanned ancient town, you can walk on the wrong peak at 6-7 o’clock in the morning or 5-6 o’clock in the evening.

Day2: Dreaming of Cui Cui: Visit Cui Cui Island, Explore Shen Congwen’s Former Residence, and Check Out the “One Step Across Three Provinces” Monument

Morning: Literature and Geography check in

12:00 Check in to the ”One foot across Three provinces’ monument: stand in front of the monument and take a picture, step on the two provinces (Hunan + Chongqing), and compare the word “3” with your hands to freeze the geographical wonders.

Noon: Special lunch

Eat Xiangxi’s signature blood baba duck: glutinous rice is steamed with duck intestines and fried. It is crispy on the outside and waxy on the inside. It is stir-fried with green peppers. It is so fragrant that you can eat an extra bowl of rice.

Afternoon: In-depth tour of ancient town

Optional experience: Take a cruise (about 25 yuan /person) to see the hanging foot towers and the green mountains on both sides of the Strait from the water

Evening: enjoy time slowly

边城茶峒：一脚踏三省

茶峒古镇

Day3: Exploration of the three provinces: walk to Hong’an Ancient Town, Chongqing in the morning; enter Dezhan Miaozhai in the afternoontoenjoy the quicksand Waterfall

Morning: Trip to Hong’an Ancient Town, Chongqing

From Chadong: take Lala Ferry (2 yuan) or drive (10 minutes) to Hong’an Ancient Town, Chongqing

Visit the site of “three provinces with one foot”: Find the boundary monuments of the three provinces of Hunan, Chongqing and Guizhou, and take creative photos of “three provinces with one foot”

Visit the former site of Liu Deng’s army’s “Advance into the Great Southwest” command: look at the combat maps and military equipment of the year, and listen to the narrator tell the historical story of the liberation of Southwest China

Noon: Hongan Special Meal

Eat Hongan rice tofu (5 yuan /bowl): tender white rice tofu with spicy oil, sour soup, crushed peanuts, refreshing and greasy

With braised pig’s trotters (25 yuan /piece): the braised trotters are soft and rotten, the bite is boneless, and the salty flavor is delicious.

Afternoon: Waterfall viewing in Miaozhai, Dejiang City

Return to Chadong from Hong’an and drive to Deming Miaozhai (about 20 kilometers, 30-40 minutes by car)

Visit Miaozhai: look at Bluestone Board Road and Hanging Foot Building, listen to Miao grandmothers singing folk songs, and feel the fireworks of ‘Gaoshan Miaozhai”

Enjoy the quicksand waterfall: Walk along the trail to the foot of the waterfall, the 80-meter-high water flows down like white gauze, and the water vapor is super cool on your face. Take a fairy photo of “people in front of the waterfall”.

Optional experience: rent a Miao costume to take pictures (30 yuan /hour), silver headdress + embroidered skirt, with waterfall background sequins; if you encounter a Miao village folk performance, you can see Miao inspiration and love song duets.

Evening: accommodation and dinner

Accommodation options: live in the Miaozhai of Deqing City (experience the Miaojia Hanging foot Building, listen to insects at night) or return to Chadong / Jishou City (more convenient transportation)

Dinner: Eat Tujia bacon fried bamboo shoots (bacon mountain smoked flavor is strong, bamboo shoots are crispy and tender), Miaojia sour soup vegetables (wild vegetables boiled sour soup, fresh and refreshing to relieve greasy)

Food recommendation

Hong’an rice tofu, braised pig’s trotters, Tujia bacon fried bamboo shoots

Practical tips

The trail to quicksand Waterfall is slippery for a short time, wear non-slip shoes
Shopping in Miaozhai can be appropriately priced, for example, Miaoyin trinkets can be priced from 50 yuan to 20-30 yuan.

Border city 2 yuan Lala Crossing

Day4:Journey to Fenghuang : Experience the breathtaking heights of the Aizhai Bridge, stroll along the Rainbow Bridge at night, and lose yourself in the enchanting night views of the Tuo River.

Morning: Exploring the Dazhai Bridge

Depart from your accommodation and drive to the Aizhai Bridge (Dehang Miao Village → Bridge: approx. 20 minutes; Chadong → Bridge: approx. 1 hour).

Stroll around the observation deck of the bridge: Standing on the glass observation deck and looking down, the bridge spans the canyon, and the 99 winding roads below are entangled like silver snakes. It’s super spectacular to take pictures.

Optional Experience: Walk the Aizhai Cliffside Plank Road (¥68 per person): A plank road built along the cliff face, with a sheer drop at your feet—thrilling and exhilarating. Or witness the marvel of the Aizhai Highway and learn about the construction history of this “road wonder.”

Noon: Eat near the short village

Tujia-Style Smoked Pork Stew with Potatoes (¥35 per serving): The rich aroma of smoked pork permeates the potatoes, rendering them tender and starchy. Each bite delivers ultimate satisfaction..

With stir-fried seasonal vegetables (15 yuan /serving): local cabbage, pumpkin tips, simple stir-fry and fresh

Afternoon: Go to the Ancient City of Fenghuang

Drive to Phoenix Ancient City (about 1.5-2 hours by car)

Upon arrival, check into a characteristic inn by the Tuo River: choose a riverside room (push the window to see the Tuojiang River), put down your luggage to rest, and apply sunscreen.

Evening & Evening: Phoenix Night Tour

Strolling in Hongqiao: Standing on the bridge and looking at the hanging towers on both sides of the Tuojiang River, the sunset is super beautiful on the river.

Dinner: Eat Miaojia sour fish soup (freshly killed rice field fish, which is spicy and tender after cooking the sour soup), blood baba duck (the Phoenix method is more spicy, fragrant and waxy)

Night tour of the Tuojiang River: Walk along the side of the river and jump rocks (Shidun Bridge, steady when walking), watch the lights on the hanging foot buildings on both sides of the river, the lights reflect the river like a galaxy, and take a large picture of the ‘Night view of the Tuojiang River”

Visit Hongqiao Night Market: buy Phoenix ginger candy (10 yuan / bag, made and sold now, chewed with ginger fragrance), batik small square scarf (20 yuan /piece, can be used as a scarf or decoration)

Night view of Phoenix Ancient City

Food recommendation

Tujia bacon stewed potatoes, Miaojia sour fish soup, Phoenix Ginger candy

Practical tips

If you plan to go to Bafuanshan (optional meal itinerary): Bafuanshan is about 1,400 meters above sea level, and the temperature difference between day and night is large. Whether you live in a tent or a hanging foot building, you should bring a warm jacket; The Wukong restaurant has no guardrail, so stand firmly when taking pictures; if you want to watch the sunset in Swallow Cave, arrive 1 hour in advance.Best seat

There are many stone roads in the ancient city of Phoenix, so wear comfortable flat shoes

Aizhai Cliff Plank Road

Day5: Leisurely Exploration of Fenghuang Ancient Town: Cruise the Tuo River, Visit Famous Figures’ Former Residences, Spend the Afternoon Strolling Dongzheng Street for Souvenirs

Morning: Dawn Cruise and Historical Exploration

Tuojiang River rafting (80 yuan/person, about 40 minutes): Take a boat when the fog has not dissipated in the early morning, the boat floats in the river, the hanging towers on both sides of the river are looming, and the boatmen occasionally sing folk songs, like a fairyland.

Visit Shen Congwen’s former residence: it is more complete than Chadong’s former residence. Look at his desk and manuscripts in his youth, and learn about his growth story in Phoenix.

Visit Xiong Xiling’s former residence: See an exhibition of the life of the Prime Minister of the Republic of China. The former residence is a typical southern courtyard with exquisite woodcarving.

Climb to Wanwan Pagoda: Wanwan Pagoda climbs to the top to see the Tuojiang River around the ancient city, Nanhuamen overlook the panoramic view of the ancient city, and the red tiles and green trees reflect the river super beautifully.

Noon: Lunch in the ancient city

Eat Phoenix’s characteristic ‘social rice’ (15 yuan / bowl): glutinous rice mixed with wild artemisia, bacon, and peanuts, it is uniquely fragrant.

With “Miaojia sour radish’ (5 yuan /serving): sweet and sour, crisp and refreshing, anti-greasy and appetizing

Afternoon: Ancient street Taobao

Visit Dongzheng Street: visit Miaoyin Shop, choose Miaoyin bracelets (50-100 yuan /piece, sterling silver can be engraved), Miaoyin necklaces, and the boss will demonstrate silver jewelry polishing on the spot.

Visit Cross Street: buy freshly made ginger candy (you can try it, choose a softer one for sweeter), batik cloth (can be used as tablecloth or clothes, 50-100 yuan / piece)

Optional experience: visit the Ancient City Museum (30 yuan/person) to see the historical changes of the ancient City of Phoenix; or go to Qiliang Cave (60 yuan/person, 20 minutes by car) to see the stalactites in the cave, like a crystal palace under the light

Evening: Nightlife time

Find a clear bar after dinner: order a ”Phoenix Story’ cocktail (35 yuan /cup), listen to the resident singers singing folk songs, and relax the fatigue of the day

Go to a stall by the river: buy a ‘wishing lamp” (10 yuan / 2 pcs), write down your wish and light it, and watch the lamp float into the night sky.

Food recommendation

Shefan, Miaojia sour radish, Phoenix Ginger Candy

Ten Thousand towers

Practical tips

Choose early morning or evening for Tuojiang River rafting to avoid the scorching noon sun

When buying Miaoyin, ask if it is “999 sterling silver”, and the store can show the test certificate.

Day6: Journey to Zhangjiajie｜A Cloud-Top Feast at Tianmen Mountain, Glass Walkway Challenge

Morning: From Fenghuang to Zhangjiajie

08:00 Departure from Phoenix Ancient City: Drive /charter to Zhangjiajie (about 2.5-3 hours by car), see the scenery of the mountains of Western Hunan along the way, and take a break in the service area once

11:00 Arrival in Zhangjiajie: Check in to a hotel in the city or around Tianmen Mountain (choose the one near the cableway station, it is convenient to go up the mountain the next day), let go of your luggage and have a simple lunch

Noon: Zhangjiajie Special Meal

Eat “Zhangjiajie three-under-the-pot’ (68 yuan /serving): bacon, sausage, chicken cut into pieces, stewed in an iron pot with potatoes and green peppers, and eaten with rice. It is so fragrant that it licks the plate.

With hop residue (10 yuan /bowl): Tofu residue cooks vegetables, which is refreshing and relieves greasy. Locals often drink it.

Afternoon: In-depth tour of Tianmen Mountain

13:30 Take the Tianmen Mountain cableway up the mountain (tickets are reserved 1 day in advance, and entry is divided into stages): The total length of the cableway is 7,455 meters. When you pass through the sea of clouds during the ascent, your feet are white and white, which is as shocking as “flying into the sky”. Remember to record a video as a souvenir.

14:30 Walk the glass plank road (free, you need to rent a shoe cover for 5 yuan /pair): Choose the glass plank road on the Western front (there are few people and the scenery is good), you can look down at the abyss, and you can take pictures of each other when you walk together to relieve tension.

Check in at Tianmen Cave at 15:30: Walk from the plank road to Tianmen Cave. If you have good physical strength, take 99 curved ladders (a total of 999 steps). After reaching the top, you can feel the majesty of the ”Gate to the Sky’; If you want to save effort, take the mountain escalator (32 yuan/person, divided into two stages).)

17:00 Take the cableway down the mountain: when you go down the mountain, watch the sunset shining on Tianmen Cave, the golden light is super beautiful

Tianmen Mountain

Evening: Leisure in the city

Dinner: Eat ‘rock ear stewed chicken” (88 yuan /serving): Rock ear is a specialty fungus of Zhangjiajie, and the stewed chicken is so fresh that it loses its eyebrows.

Explore Dayong Ancient City in Zhangjiajie’s downtown: Admire the replica ancient architecture, Purchase Eucommia tea (¥30 per box, promotes health and relieves fatigue), Experience the nightlife of Zhangjiajie city.

Food recommendation

Zhangjiajie three-pot, hop slag, rock ear stewed chicken

Practical tips

Tianmen Mountain tickets need to be booked on the official website of “Zhangjiajie Tianmen Mountain Tourist Area” 1-3 days in advance. Tickets are required during peak season (April-October).

The glass plank road will be a bit slippery in case of rain, so slow down when walking

-Zhangjiajie Glass Trestle Bridge

Day7: Wulingyuan Depth:Take the Bailong Ladder to Yuanjiajie and see the ‘Avatar Universe Pillar’；

Core highlights

Bailong Ladder: 88 seconds of ‘vertical flight’, overlooking the peak forest, super shocking

Yuan Jiajie: The prototype of the floating mountain in ‘Avatar’, full of fantasy

Yang Jiajie: The peak wall of the ‘Natural Great Wall”, natural ingenuity

Time-sharing small itinerary

Morning: Yuan Jiajie searches for ‘Avatar”

07:30 from Zhangjiajie City to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park (Wulingyuan Core Scenic Area, about 1 hour by car, self-driving / chartered / scenic through train)

08:30 Take the Bailong ladder up the mountain (one-way 65 yuan/person, tickets are valid for 4 days): 88 seconds to the top of Yuanjiajie Mountain. When the elevator rises, the peaks and forests outside are exposed a little bit, as if suddenly breaking into the Pandora planet of ‘Avatar’, remember to stick to the glass to take pictures.

09:30 Check in to “Qiankun Pillar”: The prototype of the suspended mountain in ‘Avatar’, the peaks and pillars are independent in the canyon, and the clouds and mists are even more fantasy. Take a photo of the ”People standing observation deck in the same frame as the Qiankun Pillar’.

10:30 Visit the Vertigo Platform: 12 peak pillars stand side by side, standing on the observation deck to see the peaks and forests, making people ‘vertigo”, suitable for panoramic photos

11:30 Visit the ‘No. 1 Bridge in the world”: The natural stone bridge spans two peaks and pillars, and the deck is about 2 meters wide. Walking on the bridge to see the canyon below, it is spectacular and thrilling.

Noon: Light meal in scenic area

Have a light meal at Yuanjiajie Restaurant: you can choose a burger (35 yuan /piece), a bento (40 yuan /piece, two meats and one vegetarian), or bring your own dry food (such as bread, ham sausage) to save time

Afternoon: Yang Jiajie appreciates the ‘Natural Great Wall”

13:00 Take the scenic environmental protection car from Yuanjiajie to Yangjiajie (about 15 minutes, the environmental protection car is free, and the ticket is included)

14:00 Visit Wulongzhai: take the “three Ghost Gates’ (narrow alleys, steep stairs, cliff walks) to feel the steepness of the bandit village back then. After climbing to the top, look at the ‘Tianbo Mansion”, with 4 peaks and pillars arranged like a castle.

15:30 Look at the ‘Natural Great Wall”: The core attraction of Yangjiajie. Rows of peak walls stretch for several kilometers, about 100 meters high and about 10 meters wide. They are as neat as a artificially built Great Wall. Stand on the observation deck and look at it. Marvel at the ingenuity of nature.

17:00 Take the Yangjiajie cableway down the mountain (one-way 72 yuan /person), or walk down the mountain (about 1.5 hours, suitable for tourists with good physical strength), and then take an environmentally friendly car back to Wulingyuan District

Evening: Leisure in Wulingyuan District

Check into a hotel / inn in Wulingyuan District (choose the one near the ticket station to facilitate the return trip the next day)

Dinner: Eat ‘bacon fried ferns’ (38 yuan /serving): Ferns are wild vegetables in the mountains, crispy and refreshing, and they are super fragrant with bacon; ‘Kudzu noodles fried meat’ (45 yuan /serving): Kudzu noodles Q bomb, full of meat flavor

Visit Xibujie, Wulingyuan: see the Tujia style architecture, buy Pueraria mirifica powder (25 yuan / bag, nourishing stomach and healthy), taste ‘sugar oil Paba’ (5 yuan / 3 pcs), crispy on the outside and soft on the inside

Yuan Jiajie

Food recommendation

Bacon, stir-fried ferns, kudzu noodles, stir-fried meat, sugar and oil paba

Practical tips

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park has a large area. Download the official APP of “Zhangjiajie National Forest Park” in advance to view the operation route of environmentally friendly vehicles.

Some sections of the “Three Ghost Gates” of Yangjiajie are narrow, so you need to line up to pass, and wait patiently.

Day8: Heading Home with a Full Load｜Bringing the Flavors of Western Hunan Back Home

Morning: Procurement and rest

08:30 Visit Wulingyuan Specialty Store：

Buy Eucommia tea (30-50 yuan /box, a specialty of Zhangjiajie, soaked and drunk to relieve fatigue, suitable for the elders)

Buy Pueraria mirifica powder (25-40 yuan/bag, breakfast brewed to nourish the stomach, suitable for family members)

You can choose to buy Miao Yin trinkets (the price is slightly lower than that of Phoenix Ancient City, you can bargain)

10:00 Go back to the hotel to pack your luggage: check if you have missed your ID and charger, and pack the specialty products (fragile items can be packed by the store)

If you have plenty of time, you can take a simple stroll in Wulingyuan District: you can see the peaks and forests in the morning, breathe in the fresh air, and finally feel the natural atmosphere of Western Hunan.

Noon: Light meal before return

Eat Changde rice noodles (15 yuan/bowl) near the airport/high-speed rail station: beef noodles and pork ribs noodles are delicious. After eating the noodles, return to the journey and keep the fragrance of Xiangxi in mind.

Afternoon: Return departure

Traffic connection：

️️ To Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport: Wulingyuan District→ The airport is about an hour’s drive away. It is recommended to leave 2.5 hours in advance.

Go to Zhangjiajie West Railway Station (High-speed rail Station): Wulingyuan District→West Railway Station is about a 40-minute drive away. It is recommended to leave 1.5 hours in advance.

Zhangjiajie West Railway Station → Changsha South Railway Station High-speed Rail

Self-driving return trip: Check the high-speed routes in advance to avoid congested sections

After arriving at the airport/ high-speed rail station, go through the boarding /boarding procedures and end the pleasant 8-day tour of West Hunan

Food recommendation

Changde rice noodles (beef noodles, pork ribs noodles)

Practical tips

Specialty products are recommended to buy on the last day to avoid inconvenience in carrying

Check in / pick up high-speed rail tickets on your mobile phone in advance to save on-site time

end

This 8-day tour, from the slow time in the border city of Chadong, to the fireworks of the ancient city of Phoenix, to the natural wonders of Zhangjiajie, each section has an exclusive experience: the cross-border romance of the 2 yuan Lala crossing, the sense of wonderland of rafting on the Tuo River, the flying shock of the Tianmen Mountain cableway, YuanjiajieAvatar fantasy… No need to rush in, just follow the rhythm and enjoy slowly-the river breeze, lights and peaks and forests in western Hunan will become your most memorable travel memory~

Don’t hesitate, contact our travel consultant!

Contact information

8-Day Tour of Chadong Ancient Town, Fenghuang & Zhangjiajie最先出现在大象旅行网。

Perfect counterattack strategy for 5 days and 4 nights in Western Hunan | Fenghuang Ancient City starts a dream journey

elephanttrip — Thu, 30 Oct 2025 01:52:05 +0000

In the summer in western Hunan, it is the evening breeze of the Tuojiang River, the singing of Miaozhai, and the starry sky of the grassland. It is not a waste to play in this order.

After being busy in the bustling city for a long time, are you particularly eager for a trip that can completely relax your mind and be full of surprises and beauty? Xiangxi is such a great choice! It is like a pearl hidden among the mountains and rivers, exuding a unique charm. Today, I will take you on a 5-day and 4-night counterattack in western Hunan. On the first day, we did not hesitate to rush to the picturesque ancient city of Phoenix. The itinerary after that is also wonderful. What’s more intimate is that at the end of the article, we also prepared a super convenient return plan for lazy people. Let’s come together.Embark on this wonderful journey!

Detailed itinerary

D1: First sight of Fenghuang Ancient City→ Immersive tour of the City

In the morning/After arriving at the Fenghuang Ancient City High-speed Rail station, a special car will pick up the station and go directly to the selected scenic b&Bs in the middle reaches of the Tuojiang River. When you push the window of the room, you can see the clear water and the hanging towers. The morning mist has not dissipated, like a picture scroll. The location is quiet and quiet, avoiding the hustle and bustle without losing the fireworks, and starting a pleasant time in the ancient city.

Tuojiang, the Ancient City of Phoenix

At noon/Seeking a taste of the old street, check in to the local private restaurant-‘Old Street Restaurant”. You must order blood baba duck (rich and spicy, intangible cultural heritage flavor), sour radish fried bacon (sour and appetizing, authentic Xiangxi flavor), and taste the customs and customs of Phoenix in one bite.

In the afternoon, stroll along Bluestone Ban Road, visit the former residence of the literary masterShen Congwen, and feel the gentle hometown of “Border City”; walk into the former residence of Xiong Xiling and learn about the legendary life of ‘The First Liangxiang of the Republic of China’. Climbing to the East Gate Tower, overlooking the winding Tuojiang River, the distant mountains are like Dai, and you can take a picture of it as a postcard.

Former Residence of Shen Congwen

In the evening/ around 19:00, go to the vicinity of Jumping Rock to watch the wedding performance on the Tuojiang River for free. The sound of drums is melodious, the red boat is slow, and the newcomer reproduces the romance of the border city according to the story of “Cuicui”, as if traveling through a novel scene, the atmosphere is full.

At night｜Take a one-leaf boat and cruise the Tuojiang River at night (advance booking is recommended for ferry tickets! ). The lights on both sides of the Strait were lit up again and again, and the reflection of the hanging foot tower swayed like a dream. Don’t miss the light show of Wanshou Palace. In the intertwined light and shadow, the thousand-year-old ancient city is poetic and reborn.

✨ Tip: The river is slightly cooler at night, remember to bring a thin coat; if you want to take beautiful photos of no one, it is recommended to walk on the wrong peak in the early morning or evening.

D2: Wonders of the Canyon + Slow Time in the border City

In the morning/Depart from the ancient City of Fenghuang and arrive at the “Yuntian Zhongtian Bridge”-Aizhai Bridge at the first stop. Standing on the observation deck and looking down, the bridge leaps above the canyon like a giant dragon, with a panoramic view of the Grand Canyon of Delan. Then experiencethe cliff glass plankroad (shoe cover 10 yuan), the abyss under your feet, your heart beats faster; those who are afraid of heights can choose a safe trail on the side, and you can also enjoy a stunning perspective.

Xiaozhai Bridge

At noon｜ Go deep into the Miaozhai of Dehang City and enjoy an authentic Miao Family banquet. The sour fish soup is fresh and appetizing, the bacon is fried with ferns and vegetables, and the rice is served with a bowl of freshly brewed Miaojia rice wine, which is mellow and sweet, and the tip of the tongue instantly travels into the depths of western Hunan.

In the afternoon, stroll through the ancient alleys of Miaozhai and feel the rich ethnic customs: the enthusiastic ceremony of blocking the door and drinking, and the sonorous performance of the Miao drum, people can’t help but dance to the rhythm. Then follow the stream and walk for about 20 minutes to reach the quicksand waterfall-a natural “oxygen bar” with a height of 216 meters. The water mist is on the face, refreshing and refreshing, as if doing a deep SPA for the lungs.

Miaozhaimen Wine, Xiangxi, Hunan

In the evening, go to the ancient town of Chadong, a border city with “three provinces on one foot”, and take the 3 yuan Lala crossing across Youshui to experience the tranquility and poetry of Shen Congwen’s ‘Border City’. Sitting at a stall by the river, have a bowl of soft, smooth and refreshing rice tofu, and quietly wait for the beautiful sunset at the junction of the three provinces. The golden light shines all over the river, and time stops for it.

Chadong Ancient Town

Overnight/Stayingin a Linjiang Homestay, you can see Youyou Youshui when you open the window. You dream of the murmur of water on your pillow. You have a good night’s sleep and your dreams are gentle.

D3: Ancient City Miaozhai → Night view of Waterfall Ancient Town

In the morning/Walk into the ancient city of Ganzhou with a thousand-year-old rhyme, stroll by the banks of Hujiatang, watch the blue waves, cast bait and feed the fish with your own hands, and feel the leisurely time in the market. Climb the mottled ancient city walls and touch the traces of history. Every brick and tile is a story. Don’t forget to bring an authenticHunan baconas a souvenir-smoked and mellow, with endless aftertaste, it is the best choice to take away the taste of Hunan.

Ancient City of Ganzhou, Western Hunan

At noon/Go to Morong Miaozhaiand go to a lively Miao parents’ table banquet. The twelve flavors are served in turn, fish in sour soup, steamed with wax flavor, fried meat with fern baba… enjoy the freshness of the mountains and the wild on the tip of your tongue. Not to be missed…The toast ceremony of ”High mountains and flowing water’-the Miao girl raised a bowl to greet each other in the song, the wine continued like a stream, and the glass was full of pride! Drink with all your strength, just right to be slightly drunk, drunk in enthusiasm.

Afternoon｜Explore the geological wonder-Guzhang Red Stone Forest. This globally rare Ordovician red carbonate rock forest solidifies in the earth like a flame. It is recommended to wear light-colored clothing and take pictures in minutes to make a big picture! The wonderful thing is that after the rain, the rocks will quietly turn fuchsia, like nature’s eggs, waiting for you to unlock them yourself.

In the evening, we arrived at Furong Town, a “thousand-year-old town hanging on a waterfall”. In the afterglow of the setting sun, the waterfall galloped down, the mist rose, and the rainbow loomed. When I checked into the Linshui Hanging Foot Building Homestay, I pushed the window and saw the waterfall flowing silver. The sound of water murmured in my ears, and my heart calmed down.

Furong Town, Xiangxi

Night/As night falls,the waterfall light showopens brightly, and the light and shadow are intertwined with the water curtain, like a dream. Looking for an old street stall, check in Liu Xiaoqing’s rice tofu, which is smooth, tender, sour and spicy, and a bite into the soul. Hold another glass of warm Miaojia rice wine, walk slowly on Qingshiban Street, dimly lit, and encounter the truest night in Western Hunan.

✨ Tips：

There is no sunshade in the Red Stone Forest Scenic Area, please pay attention to sun protection; remember to bring an umbrella on rainy days, which is more interesting.；
The night view of Furong Town is the most beautiful. It is recommended to take a walk to watch the waterfall after dinner.；
Hangjilou Homestay is mostly built according to the mountains, so luggage should be as light as possible.

On this day, traveling through the ancient city, Miaozhai, stone forest and waterfall, from humanities to nature, from taste to vision, is the strongest and most gentle way to open in western Hunan.

D4: Ancient City Miaozhai → Night view of Waterfall Ancient Town

In the morning/Walk into the thousand-year-old town of Liye, stroll through the bluestone alleys, and feel the heritage of Qincheng. Focus on the Kariye Qinjian Museum-there are a collection of 37,000 Qin Dynasty briefs, word by word, restoring the daily life of counties and counties two thousand years ago, which can be called “there are Xi’an Terracotta Warriors and horses in the north, and Liye Qin Briefs in the south.” If you are tired of shopping, go to the “Youshui Family’ recommended by the locals and have a bowl of freshly ground tofu brain, topped with secret spicy seeds, spicy, smooth and tender, and a bite into the soul. It is an authentic flavor of Western Hunan.

Ancient Town of Liye-Qin Jian Museum

At noon/Drive to the secret realm of the clouds-Eight-sided mountain. When he arrived at the grassland on the top of the mountain, his vision suddenly opened up, as if he had broken into “Hulunbuir in the South.” You can experience horse riding on the grassland and gallop through the green fields; or check in to the starry sky restaurant on the edge of the cliff to enjoy a light meal while overlooking the 100-meter-deep gorge. Just take a shot and it will be a large area, and the sense of shock will be full.

In the afternoon, walking along the trail around the mountains, I encountered a group of wind-powered windmills, with white giant wings slowly turning, and the background is rolling mountains and flowing clouds. It is easy to take a large film of ins wind travel. Then go to the Swallow Cave Observation Deck and wait for a magnificent sunset-the sunset slowly sinks into the canyon, the horizon is stained with golden red, and the light and shadow change, picturesque.

At night/Choose to stayin the eight-sided mountain starry sky tented camp.After night falls, you will look up at the bright Milky Way, with the galaxy hanging in the wild, as if it is within reach; or stay in the Jabala Tujia hanging foot buildingon the mountainside, listen to the mountain breeze whispering in the wooden house lights, and feel the original ecological Tujia slow life.

✨ Tips：

The eight-sided mountain is about 1,400 meters above sea level, and the temperature difference between day and night is large. Whether you live in a tent or a hanging foot building, remember to bring a warm jacket.；
Wukong restaurant has no guardrail, take pictures and pay attention to safety；
Arrive 1 hour before sunset in Swallow Cave to seize the best seat.

D5: Lying flat on the return journey→ 2 easy plans

Plan 1: Return via Jishou East Railway Station
, sleep lazily in Bafuanshan until you wake up naturally, and enjoy the tranquility and fresh air of the grassland in the early morning. It is recommended to leave before 10 o’clock in the morningand drive about 2.5 hours to Jishou East High-speed Rail Station. It can connect to the afternoon train and return easily.

✨ Tip: If you have plenty of time, you can stop by Jishou City and check in for a bowl of authentic Ganzhou rice noodles-the soup is fresh enough and the spicy fragrance is overflowing, which will bring the journey to Western Hunan to an end with endless aftertaste.

Option 2: Return from Furong Town High-speed rail station
and depart from Bafuanshan, about a 1.5-hour driveto Furong Town. After arriving, you can stop by the waterfall scenic area for another half an hour. The Feishuizhai Village from the perspective of daytime has a different aura. Then walk for about 10 minutes to Furong Town high-speed rail station, with convenient transportation, no need to toss, and easy to embark on the way home.

✨ Tip: Furong Town station is small and exquisite, and it is connected to the ancient town. You can take another set of beautiful photos of the cliff town on the way out or into the station to take the beautiful scenery all the way to the end.

The two return methods have their own convenience: choose Jishoudong, which is suitable for travelers who have more ample time and want to taste the flavor of the city along the way; choose Furong Town Station, which is more time-saving and labor-saving, and is suitable for free travel players who pursue efficient travel. According to your ticket arrangement, choose flexibly, and successfully end this journey to the secret realm of Northwest Hunan!

end

At this point, the five-day and four-night in-depth tour of Western Hunan came to a complete end. In the past five days and four nights, we have strolled on the stone road of the ancient City of Phoenix, feeling the ancient rhyme of the Tuojiang River; explored the mysterious and quaint town of Furong, and saw the unique scenery of the waterfall and the ancient town blending with each other; we have also indulged in the magnificent mountains and rivers outlined by the strange peaks and rocks of Zhangjiajie, enjoyingThe ingenuity of nature; also go deep into the Miaozhai, sing and dance with the hospitable Miao compatriots, and experience the authentic folk customs.

Don’t hesitate, contact our travel consultant!

Contact information

Perfect counterattack strategy for 5 days and 4 nights in Western Hunan | Fenghuang Ancient City starts a dream journey最先出现在大象旅行网。

“Sacred Lake of Plateau + Ancient City of Silk Road” Qinggan, 7th day in depth

elephanttrip — Thu, 30 Oct 2025 01:45:19 +0000

When the azure ripples of Qinghai Lake patted the grassland, the “mirror of the sky” of Caka Salt Lake reflected flowing clouds, the murals of the Mogao Grottoes in Dunhuang flowed in the light and shadow, and the colorful hills of Danxia, Zhangye, greeted the sunset-this journey across Qinghai and Gansu hides the most moving appearance in the northwest. This guide to Xining +Qinghai Lake +Chaka Salt Lake +Dunhuang+Jiayuguan + Zhangye for 7 days and 6 nights with a group tour will spread out the detailed daily itinerary for you and mark the key precautions, so that you don’t need to bother planning, you can immerse yourself in the magnificence and heaviness of the Northwest.

Detailed daily itinerary and exclusive precautions

Day1: Various places → Gather in Xining · First encounter the plateau, adapt to rest

Main line of itinerary

Tourists from all over the world arrive in Xining on their own, freely explore the city after checking in at the hotel, and participate in an itinerary briefing in the evening to warm up for the follow-up journey.

Xining

Schedule

1. Morning: First arrive in Xining with your personal transportation voucher, go to the comfortable hotel in the city designated by the travel agency (near the city center, convenient to travel) to check in, and take a break after placing your luggage.

2. Afternoon: Then you can visit characteristic places such as Tal Temple, Dongguan Halal Temple or Shuijingxiang Pedestrian Street to experience the humanistic customs of Xining in an immersive manner.

3. Evening: Then all gather to participate in the itinerary briefing. The tour guide will explain the itinerary details, safety regulations and arrangements for the next day in detail, and finally enjoy a team dinner after the briefing.

Core attraction experience

Tal Temple: One of the six major monasteries of the Gelug Sect of Tibetan Buddhism. It is a must-see for butter flowers, murals, and the “three wonders” of embroidery. The red walls and golden roofs of the temple form a unique landscape for devout believers. It is recommended to reserve 2-3 hours for a tour.
Shuijingxiang Pedestrian Street: A veteran commercial street in Xining, with a wide range of specialties such as dried yak meat, Qinghai old yogurt, and Tibetan jewelry. You can also taste local snacks such as stuffed skins and sweet rice grains as a taste experience for the first time in the northwest.

**Day2: Xining →Qinghai Lake * Holy Lake treading the waves, looking for scenery on the grassland**

Main line of itinerary

Starting from Xining, go to the core scenic area of Qinghai Lake to visit, stroll around Huanhu West Road to enjoy the beauty of the huguang grassland, and arrive in Heimahe Township in the evening to rest and prepare for the possible sunrise the next day.

青海湖

Schedule

1. Morning: First meet in the lobby of the hotel, take a tour bus to Qinghai Lake, and start a tour of the core scenic spots after arrival.

2. Noon: Then enjoy a team lunch at a restaurant near the scenic area, and take a break to adjust after the meal.

3. Afternoon: Then take a car to Huanhu West Road, stop along the way to watch the scenery, enjoy the grassland and lake scenery of ‘lake and sky’, and then go to Heimahe Township.

4. Evening: Finally, enjoy a team dinner in Heimahe Township, rest after check-in, and prepare for a possible sunrise the next day.

Core attraction experience

Qinghai Lake Erlangjian Scenic Area: Get up close and personal with “China’s largest inland lake”, you can stroll along the plank road to see the azure lake and the snow-capped mountains in the distance, or you can take a cruise deep into the lake at your own expense to feel the vastness of the holy Lake (It is recommended to wear light-colored clothing to take pictures, which contrasts with the lake).
Huanhu West Road: One of the “most beautiful Huanhu Sections” of Qinghai Lake. On one side of the road is the boundless lake and on the other side is the turquoise grassland. From time to time, you can see herdsmen’s tents and herds of cattle and sheep. A shot is wallpaper-level scenery.

Day3: Qinghai Lake → Caka Salt Lake → Dachaidan Emerald Lake Looking for shadows, Gobi Walks through

Main line of itinerary

After voluntarily watching the sunrise from Qinghai Lake, go to the ”Mirror of the Sky’ Chaka Salt Lake to visit, and cross the Gobi to Dachaidan Town in the afternoon to rest and relieve the fatigue of the drive.

茶卡盐湖天空之境

Schedule

1. Early morning (optional): Those who volunteer to get up early can go to the sunrise point to watch the sunrise on Qinghai Lake with the assistance of a tour guide. Those who are not watching can continue to rest.

2. Morning: All enjoy breakfast first, then set off for Chaka Salt Lake. After arriving, you can start a tour. You can take a small train and watch the salt sculptures.

3. Noon: Then enjoy a team lunch near the Chaka Salt Lake Scenic Area.

4. Afternoon: Then drive across the Gobi to Dachaidan Town by car, and check in at the hotel after arrival.

5. Evening: Finally enjoy the team dinner. It is recommended to rest after the meal to avoid going out and catching a cold.

Core attraction experience

Sunrise at Qinghai Lake (optional): The sun leaps out of the lake in the early morning, and golden light shines on the lake, sparkling, forming a beautiful picture with the grassland and mountains. It is recommended to wear a thick coat and bring a thermos cup of hot water.
Chaka Salt Lake: The ”Mirror of the Sky’ is well-deserved. The light is soft from 9 to 11 in the morning and the reflection is clear. It is recommended to wear white clothing and rent shoe covers (10-20 yuan/pair) to go deep into the salt Lake, take a small train (at your own expense) to the heart of the lake, and take a picture of “people in the mirror”.Dreamy photos; the salt carvings (such as the statue of Genghis Khan) in the scenic area are also worth a look.

Day4: Dachaidan →Dunhuang Looking for tranquility in the desert, looking for taste in the night market

Main line of itinerary

Depart from Dachaidan in the early morning, cross the Gobi to Dunhuang, explore Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring in the afternoon, experience desert camel bells and sunset scenery, and visit Shazhou Night Market in the evening to taste Dunhuang specialties.

西北大环线翡翠湖

Schedule

1. Morning: Enjoy breakfast first, then take a tour bus from Dachaidan to Dunhuang, stopping in the service area on the way.

2. Noon: Then enjoy a team lunch in the service area on the way, and continue on the road after a break.

3. Afternoon: First arrive at the hotel in Dunhuang City to check in, take a break after leaving your luggage, and then go to Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring Scenic Area to experience camel riding, climbing sand mountain, and watching the sunset.

4. Evening: Then leave the scenic area and return to the city, go to Shazhou Night Market for free dining and sightseeing, and finally gather and return to the hotel to rest.

Core attraction experience

Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring: A wonder where the desert and Qingquan coexist. Enter the park after 4pm to avoid the scorching sun. You can ride a camel at your own expense (about 100 yuan/person, 1 hour) and walk through the desert listening to camel bells. You can also climb Mingsha Mountain and overlook the panoramic view of Crescent Spring after reaching the top. SunsetOccupy a seat 1 hour before and take a beautiful view of ”Desert Sunset + Crescent Spring’ in the same frame.
Shazhou Night Market: Dunhuang’s ‘food culture business card”, with special snacks such as donkey meat yellow noodles, apricot skin water, roast lamb kebabs, puer oil cakes, etc., you can also buy luminous cups, Dunhuang colorful sculptures and other handicrafts. It is recommended to eat at the wrong peak and avoid the peak flow of people from 20:00-21:00.

Day5: Dunhuang All Day Murals for History, Culture for Roots

Main line of itinerary

Experience Dunhuang culture in depth throughout the day. In the morning, visit the Mogao Grottoes to interpret the Silk Road story in the thousand-year-old murals. In the afternoon, you can explore the Dunhuang Museum or the ruins of Yumenguan to supplement your historical knowledge.

西北大环线莫高窟

Schedule

1. Morning: First enjoy breakfast, then set off to Mogao Grottoes, first watch the digital exhibition to understand the history and artistic value of murals, and then visit the core caves under the leadership of the docent.

2. Noon: Then enjoy a team lunch near Mogao Grottoes.

3. Afternoon: Start free activities again, you can go to the Dunhuang Museum or the Yumenguan Ruins by yourself (you need to inform your tour guide in advance).

4. Evening: Finally, return to the city for a team dinner. After the meal, you can freely explore the night view of Dunhuang.

Core attraction experience

Mogao Grottoes: A treasure trove of Buddhist art in the world. The digital exhibition restores the details of the murals through high-definition images. The murals such as ‘Flying Sky’ and ‘Nine-color Deer’ in the physical cave are lifelike. The docent will tell the historical allusions behind the murals to visualize the story of the thousand-year Silk Road. Follow the team during the visit without leaving the explanation group.
Dunhuang Museum (optional): It is open for free (advance reservation required). It has a collection of pottery, documents, mural fragments and other cultural relics. It systematically shows the development of Dunhuang from the Han Dynasty to the Qing Dynasty, and supplements the historical background for the Mogao Grottoes tour. It is recommended to reserve 1.5 hours.
Yumenguan Ruins (optional): The ruins of an important ancient Silk Road pass, the ruins of the inner city wall and beacon tower still exist. Standing on the ruins, you can imagine the grandeur of the “spring breeze does not pass through Yumenguan” back then. It is about 100km from the city. It takes 3 hours to travel. You need to inform your tour guide in advance.

**Day6: Dunhuang → Jiayuguan → Zhangye * Xiongguan searching for traces, Danxia searching for color**

Main line of itinerary

Depart from Dunhuang to Jiayuguan, climb to the ”No. 1 Xiongguan in the World’ to feel the momentum of the military fortress, go to Zhangye in the afternoon, watch the Danxia sunset in the evening, and encounter the magnificence of the colorful hills.

西北大环线嘉峪关

Schedule

1. Morning: Enjoy breakfast first, then set off for Jiayuguan. After arriving, visit Jiayuguan Customs City to feel the momentum of the ancient military fortress.

2. Noon: Then enjoy a team lunch near Guancheng.

3. Afternoon: First take a car to Zhangye. After arriving at Zhangye Danxia Geopark, take a sightseeing bus to visit the observation decks. In the evening, watch the sunset at Danxia from the best observation deck.

4. Evening: Then go to Zhangye City, enjoy a team dinner and check in at the hotel to rest.

Core attraction experience

Guancheng, Jiayuguan: The western starting point of the Great Wall of the Ming Dynasty, ”The World’s No. 1 Xiongguan’ is well-deserved. You can overlook the layout of Guancheng from the tower, watch the city wall meander into the distance, and feel the grandeur of the ancient military defense system; In the scenic area, legends such as “Dingcheng Brick” and “Hitting Stone Yanming” can be explained by your guide to add to the fun of the tour..
Zhangye Danxia Geopark: The world’s rare colorful Danxia landform. The sightseeing bus travels according to ”Observation Deck 1→2→3→4′. Platform 1 offers panoramic views, and Platform 4 is the best point for sunset. Under the setting sun, the colors of red, yellow, orange, and green are clearly layered, just like nature overturned.Palette, it is recommended to wear dark clothing to take pictures, in contrast to Danxia.

Day7: Zhangye→ Danxia, looking for the sun everywhere, return with a full load

Main line of itinerary

After voluntarily watching the sunrise from Danxia in Zhangye, go to Bindukou (optional in summer) to feel the grassland flowers, then gather for the return journey, end the journey to Xigan, and take away the good memories of the northwest.

张掖七彩丹霞

Schedule

1. Early morning (optional): Voluntary early risers can go to Zhangye Danxia Geopark to watch the sunrise with the assistance of a tour guide, and those who are not watching can continue to rest.

2. Morning: All enjoy breakfast first, then you can go to Bindukou for a tour (optional in summer from July to August), and then gather to start the return journey.

3. Noon: Enjoy a team lunch at the Chinese restaurant on the way, and continue on the road after the meal.

4. Afternoon: Finally arrive at the return point (Xining/Lanzhou or Zhangye Airport), and the trip is officially over.

Core attraction experience

Sunrise in Danxia, Zhangye (optional): The light in the early morning is soft, the color of Danxia is more saturated, and the sense of layering is stronger. Within 1 hour after sunrise is the best time to shoot. It is recommended to wear a thick coat and bring a thermos cup to keep out the cold.
Bindukou (optional in summer): The “Golden Sea of Flowers” at the foot of Qilian Mountain, 10,000 mu of rapeseed flowers are in full bloom from July to August, reflecting the turquoise grassland and towering snow-capped mountains. It is a unique summer scene. You can take pictures in the sea of flowers and feel the freshness of the northwest grassland.

2. End: Go to a Northwest appointment

In 7 days, from the sacred Lake on the plateau of Qinghai to the ancient city of the Silk Road in Gansu, from the purity of the salt Lake to the magnificence of Danxia, from the thickness of the murals to the grandeur of Xiongguan, the journey to Xigan presents all the diverse beauty of the Northwest. This strategy has sorted out the context of your daily itinerary for you, and marked the key details of each place, so that you don’t need to bother with planning, just set off with longing. When the wind in Qinghai blows across your cheeks, and when the sand of Dunhuang touches the corners of your clothes, you will find that the beauty of the northwest is hidden in every stop and look back. Pack your bags, the mountains and rivers of Qinggan are waiting for you to meet!

Don’t hesitate, contact our travel consultant!

“Sacred Lake of Plateau + Ancient City of Silk Road” Qinggan, 7th day in depth最先出现在大象旅行网。

Changsha Zhangjiajie Fenghuang Ancient Town Seven-Day Tour Guide: A fantasy Journey through the style of Hunan

elephanttrip — Thu, 30 Oct 2025 01:34:11 +0000

When the evening breeze of the Xiangjiang River blows over the head of Orange Island, when the three thousand strange peaks appear between the sea of clouds in Zhangjiajie, when the sound of water in Furong Town is accompanied by the lights flowing, when the Tuojiang River in the ancient city of Phoenix reflects the lights of ten thousand homes-this is the most moving seven-day picture scroll in Hunan.

This is not only a landscape journey from Changsha, but also a fantasy experience through the customs of Hunan and Hunan: you will listen to the thousand-year context in Yuelu Academy, walk through the cloud plank Road in Tianmen Mountain, meet the floating mountain of ‘Avatar’ in Yuanjiajie, and feel the fireworks of Tujia in Furong Town.Encounter the romance of Shen Congwen’s border city in the Ancient City of Phoenix.

Now, let us set off together and walk into this land of Huxiang, where poetry and wildness coexist.

Itinerary overview

This is a wonderful journey that combines natural wonders, history, culture and ethnic customs. You will set off from Changsha to enjoy the magnificence of Orange Island Head and the spiritual beauty of Yuelu Mountain, then go to Zhangjiajie to feel the shock of strange peaks and strange stones, then to Furong Town to experience the charm of the ancient town hanging on the waterfall, and finally indulge in the romantic night in the ancient city of Phoenix.

Detailed itinerary

D1: Arrive at Orange Island Head (Changsha)

Morning: Arrive at Changsha Huanghua International Airport or Changsha South Railway Station, take the subway to the hotel near Wuyi Square to check in, take a break, and relieve the fatigue of the journey.
Noon: Taste food near Wuyi Square, such as black classic stinky tofu, Mengzhong Barbecue, etc., and feel the characteristic flavors of Changsha.
Afternoon: Take metro Line 2 to Orange Island Head, buy a sightseeing ticket (20 yuan/person), enjoy the scenery of the Xiangjiang River, and go to Mao Zedong Youth Art Sculpture to take pictures and feel the majestic grandeur of the great man.
Evening: Return to Wuyi Square, stroll around Taiping Street, taste snacks such as sugar and oil Paba, perilla, peach and ginger, experience Changsha’s nightlife, and check in with super Wenheyou to feel the charm of retro Changsha.

Orange Island Head

Meiliang Street, Changsha

D2: Yuelu Mountain-Aiying Pavilion-Hunan University

Morning: Take metro Line 4 to Hunan University Station and enter from the South Gate of Yuelu Mountain. Visit Yuelu Academy, one of the four major ancient Chinese academies (tickets are 40 yuan/person), and feel the cultural heritage of the Millennium Academy.
Noon: Have a meal at a restaurant at the foot of Yuelu Mountain or near Hunan University and taste home-cooked Hunan cuisine.
Afternoon: Visit the Love Evening Pavilion. This is where Comrade Mao Zedong often spends time with his classmates when he is studying. The scenery is beautiful when the maple leaves are red in autumn. After that, you can choose to walk and climb to enjoy the natural scenery, and go to Yunlu Palace to overlook the panoramic views of Changsha City; you can also take a sightseeing bus or a cableway up the mountain (additional charge). After coming down from Yuelu Mountain, visit Hunan University and feel the atmosphere of the campus.
Evening: Have dinner at a restaurant near Peach Lake. After the meal, you can stroll around Peach Lake and enjoy the lake view.

D3: Changsha-Zhangjiajie

Morning: Take the train or high-speed rail to Zhangjiajie, and check in at the hotel after arrival.
Noon: Taste the local specialty food Sanxiapu in Zhangjiajie City, and recommend well-known shops such as Master Hu Sanxiapu.
Afternoon: Go to Tianmen Mountain Scenic Area. Book tickets online in advance (ticket prices vary according to different routes and preferential policies), it is recommended to choose Line B (environmentally friendly car up the mountain-cableway down the mountain). Take an environmentally friendly car up the mountain to experience the thrilling ‘Tongtian Avenue”. After arriving at Tianmen Cave, you can choose to climb 999 steps on foot or take the elevator (additional charge). After visiting Tianmen Cave, choose the west or east route according to the signs, admire the glass plank road (shoe cover cost 5 yuan/person) and other attractions, and finally take the cableway down the mountain to feel the shock of the 7,455-meter-long Tianmen Mountain cableway.
Evening: Return to the city, visit the ancient city of Dayong, and taste local snacks such as Artemisia Baba.

Zhangjiajie Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park

D4: Zhangjiajie National Forest Park (Yuanjiajie-Tianzishan)

Morning: Enter from Zhangjiajie National Forest Park Ticket Station, take an environmentally friendly car to the next station of Bailong Tiantian Ladder (one-way 72 yuan /person for Bailong Tiantian Ladder), take the Tiantian Ladder up the mountain, and arrive at Yuanjiajie Scenic Area. Visit the Yuanjiajie, admire the Hallelujah Mountain (Qiankun Pillar), the world’s No. 1 Bridge and other attractions, and feel the unique charm of “three thousand strange peaks and eight hundred beautiful waters”.
Noon: Have a meal at the restaurant in the Yuanjiajie Scenic Area, and you can choose from local Tujia specialties.
Afternoon: Take an environmentally friendly car to Tianzi Mountain Scenic Area to visit Helong Park, Fairy Scattered Flowers, Yubi Peak and other attractions. The peak forest landscape of Tianzi Mountain is very spectacular, and it is like a wonderland when the clouds and mists are full of clouds.
In the evening: take an environmentally friendly car from Tianzishan to Wulingyuan Bus station and leave the park, go to Wulingyuan Town to stay, and taste delicacies such as Sanxia Pot and rock ear stewed chicken in the town.

Zhangjiajie Forest Park

D5: Zhangjiajie National Forest Park (Jinjiaoxi-Shili Gallery)-Furong Town

Morning: Enter the scenic area from Wulingyuan Ticket Station again, and take an environmentally friendly car to Jinjiaoxi. Stroll along Golden Whip Creek and enjoy the scenery of the canyon. This is one of the filming locations of ‘Journey to the West’. If you are lucky, you can also see wild macaques. The whole journey is about 7.5 kilometers, and the walking distance can be selected according to physical strength.
Noon: Have a meal at a restaurant near Jinjiaoxi and taste local mountain vegetables and other specialties.
Afternoon: Take an environmentally friendly car from the water of Jinjiaoxi around the four doors to Shili Gallery. You can choose to take a small train tour (one-way 38 yuan /person) to enjoy the picturesque scenery of the peaks and forests on both sides. After the tour, leave the park from Wulingyuan Ticket station and take the shuttle bus to Furong Town (the fare is about 20-30 yuan).
Evening: Arrive in Furong Town, check in at the hotel, enjoy the night view of Furong Town, have a meal at the restaurant next to the waterfall, and taste specialities such as rice and tofu.

Zhangjiajie Jinjiaoxi

D6: Furong Town-Jishou-Fenghuang Ancient City

Morning: Get up early and then stroll around the peaceful Furong Town in the early morning to feel another charm of the ancient town. After that, take the shuttle bus to Jishou, and then transfer from Jishou to Phoenix Ancient City (you can also choose to charter a car directly from Furong Town to Phoenix Ancient City, which is more expensive but more convenient).
Noon: For meals in or on the way to Jishou, you can try Hunan specialties.
Afternoon: Arrive at the Ancient City of Phoenix, after checking in, visit the ancient city, admire the antique hanging tower, and visit Shen Congwen’s former residence, Xiong Xiling’s former residence and other attractions (tickets are required for some attractions).
Evening: Enjoy dinner in the ancient city, and enjoy the night view of the ancient City of Fenghuang after dinner. You can choose to take a night cruise on the Tuojiang River (additional charge) to feel the romantic atmosphere of the ancient city. You can also sit in the riverside bar and relax by listening to music.

Furong Town Waterfall

Phoenix Ancient City

Hunan Cuisine

D7: Fenghuang Ancient City-Return Trip

Morning: Get up early to see the morning view of the ancient City of Fenghuang and feel the tranquility and beauty of the ancient city. After that, move freely in the ancient city and buy special souvenirs.
Noon: Have a meal in the ancient city and taste delicacies such as blood baba duck.
Afternoon: Pack your bags, check out, end the pleasant journey, and go to the airport or station according to the return transportation arrangements.

end

The seven-day journey is a journey from the city to the landscape, from history to dreams. When you look back at this land-the fireworks in Changsha, the Qifeng in Zhangjiajie, the sound of water in Furong Town, and the moonlight in the ancient city of Phoenix, it is no longer just a landscape, but a poem of Huxiang engraved in memory.

Whether you are here for the shock of nature or for the romantic stop in the border city, the adventures and warmth along the way deserve to be well collected. And the next departure that belongs to you may start with this strategy.

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Scan the code to add a professional travel consultant from [Elephant Travel], get a free itinerary PDF + ticket reservation + local charter service for this route, and customize your trip to Hunan and Hunan privately, so that you can feel at ease every step of the way. Worry-free.

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Changsha Zhangjiajie Fenghuang Ancient Town Seven-Day Tour Guide: A fantasy Journey through the style of Hunan最先出现在大象旅行网。

Zhangjiajie one-day tour essence route: Tianmen Mountain Classic A-line one-day tour

elephanttrip — Thu, 30 Oct 2025 01:29:44 +0000

If you are eager to enjoy the most beautiful scenery of Zhangjiajie in a limited time, then the Tianmen Mountain classic A-line day trip is definitely not to be missed. Tianmen Mountain combines many highlights such as the world’s longest alpine cableway, the magical Tianmen Cave, the spectacular 999-level ladder, the exciting glass plank road, the Yunmengxianding overlooking the panoramic view, and the Tongtian Avenue with 99 bends. This one-day trip will take you to feel it in all directions.The unique charm of Zhangjiajie, start an unforgettable journey to Zhangjiajie.

Core highlights

Take the world’s longest alpine cableway
Explore the magical Tianmen Cave; challenge the 999-level ladder
Climb to the top of Yunmengxianding
Admire the 99 bends of Tongtian Avenue
Glass plank Road ·

Itinerary map

Schematic diagram of Zhangjiajie Tianmen Mountain Line A

Itinerary for the one-day parade (it is recommended to leave early and return late, so as to be efficient and not in a hurry)

07:30-08:00 ｜ City departure / pick-up service

It is recommended to book a small group or chartered car service with pick-up and drop-off in advance to avoid problems such as difficulty in taking a taxi and inaccurate positioning.
Departure point: Zhangjiajie City hotel, railway Station or Zhangjiajie West Railway Station can be picked up at the door.

08:30-09:00｜ Arrive at Tianmen Mountain Ropeway disembarkation Station (South Gate)

Enter the visitor center with your ID card + reservation code. It is recommended to book tickets 1-3 days in advance (be sure to grab tickets during peak season! ）

09:00-09:30｜Take the world’s longest alpine cableway up the mountain (Line A)

With a total length of 7,455 meters and a one-way journey of 28 minutes, it traverses the sea of clouds to the top of the mountain. The viewing angle is shocking and the photos are excellent! It is one of the longest single-line circular off-hanging cable car cableway in the world. Along the way, you can enjoy the magnificent natural scenery of Tianmen Mountain, as if shuttling through the clouds and mist. The cableway rises slowly and reaches the top of the mountain in about 28 minutes. The scenery along the way is dizzying, from dense forests to steep mountain peaks to the outline of the city in the distance, every place is refreshing.

Zhangjiajie Tianmen Mountain’s longest Cableway

09:30- 12:30 ｜ Peak Loop Tour (mainly on the Western Route)

Lingxiaotai: Overlooking the peaks, the clouds and mists are like a wonderland.
Glass plankroad (5 yuan shoe cover at your own expense): An exciting experience hanging on a thousand-meter cliff with a rapid heartbeat.
Ghost Valley PlankRoad: Built against the mountains, it is known as the “Sky Road”.
Tianmenshan Temple: A thousand-year-old temple, a sacred place of Buddhism in western Hunan.
Yunmengxianding: The highest point of Tianmen Mountain, with a 360° panoramic view of Zhangjiajie.

12:30- 13:30 ｜ Lunch & break

There is a light meal restaurant at the top of the mountain (50-70 yuan per person). It is recommended to bring your own dry food + hot water to make it more affordable.

13:30-15:00 ｜ Eastbound line: Cross the mountain escalator + Tianmen Cave

Takethe cross-mountain escalator(a total of 12 sections, which takes 8 minutes) to Tianmen Cave.
Look up at Tianmen Cave, the “world’s highest natural mountain-piercing cave” up close.

Zhangjiajie Tianmen Cave

15:00- 15:40｜ Challenge the 999-level ladder or take the elevator down the mountain

Those with good physical strength can walk down the ladder (about 30 minutes) and feel the shock of the “Road to Heaven”.
Those with limited physical strength can take the vertical elevator to Dongqian Square at their own expense (32 yuan/one way).

15:40-16:30｜Take an environmentally friendly car down the mountain and pass the 99-bend Tongtian Avenue

Feel the thrilling twists and turns of the “No. 1 highway in the world”, the driver has first-class technology and a strong sense of experience.

16:30-17:00 ｜ Return to the lower station of the cableway and take a special car back to the city

At the end of the one-day essence tour, it is recommended to taste a bowl of three pots after the return trip, the perfect end!

Ticket and fee reference

项目	费用
Tianmen Mountain Ticket + Line A Package (including cableway)	278 yuan/person
Glass plank road shoe cover	5 yuan
999-level ladder elevator (one-way)	32 yuan
City transfer service	About 30-50 yuan/person (including with the group)
Recommended total budget	350-400 yuan/person

Tips：

Tickets are tight during peak season (April-October, holidays), so be sure to book in advance throughofficial channels or regular travel agencies.
It is recommended to chooseLine A(cableway up the mountain + highway down the mountain), without turning back, the experience is better.
Wear non-slip sports shoes, bring a coat (there is a large temperature difference at the top of the mountain), and prepare a power bank.
Those who are afraid of heights can avoid the glass plank road, or pass slowly by welts.

Why do you recommend a day trip to Tianmen Mountain?

Efficient time: Check in to Zhangjiajie’s most representative natural wonders within one day.
Visually stunning: cableway, Yunhai, Glass plank road, Tianmen Cave, high energy throughout.
Convenient transportation: it is only half an hour’s drive from the city, which is suitable for free travel or group travel.

end

At the end of the day’s trip, you will find that Tianmen Mountain is indeed worth a special trip. The attractions are concentrated and the traffic is smoothly connected. From the cableway to Tianmen Cave to the glass plank Road, every link is arranged in a compact and orderly manner. Although there are more walks, the mountain road has flat steps and there are also rest spots along the way, which can be completed with normal physical strength. Whether it is a shocking natural landscape or a thrilling viewing experience, it makes people feel worth the trip. If you have limited time and only have time to check in to an attraction in Zhangjiajie, then choosing Tianmen Mountain will be a safe and productive decision.

Don’t hesitate, contact our travel consultant!

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Zhangjiajie one-day tour essence route: Tianmen Mountain Classic A-line one-day tour最先出现在大象旅行网。