Jiuzhaigou and Zhangjiajie are two of China’s most spectacular natural destinations. Many travelers spend time comparing Jiuzhaigou vs. Zhangjiajie before planning their trip, but the good news is that you don’t have to choose between them. Thanks to China’s rapidly expanding transportation network, it’s entirely possible to visit both on the same China trip.
That said, traveling between Jiuzhaigou and Zhangjiajie isn’t as straightforward as traveling between major cities. The two destinations are located in different regions of China, and there are currently no direct flights or high-speed trains connecting them.
So, what’s the best way to get from Jiuzhaigou to Zhangjiajie? And if you’re traveling in the opposite direction, is the journey from Zhangjiajie to Jiuzhaigou any different?
Based on our experience designing private China itineraries, this guide covers the most practical transportation options, realistic travel times, and our recommended routes to help you combine these two incredible destinations with ease.
Can You Visit Jiuzhaigou and Zhangjiajie in One Trip?
Yes, absolutely. A Jiuzhaigou and Zhangjiajie tour is perfect for travelers who want to experience two completely different sides of China’s natural beauty.
However, they are not neighboring destinations. Jiuzhaigou is located in northern Sichuan on the edge of the Tibetan Plateau, while Zhangjiajie is in western Hunan Province. The two are approximately 900 km (560 miles) apart in a straight line, and there are no direct flights or high-speed trains between them. Visiting both requires at least 7 days, with one full day set aside for traveling between the two.
For most international travelers, we recommend:
- 7–8 days: Possible but quite fast.
- 10–12 days: A comfortable pace.
- 14 days or more: Ideal if you’d like to include Chengdu, Xi’an, Chongqing, or other destinations.
Since Chengdu is the main gateway to Jiuzhaigou, we also recommend using it as the connection point between Jiuzhaigou and Zhangjiajie. It offers the most convenient transportation options and makes it easy to break up the journey.
A typical route looks like this:
Chengdu → Jiuzhaigou → Chengdu → Zhangjiajie
Or, if you’re traveling in the opposite direction:
Zhangjiajie → Chengdu → Jiuzhaigou → Chengdu
Whichever direction you choose, allowing enough time and routing through Chengdu will make your journey much smoother and more enjoyable.
Best Ways to Travel from Jiuzhaigou to Zhangjiajie
As mentioned above, there are no direct flights or high-speed trains between Jiuzhaigou and Zhangjiajie, and Chengdu is the most convenient connection point between them. Below are the possible transportation methods.
Section 1: Jiuzhaigou to Chengdu
After exploring Jiuzhaigou, you have several options for returning to Chengdu.
High-Speed Train (Recommended)
First, take a shuttle bus or private transfer from Jiuzhaigou National Park to Huanglongjiuzhai Railway Station. From there, the high-speed train to Chengdu East Railway Station takes around 2 hours.
Flight
Flights from Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport to Chengdu take just about 1 hour. However, once you count in the transfer to the airport, check-in, and security procedures, the total journey usually takes 3–4 hours.
In addition, considering the limited flight schedule and complex high-altitude weather conditions, it might not be as reliable as the high-speed train.
Private Transfer
A private transfer offers the greatest flexibility when driving from your hotel in Jiuzhaigou to Chengdu. The drive typically takes 6–8 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions.
Section 2: Chengdu to Zhangjiajie
Once you arrive in Chengdu, getting to Zhangjiajie is much easier, with both high-speed train and flight options available.
High-Speed Train (Recommended)
Since June 2025, direct high-speed trains have been operating between Chengdu East Railway Station and Zhangjiajie West Railway Station. The journey takes around 4–5.5 hours, significantly reducing travel time and making the train the most convenient option for most travelers.
By the way, if your schedule allows, you can also take a stop in Chongqing, which lies between Chengdu and Zhangjiajie. Spending one or two nights there gives you the chance to enjoy its spectacular night views, taste authentic Chongqing hotpot, and experience one of China’s most unique mountain cities.
Flight
Direct flights from Chengdu to Zhangjiajie are usually the fastest option, with a flight time of around 1–1.5 hours. Including airport transfers and check-in, the total travel time is typically 4–5 hours.
However, direct flights are seasonal rather than year-round. They are generally available during the peak travel season, especially September and October. If you’re planning to fly, be sure to check the flight schedule before finalizing your itinerary.
Best Ways to Travel from Zhangjiajie to Jiuzhaigou
Traveling from Zhangjiajie to Jiuzhaigou follows the same route in reverse. And Chengdu remains the most convenient connection point.
The most common route is:
Zhangjiajie → Chengdu → Jiuzhaigou → Chengdu
From Zhangjiajie, you can take a direct high-speed train or flight to Chengdu, then continue to Jiuzhaigou by high-speed train, flight, or private transfer.
The best choice depends on your schedule and travel style. For most international travelers, routing through Chengdu offers the best balance of convenience, flexibility, and transportation options.
Travel with a Customized Tour
If you’d rather avoid coordinating multiple train tickets, flights, and transfers, a customized private tour is the easiest solution.
At QuietRoutes, we can arrange a seamless itinerary connecting Jiuzhaigou, Chengdu, Chongqing, and Zhangjiajie, with private transportation, carefully selected hotels, local guides, and flexible sightseeing along the way. Please feel free to contact us below.
Recommended Jiuzhaigou and Zhangjiajie Itinerary
As Jiuzhaigou and Zhangjiajie are far apart, a well-planned itinerary is important to avoid spending too much time on the road.
As a Chengdu-based travel agency, we usually recommend the following 10-day itinerary, which offers a comfortable pace, covering the highlights of both destinations while allowing time for transportation and sightseeing.
10-Day Jiuzhaigou + Zhangjiajie Nature Tour
Day 1: Arrive in Chengdu
Day 2: Chengdu → Jiuzhaigou by high-speed train
Day 3: Explore Jiuzhaigou National Park
Day 4: Huanglong Scenic Area (Optional) → Chengdu by high-speed train
Day 5: Chengdu → Zhangjiajie by high-speed train
Day 6: Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, recommending Yuanjiajie (Avatar Mountain), Tianzi Mountain, and Bailong Elevator
Day 7: Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon → Baofeng Lake
Day 8: Tianmen Mountain
Day 9: Fenghuang / Furong Ancient Town → Zhangjiajie City
Day 10: Zhangjiajie Departure
This itinerary can also be extended to include other destinations in China. At QuietRoutes, we can customize the journey based on your interests, travel pace, and preferred transportation style.
Travel Tips for International Visitors
1. Book Early
Transportation options can become limited during peak seasons, especially during National holidays, Summer vacation (July–August), and the September–October autumn season.
Booking trains, flights, and hotels in advance is highly recommended.
2. Do Not Underestimate Transfer Time
China’s transportation network is excellent, but distances can be misleading. On the map, Jiuzhaigou and Zhangjiajie may look relatively close, but mountain terrain makes the actual journey longer than expected. Always allow extra time for transfers.
3. Consider a Private Tour
A private tour can make this route much easier by handling multiple transportation connections, hotel arrangements, and local support. It is especially helpful for international travelers who want a smoother, more flexible experience.
Final Thoughts
Combining Jiuzhaigou and Zhangjiajie creates one of the most memorable nature journeys in China. However, connecting them requires careful planning because of the distance, transportation connections, and regional differences.
At QuietRoutes, we help travelers combine Jiuzhaigou, Zhangjiajie, and other China highlights through private transportation, local guides, and flexible itineraries designed around your travel style. Whether you prefer a relaxed nature journey or a deeper exploration of southwest China, we can help create a route that fits your needs.
FAQ
Can you travel from Jiuzhaigou to Zhangjiajie by train?
Yes, you can travel from Jiuzhaigou to Zhangjiajie by train, but there is currently no direct train connection between the two destinations. Most routes require a transfer, usually through Chengdu.
How many days do you need for Jiuzhaigou and Zhangjiajie?
We recommend at least 7–10 days to visit both destinations comfortably, including transportation time between them. A longer itinerary of 12–14 days allows for a more relaxed pace and additional stops such as Chengdu, Chongqing, or Fenghuang Ancient Town.
Is Zhangjiajie worth visiting after Jiuzhaigou?
Yes. Although both destinations are famous for their natural scenery, they offer completely different experiences. Jiuzhaigou is known for its colorful lakes, forests, and alpine landscapes, while Zhangjiajie features dramatic sandstone peaks, deep valleys, and unique mountain formations.
What is the easiest way to travel between Jiuzhaigou and Zhangjiajie?
For most international travelers, traveling via Chengdu is usually the easiest option. Chengdu offers the best transportation connections, with convenient high-speed trains, flights, and private transfer options to both destinations.
