6 Days Chongqing Zhangjiajie Tour: Magical Adventure (City & Nature)

Welcome to Chongqing, China’s Spectacular Mountain City! Get ready to immerse yourself in one of the most exciting destinations trending on TikTok! Known for its unique 3D city layout and dazzling night views, Chongqing is often called the "Little Hong Kong" for its vibrant skyline and dynamic urban vibe. Indulge in the most authentic hotpot in the Hotpot Capital of China. Nestled at the confluence of the Yangtze River and Jialing River, Chongqing also serves as your gateway to the breathtaking Three Gorges, one of China's most iconic natural wonders.

Upon meeting you at the airport, train station, or Chaotianmen Port, be escorted to your hotel in Chongqing downtown area.

In this morning, start your journey with us at Ciqikou Ancient Town, a living museum of Chongqing’s history! This 1,000-year-old charming town, featuring well-preserved Ming and Qing Dynasty architecture, was once a bustling porcelain trade hub and still brims with cultural heritage. Explore the enchanting streets of Ciqikou, where every step on the narrow cobblestone paths feels like traveling back in time. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere as you admire traditional crafts, enjoy local performances such as Sichuan opera face-changing shows, and savor delicious street food like the famous Mahua (crispy fried dough twists).

This afternoon, embark on a journey through time at the Three Gorges Museum, home to a vast collection of over 280,000 precious historical relics. Dive deep into the fascinating story of the Yangtze River, the formation of the iconic Three Gorges, and the evolution of Chongqing from its ancient beginnings to its vibrant rise in the 20th century. After exploring the museum, don’t miss the chance to capture stunning photos in front of the People’s Assembly Hall, an architectural masterpiece located just outside the museum.

Later, let’s witness the most thrilling sight - the train that passes through a building at Liziba Metro Station. Located on Line 2 of Chongqing’s monorail, this station is famously constructed through the middle of a residential building, making it a truly unique and unforgettable experience.

After that, you will be transferred to Hongya Cave, located along the Jialing River and near Chaotianmen Square. It is famous for its traditional stilted buildings (Diaojiaolou), dazzling night views, and vibrant atmosphere. Stroll along the riverside promenade to enjoy spectacular views of the Jialing River and the modern Chongqing skyline. Explore the multi-level complex, featuring Diaojiaolou-style wooden structures and steep stairways. Here, you can even try Hot Pot, if you like. As night falls, this complex transforms into a dazzling spectacle, offering one of Chongqing’s most iconic night views.

After the tour, be escorted to your hotel in Chongqing downtown area.

Today, you'll take a train ride from Chongqing to Zhangjiajie City (approximately 6–6.5 hours), the real-life inspiration for the Hallelujah Mountains from the movie Avatar! Upon arrival, your local guide and driver will greet you at the train station and transfer you to your hotel in the Wulingyuan Scenic Area (about a 30-minute drive).

After checking in, enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.

Free Time Suggestions in Wulingyuan:

• Stroll through Xibu Old Street(溪布街), an enchanting pedestrian street showcasing the culture of the Tujia ethnic group.
• Explore its vibrant areas, including the bar street, local snack street, and souvenir shopping street, where you can find Tujia-style accessories, clothing, and handicrafts.
• In the evening, indulge in Hunan local snackslike “Frog Cake” and “Tujia Fried Rice” while soaking up the lively atmosphere of this cultural hub.

In this morning, start your day with a visit to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, China’s first national forest park, renowned for its towering sandstone peaks, lush vegetation, and breathtaking landscapes. Take a sightseeing bus to the famous Bailong Elevator, the “World’s No.1 Ladder,” which holds Guinness World Records as the tallest and fastest outdoor sightseeing elevator. In just 66 seconds, ascend 326 meters to the top of the sandstone pillar and step into the magical Yuanjiajie Scenic Area, the real-life inspiration for the floating Hallelujah Mountains in Avatar.

Walk along the Yuanjiajie Scenic Trail, built on the edge of a precipice, and admire landmarks like the South Sky Pillar (Avatar Mountain), the First Bridge Under Heaven, and Lost Soul Platform, while soaking in the extraordinary karst landscape shaped by millions of years of natural forces.

After lunch, continue to the Tianzi Mountain Nature Reserve, known as the "King of Peaks" and famous for its breathtaking sea of clouds, sunrise views, and lush peak forest. Visit scenic spots like Dianjiangtai Platform, where rugged peaks rise from misty canyons, and the Imperial Writing Brush Peaks, a row of towering stone pillars resembling pens. End your tour at the Tianzige Pavilion, offering panoramic views of the majestic peaks, before returning to Zhangjiajie City for an overnight stay.

Note: During peak travel seasons, the itinerary may be adjusted to avoid large crowds.

After breakfast, embark on a scenic journey from Wulingyuan to the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon (approximately 56 km, 1.5 hours by car). Here, you'll experience the world-famous Grand Canyon Glass Bridge, the longest and highest glass-bottomed bridge in the world. Spanning 375 meters and standing 300 meters above the canyon floor, this architectural marvel offers breathtaking views and the thrill of walking on transparent glass. For the adventurous, there's also the option of the world’s highest bungee jump (self-pay).

Later, you’ll explore the breathtaking Grand Canyon, descending through towering cliffs and lush vegetation. Along the way, discover serene waterfalls, streams, and natural pools, perfect for moments of tranquility. Highlights include the stunning Butterfly Waterfall and Rainbow Waterfall, especially vibrant during the rainy season. At the canyon’s base, enjoy an optional boat ride on calm waters, offering a unique view of the majestic cliffs. With gentle paths, the entire valley tour is a leisurely and scenic walk, taking just 1.5 to 2 hours.

Afterward, you’ll be transferred to Zhangjiajie City for an overnight stay.

In downtown Zhangjiajie, you can explore the 72 Strange Buildings, recognized as the Guinness World Record holder for the highest stilted building. Witness the unique stilted houses that showcase the distinctive features of the Tujia ethnic culture. Immerse yourself in Tujia traditions and enjoy a variety of traditional folk performances (held between 18:00 and 22:35), including drum beating, the Tujia waving dance, street martial arts, and the bridal parade.

Today, you will spend a half-day tour of Tianmen Mountain in Tianmenshan National Forest Park, known as as the "Soul of Zhangjiajie" and the "No.1 Sacred Mountain of Western Hunan Province". Located only 8 kilometers away from Zhangjiajie city center, the Tianmen Mountain Scenic Area is unique in that it is suitable for people of all ages, and climbing is not necessary. There is the world's longest cable car, spanning 7,455 meters, which takes you directly to the mountaintop. Additionally, there is a small cableway available on the mountaintop. The only section that requires walking is the Tianmen Cave staircase, but don't worry, there is also an elevator available.

First, take the 30-minute cable car (7,455 meters) ride from Zhangjiajie City to the top of Tianmen Mountain. As you ascend, you'll be treated to a panoramic view of the winding mountain road with 99 bends (the Road to Heaven) and the breathtaking beauty of the bonsai gardens. Now, brace yourself for a thrilling challenge. Take a deep breath and step on the cliff path hanging on the mountainside. Walk along the Glass Walkway, a transparent glass path that stretches for 60 meters and hovers 1,430 meters above the bottomless valley, giving you a thrilling sensation of walking in the sky. Additionally, experience the 1.6-kilometer-long Cliff-Hanging Walkway, which is built along the edges of the mountain's summits. It's truly an amazing adventure! Next, you have the option to visit Tianmen Temple, a Buddhist structure that embodies the architectural style of the Qing Dynasty (1616-1912). It is surrounded by lush green forests, providing a serene atmosphere. And, you can also visit Yunmenxianding (云梦仙顶; 1,518m), the highest point in Tianmenshan National Forest Park, to enjoy a bird's eye view of the surroundings.

Afterward, go down by escalator from the mountaintop to Tianmen Cave, the world's highest natural mountain through the cave which spans 131.5 meters. Tianmen Cave, also known as Heaven's Gate Hole (天门洞), is frequently enveloped in swirling clouds and mist, and at other times, it is illuminated by ethereal rays of sunlight, resulting in a mesmerizing and ever-changing display of light and shadows. Take your time there to capture some beautiful photographs. Following that, you have the option to either walk down the 999 steps or take the elevator. Then, welcome back to another cable car station.

After the tour, it is time to end your Chongqing Zhangjiajie tour. Your guide will escort you to the airport/train station for your flight or high-speed train to your next destination. Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel for your China tour, and we are always here working for you and hope to see you again for your next trip to China/Asia.

Notes:

Walking on the glass skywalk requires a shoe cover fee of 5 yuan per person, and it is an optional expense.