Day 1: Majestic Peaks and Tranquil Streams
*Accommodation: Stay at a sleek, modern hotel near Zhangjiajie National Forest, such as the Hampton by Hilton Zhangjiajie National Forest Park.
*Itinerary:
- Zhangjiajie National Forest Park: Bailong Elevator – Yuanjiajie Scenic Area (Morning): Located in the Wulingyuan District of Zhangjiajie, Hunan Province,Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is a must-see travel destination. Nestled in the eastern Wuling Mountains, the park is renowned for its towering peaks and stunning landscapes. To optimize your time and energy, take the Bailong Elevator, an efficient way to experience the park’s breathtaking views from a variety of angles. The elevator in Zhangjiajie, one of the tallest outdoor lifts in the world, boasts a vertical rise of 335 meters and an operational height of 326 meters. It offers a thrilling ride through steep gorges, with sheer cliffs on one side and deep valleys on the other. From the elevator, enjoy panoramic views of Zhangjiajie’s towering and picturesque peaks. In just 66 seconds, you’ll be transported to the scenic spot, saving you time and energy. After descending from the elevator, you’ll arrive at Yuanjiajie Scenic Area. Yuanjiajie is famous for its unique pillar-like rock formations and awe-inspiring mountain and water landscapes. The rugged peaks and cliffs create a natural masterpiece, and this area also served as the filming location for Avatar mountains Zhangjiajie. Along the way, you’ll discover spectacular landmarks like Hallelujah Mountain, the “The First Bridge Under the Sun,” and the Mihuntai Scenic Spot. From Yuanjiajie’s observation deck, take in the grandeur of the peaks, each with its own distinct shape. The scene is both dramatic and captivating, with towering rock pillars reaching for the sky. (Opening Hours: all year round, 07:00 – 18:00)
- Zhangjiajie National Forest Park: Jinbianxi Scenic Area (Golden Whip Brook) (Afternoon): Descend from the “Rugged Slopes”, passing through the “Back Garden” area, until you arrive at the “Qianli Xianghui (Thousand Mile Meeting)” area along Jinbianxi Stream. Located in the eastern part of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Jinbianxi Scenic Area is named after the Jinbian Rock, which the stream flows past. The stream meanders for 6.5 kilometers, winding west into Pipa Stream and east into Suoxi Stream, forming a serene valley. The crystal-clear waters flow through the valley, surrounded by dramatic peaks and lush forests, creating a peaceful, picturesque atmosphere. It’s one of Zhangjiajie’s most tranquil natural gems, perfect for those seekingthings to do in Zhangjiajie that are calm and peaceful. The path along Jinbianxi is wide and smooth, making it perfect for a leisurely Zhangjiajie hike. As you walk, you can listen to the gentle sound of the stream and admire the beauty of the landscape. (Opening Hours: All year round, 07:00 – 18:00)
*Dining Options:
Breakfast: Incense cake with Tujia Sauce
Lunch: Stewed chicken with rock fungus, Zhangjiajie three pot dish, mashed chili with century egg
Dinner: Tianzi Mountain wild mushroom stew, wormwood rice cakes, stir-fried local pork
*Accommodation: Stay at a luxurious international hotel near Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park, such as the Wyndham Garden Zhangjiajie Tianmen Mountain.
*Itinerary:
- Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park: Tianmen Mountain Cableway – Tianmen Mountain Glass Skywalk / Ghost Valley Plank Road (Morning):
Located in the Yongding District of Zhangjiajie, Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park is renowned for its natural wonders, including the iconic Tianmen Cave, Lingxiao Observation Deck, Suspension Bridge, Tianmen Mountain Temple, and Zuiyun Pavilion. For a truly unforgettable experience in Zhangjiajie national park, this is a must-see attraction, and it’s an ideal activity for those looking to visit Zhangjiajie.
To begin your adventure, board the Tianmen Mountain Cableway, one of the longest cable cars in the world, stretching 7,455 meters from the base to the summit. The ride provides panoramic views of the stunning mountain landscape as you ascend through the “Seeking Immortals” scenic area, offering a unique perspective of Zhangjiajie’s picturesque scenery.
At the summit, don’t miss the Tianmen Mountain Glass Skywalk. This 60-meter-long walkway, perched at an altitude of 1,430 meters, is one of Tianmen Mountain’s most thrilling experiences. Built along a sheer cliff, the transparent glass beneath your feet makes it feel as though you’re walking in mid-air. Surrounded by swirling clouds and a breathtaking abyss below, every step will leave your heart racing. The combination of the heart-pounding sensation of suspension and the incredible views makes this a truly unforgettable experience.
Also, be sure to experience the Ghost Valley Plank Road, located in the Fairyland Scenic Area. This 1,600-meter walkway, built along nearly vertical cliffs, is one of the most exhilarating skywalks in China. The path curves around the mountain, hugging the cliffside and offering stunning views of the rugged landscape. While the Ghost Valley Plank Road offers a thrilling visual experience, the Ghost Valley Plank Road immerses you in a more raw, natural environment, giving you a sense of adventure and wonder as you take in the majestic beauty of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
Both skywalks provide distinct experiences, so feel free to try both for an even greater thrill in your Zhangjiajie trip. (Opening Hours: All year round, 07:30 – 19:00) - Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park: Tianmen Cave – The Stairway to Heaven with 999 Steps (Afternoon): Tianmen Cave is the highest natural mountain cave in the world and a must-see tourist attraction of Tianmen Mountain. With its majestic archway, the cave connects the northern and southern sides of the mountain, offering an awe-inspiring view to visit Zhangjiajie. Not only is the cave a stunning natural sight, but it also holds rich historical and cultural significance. In local folklore, Tianmen Cave is believed to be the gateway to the celestial realm, with the misty cave entrance said to conceal a hidden paradise where immortals dwell. The surrounding clouds, especially in the early morning or after rain, create a mystical atmosphere, making it seem like a portal to another world.
After admiring the magnificence of Tianmen Cave, you’ll encounter the Stairway to Heaven—a 999-step staircase that leads from the ground to the cave. The staircase is a symbol of “Nine-Nine Reunification” (九九归一), representing eternity. The steps are divided into five gentler sections and four steeper ones, reflecting the highs and lows of life. As you ascend, the path is shaded by trees, and the cool mountain breeze fills the air, providing a peaceful and refreshing atmosphere. Along the way, you’ll enjoy the sight of lush greenery, clear streams, and the mystical mist that often forms, adding a peaceful and spiritual aspect to your Zhangjiajie travel. After taking in the grandeur of Tianmen Cave, you can either descend the Stairway to appreciate the scenery from a different perspective or continue your journey to the East Line after taking the cable way down. (Opening Hours: All year round, 07:30 – 19:00)
*Dining Options:
Breakfast: Xiong’s straw hat noodles
Lunch: Pig’s head meat cold noodles
Dinner: Xiangxi Dagupi, sticky rice in bamboo, Tujia preserved pork
*Accommodation: Stay at a wellness-focused resort featuring hot spring pools, such as the Zhangjiajie Jiangya Hot Springs Resort.
*Itinerary:
- Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon: Yuntian Du Glass Bridge – Zip Line – Nuo Keli Slide (Skyline Slide) – Shenquan Lake Boat Tour (Daytime):
The Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon, located in Zhangjiajie City, Hunan Province, is a famous natural travel destination for those seeking adventure. The canyon offers a range of thrilling attractions and activities, including sightseeing lift, Treasure Hunting Lift, Aixiangfei Virtual Reality Travel Experience, Zipline Adventures, Wuwangpo Slideway, Yixiantian Slideway, Rainbow Lake Cruising and etc. You can tailor your experience by choosing from various routes and activities that suit your preferences.
One of the key highlights is Yuntian Du, formerly known as the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge. This world-first cable-stayed glass bridge spans a mountain gorge, offering stunning panoramic views. At 430 meters long, 6 meters wide, and suspended about 300 meters above the canyon floor, walking on the transparent glass surface makes you feel as though you’re floating in mid-air. The sensation of being suspended over the vast canyon below will surely quicken your pulse, making this both a visual and physical thrill.
The Zip Line in Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon offers a 190-meter-long ride with a 21-meter height difference. It features four single-way zip lines, where you glide down using your own body weight. The zip line experience provides a unique aerial view of the canyon’s cliffs and valleys. Along the way, you’ll pass iconic sights, offering an unforgettable experience from above.
The Nuo Keli Slideway (Yixiantian Slideway) is another exciting attraction in this Zhangjiajie travel itinerary. Made of granite, this 620-meter-long slide has an average incline of 30 degrees and twists its way through lush green terrain. Combining both transport and fun, it gives you a chance to zip through the landscape while enjoying a burst of adrenaline as you speed around sharp curves. The ability to control your speed adds to the thrill of the ride.
Shenquan Lake offers yet another breathtaking experience. Known for its crystal-clear waters and towering cliffs, the lake presents a scene of dramatic natural beauty. As you leisurely cruise across the serene waters, you’ll be surrounded by steep cliffs and jagged peaks that create a picturesque canvas. The lake’s clear water mirrors the surrounding mountains and sky, adding to the sense of tranquility. This peaceful boat tour offers a perfect way to take in both the stunning canyon views and the calm beauty of the lake.
The Grand Canyon offers something for every traveler, whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation during yourZhangjiajie trip. (Opening Hours: All year round, 08:00 – 15:30) - Zhangjiajie Jiangya Hot Springs Resort (Evening): The Jiangya Hot Springs Resort is the first of its kind in Zhangjiajie and the only traditional semi-open-air hot spring in the Xiangxi region. The resort boasts over 20 high-quality outdoor and indoor hot spring pools, each offering unique therapeutic benefits. Special hot spring areas include the Original Springs, Flower Springs, and Nine-Flavored Springs, each designed with distinct features to promote relaxation and rejuvenation. The mineral-rich waters contain various beneficial elements that help alleviate fatigue, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure in your travel. In addition to the hot springs, the resort offers wellness treatments such as spa services and mud baths for a full-body rejuvenation experience, making it an ideal spot to relax during your Zhangjiajie trip. (Opening Hours: All year round, 12:00 – 23:00)
*Dining Options:
Breakfast: Yeerba (leaf rice cake)
Lunch: Xiangxi bandit chicken, preserved pork claypot rice
Dinner: Enjoy dinner at the resort’s Chinese restaurant
*Accommodation: Stay at a resort hotel blends modern elements with architectural features of Xiangxi ethnic minorities near the Zhangjiajie Charm Xiangxi International Cultural Square, such as the Neodalle Zhangjiajie Wulingyuan.
*Itinerary:
- Huanglong Cave (Daytime): Located in the Wulingyuan Scenic Area, Huanglong Cave (Zhangjiajie Yellow Dragon Cave) is a massive, maze-like cave system stretching approximately 7.5 kilometers. The cave features four distinct levels and boasts a variety of geological wonders, including subterranean rivers, underground waterfalls, and natural stone bridges. The cave is a complex network of interconnected halls and smaller chambers, creating an intricate underground labyrinth. Each level presents its own unique landscapes and awe-inspiring geological features. Huanglong Cave is divided into six major scenic areas, including Dragon Dance hall, Xiangshui River, Stone Pillar Street, Goddess Water, and Dragon Palace. With over a hundred individual scenic spots, including the “Sea Suppressing Needle,” “Cedar of Ten Thousand Years,” and “Throne of Dragon King,” the cave is teeming with a diverse array of stalactites, stalagmites, and stone flowers. You can either stroll through the cave to closely admire these stunning rock formations or take a boat ride through its winding passages, passing by waterfalls and serene pools, adding to the excitement in yourZhangjiajie trip and allowing you to fully appreciate the artistry of nature. (Opening hours: 11/01 – 04/30: 08:00 – 17:30; 05/01 – 10/31: 08:00 – 18:00)
- Zhangjiajie “Charm of Xiangxi” Show (Evening): The “Charm of Xiangxi” show is a vibrant folk show celebrating the diverse culture of the Xiangxi region. Held at the Charm Xiangxi Grand Theater in the Zhangjiajie Charm Xiangxi International Cultural Square, the performance is divided into indoor and outdoor segments. The indoor show highlights the traditional cultures of five major ethnic minorities in Greater Xiangxi—Tujia, Miao, Bai, Dong, and Yao—through captivating performances like the “Fire Drumming Performance,” “Border Town,” “Crying Marriage,” “Daughter’s Meeting,” and “Xiangxi Corpse Driving.” The performence combines traditional Xiangxi customs with modern technology and artistry, offering a visually stunning and culturally enriching experience. The outdoor portion includes acrobatic acts, traditional ethnic performances, and lively bonfire dances, immersing you in the unique charm of Xiangxi’s people and traditions. This captivating show is a perfect way in your cultural trip in Zhangjiajie. (Opening Hours: All year round, 17:30 – 22:00; Performance duration: 60 – 90 minutes)
*Dining Options:
Breakfast: Cili rice noodles
Lunch: Stone pot fish, Tujia crispy rice (Guoba), preserved pig trotter hotpot
Dinner: Blood tofu, tea oil stewed duck, Tujia Preserved sausage
*Accommodation: Stay at a sophisticated yet charming hotel near the Zhangjiajie 72 Wonder Towers, such as the Zhangjiajie Bluebay Hotel
*Itinerary:
- Maoyan River Rafting (Daytime): Maoyan River, a 50-kilometer stretch of the Lishui River in the Yongding District of Zhangjiajie and the nearby Sangzhi County, is famous for its crystal-clear waters and picturesque landscapes. The rafting journey spans about 20 kilometers, with the upper section offering self-guided rafting and the lower section powered by motorboats, providing both excitement and leisure. It’s a thrilled activity in your China travel. Along the way, you’ll pass stunning sights like the Wentang Ancient Ferry, Suoying Pond, and Shui Dongzi Waterfall. As you glide down the river in an inflatable boat, you’ll navigate through towering cliffs, sharp bends, and rapids, adding a thrilling sense of adventure. The experience combines the beauty of the gorge with the excitement of navigating challenging waters, making it one of the topthings to do in Zhangjiajie. (Opening Hours: All year round, 08:30 – 16:00)
- Zhangjiajie’s 72 Wonder Towers (Evening): Zhangjiajie’s 72 Wonder Towers located in the Yongding District of Zhangjiajie, is home to a 109.9-meter-high Tujia-style stilted building. The area boasts several uniqueattractions in Zhangjiajie, including the Tiangong Strange Towers, the Intangible Cultural Heritage Old Teahouse, the Doctor’s Residence, the Top Scholar Tower, and the Bonfire Square. This is the perfect spot to immerse yourself in the rich Tujia culture and local customs, with a variety of local delicacies, folk art exhibitions, and entertainment options. As evening falls, the area comes alive with dazzling lights and a vibrant atmosphere. The light and performance show at the Wonder Tower blends ancient Tujia stilted architecture with cutting-edge technology, using 7D holographic imaging to create over a thousand stunning lighting effects. This captivating display, paired with ethnic cultural performances like the “Hand-Swinging Dance” and “Maogusi Dance,” offers a truly immersive experience in Tujia traditions. The magical glow of the 72 Wonder Towers at night, with its ancient buildings, flavorful Zhangjiajie cuisine, and cultural performances, promises an unforgettable experience. (Opening Hours: All year round, 10:00 – 22:00)
*Dining Options:
Breakfast: Tujia preserved pork bun
Lunch: Loach drilled tofu, bitter melon stewed fish, preserved pork with matsutake mushrooms
Dinner: Impression Giant Salamander Banquet Restaurant with baby fish soup dumplings and grilled baby fish skewers
