8 Days Hunan Tour to Changsha-Miluo-Yueyang-Changde-Zhangjiajie

Embark on a captivating 8-day adventure through the heart of Hunan province, a region famed for its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant culture. This tour offers a blend of natural wonders, cultural heritage, and ancient traditions, taking you from the bustling city of Changsha (长沙) to the serene beauty of Zhangjiajie (张家界). Whether you’re exploring the historical landmarks in Miluo (汨罗) and Yueyang (岳阳), discovering cultural gems in Changde (常德), or marveling at the iconic landscapes of Zhangjiajie, this journey promises unforgettable experiences and the opportunity to immerse yourself in Hunan’s deep cultural roots.

You’ll walk through centuries of history, from visiting ancient academies and literary parks to taking in the modern marvels of glass bridges and mountain cableways. Along the way, enjoy local delicacies, interact with traditional Hunanese culture, and experience stunning performances that bring the region’s legends to life.


Tour Highlights

Changsha (长沙)

  • Yuelu Academy (岳麓书院): Explore one of China’s oldest educational institutions, with over a thousand years of history.
  • Orange Isle (橘子洲头): Enjoy a scenic walk and panoramic views of the Xiangjiang River, featuring a famous statue of Mao Zedong.
  • Hunan Provincial Museum (省博物馆): Dive into the province’s rich cultural heritage, including exhibits on the Mawangdui Han tombs and regional art.
  • Night Cruise on Xiangjiang River: Experience the sparkling city lights of Changsha on an evening river cruise.

Miluo (汨罗)

  • Quzi Cultural Park (屈子文化园): Learn about the ancient poet Qu Yuan, whose works are celebrated in Chinese literature, and explore the beautiful park dedicated to his memory.
  • Traditional Tea Tasting: Engage in an authentic cultural experience by sampling the region’s famous teas.

Yueyang (岳阳)

  • Yueyang Tower (岳阳楼): An iconic landmark with breathtaking views of Dongting Lake, this historic tower has inspired Chinese poets for centuries.
  • Junshan Island (君山岛): A tranquil getaway with rich history, offering a peaceful boat ride and scenic landscapes.

Changde (常德)

  • Taohuayuan Scenic Area (桃花源景区): Step into the mythical Peach Blossom Spring, a paradise described by ancient poet Tao Yuanming.
  • Local Immersive Experiences: Participate in local tea-tasting ceremonies, taste fresh fish dishes, and enjoy the cultural heritage of Changde through live performances and folk traditions.
  • Peach Blossom Spring Performance (《桃花源记》山水实景演出): Watch a live-action show set in a picturesque natural setting, bringing the ancient story to life.

Zhangjiajie (张家界)

  • Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge (大峡谷玻璃桥): Walk across the world’s longest and highest glass bridge for an unforgettable experience above a deep canyon.
  • Yuanjiajie Scenic Area (袁家界): Visit the world-famous Hallelujah Mountain (哈利路亚山), which inspired the floating mountains in the movie Avatar.
  • Tianmen Mountain (天门山): Explore the legendary mountain, walk on the glass skywalk, and pass through the natural Tianmen Cave (天门洞), often called the “Gateway to Heaven.”
  • Ten-Mile Gallery (十里画廊): Take a scenic train ride along one of the most picturesque paths in Zhangjiajie, surrounded by stunning karst formations.

Immersive Cultural Experiences

  • Tea Tasting Sessions: Sample local tea varieties in multiple regions, from Miluo to Changde, learning about tea culture and its significance in Hunan.
  • Traditional Performances: Attend the Charming Western Hunan (魅力湘西) performance to experience the rich traditions, music, and dance of the region.
  • Folk Art and Craftsmanship: Discover Hunan’s diverse folk arts and craftsmanship through visits to local cultural centers, craft exhibitions, and heritage sites.

Huangshi Village in Wulingyuan Scenic Area, Zhangjiajie


Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Changsha (长沙)

Evening

19:00-21:00: Night Cruise on Xiangjiang River (夜游湘江)

Begin your journey with a scenic night cruise along the Xiangjiang River (湘江), offering beautiful views of Changsha’s city lights and iconic skyline. This tranquil boat ride will allow you to absorb the evening atmosphere and the sparkling lights of this vibrant city.

Accommodation: Stay overnight in Changsha.


Day 2: Changsha to Miluo (长沙 – 汨罗)

Morning

7:30-9:30: Visit Yuelu Academy (岳麓书院)

Explore Yuelu Academy, one of China’s oldest academies. Immerse yourself in the history of this millennia-old institution, which has been a beacon of learning for over a thousand years. It’s a great way to start the day by understanding the educational culture of the region.

9:30-10:30: Orange Isle (橘子洲头)

Visit Orange Isle, located on the Xiangjiang River. Enjoy the peaceful environment, and marvel at the towering statue of Mao Zedong. This is a perfect spot to enjoy both natural beauty and cultural significance.

10:30-12:30: Hunan Provincial Museum (省博物馆)

Visit the Hunan Provincial Museum, home to fascinating exhibits that explore the culture, history, and art of the region. The museum showcases collections such as the Mawangdui Han tomb (马王堆汉墓), one of the most important archaeological discoveries in China.

Afternoon

13:00-14:00: Lunch

Enjoy a delightful local lunch featuring Hunan cuisine, known for its spicy flavors and bold taste.

14:00-16:00: Travel to Miluo (车程约2小时)

After lunch, head to Miluo for a scenic 2-hour drive.

16:00-18:00: Quzi Cultural Park (屈子文化园)

Visit Quzi Cultural Park, dedicated to the great poet Qu Yuan (屈原). Learn about his life and works, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings that inspire this historic figure’s poetry. Explore the gardens, learn about his patriotism, and understand his legacy in Chinese literature.

Evening

18:30-19:30: Dinner

Relish local delicacies from the Miluo area, including regional specialties.

19:30 onward: Hotel Check-in

Check into your hotel and enjoy the rest of the evening free for personal exploration.


Day 3: Miluo to Yueyang (汨罗 – 岳阳)

Morning

8:00-9:30: Breakfast

After breakfast, head out for a short drive to Yueyang (车程约1.5小时).

9:30-11:30: Yueyang Tower (岳阳楼)

Visit Yueyang Tower, one of the most famous ancient towers in China. The tower has inspired many poets and offers panoramic views of Dongting Lake (洞庭湖). Explore the architecture and enjoy the historical significance of this scenic landmark.

11:30-12:00: Junshan Island (君山岛)

Take a boat to Junshan Island, a serene escape from the bustling city, famous for its peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty. Enjoy a leisurely walk around the island and take in the stunning lakeside views.

Afternoon

12:00-13:00: Lunch

Enjoy a traditional lunch featuring Yueyang’s local dishes.

13:00-15:30: Travel to Changde (车程约2小时)

After lunch, travel to Changde.

16:00-17:30: Taohuayuan Scenic Area (桃花源景区)

Experience the magical world of the Peach Blossom Spring, a mythical paradise first described in the classic work “Taohuayuan Ji” (桃花源记) by the poet Tao Yuanming. Explore the picturesque setting that inspired this timeless story.

17:30-18:30: Peach Blossom Spring Tea Ceremony

Engage in a traditional tea-tasting ceremony, experiencing local customs and learning about the cultural significance of tea in the region.

Evening

18:30-20:30: Peach Blossom Spring Performance (《桃花源记》山水实景演出)

Attend the breathtaking live-action show in the Peach Blossom Spring that brings the mythical story to life. Enjoy the beautiful natural setting and cultural performance.

20:30 onward: Hotel Check-in

Relax at your hotel after an exciting day of cultural immersion.


Day 4: Changde (常德)

Morning

8:30-9:30: Liuye Lake Cycling (柳叶湖环湖骑行)

Start the day with a cycling tour around Liuye Lake (柳叶湖). This serene activity allows you to take in the natural beauty of the area, including lush landscapes and calm waters.

9:30-10:20: Visit Yuhualong Treasure House (鱼化龙宝库)

Learn about the Yulong culture, which celebrates the unique relationship between the local people and fish, a key element of local traditions.

10:20-11:30: Lvxian Island (湖仙岛)

Explore Lvxian Island, known for its tranquil beauty and the prominent fishing culture of the region.

Afternoon

12:30-14:00: Liuye Lake Fish Feast (柳叶湖全鱼宴午宴)

Enjoy a traditional fish feast made with fresh catches from the lake. Delight in the region’s famous freshwater fish dishes while learning about the local fishing methods.

14:00-15:00: Free time at Liuye Lake

Enjoy a leisurely afternoon, relaxing at your hotel or exploring the surroundings at your own pace.

15:00-16:30: Visit Changde Museum (常德博物馆)

Take a deeper dive into the local history with a visit to Changde Museum, where you’ll gain insights into the region’s ancient past and heritage. Participate in a cultural restoration workshop to learn about the delicate process of preserving historical artifacts.

Evening

16:30-17:30: Changde City Presentation

Attend the Changde City Presentation, a meeting where the city’s tourism attractions are introduced to the group, followed by signing contracts and agreements.

17:30-19:00: Welcome Dinner

Enjoy a welcoming dinner, showcasing local delicacies and an opportunity to network with fellow travelers.

19:00-20:00: Immersive River Street Cultural Experience

Participate in the immersive “He Street’s Wonderful Night” (河街奇妙夜) cultural performance, a vibrant show of traditional dance and local customs in the heart of the city.

20:00-21:00: Changde River Street Boat Ride (常德河街《常德记忆》游船体验)

End your day with a peaceful boat ride along He Street (河街), exploring the beautiful riverside scenes of Changde.

Accommodation: Stay overnight in Changde.


Day 5: Changde to Zhangjiajie (常德 – 张家界)

Morning

8:30: Breakfast

After breakfast, head to Zhangjiajie (车程约2.5小时).

Afternoon

13:00-18:00: Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge (大峡谷玻璃桥)

Explore the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge, the world’s longest and highest glass bridge. The breathtaking views will leave you speechless as you walk over the glass, suspended high above a deep canyon.

Evening

18:00-19:00: Dinner

Enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant.

19:00 onward: Hotel Check-in

Check into your hotel in Wulingyuan and enjoy a relaxing evening.


Day 6: Zhangjiajie Core Scenic Area (武陵源核心景区)

Morning

8:30-12:30: Yuanjiajie Scenic Area (袁家界)

Visit Yuanjiajie, where you’ll encounter some of Zhangjiajie’s most famous landmarks, including Hallelujah Mountain (哈利路亚山), the inspiration for the floating mountains in Avatar. Also, see the World’s First Bridge (天下第一桥) and the Ghost Platform (迷魂台).

Afternoon

13:30-15:30: Tianzi Mountain (天子山)

Explore Tianzi Mountain, known for its striking rock formations and breathtaking views. Visit the Fairy Dispersing Flowers (仙女散花) and Emperor’s Pen Peak (御笔峰).

15:30-17:30: Ten-Mile Gallery (十里画廊)

Ride the scenic mini train through the Ten-Mile Gallery, passing through spectacular natural landscapes, including the famous Three Sisters Peak (三姐妹峰).

Evening

18:00-19:00: Dinner

Enjoy dinner at your hotel or a local restaurant.

19:00-20:00: Charming Western Hunan Performance

Optional: Attend the Charming Western Hunan (魅力湘西) performance, a dazzling show featuring traditional music, dance, and storytelling.

Accommodation: Stay overnight in Wulingyuan.


Day 7: Zhangjiajie (张家界)

Morning

8:00-10:30: Huangshizhai (黄石寨)

Visit Huangshizhai, a famous area within Zhangjiajie Forest Park, known for its stunning vistas and hiking trails.

10:30-11:30: Golden Whip Stream (金鞭溪)

Walk along the scenic Golden Whip Stream, a picturesque trail surrounded by stunning rock formations.

Afternoon

13:00-17:30: Tianmen Mountain (天门山)

Visit Tianmen Mountain, known for its dramatic Tianmen Cave (天门洞), a natural arch. Walk on the glass skywalk and take the famous cable car up to the summit for amazing views.

Evening

18:00-19:00: Dinner

Enjoy dinner at your hotel or a local restaurant.

19:00-20:30: 72 Wonders Tower

Optional: Visit the 72 Wonders Tower for a unique evening experience.


Day 8: Departure

Morning

After breakfast, depending on your departure time, you will be transferred to the train station or airport for your return journey.

Pack and prepare for departure from Zhangjiajie (张家界). Depending on your schedule, transfer to the Zhangjiajie Airport (张家界荷花机场) or train station (张家界火车站) for your onward journey.

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 train tickets of soft sleeper.

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.