Zhangjiajie and Fenghuang Ancient Town Tour

Upon arrival at Zhangjiajie airport or train station, to be met and picked up and transferred to your hotel. Then you can have a good rest at your hotel to prepare for your next 5 days trip.  Stay overnight at Wulingyuan, Zhangjiajie.

Depart from your hotel after breakfast. Take the highest and fastest open elevator (Bailong Elevator) in the world to Yuanjiajie, which is called the ‘Backyard Garden’ of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. It is attached to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, but a core scenic spot of Wu Lingyuan Nature Reserve, with a total area of 1,200 hectares and an altitude of 1,074 meters. Visit Tianzi Mountain after lunch. Tianzi mountain means Emperor Mountain in English, whose name originates from the uprising leader–Xiang Dakun–of Tujia ethnic minority group, is always enjoying the reputation as ‘the king of all mountains’. The seas of clouds and mist are splendid, especially when the sky clears after the rain. Finally take the cable car down and enjoy a walk along the Ten mile Natural Gallery (mini train is optional). Stay overnight at Wulingyuan, Zhangjiajie.

Zhangjiajie is famous for its mist-shrouded ‘peak-forests’ that are rarely found anywhere else. After breakfast, drive westwards to Huangshizhai (the Yellow Stone Village). Here you will take a cable car to the summit of Huangshizhai where the largest observing deck of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is located for a panoramic view of the mountainside and mysterious primeval forests. Next, take the cable car down and walk along the Golden Whip Creek. It, named after a whip-shaped rock by the creek, is a deep valley of exotic flowers and plants, caves, ponds, and interesting rock formations. At last but not least, you will have a chance to be welcomed by a Tu local family for visiting and having dinner with them (optional). Stay overnight at Wulingyuan, Zhangjiajie.

In the morning, you’ll have a private transfer to visit Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge, the world’s longest and highest glass-bottomed bridge spanning two mountains in Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon. This 435-meter-long and 6-meter-wide bridge hangs 375 meters above the ground, offering a stunning panoramic view of Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon.

Experience an adventurous walk on the transparent glass bridge to overlook the steep cliffs, lush mountains, clear waters of the Grand Canyon. Then your guide will lead you on a moderate hike through the picturesque Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon, known for its waterfalls, streams, lush vegetation, and fresh air. The visit will take over 2 hours, so be prepared for an extended hike.

In the afternoon, drive to visit Baofeng Lake, nestled in a basin within this mountainous region. A 20-minute walk will lead you to the lake, where you’ll enjoy a 30-minute boat ride on clear waters. As you cruise, you’ll have the opportunity to admire the unique mountain shapes and enjoy the traditional songs of the local minority people. Relax and soak in the scenic beauty of the mountains and pristine waters during your boat ride.

In the later afternoon, transfer to Zhangjiajie City for overnight. In the evening you might head to visit 72 Wonder Tower (Qilou Old Street) for Tujia architecture, local snacks, and city night views.

Overnight in Zhangjiajie City.

In the morning, drive to Tianmen Mountain, which is located just eight kilometers south of Zhangjiajie Village.

Tianmen Mountain Scenic Area has been designated as the second national forest park in Zhangjiajie. Rising to nearly 1,520 meters (about 4,987 feet), Tianmen is the highest peak in Zhangjiajie and is often considered the ‘soul’ of the region. The mountain is adorned with graceful trees, karst hillocks, and a variety of medicinal herbs and plants. Tianmen also boasts its ‘four wonders,’ which include the Tianmen Mountain Cableway, Tongtian Dadao (Avenue Leading to the Sky), Tianmen Cave, and the Bonsai Garden on Air. Additionally, you will be arranged to visit cultural attractions like Tianmen Mountain Temple and experience a short but thrilling walk across the Tianmenshan Glass Skywalk.

After these experiences, you will be escorted to the Zhangjiajie train station for the train to Fenghuang Ancient Town (About 1 hour train). Fenghuang ancient town is a 300-year-old town nestled deep in a mountain and at the banks of Tuo Jiang River, populated by ethnic minorities of Tujia and Miao, and filled with mysteries and cultural fun.

After check-in at your hotel, you can make your own way to the old town for dinner and night views. As night falls, the banks of the Tuojiang River gradually light up. The exotic riverside stilt houses built by local ethnic people and the multi-eave gate towers decorated with red lanterns are reflected in the sparkling river, like a super-long panoramic painting. 
Overnight at Fenghuang Gucheng.

Today, you will have a full day exploration of Fenghuang Ancient Town.

After breakfast, you will have a boat tour along the Tuojiang River, where you can immerse yourself in the town’s picturesque beauty. Following the morning river journey, your guide will lead you through the old town, highlighting key landmarks such as the Jumping Rock Bridge, Rainbow Bridge, Palace of Longevity, Wanming Pagoda, East Gate Tower, and the Ancient Town Museum. If time allows, you can delve into other attractions in the old town based on your personal interests, including historic residences and ancestral halls of notable families. 

Fenghuang is a diverse cultural hub, home to Tujia, Miao, and Bai communities. If your visit aligns with a local festival, you’ll have the opportunity to witness the lively traditions of these ethnic groups, characterized by vibrant costumes, spirited music, and lively dance.

In the late afternoon, you’ll be transferred to Fenghuang train station, marking the conclusion of your WindhorseTour service. If you have further travel plans, we specialize in tailor-made trips and are ready to assist you in extending your journey in China.