10 Days Jiangxi and Hunan Villages Wonders Tour

Embark on an unforgettable 10-day journey through the villages of Jiangxi and Hunan, where traditional architecture, natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage come together to provide a deeply immersive experience. From the picturesque villages of Wuyuan in Jiangxi to the ancient towns of Fenghuang and the breathtaking landscapes of Zhangjiajie, this tour offers an unparalleled exploration of rural China. With a perfect blend of natural wonders, cultural sights, and ancient history, you’ll have the opportunity to experience the most beautiful countryside, visit ancient villages and towns, explore towering mountains, and enjoy unique local customs.

Starting from Guangzhou, this tour takes you to several locations such as Wuyuan, a place known as the “most beautiful countryside” in China, before heading to the ancient town of Qianyang and the stunning Fenghuang Ancient Town. The tour also includes visits to Zhangjiajie, home to the world-famous Tianmen Mountain and Avatar Mountain. You will experience both traditional village life and modern scenic wonders, while enjoying authentic Chinese cuisine and local delicacies.

Tour Highlights:

  1. Wuyuan’s Ancient Villages:
    • Explore the picturesque landscapes of Wuyuan, one of China’s most beautiful rural areas, including famous villages like Likeng, Jiangwan, and Yantian. Marvel at the scenic views of traditional whitewashed cottages, lush mountains, and peaceful streams.
    • Visit Rainbow Bridge, the most beautiful covered bridge in China, and experience the tranquility of rural life in Sixi Village.
  2. Qianyang Ancient Town:
    • Discover the history and culture of Qianyang, a town established over 2000 years ago. Explore its ancient architecture, including Furong Tower and the many historical gates, streets, and alleys.
    • Wander through centuries-old residential houses, temples, and traditional markets, offering a glimpse of the past.
  3. Fenghuang Ancient Town:
    • Experience the charm of Fenghuang, a historical town built along the Tuojiang River. Admire the ancient Miao culture, stroll through its old streets, and enjoy a boat ride along the river.
    • Enjoy local dances, visit traditional Miao houses, and savor the authentic flavors of western Hunan cuisine.
  4. Zhangjiajie’s Natural Wonders:
    • Discover Tianmen Mountain, known for its stunning Tianmen Cave and incredible glass skywalk. Ride the cable car to the top for sweeping views of the surrounding landscape.
    • Visit Yuanjiajie and Tianzi Mountain, with dramatic sandstone pillars that inspired the movie “Avatar.” Walk along Avatar Mountain, marvel at the First Natural Bridge, and visit He Long Park.
  5. Cili County’s Beautiful Villages:
    • Visit Laopeng Village in the 48-Stockade Scenic Area, famous for its rape flower fields and traditional Chinese paper-making craftsmanship.
    • Explore the ancient Yang Family Old House and other traditional villages, offering an insight into rural life in China.
  6. Local Culture and Cuisine:
    • Enjoy local delicacies from Jiangxi and Hunan provinces, including spicy Hunan dishes and Jiangxi-style cuisine.
    • Experience the rich cultural heritage of the Miao people and other ethnic groups through traditional performances, dances, and local crafts.
  7. Scenic Views and Rural Life:
    • Journey through lush landscapes, picturesque rivers, and steep mountain ranges, offering a peaceful and serene environment away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
    • Take a step back in time as you explore the ancient architecture, traditional homes, and age-old customs that have been preserved for centuries.

This carefully curated itinerary will ensure you enjoy a seamless blend of culture, history, nature, and local charm, leaving you with a deep appreciation for China’s lesser-known rural wonders.

Day By Day Itinerary

Day 1: Guangzhou to Wuyuan (via Yingtan and Jingdezhen)

  • Morning:
    The adventure begins with a high-speed bullet train ride from Guangzhou South Railway Station to Yingtan North Railway Station (Train No. G636), departing at 09:12 am and arriving at 14:25 pm. During this journey, relax and enjoy the scenic landscapes of the Guangdong province as you speed toward Jiangxi province.
    Upon arrival at Yingtan North Railway Station, transfer to Jingdezhen by Train No. K784 (16:10 pm – 18:36 pm). This short segment connects you to the porcelain capital of China, Jingdezhen, famous for its history in ceramics production.
  • Evening:
    Upon arrival in Jingdezhen, you will transfer by car to Wuyuan (approximately 1.5 hours by car). This scenic transfer allows you to catch a glimpse of the rural landscapes of Jiangxi province.
    Check into Wuyuan Huadu Hotel, a charming and comfortable hotel, and enjoy a delicious local dinner featuring Jiangxi cuisine.

Meals: Dinner
Overnight: Wuyuan Huadu Hotel


Day 2: Explore Wuyuan’s Scenic Villages

  • Morning:
    After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, take a scenic drive to Moon Bay (月亮湾), an iconic location in Wuyuan. This crescent-shaped bend in the river offers serene views and makes for the perfect spot to start your exploration of the area. Stroll along the riverbanks and admire the natural beauty of the surrounding hills.
    Next, visit the ancient Likeng Village, which is renowned for its ancient architecture, traditional whitewashed buildings, and picturesque bridges. It’s a beautiful example of rural Jiangxi life.
    Head to Jiangwan Ancient Village, another gem of Wuyuan, known for its picturesque riverside setting and charming narrow streets, perfect for a peaceful walk.
  • Afternoon:
    After a traditional local lunch, continue to explore more of Wuyuan’s scenic beauty, such as Jiangling Ancient Village. The village is surrounded by lush green hills, offering visitors a tranquil and immersive experience.
    Take time to explore the quiet, beautiful surroundings, and experience traditional rural life at its best.
  • Evening:
    After a full day of exploring, return to your hotel in Wuyuan to relax and enjoy a restful evening. Dinner will be served at the hotel.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Wuyuan Huadu Hotel


Day 3: Further Exploration of Wuyuan

  • Morning:
    After breakfast, visit the Rainbow Bridge in Wuyuan, an iconic covered bridge that spans a river surrounded by picturesque hills. It’s an excellent spot for photos and offers a wonderful opportunity to appreciate the beauty of Jiangxi’s rural landscapes.
    Visit Yantian Customs Park, a scenic spot that showcases the ancient architecture of the region, as well as the history of the local customs. The park offers insight into the ancient trade routes of the area.
    Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through Sixi Ancient Village, which is set against the backdrop of rolling hills and lush greenery. The village is a great place to immerse yourself in the traditional atmosphere of rural China.
  • Afternoon:
    After a traditional local lunch, continue to explore more of Wuyuan’s villages, including Wangkou Village and Shangyuan Village, both offering incredible natural landscapes. Take time to explore their ancient architecture and peaceful surroundings.
  • Evening:
    Return to your hotel and enjoy another delicious dinner featuring local specialties. Afterward, relax for the evening and rest up for another exciting day ahead.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Wuyuan Huadu Hotel


Day 4: Wuyuan to Qianyang (via Yingtan and Huaihua)

  • Morning:
    After breakfast at the hotel, check out and transfer to Jingdezhen Railway Station to catch Train K45 to Yingtan (10:25 am – 12:33 pm). The train ride takes you through scenic countryside landscapes of Jiangxi province.
    Upon arrival at Yingtan, transfer to Huaihua, Hunan province, by Train G1681 (14:03 pm – 18:01 pm). Enjoy another comfortable high-speed train journey, taking in the beauty of the rural landscape.
  • Evening:
    After arriving at Huaihua South Railway Station, your local guide will meet you for the final stretch of the day’s journey to Qianyang Ancient Town (approximately 1 hour by car).
    Check into your hotel and enjoy a delicious local dinner.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Qianyang Hotel


Day 5: Explore Qianyang Ancient Town, Transfer to Fenghuang

  • Morning:
    After breakfast, set out to explore Qianyang Ancient Town, a historical town with ancient gates and narrow streets that reflect the unique culture of this region. Wander through the town and marvel at the architecture, which has been preserved for centuries.
    Visit Furong Tower (Lotus Tower), a traditional architectural marvel, and take in the panoramic views of the town and the surrounding landscapes.
    Then, take a peaceful walk along the Wu River that flows through the town. Enjoy the serenity and beauty of the natural environment.
  • Afternoon:
    After a traditional local lunch, take a scenic transfer (about 90 minutes) to Fenghuang Ancient Town, which is renowned for its traditional Miao culture and picturesque riverside views. Check into your hotel in Fenghuang.
    Take an evening stroll along the Tuojiang River, where you can enjoy the ancient town’s traditional architecture illuminated by streetlights.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Fengting International Hotel or similar


Day 6: Explore Fenghuang and Transfer to Zhangjiajie

  • Morning:
    Start your day with breakfast at the hotel before heading out for a deeper exploration of Fenghuang Ancient Town. Wander through its narrow lanes and streets, full of traditional Miao shops selling local handicrafts.
    Take a boat ride along the Tuojiang River, where you can enjoy views of the iconic Fenghuang Stilt Houses and experience the town from a different perspective.
    Visit Miao houses to learn more about the unique Miao culture and their traditional way of life.
  • Afternoon:
    After a traditional lunch, take a bus or private vehicle to Zhangjiajie (approximately 4 hours by bus). Upon arrival, check into your hotel and rest.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Zhangjiajie International Hotel or similar


Day 7: Explore Tianmen Mountain

  • Morning:
    After breakfast, take a cable car up to the summit of Tianmen Mountain, one of the most famous natural attractions in Zhangjiajie. The ride offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and lush forests.
    Visit the Glass Skywalk and walk along the Plank Road, built along the cliff face. The views from here are breathtaking, offering a unique perspective of the entire mountain range.
    Visit Tianmen Cave, a massive limestone arch that’s one of the natural wonders of the region.
  • Afternoon:
    Continue your exploration of the Tianmen Mountain Scenic Area with a visit to the Six Wonders of Tianmen Mountain, which includes a series of natural and man-made scenic features.
    In the afternoon, take a shuttle bus down the mountain for more views.
  • Evening:
    Return to your hotel to relax after a thrilling day of exploration.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Zhangjiajie International Hotel or similar


Day 8: Yuanjiajie and Tianzi Mountain

  • Morning:
    After breakfast, head to Yuanjiajie, a scenic area in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, famous for its towering sandstone pillars, which inspired the floating mountains in the movie Avatar.
    Ride the Bailong Elevator, the world’s highest glass elevator, to reach the top of the mountain. From here, explore the First Natural Bridge in the World, a spectacular natural arch.
    Continue to Tianzi Mountain, another scenic area, to experience even more dramatic landscapes and stunning views of the surrounding valleys.
  • Afternoon:
    Take a shuttle bus to visit He Long Park and the West Sea area. Explore the surreal stone forest and experience the tranquility of the area.
  • Evening:
    After a full day of exploration, transfer to Cili County (about 1 hour) and check into your hotel for the night.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Cili Hotel or similar


Day 9: Explore Cili County and Laopeng Village

  • Morning:
    After breakfast, travel to Laopeng Village in the 48-Stockade Scenic Area to admire the picturesque rape flower fields in full bloom (seasonal). Learn about traditional Chinese paper-making techniques and the cultural heritage of the area.
    Explore the Yang Family Old House, which provides a fascinating look into the local architectural style.
  • Afternoon:
    After lunch, continue your exploration of nearby Shuangyun Village and Sanwang Village, where you’ll experience the quiet, rural atmosphere of Hunan province. Walk through the villages and get a feel for the local way of life.
  • Evening:
    Return to your hotel for a relaxing evening and dinner.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Cili Hotel or similar


Day 10: Departure from Cili to Changsha

  • Morning:
    After breakfast, take a 4-hour bus ride from Cili County to Changsha. Upon arrival, enjoy some free time for shopping or sightseeing in Changsha.
    Your guide will accompany you to the Changsha South Railway Station, where you will board a bullet train back to Guangzhou (train departs every 30 minutes).

Meals: Breakfast
End of Tour

Service Included:

  • Admission fees for all of the sightseeing spots listed in the itinerary;
  • Meals as listed in the itinerary;
  • Hotels as listed in the itinerary;
  • Private English-speaking tour guide;
  • Private vehicle for transfers; sightseeing with skilled driver;
  • Service charge; government taxes;
  • Luggage transfers between airports and hotels;
  • Domestic high speed train tickets;

Service Excluded:

  • Any arrival and departure international airfares or train tickets;
  • Chinese visa fees;
  • Excess baggage charged by Airlines;
  • Single room supplement;
  • Tips to guides and drivers;
  • Personal expenses and gratuities to service staff;
  • Personal travel accident insurance;
  • All optional programs.

Note:

The quotation is different for China Public Holidays. For instance, Chinese Spring Festival,Tomb-sweeping Festival, Labor Day, Dragon-boat Festival, Mid-autumn Festival, China National Day, etc.