D1 arrives in Zhangjiajie and then proceeds to Wulingyuan.

Meals: Food expenses are self-covered

Accommodation: Wulingyuan Scenic Area

Welcome to Zhangjiajie! Our tour guide will meet you at the airport exit and escort you to your hotel in the Wulingyuan Scenic Area for check-in. The journey covers 35 kilometers and takes approximately one hour by car. After arriving at the hotel, you can freely arrange your time.
Free-time activities recommendations: Explore Xibu Old Street, where you can visit shops selling local Xiangxi folk cultural souvenirs or traditional handicrafts, stroll through the historic streets to admire distinctive Tujia ethnic architecture, and savor local delicacies such as frog cake and Tujia fried rice – iconic dishes of Hunan cuisine.
Recommended arrival method:

1. Air Transportation: Zhangjiajie Lotus International Airport (DYG) operates numerous international direct flights, including routes to Malaysia (4h 55m) and South Korea (3h 35m), as well as extensive domestic direct flights to cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Xi'an, Changsha, Chengdu, Chongqing, Hangzhou, Guangzhou, and Hong Kong, offering exceptional connectivity.

2. Train: Zhangjiajie boasts a well-developed rail network. You can take high-speed trains from cities such as Changsha (2–4 hours), Fenghuang Ancient City (1 hour), Beijing (11 hours), Shanghai (9 hours), Guilin (7 hours), and Guangzhou (13 hours and 15 minutes) to reach Zhangjiajie.
   Additional Information:
   Wulingyuan Scenic Area: Recognized as one of China's top ten tourist destinations, Wulingyuan Scenic Area is not only a World Natural Heritage site but also among China's first batch of Global Geoparks. It comprises several scenic areas including Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Tianzishan Nature Reserve, Yangjiajie Scenic Area, and Suoxiyu Nature Reserve. Our itinerary primarily focuses on visiting the most popular and representative sites: Zhangjiajie National Forest Park and Tianzishan Nature Reserve. 

Day2 Zhangjiajie National Forest Park to Tianzishan Nature Reserve: Bailong Sky Ladder + Yuanjiajie (Hallelujah Mountain) + Tianzishan.

Dining: Includes breakfast and lunch

Accommodation: Wulingyuan Scenic Area

After breakfast, you will visit China's first national forest park – Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. First, you will take a scenic area sightseeing vehicle to the Bailong Sky Elevator, renowned as the "World's Highest Elevator." This elevator has broken the Guinness World Record for the tallest outdoor elevator and is also the fastest and heaviest outdoor sightseeing elevator, capable of transporting you smoothly from the mountain base to the summit in just 66 seconds, allowing you to experience the thrill of ascending directly from a secluded valley to the clouds in an instant.
Upon reaching the summit platform, you can take in the breathtaking mountain scenery around you before hiking into a living version of Pandora's world – Yuanjiajie. This site served as the filming location for the movie Avatar and is home to the real-life Harriet Hill (originally known as South Pillar). Here, you can explore along designated trails, visiting key attractions such as the Back Garden, Enchanting Platform, and the World's First Bridge (a natural stone bridge and a landmark of Yuanjiajie). Along the way, you'll be immersed in the stunning landscape of Zhangjiajie's mountains while gaining deeper insights into its unique geological features.
Next, take the sightseeing bus to the Tianzishan Nature Reserve, renowned as the "King of Peak Forests." Here, you will first visit the Command Platform to enjoy a panoramic view of the spectacular Xihai Peak Forest, then proceed to Yubi Peak—the representative feature of this forest system—to admire rows of straight peaks resembling brush strokes. Finally, hike to Helong Park to visit the bronze statues of Marshal He Long and his warhorse, and stop at the nearby Tianzi Pavilion for a comprehensive overview of the entire National Forest Park. After completing your tour, return to the hotel for rest. 

Day3 Tianmen Mountain to Furong Town: cable car ride + visit to Tianmen Cave + glass walkway experience + night view of Furong Town.

Dining: Includes breakfast and lunch

Accommodation: Furong Town

This morning, you will visit Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park, located approximately 8 kilometers from downtown Zhangjiajie. Recognized as the premier sacred mountain in western Hunan, it is suitable for visitors of all ages. You'll take a cable car to the summit—a journey lasting about 30 minutes—where you can enjoy panoramic views of the 99 winding mountain roads along the way and the surrounding breathtaking landscapes.
Upon reaching the mountaintop, you will embark on two thrilling hiking adventures along the boardwalks. First, you'll walk the fully transparent glass boardwalk measuring 1.6 meters wide and 60 meters long; walking on it feels like strolling above the clouds, with majestic mountain scenery surrounding you and a bottomless valley below – an truly exhilarating experience. Next, you'll traverse the 1,600-meter-long Guigu Boardwalk, which winds like a giant dragon along the cliff face, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains throughout your journey – both thrilling and spectacular.
Next, visit Tianmen Temple—one of only five Buddhist temples worldwide that preserve Buddha's relics. You can also head to Yunmeng Xianting, the highest point in the Tianmen Mountain scenic area, from where you'll enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape.
Next, take the escalator to Tianmen Cave—the must-see attraction in the Tianmen Mountain scenic area and the world's highest natural karst cave. After visiting, you can choose to hike up the steep 999 steps or take the elevator directly to the cable car station for a downhill ride.
Next, take a bus (approximately 2.5 hours) to Furong Town, located southwest of Zhangjiajie. This millennium-old town is perched above a majestic waterfall that cascades down through its streets, creating a picturesque scene where the grand waterfall harmonizes perfectly with the ancient stilted houses and lush surrounding landscape.
Upon arriving in Furong Town, you can stroll through the ancient town, admire its distinctive Tujia architectural style, and experience the local leisurely lifestyle. As night falls, the city lights shine brilliantly while the waterfall is illuminated, creating a stunning nighttime view perfect for photography. Around 7:30 PM, visit Baishou Hall and Yinan Square to watch performances and gain an immersive understanding of the Tujia people's history, culture, and customs. Finally, spend the night in Furong Ancient Town.

Day4: Furong Town – Fenghuang County: Furong Town + Ancient City of Fenghuang

Meals: breakfast included

Accommodation: Fenghuang Ancient Town

This morning, you will explore Furong Town in depth to discover more of its rich history. First, visit the Xizhou Bronze Pillar Garden, a group sculpture depicting the scene where ancient Chu kings signed peace treaties with local Tujia chieftains; here, guided tours will provide insights into the region's historical legacy. Next, proceed to the Tujia King Bridge—a typical example of the Tujia "turning-footed building" architecture, featuring upturned eaves and a majestic appearance, making it one of the most popular spots for visitors to photograph. Then, visit Youyang Palace within the Tujia King's residence, which once served as the summer retreat for local rulers. Finally, head to the Waterfall Viewing Platform to admire the largest and most spectacular waterfall in western Hunan, enjoying its magnificent cascade under the sunlight while capturing perfect travel photos.
Subsequently, travel approximately 116 kilometers by vehicle to Fenghuang Ancient City, one of China's most beautiful ancient cities, renowned for its rustic charm, diverse folk culture, and picturesque scenery. Nestled between mountains and waterways with the Tuo River flowing through it, the city features cobblestone streets, stilted houses along the riverbank, numerous historical buildings, and a strong Miao ethnic heritage, all contributing to its unique Xiangxi character. Upon arrival, you can take a boat tour along the Tuo River to fully appreciate the coastal landscapes. As night falls, the city's nighttime view becomes truly spectacular—you may stroll through the ancient town, admire its dazzling lights, savor local delicacies, or experience distinctive local bars.

Day5 leaves the ancient city of Fenghuang and heads towards Beijing.

Meals: breakfast included

Accommodation: self-arranged

This morning, you are free to explore the [Phoenix Ancient City], which has gained international renown due to the famous literary work Border Town. You may start by visiting the former residence of Shen Congwen, a renowned Chinese writer and author of Border Town. The residence preserves original manuscripts and other personal artifacts. Strolling through it, you can gain a deeper understanding of this literary giant's connection with the ancient city, as well as admire the simple yet elegant architecture of traditional Chinese courtyard houses in southern China. Afterwards, you can head to the nearby Dongmen Ancient City Tower, where you can stand atop the tower and enjoy a panoramic view of the ancient city and the Tuo River.
Additionally, the iconic Hongqiao Bridge in Fenghuang Ancient City is a must-visit attraction. Built over the Tuo River, it offers the perfect vantage point to capture reflections of the densely packed stilted houses along its banks. Flanking the bridge are numerous teahouses and shops selling local handicrafts – ideal for browsing exquisite, regionally distinctive items – as well as observing live demonstrations by Miao silver artisans and batik craftsmen.
After completing the tour, this exciting surreal journey to Zhangjiajie, Hunan will come to an end. Our driver will take you to the airport or train station for your flight to Beijing.

Day6 arrives in Beijing

Dining: Meals are at one's own expense

Accommodation: A three-star hotel in the center of Beijing

Welcome to China's capital – Beijing. Our drivers will greet you at the exits of airports or train stations and escort you to your hotel in downtown Beijing for accommodation and rest. During your free time, you may relax at the hotel to alleviate jet lag or explore the surrounding areas.
Recommended arrival method:

1. Airports: Beijing has two airports, namely Beijing Daxing International Airport and Beijing Capital International Airport, both of which operate numerous international and domestic flights. You can fly to Beijing from countries such as Malaysia, Singapore, the United States, Australia, Canada, Japan, and Cambodia, as well as from most cities in China, including Hong Kong, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Xi'an, Guilin, Hangzhou, Kunming, and Wuhan.

2. Train: Beijing boasts a highly developed rail transit system; you can take high-speed trains from cities such as Xi'an, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Zhengzhou, Wuhan, and Harbin to Beijing.

Day7 Beijing Day Trip: Tiananmen Square + The Forbidden City + Jingshan Park + Summer Palace

Dining: Includes breakfast and lunch

Accommodation: A three-star hotel in the center of Beijing

After breakfast, you will visit the world-renowned Tiananmen Square, located on Beijing's central axis. As the largest urban central square in the world, it holds significant importance in China's history and has witnessed countless major historical events. Here, you can admire the majestic and solemn Tiananmen Gate Tower and learn about the profound Chinese culture.
Next, you will traverse the square to visit the Palace Museum in Beijing. Also known as the Forbidden City, it is located at the heart of Beijing's central axis and served as the imperial palace during the Ming and Qing dynasties. It is the world's largest and best-preserved wooden palace complex within a Forbidden City layout. Here, you can tour the major palaces along the central axis, admire their magnificent and exquisite ancient architecture, and learn more about the museum's history through guided tours. Upon completion, you may proceed to the nearby Jingshan Park (approximately a 15-minute walk away) for a panoramic view of both the Forbidden City and the stunning scenery of Beijing.
In the afternoon, you will travel by vehicle to visit the renowned Imperial Garden—the Summer Palace. The Summer Palace is the largest and best-preserved imperial garden still existing in China, as well as one of the four famous imperial gardens in China, often referred to as a museum of imperial gardens. Its scenery is breathtaking, featuring exquisite pavilions, terraces, towers, lakes, bridges, and other picturesque elements.

Day8 Beijing Great Wall Day Trip: Mutianyu Great Wall + Bird's Nest Stadium + Water Cube

Dining: Includes breakfast and lunch

Accommodation: A three-star hotel in the center of Beijing

After breakfast, you will travel a distance of 73 kilometers (approximately 1.5–2 hours) to visit the Mutianyu Great Wall, one of the Seven Wonders of the World and the longest and best-preserved section of the China Great Wall, renowned as "the sole highlight among the Great Wall's sections." You can first take a cable car to the 14th watchtower, then hike westward to enjoy the magnificent mountain scenery and the winding, majestic views of the Great Wall along the way, before reaching the highest point at the 20th watchtower to conclude your journey.
After visiting the Great Wall, return to downtown Beijing and stop by the Bird's Nest (Beijing National Sports Center) and the Water Cube (Beijing National Aquatics Center) for photos. Then head back to your hotel to rest properly.

Day9 Departing Beijing: Airport/Station Farewell Service

Dining: breakfast included

Accommodation: arranged by oneself

After breakfast, we will conclude this exciting 8-day exploration journey through China, covering both ancient and modern sites in Zhangjiajie and Beijing. Our driver will escort you to the airport or train station for your next destination. If you wish to extend your trip and explore more destinations across China, such as Chengdu, Xizang, Yunnan, Harbin, etc., please feel free to contact us for arrangements.