Overview
This 14-day journey connects Southwest China’s most breathtaking destinations.
Begin in Chengdu, home of the beloved pandas and authentic Sichuan culture. Visit the world-famous Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, relax in local parks, and explore historic streets.
Marvel at the monumental Leshan Giant Buddha and the sacred peaks of Mount Emei before traveling to the fairyland lakes of Jiuzhaigou National Park.
Continue to Chongqing and board a scenic Yangtze River cruise through the legendary Three Gorges, visiting cultural and natural landmarks along the way.
End your adventure in the dramatic sandstone world of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park and Tianmen Mountain before concluding in Zhangjiajie.
Highlights
- Giant panda encounter in Chengdu
- Leshan Giant Buddha & Mount Emei
- UNESCO Jiuzhaigou alpine lakes
- Yangtze River cruise through Three Gorges
- Three Gorges Dam engineering marvel
- Avatar “Hallelujah Mountains”
- Glass Bridge & Tianmen Mountain skywalk
- Cliff waterfall views in Furong Town
Itinerary
Day 1: Chengdu Airport → Hotel
The Experience:
Welcome to Chengdu, the relaxed capital of Sichuan Province.
Upon arrival, your driver will meet you at the airport or station and then transfer you to your hotel.
Depending on your arrival time, the rest of the day is free to rest or explore nearby neighborhoods at your own pace.
- Overnight: Chengdu
Day 2: Chengdu Panda Base → People's Park → Jinli Old Street
The Experience:
In the early morning, we will visit the world-famous Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.
We will visit the pandas around 09:00-10:00 AM when they are most active.
Later, we will drive back to downtown and stroll through the People’s Park. In the park, we will enjoy traditional tea culture, watch the locals chatting and playing majhang, or try an ear-cleaning.
In the evening, we will continue to Jinli Old Street to see Qing-style architecture and taste authentic Sichuan snacks.
Highlights:
- Close-up panda experience
- Traditional tea house culture
- Historic streets and local flavors
Tips:
- Arrive early at the panda base to avoid crowds.
- Comfortable walking shoes recommended.
- Overnight: Chengdu
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 3: Chengdu → Leshan → Mount Emei
The Experience:
In the morning, we will drive to Leshan (about 1.5-2 hours) to visit the majestic Leshan Giant Buddha, the world’s largest ancient stone Buddha carved into a riverside cliff.
Optionally, you can take a boat ride to experience a panoramic view of the Giant Buddha from the river.
In the late afternoon, we will continue to Mount Emei (about 1 hour), one of China’s Four Sacred Buddhist Mountains. Upon arrival, we will check into the hotel at the foot of the mountain.
Highlights:
- UNESCO World Heritage Site
71-meter cliff-carved Buddha - Scenic mountain retreat
Tips:
- Be prepared for the steps when viewing the Buddha.
- The weather can change quickly in the mountains.
- Overnight: Emei
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 4: Mount Emei → Chengdu
The Experience:
In the morning, we start climbing the mountain. To make the journey easier, we can take the sightseeing bus or cable car up to the top, the Golden Summit. There, we can have panoramic mountain views above the clouds.
Along the way, we will also visit ancient temples, meet monkeys, and sometimes see the sea of clouds.
After descending, we will drive back to Chengdu.
Highlights:
- Golden Summit views
- Sacred Buddhist temples
- Sea of clouds scenery
Tips:
- Layered clothing is recommended due to the elevation.
- Take a cable car to reduce hiking time.
- Overnight: Chengdu
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 5: Chengdu → Jiuzhai Huanglong Station (HSR) → Huanglong National Park
The Experience:
This morning, we will transfer to Chengdu East Railway Station and take a high-speed train (about 1.5 hours) to Huanglongjiuzhai Station.
Upon arrival, your local driver and guide will transfer you to Huanglong National Park (about a 1-hour drive).
Huanglong, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famous for its colorful travertine terraces cascading down the valley like a “Golden Dragon.” To save energy, we recommend taking the cable car up and then walking downhill.
During about 3–4 hours, you will visit the spectacular Five-Color Ponds, waterfalls, monasteries, and limestone pools.
After sightseeing, we will continue to drive to Jiuzhaigou (about 2 hours). You will check into the hotel near the entrance for an overnight stay.
Highlights:
- Scenic high-speed rail journey
UNESCO-listed Huanglong Valley - Five-Color Ponds at 3,556 meters
- Alpine limestone terraces and waterfalls
Tips:
- Huanglong sits at 3,200–3,600m; walk slowly to avoid altitude discomfort.
- Oxygen stations are available inside the park.
- The cable car may close in the winter season.
- Overnight: Jiuzhaigou
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 6: Jiuzhaigou National Park
The Experience:
After breakfast, we will enjoy a full day exploring the fairyland scenery of Jiuzhaigou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is widely known for its crystal-blue lakes, cascading waterfalls, and forested valleys backed by snow peaks.
Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area includes three valleys, shaped like the letter “Y”:
- Zechawa Valley (Left Branch): Long Lake, Five Colored Pool
Rize Valley (Right Branch): Five Flower Lake, Arrow Bamboo Lake, Pearl Shoals, Mirror Lake, etc. - Shuzheng Valley (Bottom branch): Nuorilang Waterfall, Shuzheng Lakes, Reed Lake, etc.
In the park, we will travel by eco sightseeing bus through the three valleys. You can take the bus to a spot and walk along wooden boardwalks to get closer.
It takes about 6-8 hours to see the highlights of Jiuzhaigou.
Highlights:
- UNESCO-listed alpine paradise
- Emerald lakes and multi-tier waterfalls
- Scenic eco-bus exploration
Tibetan villages along Shuzheng Valley
Tips:
- Arrive early to avoid crowds.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes.
- Food options inside the park are limited. Consider bringing light snacks.
- Overnight: Jiuzhaigou
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 7: Jiuzhaigou → Chengdu → Chongqing → Cruise Embarkation
The Experience:
After breakfast, your local driver will transfer you to the Huanglongjiuzhai Railway Station. You’ll take the High-Speed train back to Chengdu.
Upon arrival at Chengdu East Railway Station, you will continue to take the high-speed train to Chongqing directly. It takes about 1-2 hours, depending on the trains.
When you arrive in Chongqing, your driver will transfer you to Chaotianmen Port, where you will board your Yangtze River cruise.
After settling into your cabin, you can enjoy a peaceful evening on the river.
Highlights:
- Scenic river departure
- Relaxing cruise atmosphere
Tips:
- Keep your passport handy for cruise check-in.
- Attend the onboard safety briefing.
- Overnight: Ship Cabin
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 8: Yangtze River → Fengdu Ghost City
The Experience:
You can enjoy a relaxing morning sailing along the Yangtze River, surrounded by misty hills and peaceful scenery.
Today, you will join a shore excursion to Fengdu Ghost City, a fascinating complex of temples and shrines dedicated to Chinese afterlife legends.
Alternatively, you may choose an optional visit to Shibaozhai Pagoda, a striking 12-story wooden pagoda offering panoramic river views.
Highlights:
- Scenic Yangtze River cruising
- Ancient temples and folklore
- Optional architectural landmark visit
Tips:
- Shore excursions may vary by cruise company.
- Wear comfortable shoes for the hillside steps.
- Overnight: Ship Cabin
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9: Qutang Gorge → Wuxia Gorge → Xiling Gorge → Shennv Stream
The Experience:
Today, we will sail through the spectacular Three Gorges.
First, we will pass through Qutang Gorge, the shortest yet most dramatic one. We will see the famous Kui Gate, which is the scene on the 10 yuan RMB.
Then we will cruise the serene Wuxia Gorge and the rugged Xiling Gorge while enjoying live commentary onboard.
In the afternoon, we will transfer to a smaller boat to explore Shennv Stream for close-up views of towering cliffs and ancient hanging coffins.
In the evening, we will celebrate the journey at the Captain’s Farewell Party.
Highlights:
- Iconic Kui Gate scenery
- Dramatic limestone cliffs
- Shennv Stream boat excursion
- Captain’s farewell celebration
Tips:
- Spend time on the deck for the best views.
- Itineraries may vary slightly by cruise company.
- Overnight: Ship Cabin
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 10: Maoping Port → Three Gorges Dam → Yichang → Zhangjiajie
The Experience:
After breakfast, we will disembark at Maoping Port and visit the impressive Three Gorges Dam, the world’s largest hydropower project. We will view the massive structure and ship lock system, and learn about this remarkable engineering achievement.
After the visit, we will transfer to Yichang Three Gorges Center Cruise Terminal.
There, your driver will meet you and continue to Zhangjiajie for a scenic 5-hour drive. Upon arrival, you will check into your hotel in Wulingyuan.
Then, you can enjoy free time in this spectacular sandstone peak region.
Highlights:
- World’s largest hydropower dam
- Optional ship lift experience
- Scenic transfer to Zhangjiajie
- Gateway to Wulingyuan Scenic Area
Tips:
- Luggage will be transferred by the cruise company.
- Arrival time varies if joining the optional ship lift.
- An evening stroll is recommended in the local streets near your hotel.
- Overnight: Zhangjiajie
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 11: Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
The Experience:
After breakfast, we will explore the spectacular sandstone world of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, home to over 3,000 towering quartz pillars.
First, we will ride the famous Bailong Elevator to Yuanjiajie and walk along cliffside trails to see the iconic “Hallelujah Mountains,” including the South Sky Pillar, inspiration for Avatar.
In the afternoon, we will continue to Tianzi Mountain Nature Reserve, known as the “King of Peaks.” Enjoy panoramic views of misty stone forests, including the striking Imperial Writing Brush Peaks and scenic viewpoints overlooking the West Sea of Peaks.
We will return to the hotel after a full day immersed in breathtaking landscapes.
Highlights:
- Bailong Elevator experience
- Avatar-inspired Hallelujah Mountains
- Cliffside scenic trails
- Tianzi Mountain panoramic views
Tips:
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes; some trails include steps.
- Visit order may adjust during peak season to avoid crowds.
- Overnight: Zhangjiajie
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 12: Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge → Tianmen Mountain → Furong Ancient Town
The Experience:
After breakfast, we will transfer to Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon to walk across the world-famous Glass Bridge, suspended 300 meters above the canyon floor. You can enjoy breathtaking views through the transparent glass deck.
After visiting, we will transfer to Zhangjiajie city and explore Tianmen Mountain, known as the “Soul of Zhangjiajie.”
We will ride the world’s longest cable car to the summit, see the dramatic 99-bend mountain road below, and experience the thrilling Glass Skywalk along the cliff.
We will also visit Tianmen Cave (Heaven’s Gate), a massive natural arch set high in the mountains.
Then, we will transfer to Furong Ancient Town (about 2-3 hours). Upon arrival, we will check into the hotel.
Then, you’ll have time to visit the cliff waterfall with amazing neon lights.
Highlights:
- World’s longest and highest glass bridge
- 7,455-meter cable car ride
Cliffside glass skywalk - Iconic Tianmen Cave
Tips:
- Not recommended for severe fear of heights.
- The glass skywalk requires a small shoe-cover fee.
- Secure phones and cameras carefully.
- Overnight: Furong Ancient Town
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 13: Furong Town → Zhangjiajie → 72 Qilou Scenic Area
The Experience:
This morning, we will explore Furong Ancient Town, a thousand-year-old settlement dramatically perched above a cascading waterfall. Stroll along cobbled lanes, see traditional Tujia-style wooden houses, and enjoy scenic viewpoints overlooking the valley.
In the afternoon, we will return to Zhangjiajie city and check into the hotel.
In the evening, we will visit 72 Qilou Scenic Area, a lively cultural complex inspired by traditional Western Hunan architecture, beautifully illuminated at night.
Highlights:
- Cliffside waterfall town scenery
- Tujia ethnic culture and architecture
- Atmospheric night views at 72 Qilou
Tips:
- The best waterfall photos are taken from the lower viewing platform.
- An evening visit to 72 Qilou offers the most vibrant atmosphere.
- Overnight: Zhangjiajie
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 14: Hotel → Airport / Train Station
The Experience:
After breakfast, your driver will transfer you to the airport or railway station for your onward journey.
Your 14-day Chengdu Jiuzhaigou Chongqing Zhangjiajie tour ends with unforgettable memories of China’s most spectacular landscapes.
- Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation
- Chengdu: 3 Nights
- Emei: 1 Night
- Jiuzhaigou: 2 Nights
- Cruise: 3 Nights
- Zhangjiajie: 3 Nights
- Furong Town: 1 Night
We provide 100% tailor-made service. From boutique hotels to luxury upgrades and premium cruise suites, your travel consultant will customize according to your preferences.
Cost
Included
- High-speed train tickets (Chengdu-Jiuzhaigou, Chengdu-Chongqing)
- Yangtze River cruise with standard cabin accommodation and meals
- Private air-conditioned vehicles for all local sightseeing and transfers
- Private English-speaking guide
- All listed entrance tickets & cable cars
- 10 nights handpicked accommodation with breakfast
- Hotel pickup and dropoff
- Travel insurance
Excluded
- International flights to Chengdu
- Personal expenses and optional activities
- Lunches and dinners not listed in the itinerary
- Optional cruise excursions
- China visa fees
- Gratuities
Transportation
- Private airport transfers
- Chengdu–Jiuzhaigou-Chengdu-Chongqing: High-speed train
- Local sightseeing and transfers: Private transfers
- Yangtze River cruise ship
- Yichang → Zhangjiajie: Private transfer
Essential Tips
- Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong are at higher altitude. Walk slowly, drive more water.
- Yangtze cruise itineraries may vary slightly by company and season
- Comfortable hiking shoes recommended
- Pack layers.
Gallery
FAQ
Is this trip physically demanding?
Moderate. Some hiking involved in national parks.
Which cruise category is included?
Standard cabin; upgrades available upon request.
Can the cruise direction be reversed?
Yes, upstream and downstream options are available.
Is this suitable for families?
Yes, with adjustable pacing and flexible upgrades.
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