Overview
Discover some of China’s most breathtaking natural landscapes on this 10-day Chengdu, Jiuzhaigou, and Zhangjiajie scenic adventure.
From Chengdu’s relaxed teahouse culture and giant pandas to Jiuzhaigou’s turquoise lakes and Zhangjiajie’s dramatic Avatar-like sandstone peaks, this journey combines nature, culture, and unforgettable scenery in one seamless route.
Travel by high-speed train, scenic mountain roads, and domestic flight while exploring UNESCO sites, glass bridges, alpine valleys, waterfalls, and traditional local culture.
Perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and travelers seeking a different side of China beyond the big cities.
Highlights
- Visit giant pandas in Chengdu
- Explore Huanglong’s colorful mineral pools
- Discover Jiuzhaigou’s turquoise lakes and waterfalls
- Ride the Bailong Elevator in Zhangjiajie
- Walk across the thrilling Glass Bridge
- Take the world-famous Tianmen Mountain cable car
- Experience cliffside Furong Town waterfall at night
Itinerary
Day 1: Chengdu Airport → Hotel
The Experience:
Welcome to Chengdu, the cultural heart of Sichuan and one of China’s most relaxed and welcoming cities. After arriving at Chengdu Tianfu International Airport or Shuangliu International Airport, we will meet you at the arrival hall and transfer you comfortably to your hotel in the city.
Depending on your arrival time, you can spend the rest of the day relaxing or enjoying your first taste of Chengdu’s laid-back atmosphere. Stroll through nearby local streets, discover cozy teahouses, or try authentic Sichuan snacks and hotpot. Unlike China’s fast-paced megacities, Chengdu is famous for its slower lifestyle, tea culture, and easygoing local spirit, making it the perfect starting point for your scenic China adventure.
Your guide will also help you settle in and share useful tips for the journey ahead, including local food recommendations and weather information for the mountain regions later in the trip.
Highlights
- Private airport pickup and comfortable hotel transfer
- First experience of Chengdu’s relaxed local culture
- Flexible free time for food, teahouses, or nearby exploration
Tips
- Chengdu cuisine is famous for bold Sichuan flavors, but there are always mild options available if you prefer less spicy food.
- Overnight: Chengdu
Day 2: Chengdu Panda Base → Tea House → Jinli Old Street
The Experience:
This morning, we start early with a visit to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, the best place to see China’s beloved giant pandas in a natural-style environment. Morning is usually the most active time of day, when pandas are eating bamboo, climbing trees, and playing in their gardens.
Beyond giant pandas, the base also protects red pandas and supports important conservation work in China.
After the panda visit, we slow the pace down and experience one of Chengdu’s most famous traditions: local tea culture.
We will visit a traditional Sichuan tea house, where locals gather daily to chat, drink tea, play mahjong, and enjoy the city’s famously relaxed lifestyle. Sitting with a cup of jasmine or green tea beneath bamboo trees is one of the most authentic Chengdu experiences.
Later, we explore Jinli Old Street, a lively historical street inspired by traditional Sichuan architecture. Here, you can discover local snacks, handicrafts, folk performances, and small cultural shops while soaking in the warm atmosphere of old Chengdu.
In the evening, the lantern-lit streets create an especially beautiful atmosphere for photos and relaxed walking.
Highlights
- See giant pandas during their most active hours
- Experience Chengdu’s traditional teahouse culture
- Explore the lively atmosphere of Jinli Old Street
- Taste authentic Sichuan snacks and local specialties
Tips
- The panda base can become busy later in the morning, so starting early offers cooler weather and a more relaxed experience.
- Overnight: Chengdu
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 3: Chengdu → Jiuzhai Huanglong Station (HSR) → Huanglong National Park → Jiuzhaigou Entrance
The Experience:
This morning, we take the high-speed train from Chengdu into the mountains of northern Sichuan, one of the most scenic rail journeys in western China.
As the landscapes gradually change from city scenery to alpine valleys and Tibetan-influenced mountain towns, you’ll begin to feel the atmosphere of western Sichuan.
After arriving at Huanglongjiuzhai Railway Station, we continue by private vehicle to Huanglong National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its colorful mineral pools, forest valleys, and snow mountain scenery.
Walking along the wooden pathways, you’ll see the park’s famous turquoise and golden travertine pools layered down the mountainside like natural terraces.
Later, we continue to the Jiuzhaigou area for an overnight stay near the national park entrance, allowing a more relaxed start for tomorrow’s full-day exploration.
Highlights
- Explore Huanglong National Park
- Beautiful alpine scenery and Tibetan cultural atmosphere
Tips
- The mountain region sits at a higher altitude than Chengdu, so walking slowly and staying hydrated will help you adjust comfortably.
- Overnight: Jiuzhaigou
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 4: Jiuzhaigou National Park
The Experience:
Today, we spend the full day exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Jiuzhaigou National Park, one of China’s most famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It’s widely known for its crystal-clear lakes, colorful forests, waterfalls, and snow mountain scenery. It is often described as a real-life fairyland.
The park is shaped like a giant “Y,” with three main valleys connected through an efficient eco-bus system. After entering the park in the morning, we usually take the eco bus directly to the top sections first before gradually exploring downward at a more relaxed pace. This helps avoid unnecessary walking and allows you to enjoy the scenery more comfortably.
The left branch leads toward Long Lake and the peaceful alpine scenery of Zechawa Valley, while the right takes you through Rize Valley, home to many of Jiuzhaigou’s most iconic sights, including Five Flower Lake, Panda Lake, and Pearl Shoal Waterfall.
As we move through the park, you’ll follow scenic wooden boardwalks, forest trails, and shuttle bus routes while stopping at the most beautiful viewpoints along the way.
In the lower section of the valley, Nuorilang Waterfall creates one of the park’s most impressive panoramic scenes, especially during the green summer season and colorful autumn months. The lakes are also colorful because of minerals, algae, and fallen ancient trees beneath the water.
Highlights
- Explore Jiuzhaigou’s famous Y-shaped valley system
- Scenic eco-bus experience through the park
Tips
- Comfortable walking shoes and layered clothing are recommended, as temperatures and walking conditions can change throughout the mountain valley during the day.
- Overnight: Jiuzhaigou
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 5: Jiuzhaigou → Chengdu (HSR) → Kuanzhai Alley
The Experience:
After breakfast, we return to Huanglongjiuzhai Railway Station by private transfer and then take the high-speed train back to Chengdu.
After arriving in Chengdu, your driver will transfer you to the hotel. You can have a rest and recover from the high altitude.
If energy allows, you can visit Kuanzhai Alley leisurely in the evening. It is one of Chengdu’s most charming historical districts. The area combines restored Qing Dynasty architecture with modern cafés, local restaurants, teahouses, and cultural shops. Walking through the narrow lanes, you can experience Chengdu’s unique blend of traditional culture and modern lifestyle.
This is also a perfect opportunity to enjoy authentic Sichuan cuisine, local desserts, or relax with tea while enjoying Sichuan opera Face Changing.
Highlights
- Explore Chengdu’s historic Kuanzhai Alley
- Relaxed evening atmosphere
Tips
- Kuanzhai Alley becomes especially lively after sunset, when the lanterns light up the historical streets.
- Overnight: Chengdu
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 6: Chengdu → Zhangjiajie (HSR)
The Experience:
Today, we take a high-speed train from Chengdu to Zhangjiajie, enjoying a smooth and comfortable journey across central China.
Along the way, the scenery gradually changes from Sichuan’s basin landscapes to the forested mountains of Hunan Province, giving you a glimpse into the country’s diverse natural geography.
Upon arrival, we transfer to your hotel in the Wulingyuan Scenic Area, the gateway to Zhangjiajie’s famous sandstone pillars, deep valleys, and mist-covered peaks.
Staying near the scenic area allows easier access to the national park over the next few days while enjoying a quieter mountain atmosphere away from the busy city center.
If time and energy allow, you may choose to visit the Zhangjiajie 72 Qilou Scenic Area in the evening. Inspired by traditional Tujia architecture, the area comes alive at night with colorful lights, local food stalls, cultural performances, and lively old-style streets, making it a pleasant place for a relaxed evening walk and a first impression of local culture in western Hunan.
Highlights
- Relaxed mountain atmosphere near Zhangjiajie National Park
- Optional evening visit to Zhangjiajie 72 Qilou
Tips
- Zhangjiajie’s mountain weather can change quickly, so carrying a light jacket or rain layer is recommended throughout your stay.
- Overnight: Zhangjiajie
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 7: Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
The Experience:
After breakfast, we begin exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, famous for its thousands of towering quartz sandstone pillars rising dramatically through forests and mist.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is considered one of China’s most extraordinary natural wonders and later inspired the floating mountains seen in the movie Avatar.
We first ride the famous Bailong Elevator, the world’s tallest outdoor sightseeing elevator, ascending 326 meters along the cliffside in just over a minute.
Reaching the Yuanjiajie Scenic Area above, we walk along scenic cliffside pathways surrounded by dramatic peaks, deep valleys, and floating cloud scenery.
Here, you’ll visit some of the park’s most iconic viewpoints, including the South Sky Pillar, later renamed “Avatar Hallelujah Mountain”, as well as the breathtaking First Bridge Under Heaven and Lost Soul Platform.
The constantly changing fog and mountain light create a surreal atmosphere that makes every viewpoint feel different throughout the day.
In the afternoon, we continue to Tianzi Mountain Nature Reserve, often called the “King of Peaks.”
From panoramic viewing platforms, you can admire endless stone forests rising through the mist, including the famous Imperial Writing Brush Peaks, one of Zhangjiajie’s most recognizable natural formations.
After a full day immersed in dramatic mountain scenery, we return to your hotel in Wulingyuan for a relaxing evening.
Highlights
- Explore Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
- Ride the famous Bailong Elevator
- Visit Avatar Hallelujah Mountain
- First Bridge Under Heaven & Lost Soul Platform
- Panoramic views from Tianzi Mountain
Tips
- Mountain weather and visibility can change quickly in Zhangjiajie, sometimes creating magical sea-of-cloud scenery within minutes.
- Overnight: Zhangjiajie
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 8: Glass Bridge → Baofeng Lake
The Experience:
This morning, we visit Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon and experience the world-famous Glass Bridge suspended high above the canyon.
Walking across the transparent bridge offers spectacular views of cliffs, forests, waterfalls, and streams far below. Even for visitors who prefer not to cross the full bridge, the surrounding canyon scenery itself is beautiful and worth exploring.
Later, we continue to peaceful Baofeng Lake, surrounded by steep green peaks and calm mountain waters.
A relaxing boat ride across the lake offers a completely different atmosphere from yesterday’s dramatic sandstone landscapes. Local songs performed by Tujia ethnic minority singers sometimes echo across the water, adding cultural charm to the experience.
Highlights
- Walk across the famous Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge
- Explore scenic Grand Canyon landscapes
- Relaxing Baofeng Lake boat experience
- Beautiful mountain and water scenery
Tips
- If you are uncomfortable with heights, you can still enjoy the canyon viewpoints without walking the entire Glass Bridge.
- Overnight: Zhangjiajie
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 9: Tianmen Mountain → Furong Town
The Experience:
Today, we visit Tianmen Mountain, one of Zhangjiajie’s most spectacular attractions.
We ride one of the world’s longest cable cars high into the mountains, passing dramatic cliffs, forests, and winding mountain roads below. At the summit, glass skywalks cling to the cliffsides while panoramic viewpoints overlook the surrounding peaks.
We also visit the famous Tianmen Cave, often called “Heaven’s Gate,” a massive natural arch carved through the mountain. The scenery here feels both dramatic and spiritual, especially when clouds drift through the mountain pass.
Later, we travel to Furong Ancient Town by private car, taking around 4-5 hours.
Furong Ancient Town is a beautiful riverside town built around waterfalls and traditional Tujia-style architecture. As evening lights reflect across the water and old wooden buildings, Furong becomes especially atmospheric and photogenic.
Highlights
- Tianmen Mountain cable car and skywalk
- Visit Heaven’s Gate natural arch
- Explore Furong Ancient Town at night
Tips
- Furong Ancient Town is most beautiful after sunset when the lights illuminate the waterfalls and old streets.
- Overnight: Furong Ancient Town
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 10: Furong Town → Zhangjiajie Airport / Train Station
The Experience:
Enjoy a relaxed morning in Furong Ancient Town before returning to Zhangjiajie for your departure flight or high-speed train.
You may take a final stroll through the old streets, enjoy local breakfast snacks, or simply appreciate the peaceful riverside scenery before the journey ends.
As your scenic adventure through Chengdu, Jiuzhaigou, and Zhangjiajie comes to an end, you’ll leave with unforgettable memories of giant pandas, alpine lakes, dramatic sandstone peaks, traditional culture, and some of China’s most spectacular natural landscapes.
Highlights
- Morning atmosphere in Furong Ancient Town
Tips
- If time allows, local Tujia rice tofu and rice wine are popular specialties to try before departure.
- Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation
- Chengdu: 3 Nights
- Jiuzhaigou: 2 Nights
- Zhangjiajie: 3 Nights
- Furong Town: 1 Night
We select accommodations based on location, atmosphere, comfort, and overall travel experience, not simply hotel star ratings.
In Chengdu, we usually choose comfortable hotels near cultural neighborhoods and local food areas. Around Jiuzhaigou, the focus stays more on peaceful mountain surroundings and easy park access, often with Tibetan-style touches. In Zhangjiajie, we prioritize scenic hotels near the national park and major mountain attractions for a more relaxing nature experience.
All stays can be 100% tailor-made according to your travel style, comfort preferences, and budget, from boutique hotels and scenic resorts to luxury international brands and family-friendly options.
Cost
Included
- Private English-speaking guide
- High-speed train tickets (2nd class, as listed)
- 9 nights hand-picked accommodation with breakfast
- Entrance tickets to all attractions
- Cable cars and Bailong Elevator
- Private vehicle transfers
- Airport transfers
Excluded
- International flights
- Personal expenses
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
- Visa fees
- Optional activities
- Gratuities
Transportation
- Private airport transfers
- High-speed trains (Chengdu–Jiuzhaigou–Chengdu–Zhangjiajie)
- Private vehicle for local sightseeing
- Scenic cable cars and elevators inside parks
- All logistics are arranged for comfort and time efficiency
Essential Tips
- Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong are at higher altitude, just move slowly
- Bring comfortable hiking shoes
- Weather varies significantly. Pack layers
- Book early during peak holiday seasons
Gallery
FAQ
Is this tour physically demanding?
Moderate. Scenic areas involve walking and stairs, but cable cars reduce strain.
Are high-speed trains comfortable?
Yes. China’s bullet trains are modern, clean, and efficient.
Can we add more days?
Absolutely. We can extend to include Xi’an, Chongqing, or Guilin.
Is this suitable for photography lovers?
Definitely. Jiuzhaigou and Zhangjiajie are two of China’s most photogenic destinations.
Can hotels be upgraded?
Yes, from boutique to luxury options upon request.
Reviews
Sarah & Michael, AU
Jun.8, 2025
We did this trip as a family of four from Australia and absolutely loved it. Before coming to China, we were honestly a bit nervous about the transport and language, but everything was handled so smoothly from start to finish. We could just relax and enjoy the experience.
Zhangjiajie was incredible. Our kids were obsessed with the Glass Bridge and the Bailong Elevator.
We also really appreciated the support from Quietroutes. Having someone help with trains, transfers, tickets, and local tips made such a difference.
Looking back, this was one of those trips we’ll probably talk about for years. Thanks.
