Thrills and Tranquility: 6-Day Zhangjiajie & Changsha Cultural Tour

Summary

Day1 Changsha Arrival: Fly to Changsha.
Day2 Changsha-Fenghuang: Yuelu Academy (w/shuttle bus & cable car), Orange Island (W/Sightseeing Train), Bullet train to Fenghuang, Tuo Jiang River scenic view.
Day3 Fenghuang-Zhangjiajie: Tusi Castle, Tianmen Mountain, Tianmen Cave, Zhangjiajie Night City – Qilou Complex (with ticket), Recommended Optional Shows: Tianmen Fox Fairy Show / Charming Xiangxi.
Day4 Zhangjiajie: Wulingyuan Forest Park, Bailong Elevator (round-trip), Yuanjiajie, Ten-Mile Gallery Train Ride.
Day5 Zhangjiajie-Changsha: Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon, World’s Longest Glass Bridge, Bungee Jump Platform, transfer to Changsha.
Day6 Changsha Departure: Morning free on own leisure

Day1 Changsha Arrival

Upon your arrival at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, our professional driver will be waiting for your group with a visible “Your Way Holiday” welcome sign. From the moment you land, we are committed to offering a seamless and comfortable experience. Our guide will assist you through the domestic transfer process and ensure that your connecting flight to Changsha is smooth and worry-free. Special care will be taken to support elderly guests and families with children, including luggage assistance and guidance through terminals. Once you arrive in Changsha, your guide and driver will be ready to warmly receive you and escort you to your hotel in a clean, spacious private vehicle equipped for group travel.

After a short drive, you’ll check in at the Microtel by Wyndham, a conveniently located and cozy hotel ideal for families and multi-generational groups. The hotel offers modern amenities and a restful atmosphere after a full day of travel. Our guide will assist you with the check-in process and make sure all your needs are taken care of, whether it’s helping you settle in or recommending nearby dining spots for a light evening meal. If time permits and your group feels up to it, your guide may also suggest a gentle evening walk around the neighborhood to get a first feel for the vibrant local atmosphere of Changsha. The journey has just begun, and our goal is to help you travel like a local from the very first day.

Day2 Changsha-Fenghuang

After breakfast, your guide will meet you in the hotel lobby and accompany you to Yuelu Academy, one of the most prestigious Confucian academies in China with a history spanning over a thousand years. You’ll take a scenic shuttle bus to the base of Yuelu Mountain, then ride a comfortable cable car up, avoiding unnecessary walking—especially helpful for the seniors and children in your group. At the academy, your guide will share vivid stories about its legacy of education and Chinese philosophy. As you explore the tranquil pavilions, ancient archways, and scholar halls, you’ll enjoy plenty of shaded spots to pause and take in the serene beauty of the site. With the guidance of our professional escort, even children will find the experience engaging, while seniors can move at a relaxed pace.

Next, you’ll head to Orange Island, located in the middle of the Xiang River. A charming sightseeing train will take you around the island, making it easy and enjoyable for your whole group to appreciate its lush landscapes and flower-lined paths. You’ll stop to view the iconic Mao Zedong Youth Statue, and your guide will explain the cultural and historical significance of the island to Changsha locals. There will be time to take group photos, and your guide will suggest the best viewpoints and offer fun facts for younger travelers to enjoy. Afterwards, enjoy a relaxing lunch at a local restaurant, where your guide will help accommodate any dietary needs or preferences.

In the afternoon, you’ll board a high-speed bullet train for a scenic two-hour journey to Fenghuang. Your seats will be reserved in advance for a smooth and comfortable ride. Upon arrival, your guide will assist with check-in at the Fengming Tianxia Hotel, making sure everyone is settled in. Then, enjoy a specially arranged riverside afternoon tea, where you can relax and take in the tranquil views of the Tuojiang River.As evening falls, your guide will lead you on a leisurely walk through Fenghuang Ancient Town. You’ll admire iconic sights such as the stilted houses along the river, the ancient East Gate Tower, the graceful Wanming Pagoda, the picturesque Hong Bridge, and the charming stone-paved streets. With the glow of lanterns reflecting off the water, the night scenery is simply magical. Your guide will share the stories behind these landmarks, recommend local snacks and souvenir shops, and ensure a memorable night for all ages.

Day3 Fenghuang-Zhangjiajie

After breakfast, you will take a high-speed train to Zhangjiajie, a destination celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes and deep cultural roots. Upon arrival, your journey begins with a visit to Tusi Castle, a historical site that vividly represents the heritage of the Tujia ethnic group. With guidance from your professional local tour guide, you will explore the layout of the ancient stronghold and walk through the beautifully preserved wooden architecture of the Tujia diaojiaolou—traditional stilt houses that reflect the Tujia people's relationship with nature and the surrounding terrain. As you move through the complex, your guide will introduce the customs, beliefs, and daily life practices that once flourished here. The carvings, decorations, and spatial design of the Tusi Castle offer rich insight into a culture that still plays a vital role in the region's identity today.  

In the afternoon, you will venture to one of China’s most iconic natural wonders: Tianmen Mountain. This scenic area has become a symbol of Zhangjiajie’s modern tourism and natural beauty. Your ascent begins with a ride on the world’s longest single-lane cableway, offering panoramic views of forested valleys, winding mountain roads, and dramatic cliffs. Throughout the ride, your guide will provide commentary on the area's unique karst formations and ecological significance. Upon reaching the mountaintop, you will continue your adventure with a walk along the famous glass skywalk, specially arranged for your group. This thrilling transparent walkway clings to the edge of the mountain, giving you the surreal sensation of walking above the clouds. It’s a perfect opportunity for both photos and heart-racing excitement, all while being safely supported by our attentive guide team.

Continuing your experience on Tianmen Mountain, you will descend via the express cableway, which takes you through mist-shrouded forests and steep ridges. Your next stop is the awe-inspiring Tianmen Cave, also known as Heaven’s Gate. This natural stone arch was formed by a massive collapse in the mountain and now rises more than 130 meters high, making it one of the world’s most dramatic natural rock formations. Your guide will share stories about ancient myths, legendary daredevil flights through the cave, and religious ceremonies once held here. The scale and atmosphere of this site leave a lasting impression, and your guide’s insights will help you connect the physical beauty with the local spiritual beliefs tied to the mountain.

As evening sets in, you will head to Qilou Complex, Zhangjiajie’s famous night-time cultural hub, often called the “City That Never Sleeps.” Admission is included, and your guide will take you through the bustling streets filled with neon lights, folk music, and local performers. Here you can explore shops selling traditional crafts, sample regional snacks, and enjoy live entertainment that showcases Hunan’s vibrant local character. Your guide will be happy to point out the most authentic places to eat and shop, giving you a local’s perspective on this colorful and festive district. The experience offers the perfect balance between sightseeing and cultural immersion, making it an essential part of your trip.

To round out the day, your guide can assist with arranging tickets to one of two optional cultural performances that highlight the soul of Zhangjiajie. The Tianmen Fox Fairy Show is a large-scale outdoor musical set against the backdrop of the cliffs near Tianmen Mountain, weaving together love, folklore, and acrobatics in a visually stunning display. Alternatively, the Charming Xiangxi performance offers an intimate look at the traditions of Hunan’s ethnic minorities through dance, storytelling, and live music. Both shows are highly recommended for those who wish to deepen their cultural understanding of the region. Please note that tickets for these performances are not included in the tour and are at your own expense.

Day4 Zhangjiajie

After breakfast, your exploration begins at the Wulingyuan Scenic Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its extraordinary quartz-sandstone formations and dramatic mountain landscapes. To enhance your visit, we’ve arranged round-trip access on the Bailong Elevator, the world’s tallest and fastest outdoor sightseeing lift. Soaring 326 meters up a vertical cliff face, the elevator offers stunning views of the surrounding forest and pillars during the ascent. Your guide will provide background on the engineering behind this incredible structure and how it allows visitors to access the mountaintops efficiently while protecting the environment. This journey sets the stage for a day filled with surreal natural beauty and cinematic moments.

At the top, you will arrive at Yuanjiajie, one of Zhangjiajie’s most iconic scenic zones and the filming location for the floating mountains in the Hollywood movie Avatar. With your guide leading the way, you will discover the First Bridge Under Heaven, a naturally formed stone arch that spans a deep gorge and is often considered the inspiration for one of the film’s signature landscapes. Nearby stands the Southern Sky Pillar, which closely resembles the Hallelujah Mountains featured in the movie. These formations tower hundreds of meters above the forest floor, shaped over millions of years by erosion and wind. Your guide will point out the best photo angles and share the local legends that gave these places their poetic names, bringing both visual wonder and cultural depth to your visit.

Later, your journey continues into Golden Whip Stream, a peaceful valley surrounded by steep sandstone cliffs. This area is not only known for its clear waters and lush vegetation but also as one of the filming sites for Journey to the West, one of China's most beloved fantasy epics. The walking trail here winds gently along the stream, offering a relaxing and scenic experience. Your guide will highlight unique rock formations and tell stories about the mythical characters that once "walked" this very route. You may even spot wild monkeys playing in the trees or drinking from the stream, adding a lively element to your stroll through nature.  

To conclude your day, you will board the Ten-Mile Gallery sightseeing train, a slow-moving open-air tram that travels along a narrow valley lined with uniquely shaped peaks. Along the route, you'll encounter rock formations with evocative names like "Old Man Picking Herbs" and "Fairy Greeting Guests," each resembling the image they’re named for. The train ride is gentle and family-friendly, making it perfect for all ages. Your guide will narrate the background stories behind each formation and help you notice small details you might otherwise miss. This final experience offers a quiet, reflective end to a day immersed in Zhangjiajie’s otherworldly beauty, combining stunning scenery with cultural insight in true "travel like a local" style.

Day5 Zhangjiajie-Changsha

After breakfast, your journey takes you to one of Zhangjiajie’s most extraordinary natural wonders, the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon. This area is renowned for its stunning geological formations, lush greenery, and the breathtaking World’s Longest Glass Bridge. The bridge stretches approximately 430 meters across the canyon, with a width of six meters, suspended nearly 300 meters above the valley floor. What makes this bridge remarkable is its fully transparent glass surface, allowing visitors to experience a thrilling perspective of the gorge beneath their feet. Your knowledgeable guide will explain the innovative engineering behind this all-glass structure, which was constructed without steel supports, making it a unique architectural marvel. The bridge can safely hold up to 800 people at once, offering ample space to admire the panoramic views. Along the way, your guide will ensure a smooth visit, helping you spot the best viewpoints and sharing interesting facts about the local geology and environment. 

At the heart of the bridge lies the world’s highest bungee jump platform, adding an adventurous element for thrill-seekers. Even if you choose to stay on solid ground, the surrounding canyon offers numerous walking paths where you can immerse yourself in the tranquil natural beauty. Your guide will point out the diverse plant and animal life native to this ecosystem, deepening your connection to the landscape. The combination of awe-inspiring engineering and the pristine environment creates a memorable experience that goes beyond typical sightseeing. This is a perfect example of how our local guides enhance your visit by providing expert insights and personalized support, helping you truly travel like a local.

In the afternoon, you will transfer to Changsha, the bustling capital of Hunan Province. During the transfer, your guide will be available to share stories about the region’s culture, history, and modern development, setting the tone for the next phase of your journey. This seamless transition reflects our commitment to thoughtful travel planning, ensuring that each part of your trip connects smoothly and meaningfully. 

Day6 Changsha Departure

After breakfast, enjoy a leisurely morning exploring the vibrant heart of the city with a visit to Guojin Center, one of the premier commercial and cultural hubs. This modern complex offers a fascinating blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment, housed within sleek architecture that reflects the city’s dynamic growth. Your guide will be on hand to recommend the best spots to visit, from trendy cafes to unique local boutiques, ensuring you experience the authentic urban lifestyle. Whether you choose to browse designer stores, sample local delicacies, or simply soak in the lively atmosphere, this area offers plenty to engage all your senses. The balance of contemporary energy and traditional influences here captures the essence of modern city life.

Following your time at Guojin Center, you may choose to stroll through Pozi Street, a famous pedestrian street known for its rich history and local culture. The area is lined with charming shops, traditional eateries, and artisan stalls that showcase regional crafts and cuisine. Your guide can share stories about the street’s past and introduce you to specialties unique to this region, deepening your connection with the local way of life. Exploring at your own pace allows for a truly personal experience, yet your guide remains available to provide insights, assist with language, and help uncover hidden gems often missed by casual visitors. This approach embodies our mission to help you travel like a local, blending freedom with expert guidance.

Around midday, your driver will escort you to the airport in a private, air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a smooth and timely arrival for your flight to Guangzhou. The transfer is comfortable and well-organized, allowing you to travel without stress. Upon arrival in Guangzhou, you will have a brief layover before boarding your evening flight back to Manila. Your guide will make sure everything is in order for your departure and be available for any final assistance you may need. As your journey concludes, we hope you take home not just souvenirs, but meaningful stories and heartfelt memories of discovering China like a local.

Price Per Person in US Dollars