12 Days South China Nature Wonders Tour with Jiuzhaigou and Zhangjiajie

Itinerary Overview

Embark on this 12 – day adventure and soak in the laid – back vibes of Chengdu, the magical charm of Jiuzhaigou, the magnificent grandeur of Zhangjiajie, and the romantic allure of Fenghuang Ancient Town. Along the way, you’ll be immersed in rich historical cultures, get up close and personal with nature, savor local delicacies, and experience the vibrant nightlife.

Brief Itinerary

  • Day 1: arrival Chengdu
  • Day 2: Chengdu-Jiuzhaigou
  • Day 3:Exploration in Jiuzhaigou
  • Day 4:Jiuzhaigou – Huanglong – Jiuzhaigou
  • Day 5: Jiuzhaigou-Chengdu
  • Day 6:Chengdu – Zhangjiajie
  • Day 7:Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
  • Day 8:Tianzi Mountain and Yuanjiajie
  • Day 9:Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park
  • Day 10:Zhangjiajie – Fenghuang Ancient Town
  • Day 11:Full day in Fenghuang Ancient Town
  • Day 12: Fenghuang Ancient Town – Departure
 

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Chengdu

  • Morning: Touch down in Chengdu, the “Land of Abundance.” After getting off the plane or train, head to your pre – booked hotel. Chill and let your body adjust to the mild local climate.
  • Afternoon: Head over to Wuhou Shrine(武侯祠), a hallowed ground saturated with the rich Three Kingdoms culture. The sight of its vermilion walls standing tall beside the gently swaying bamboo exudes an ageless charm. Stepping through its gates is like entering a time – tunnel, allowing you to soak in the allure of that heroic epoch.
  • Evening: When the night descends, Chengdu’s culinary landscape springs to life. Indulge in the quintessential Chengdu hot pot, its broth a harmonious blend of spiciness and fragrance. Swish tender tripe and duck intestines into the simmering pot, savoring each bite. Alternatively, pick up a skewer of the lip – smacking Chuanchuanxiang. Afterward, meander along the vibrant streets, immersing yourself in the captivating Chengdu nightlife.

Wohou Temple

Day 2: Chengdu – Jiuzhaigou

  • Morning: You can take High-speed train to reach Jiuzhaigou(九寨沟) quickly or opt for a long – distance bus ride, enjoying the stunning natural scenery of Western Sichuan along the way.
  • Afternoon: Touch down in Jiuzhaigou and check into your hotel. Take a moment to unwind and acclimatize to the high – altitude climate. The crisp, clean air and the one – of – a – kind ambiance of this elevated terrain are bound to fill you with a sense of vitality. However, a short reprieve will guarantee that you’re in prime condition for the exciting escapades that lie in wait.
  • Evening: As the sun sets, take a stroll around the hotel, allowing the gentle evening breeze to caress your face. Marvel at the serene night view of Jiuzhaigou, where the soft glow of lights and the natural beauty of the area create a peaceful ambiance. This high – altitude town exudes a unique tranquility that is both calming and rejuvenating, offering a perfect end to your first day in this magical place.

Day 3: Full – day Exploration in Jiuzhaigou

  • Morning: Enter the Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area. First, be greeted by the magnificent Nuorilang Waterfall(诺日朗瀑布), where the water rushes down like a cascading galaxy, playing the majestic symphony of nature. Then, wander through the Shuzheng Lakes, where the blue – green lakes and scattered ponds create a dreamy scene.
  • Afternoon: Keep exploring! Discover the colorful Wuhua Sea(五花海), whose waters are like a magical palette, amazing everyone. Next, head to Pearl Shoal, where the water splashes into countless glistening droplets, just like pearls spilling onto a jade plate.
  • Evening: Return to the hotel. On the way, stop by a local restaurant and taste specialties like yak meat and qingke cakes.

Day 4: Jiuzhaigou – Huanglong – Jiuzhaigou

  • Morning: Travel to Huanglong Scenic Area(黄龙风景区). Visit the ancient Huanglong Temple, feel the solemnity of Buddhist culture, and then feast your eyes on the dreamy Five – Color Pool, which shimmers with colors under the sunlight.
  • Afternoon: Embark on the return journey to Jiuzhaigou, indulging in the breathtaking vistas of the Western Sichuan Plateau en route. Behold snow – capped peaks that pierce the sky, lush forests teeming with life, and verdant meadows stretching as far as the eye can see.
  • Evening: Reach the hotel in Jiuzhaigou, unwind in comfort, and allow your body and mind to fully relax, preparing to embrace the adventures of the next day with renewed vigor.

Day 5: Jiuzhaigou – Chengdu

  • Morning: Take High-speed train or a long – distance bus back to Chengdu, ending the magical journey in Jiuzhaigou.
  • Afternoon: Upon arriving in Zhangjiajie, check into your hotel. Unwind for a while, allowing your body and mind to relax as you gear up for the exciting adventures that lie ahead.
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    Evening: Embark on a culinary exploration in the city to discover local specialties. Dive into a steaming pot of spicy and mouthwatering Zhangjiajie Sanxiaguo. Let the rich flavors dance on your taste buds and experience the fiery enthusiasm unique to Zhangjiajie.

Day 6: Chengdu – Zhangjiajie

  • Morning: Fly to Zhangjiajie and kick – start a new journey.
  • Afternoon: After arriving in Zhangjiajie, check into the hotel and relax to prepare for the upcoming adventures.
  • Evening: Hunt for local specialties in the city. Dig into a pot of spicy and delicious Zhangjiajie Sanxiaguo, and feel the fiery passion of Zhangjiajie.

Day 7: Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

  • Morning: Explore Zhangjiajie National Forest Park(张家界国家森林公园). Climb up Huangshi Village and overlook the sea of towering peaks and strange – shaped rocks, experiencing the unique quartz sandstone peak – forest landscape of Zhangjiajie.
  • Afternoon: Walk to Jinbian Stream. Stroll along the clear stream, with the water gurgling, fish swimming in the shallow water, and green trees all around. Enjoy the peace and beauty of nature.
  • Evening: Return to the hotel. On the way, taste local delicacies like cured meat and rock – ear stewed chicken.
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

Day 8: Tianzi Mountain and Yuanjiajie

  • Morning: Take the Bailong Elevator and ascend the mountain quickly with a breathtaking view. Reach the core area of Tianzi Mountain(天子山) and admire the fairy – like peak – forest scenery, marveling at the uncanny workmanship of nature.
  • Afternoon:As soon as you step into Yuanjiajie, the famous First Natural Bridge in the World comes into view. Two mountain peaks are connected by a natural stone bridge, towering hundreds of meters above the ground. This is truly a masterpiece of “Mother Nature, the Master Builder.” Walking on it, every step feels like strolling in the clouds, and the excitement is off the charts. You can take amazing photos wherever you are.Moreover, this is also the filming location for the ‘Hallelujah Mountains’ in the movie ‘Avatar’. Standing on the bridge, you might feel the mysterious power of the Na’vi, as if you could transform into Jake and embark on an interstellar adventure.
  • Evening: Make your way back to the hotel to unwind. Later, venture out into the vibrant streets of Zhangjiajie and soak in the lively nightlife, allowing yourself to be captivated by the distinct allure of this mountainous city.
Yuanjiajie Scenic Area in Zhangjiajie
Yuanjiajie Scenic Area in Zhangjiajie

Day 9: Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park

  • Morning: Take the cable car and slowly ascend to Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park(天门山国家森林公园). The first thing you’ll see is the huge Tianmen Cave, which seems like a gate to the heavens.
  • Afternoon: Embark on an exhilarating adventure along the glass-plank road. As you tread upon the transparent walkway, the vast abyss yawns beneath your feet, while the clear blue sky and fluffy white clouds stretch above your head, sending a thrilling surge of adrenaline coursing through your veins.
  • Evening: Head back to the hotel and savor the local delicacy, Tujia He Cai, a harmonious blend of flavors that encapsulates the essence of the region’s culinary heritage.

Day 10: Zhangjiajie – Fenghuang Ancient Town

  • Morning: Take a bus to Fenghuang Ancient Town, enjoying the idyllic rural scenery of Western Hunan along the way.
  • Afternoon: As soon as you arrive in Fenghuang Ancient Town, check into your hotel and enjoy a brief respite to shake off the weariness of the journey.

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    Evening: Wander at a leisurely pace through the ancient town. Marvel at the enchanting night view, where the antique buildings are bathed in the warm glow of lights. Indulge in local delicacies such as ginger candy and rice tofu, savoring the unique flavors of the region.

Day 11: Full – day Exploration in Fenghuang Ancient Town

  • Morning: Explore Fenghuang Ancient Town(凤凰古城). Visit Shen Congwen’s Former Residence to feel the growth footprint of this literary master. Then, come to Yang’s Ancestral Hall and appreciate the charm of the ancient architecture.
  • Afternoon: Take a stroll along the Tuojiang River, enjoy the natural beauty of the ancient town. The distant green mountains, the clear water at your feet, and the stilted buildings on the banks form a magnificent picture.
  • Evening: Taste local specialties like Blood – Glutinous Rice Duck and Sour Soup Fish. Then, go out and experience the lively nightlife of the ancient town, feeling the unique romantic charm of Fenghuang.

Day 12: Fenghuang Ancient Town – Departure

  • Morning: Enjoy some leisurely moments in the ancient town. Wander through the bustling streets, browsing for exquisite souvenirs such as intricate Miao embroidery and stunning silver jewelry, each piece a beautiful memento to preserve the wonderful memories of this trip.
  • Afternoon: Take a bus back to Zhangjiajie or Chengdu, bringing this pleasant and unforgettable trip to an end.

Service included

  • Meal as listed in the itinerary.
  • Private air-conditioned vehicle.
  • Entrance fees as specified in the itinerary.
  • Experienced English-speaking tour guide.

Service Excluded

  • Airfare, tax and fuel surcharge.
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  • Meals not mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Tipping to guide and driver.
  • Personal expenses.
  • The electronic car & cable car.
  • The other tickets in the spots. (The ticket for climbing Big Wild Goose Pagoda)

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.

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Tips

  1. Transportation: Book your flights and tickets in advance, and plan your travel time reasonably to ensure a smooth journey.
  1. Accommodation: Reserve your hotels ahead of time. Check other tourists’ reviews and choose a safe, comfortable, and conveniently – located place to stay.
  1. Weather: Keep a close eye on the weather forecast. Bring suitable clothes and sun protection items according to the weather in different areas.
  1. Safety: Pay attention to your personal property safety. Obey the scenic area regulations when visiting the scenic spots, and do not enter dangerous areas to ensure a safe trip.