Zhangjiajie Tours

A Gateway to Nature’s Majesty and Cultural Riches

Introduction

Natural Wonder Tours

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park Tours

• Yuanjiajie Avatar Mountain Exploration: Many tours take you to Yuanjiajie, where the iconic “Avatar Hallelujah Mountain” (officially known as the South Sky Column) stands tall. These tours typically include a visit to the viewing platforms, such as Mihun Terrace, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the countless sandstone pillars rising from the misty valleys. You can reach Yuanjiajie either by a strenuous but rewarding hike or by taking the Bailong Elevator, the world’s tallest outdoor elevator, which provides a thrilling ride up the cliff face.
• Tianzi Mountain and Golden Whip Stream Combo: Some tours combine a trip to Tianzi Mountain, known as the “monarch of the peak forest,” with a stroll along the Golden Whip Stream. At Tianzi Mountain, you can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding peaks, especially during sunrise when the sea of clouds adds a magical touch. The Golden Whip Stream, a 7.5 – kilometer long trail, winds through the park, following a clear stream. As you walk, you’ll be treated to close – up views of the majestic peaks and may encounter the local monkey population.
• Yangjiajie and Huangshizhai Adventure: Yangjiajie, with its rugged and less – visited terrain, is a favorite among more adventurous travelers. Tours here often include visits to Wulongzhai and Tianbolou, where you can experience the thrill of climbing steep paths and enjoying the secluded beauty of the area. Huangshizhai, on the other hand, offers a more accessible option with its cable car. Once at the top, you can walk along the circular path and enjoy 360 – degree views of the “thousand – peak forest.”

Tianmen Mountain Tours

• Full – Day Tianmen Mountain Experience: These tours usually start with a ride on the world – longest cable car, which takes you from the city up to the mountain. Along the way, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of the city and the surrounding landscape. Once on the mountain, you can explore the Glass Skywalk, a transparent walkway suspended 1,400 meters above the ground, offering an adrenaline – pumping experience. The 99 – bend Road, an engineering marvel with its hairpin bends, leads to the Tianmen Cave, a natural rock arch 131.5 meters high. You can either take the steps up to the cave or use the 穿山 escalators.
• Tianmen Mountain with a Twist: Some specialized tours may include unique experiences on Tianmen Mountain, such as night – time visits to enjoy the illuminated mountain scenery or photography – focused tours that take you to the best spots for capturing the stunning landscapes at different times of the day.

Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon and Glass Bridge Tours

• Grand Canyon Hiking and Bridge Crossing: Tours here typically start with a hike through the Grand Canyon, where you can enjoy the lush vegetation, clear streams, and unique rock formations. The highlight is, of course, crossing the Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge, the longest and highest glass bridge of its kind globally. Standing on the bridge, you’ll have unobstructed views of the deep canyon below, providing an unforgettable and somewhat nerve – wracking experience. Some tours also include options for activities like bungee jumping (for the extremely brave) or taking a boat ride on the Shenquan Lake at the bottom of the canyon.

Cultural Immersion Tours

Tujia and Miao Ethnic Culture Tours

• Tujia Ethnic Garden Visits: Many tours include a stop at the Tujia Ethnic Garden, where you can experience the unique folk – customs, clothing, and traditional architecture of the Tujia people. You can watch traditional dance performances like the hands – waving dance, learn about the art of Tujia brocade making, and taste local Tujia cuisine.
• Miao Village Explorations: Tours may also take you to Miao villages, where you can participate in cultural activities such as learning about Miao silver – smithing, experiencing traditional Miao festivals (if available), and listening to the stories and legends passed down through generations. You’ll also have the opportunity to try Miao – style food, which often features unique flavors and cooking techniques.

Ancient Town Tours

• Fenghuang Ancient Town Tours: A popular cultural tour option is a visit to Fenghuang Ancient Town, located near Zhangjiajie. This town is known for its well – preserved ancient architecture, with wooden stilted houses lining the banks of the Tuo River. Tours here usually include a stroll through the cobblestone streets, visiting ancient temples, and taking a boat ride on the river at night to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the lit – up town. You can also explore local handicraft shops, where you can find unique souvenirs.
• Furong Town Tours: Furong Town, often referred to as the “town hanging on a waterfall,” is another ancient town worth visiting. Tours typically involve exploring the town’s ancient alleys, admiring the traditional architecture, and of course, taking in the spectacular view of the waterfall. You can also learn about the local history and culture, which is deeply intertwined with the town’s unique geographical features.

Multi – Day Comprehensive Tours

3 – Day Classic Zhangjiajie Tours

• Itinerary Highlights: Usually, day one is dedicated to arriving in Zhangjiajie and getting acclimated, perhaps with a visit to the city’s 72 Odd Buildings, a modern – day architectural wonder that combines traditional Tujia elements. Day two is spent exploring the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, visiting areas like Yuanjiajie and Tianzi Mountain. Day three is for Tianmen Mountain, where you can experience the cable car ride, the Glass Skywalk, and visit the Tianmen Cave.

4 – Day Zhangjiajie Adventures

• Expanded Itinerary: In addition to the main attractions of the 3 – day tour, 4 – day tours may include a visit to the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon and Glass Bridge. This allows you to experience both the natural wonders of the national forest park and the thrill of crossing the glass bridge. Some tours may also include a cultural element, such as a visit to a local ethnic village on the fourth day.

5 – Day Ultimate Zhangjiajie Tours

• Complete Experience: These tours cover all the major natural attractions, including the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Tianmen Mountain, Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon, and may also include a side trip to Fenghuang Ancient Town. This gives you enough time to explore each area at a more leisurely pace, enjoy the scenery, and participate in various activities. You can also take the time to relax and soak in the local atmosphere, perhaps by enjoying a traditional performance or sampling more of the local cuisine.