World Heritage Site, Avatar Mountains, Glass Bridge, Minority Culture, Adventure & Hiking, Ancient Town, Boat & Lake
Day 1
Arrival in Zhangjiajie
Arrive at Zhangjiajie airport, airport pick-up, transfer to your hotel and check-in.
Day 2
Zhangjiajie Tour | Ten-mile Gallery, Bailong Elevator, Yuanjiajie, Tianzi Mountain
A full-day Zhangjiajie tour with Ten-mile Gallery, Bailong Elevator, Yuanjiajie, Tianzi Mountain. (B)
Day 3
Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Tour | Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge, Baofeng Lake
A visit to Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge, Baofeng Lake. (B)
Day 4
Zhangjiajie Tour | Tianmenshan National Forest Park, Tianmenshan Cable Car, Tianmen Cave, Glass Walkway, Transfer to Fenghuang Ancient Town
Visit Tianmenshan and transfer to Fenghuang Ancient Town by car or high speed train. (B)
Day 5
Fenghuang Ancient Town & Zhangjiajie Departure | Hotel Check-out, Airport/Train Station Transfers
Explore Fenghuang Ancient Town in the morning and transfer back to Zhangjiajie for departure. (B)
Day by Day Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival in Zhangjiajie | Airport Pick-up and Hotel Check-in
Welcome to Zhangjiajie City, an incredible destination where you can experience the reality of Hallelujah Mountain from the Movie Avatar! Upon your arrival in Zhangjiajie, the local driver will meet you at the airport exit and accompany you to your hotel. After checking in at the hotel, you will have some time to explore the area at your leisure.
Arrival Ideas:
Transportation to Zhangjiajie: There are numerous flights connecting to Zhangjiajie Hehua Airport. You have the option to fly to Zhangjiajie from cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Xian, Changsha, Chengdu, Chongqing, Hangzhou, Guangzhou, and more. Additionally, you can also take the high-speed train to Zhangjiajie from Changsha (2-4 hours), Guilin (7 hours), Shanghai (9 hours), Beijing (11 hours), Fenghuang Ancient Town (1 hour) and other destinations.
- Accommodation: 3-star hotel in downtown Zhangjiajie
Day 2
Zhangjiajie Tour | Ten-mile Gallery, Bailong Elevator, Yuanjiajie, Tianzi Mountain
After breakfastAfter breakfast, you’ll visit Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in Wulingyuan, where you’ll explore the Ten-Mile Gallery, Yuanjiajie, and behold the awe-inspiring Hallelujah Mountains (Qiankun Pillar). After lunch, you’ll be transferred to Tianzi Mountain Nature Reserve, where you’ll hike through stunning peak forests and enjoy panoramic views. Throughout the day, you’ll immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Wulingyuan Scenic Area - home to over 3,000 towering quartz-sandstone pillars, a UNESCO-listed landscape of rare geological wonder.
In the morning, step into the enchanting Ten-Mile Gallery, a valley alive with natural artistry. Glide through on a scenic tram, passing iconic rock formations like The God of Longevity Welcoming Guests, The Old Herb Picker, and the majestic Three Sisters Peaks. For the full experience, ride the tram in and stroll back on foot — a peaceful way to soak in every magical detail of this natural masterpiece.
Next, head to Yuanjiajie, the real-life inspiration for the floating mountains in Avatar. A sightseeing bus will take you to the Bailong Elevator, known as the "World’s No. 1 Outdoor Elevator". Holding a Guinness World Record for being the tallest, fastest, and heaviest outdoor elevator, it lifts you 326 meters in just 66 seconds from the valley floor to the mountain top.
From there, hike into Yuanjiajie - a mystical world of towering pillars and misty peaks. Don’t miss the South Sky Pillar (Avatar Mountain), the Floating Peak (1,074m) — a 150-meter-tall vertical spire rising from the valley - and the dramatic Yuanjiajie Scenic Trail (3.5 km), built along a cliff’s edge and adorned with red prayer ribbons.
Along the way, admire natural wonders like:
·Backyard Garden(后花园)
·Lost Soul Platform(迷魂台) - the best viewpoint in Yuanjiajie
·First Bridge Under Heaven(天下第一桥) - a natural stone arch, Yuanjiajie’s iconic landmark
This unique sandstone forest was shaped by millions of years of tectonic movement and erosion - a rare geological phenomenon that inspires wonder and awe.
After lunch, board the sightseeing bus to Tianzi Mountain Nature Reserve, named after Xiang Dakun, a Tujia ethnic leader who declared himself “Tianzi” (Son of Heaven) during the early Ming Dynasty (1368–1644). At 1,262 meters, Tianzi Mountain is in the prime stage of peak forest evolution — hailed as the "King of Peaks" and famously featured in the classic TV series Journey to the West.
From Dianjiangtai Platform (点将台), gaze across the West Sea Peaks Forest - a sea of jagged peaks rising from a misty canyon. Don’t miss the Imperial Writing Brush Peaks (御笔峰), a row of six towering stone pillars resembling ancient calligraphy brushes — said to be the pen once used by Xiang Tianzi.
Then, hike to He Long Park (贺龙公园) to see the bronze statue of Marshal He Long and his warhorse, and visit Tianzige Pavilion (天子阁). At 30 meters tall, the pavilion offers a panoramic view of the entire mountain range - peaks stretching endlessly, a sight of true grandeur.
After the tour, return to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.
Note: During peak seasons, your guide may adjust the itinerary (e.g., reverse the route) to avoid large crowds and ensure more comfortable experience.
Dining: breakfast, lunch
- Accommodation: Zhangjiajie
Day 3
Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Tour | Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge, Baofeng Lake
After breakfast, you’ll be transferred from Wulingyuan to Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon, approximately 56 km away (about 1.5 hours by car). There, you’ll experience the breathtaking Grand Canyon Glass Bridge. Afterward, enjoy delicious lunch before heading to Baofeng Lake for a relaxing boat ride. In the late afternoon, you’ll return to Zhangjiajie City (about 35 km, 1-hour drive) for an overnight stay.
Famous for its numerous waterfalls and fresh mountain air, Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon is a must-visit destination - especially for photographers and adventure lovers. The Glass Bridge is the highlight: the world’s longest and highest glass-bottomed bridge, stretching 375 meters between two dramatic cliffs and soaring 300 meters above the valley.
Designed by Israeli architect Haim Dotan, the bridge is made entirely of glass - no steel structure - and can support up to 800 people at once. At its center is the world’s highest bungee jumping platform, where thrill-seekers can fulfill their dream of flying like Spider-Man (bungee jump fees are self-paid). Walking across the bridge takes about 1 hour, offering a heart-pounding yet unforgettable experience.
As you step onto the crystal-clear surface, you’ll look straight down into a lush, mist-filled canyon - a sensation like floating in mid-air. The panoramic views of the entire canyon are simply stunning. Come take on the skywalk challenge and show the world your courage!
After the adrenaline rush of the glass bridge, unwind at the serene, mirror-like Baofeng Lake. From the entrance, a shuttle bus will take you to the pier, where you’ll board a traditional wooden boat for a peaceful cruise across the lake.
Spanning 2.5 kilometers long, 200-1,000 meters wide, and averaging 72 meters deep, Baofeng Lake lies in a mountain basin, surrounded by lush greenery and striking rock formations. As you glide across the calm waters, you’ll be captivated by the reflections of towering peaks and serenaded by traditional folk songs performed by local ethnic performers - a perfect contrast to the morning’s thrills.
After the tour, return to Zhangjiajie City for your overnight stay.
Dining: breakfast, lunch
- Accommodation: Zhangjiajie
Day 4
Zhangjiajie Tour | Tianmenshan National Forest Park, Tianmenshan Cable Car, Tianmen Cave, Glass Walkway, Transfer to Fenghuang Ancient Town
Today, you’ll spend a half-day exploring Tianmen Mountain in Tianmenshan National Forest Park, known as the "Soul of Zhangjiajie" and the "No. 1 Sacred Mountain of Western Hunan". Located just 8 kilometers from Zhangjiajie city center, the scenic area is suitable for all ages, and climbing is not required.
Your journey begins with the world’s longest cable car, stretching 7,455 meters, which whisks you directly to the mountaintop in about 30 minutes. A smaller cableway is also available on the summit. The only walking section is the Tianmen Cave staircase, but don’t worry - an elevator is provided.
As you ascend, enjoy panoramic views of the winding 99-bend mountain road (the "Heaven’s Road") and lush bonsai-like gardens. Then, brace yourself for an exhilarating adventure:
Walk the 60-meter Glass Walkway, a transparent path suspended 1,430 meters above a bottomless valley - a true walk in the sky.
Explore the 1.6-kilometer Cliff-Hanging Walkway, built along the mountain’s edge for breathtaking views.
Visit Tianmen Temple, a Qing Dynasty-style Buddhist temple nestled in greenery.
Next, take the escalator down to Tianmen Cave, the world’s highest natural mountain arch (131.5 meters tall). Also known as Heaven’s Gate, it’s often wreathed in mist or illuminated by sunlight, creating a magical, ever-changing display. Take your time to capture photos. You can then walk down 999 steps or take the elevator before returning to the cable car station. Get down by cable car.
After the mountain tour, travel to Fenghuang Ancient Town, about 3.5 hours (237 km) by car. (Transfer Note: A high-speed train connects Zhangjiajie and Fenghuang - just 1-hour ride one way. If the group size is only a few participants, we may arrange high-speed train transfers between Zhangjiajie and Fenghuang. All are accompanied by our local guide.)
One of China’s most beautiful ancient towns, Fenghuang is home to the Miao and Tujia ethnic groups. Built along the serene Tuo River, it features tightly packed stilt houses (Diaojiaolou), where daily life unfolds as it has for centuries - women wash clothes and vegetables by the river, men fish with nets, and meals are prepared riverside.
A 10-minute boat ride on the Tuo Jiang River offers a peaceful way to soak in the scenery.
As night falls, Fenghuang’s night view comes alive. Stroll through ancient courtyards and riverside wooden houses, explore the lively night market, and enjoy the glow of lanterns reflecting on the water. The dazzling lights create a dreamlike atmosphere - a truly unforgettable experience.
Day 5
Fenghuang Ancient Town & Zhangjiajie Departure | Hotel Check-out, Airport/Train Station Transfers
Today, enjoy your breakfast at the hotel. Later, follow our local guide to explore Fenghuang Ancient Town this morning. When people think of Fenghuang, they often remember the renowned Chinese writer and historian Shen Congwen (1902-1988), whose classic novel "The Border Town" (边城) brought this charming town worldwide fame.
As you stroll through the ancient streets, you can leisurely visit the Former Residence of Shen Congwen, the Ancient East Gate, Hongqiao Bridge - the iconic landmark of Fenghuang - and other scenic spots at your own pace.
After your visit, it’s time to conclude your 5-Day Zhangjiajie Group Tour with Fenghuang Ancient Town. Your guide and driver will take you back to Zhangjiajie and escort you to the airport or train station for your flight or high-speed train to your next destination.
Thank you for choosing us for your China journey. We’re honored to serve you and hope to welcome you back on your next adventure in China or Asia!
