Overview
Discover two of China’s most breathtaking natural wonders on this 8-day Jiuzhaigou and Zhangjiajie tour.
Starting from Chengdu, travel north to Jiuzhaigou National Park, where turquoise lakes, waterfalls, and alpine forests create one of China’s most beautiful landscapes. Continue to Zhangjiajie to explore its towering sandstone peaks, Avatar-like mountains, glass bridge canyon scenery, and Tianmen Mountain.
This private tour combines efficient transportation with a relaxed sightseeing pace, making it one of the most popular choices for first-time visitors to China.
Highlights
- Walk along Jiuzhaigou’s scenic trails and discover its famous blue and green alpine lakes.
- Experience Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, home to dramatic sandstone pillars that inspired the “Avatar Mountains.”
- Ride the Bailong Elevator and watch the landscape change as you rise 335 meters beside a cliff.
- Explore Yuanjiajie, Yangjiajie, and Tianzi Mountain to see different perspectives of Zhangjiajie’s incredible peaks.
- Walk across Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon and enjoy the famous glass bridge experience.
- Take the cable car to Tianmen Mountain and visit the spectacular Tianmen Cave and mountain walkway.
Itinerary
Day 1: Chengdu Airport → Hotel
The Experience:
Welcome to Chengdu, the relaxed and vibrant gateway to your Jiuzhaigou and Zhangjiajie adventure.
When you arrive, we will arrange a private transfer from the airport or railway station to your hotel, so you can settle in comfortably after your journey.
Depending on your arrival time, we recommend taking a gentle walk around the city and experiencing Chengdu’s famous slow-paced lifestyle.
Highlights
- Enjoy a comfortable arrival day with flexible pacing.
Tips
- If you arrive late, we suggest resting and saving energy for the following travel days.
- Overnight: Chengdu
Day 2: Chengdu → Jiuzhaigou by High-Speed Train
The Experience:
Today we will take an early high-speed train from Chengdu to Huanglongjiuzhai Railway Station, a journey of around 1.5–2 hours.
If the train schedule allows, after arriving, we will continue to Huanglong Scenic Area first.
Located on the edge of the Tibetan Plateau, Huanglong is famous for its colorful travertine pools, snow mountains, forests, and Tibetan culture. The layered limestone pools were formed over thousands of years by mineral deposits, creating one of China’s most unique landscapes.
After exploring Huanglong, we continue by private vehicle to Jiuzhaigou, where you will stay near the national park entrance for easier access the next day.
Highlights
- Ride the convenient high-speed train from Chengdu to northern Sichuan.
- Visit Huanglong’s spectacular natural travertine pools (subject to timing).
Tips
- Huanglong is located at a higher altitude, so take your time and avoid rushing.
- Bring warm clothing as temperatures can be much cooler than in Chengdu.
- Overnight: Jiuzhaigou
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 3: Jiuzhaigou National Park
The Experience:
Today we spend a full day exploring Jiuzhaigou National Park, one of China’s most famous natural wonders.
We will enter the park early and follow the classic sightseeing route based on the “Y-shaped” valley system, using the park shuttle buses and walking along scenic boardwalks.
Jiuzhaigou is famous for its crystal-clear lakes, colorful forests, waterfalls, and snow-covered mountain scenery.
Places such as Five Flower Lake, Mirror Lake, and Nuorilang Waterfall show why this valley is considered one of the most beautiful landscapes in China.
Highlights
- Explore Jiuzhaigou’s most iconic lakes, waterfalls, and valleys.
- Enjoy scenic walks through forests and along clear mountain streams.
- Discover the natural and cultural beauty of Tibetan areas in Sichuan.
Tips
- Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended.
- The park is large, so following an efficient route helps you see more without unnecessary walking.
- Overnight: Jiuzhaigou
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 4: Jiuzhaigou → Chengdu → Zhangjiajie by High-Speed Train
The Experience:
Today is mainly a transportation day as we connect two of China’s most famous natural destinations.
After breakfast, we transfer back to Huanglongjiuzhai Railway Station and take the high-speed train to Chengdu. From Chengdu, we continue to Zhangjiajie by train.
Highlights
- Travel from Sichuan’s plateau scenery to Hunan’s mountain landscapes.
Tips
- Keep important items such as passports and tickets easily accessible.
- Overnight: Zhangjiajie
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 5: Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
The Experience:
Today we explore the most iconic landscapes of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park.
After breakfast, we take a private transfer to the park entrance and enter the scenic area by shuttle bus.
Our first stop is Yuanjiajie, one of the most famous areas in Zhangjiajie and the inspiration behind the floating mountain scenery in Avatar.
From Yuanjiajie, we continue by scenic shuttle bus to Tianzi Mountain, known as the “King of Peaks” for its vast views of countless mountains stretching into the distance. At the main viewpoints, such as Helong Park, you can enjoy a different perspective of Zhangjiajie’s landscape, with layers of peaks, valleys, and mist creating a constantly changing scene.
After sightseeing, we take the cable car or shuttle route down the mountain and return to your hotel.
Highlights
- See Zhangjiajie’s famous “Avatar Mountains” in person.
- Ride the Bailong Elevator, built along a dramatic cliff face.
- Enjoy different viewpoints across Yuanjiajie, Yangjiajie, and Tianzi Mountain.
Tips
- Start early to enjoy better views and avoid the busiest times.
- Weather changes quickly in the mountains, so bring a light jacket.
- Overnight: Chengdu
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 6: Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon
The Experience:
Today we visit Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon, a beautiful area combining dramatic cliffs, forests, streams, and modern engineering.
After a short transfer from your hotel, we walk through the canyon and experience the famous glass bridge, suspended high above the valley.
The Grand Canyon offers a different perspective from the national forest park. Instead of looking across endless mountain peaks, you will walk between towering cliffs and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere created by flowing water and forest landscapes. The glass bridge has become one of Zhangjiajie’s most recognizable attractions, offering a unique way to experience the scale of the canyon.
Highlights
- Walk across Zhangjiajie’s famous glass bridge.
- Experience the contrast between deep valleys and towering cliffs.
Tips
- The glass bridge may not be suitable for travelers with a strong fear of heights.
- Wear comfortable shoes as there is walking involved inside the canyon.
- Overnight: Zhangjiajie
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 7: Zhangjiajie Tianmen Mountain
The Experience:
On the final sightseeing day, we visit Tianmen Mountain, one of Zhangjiajie’s most spectacular landmarks.
We take the famous cable car from the city up toward the mountain summit, enjoying views over Zhangjiajie’s valleys and surrounding peaks along the way.
At the top, we explore the mountain walkways, including sections built along the cliff edge, and visit Tianmen Cave, a huge natural arch formed through geological changes over thousands of years.
Depending on your interests and energy level, we can adjust the walking route.
Highlights
- Ride one of the world’s most impressive mountain cable cars.
- Visit the natural wonder of Tianmen Cave.
Tips
- Bring a jacket as the mountain top can be much cooler than the city.
- Allow extra time as Tianmen Mountain attractions can be affected by weather
- Overnight: Zhangjiajie
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 8: Zhangjiajie Departure
The Experience:
After breakfast, we arrange a private transfer to Zhangjiajie Airport or railway station according to your departure schedule.
Your 8-day journey through Jiuzhaigou and Zhangjiajie comes to an end today.
If you plan to continue exploring China, we can also help arrange your next destination.
Highlights
Convenient departure transfer based on your travel schedule.
Tips
- Keep your train or flight details ready so we can arrange the best transfer time.
- We recommend arriving at the station or airport with enough time, especially during peak seasons.
- Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation
- Chengdu: 1 Night
- Jiuzhaigou: 2 Nights
- Zhangjiajie: 4 Nights
We focus on finding places that make your journey easier and more comfortable, with good locations, reliable cleanliness, and convenient access to transport or scenic areas.
In Jiuzhaigou, we prefer hotels close to the park entrance so you can start sightseeing without a long morning transfer.
In Zhangjiajie, we usually choose hotels near Wulingyuan Scenic Area, allowing you more time to explore and less time on the road.
Most stays are comfortable 3–4 star hotels with private bathrooms, modern facilities, and good local service.
Besides, every QuietRoutes itinerary can be customized to match your travel style and pace. We can arrange upgraded 4–5 star hotels, boutique properties, or more unique stays. We can also adjust room types for families, arrange connecting rooms, or choose hotels based on specific needs such as better views, quieter locations, or easier access for senior travelers. Just feel free to let us know.
Cost
Included
- High-speed train tickets (Chengdu – Jiuzhaigou, Chengdu - Zhangjiajie).
- Private air-conditioned vehicle for all local transfers.
- Expert English-speaking local guide.
- All entrance fees (Huanglong, Jiuzhaigou, Zhangjiajie, Tianmen Mountain, Grand Canyon).
- Park sightseeing buses and round-trip cable cars.
- 7 nights of hand-picked accommodation with breakfast.
Excluded
- International or domestic flights to Chengdu.
- Lunches and dinners.
- Personal expenses.
- Optional activities not listed in the itinerary.
- Gratuities for guide and driver.
- Travel insurance.
Transportation
This route combines high-speed rail and private transfers for a comfortable and efficient journey between destinations.
- Chengdu → Jiuzhaigou: High-speed train
- Huanglongjiuzhai Station → Jiuzhaigou Hotel: Private transfer
- Inside Jiuzhaigou National Park: Eco-shuttle bus system
- Chengdu → Zhangjiajie: High-speed train
- Zhangjiajie National Forest Park: Eco-shuttle bus system, cable cars, elevators
- Zhangjiajie local transfers: Private transfers
Essential Tips
- Expect a long transfer day between Jiuzhaigou and Zhangjiajie.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes.
- Both destinations involve walking, stairs, and scenic pathways.
- Visit Zhangjiajie with flexible timing if possible.
- Weather can change quickly in the mountains, and some viewpoints may be affected by fog.
Gallery
FAQ
Can I visit Jiuzhaigou and Zhangjiajie in one trip?
Yes. Jiuzhaigou and Zhangjiajie are two of China’s most famous natural destinations, and this 8-day itinerary combines them efficiently through Chengdu. It is ideal for travelers who want to see both alpine lakes and mountain landscapes in one journey.
Is 8 days enough for Jiuzhaigou and Zhangjiajie?
Eight days is a good minimum for visiting both places without rushing too much. You will have one full day in Jiuzhaigou and three days exploring Zhangjiajie’s main attractions.
Which is better, Jiuzhaigou or Zhangjiajie?
They offer completely different experiences. Jiuzhaigou is better for colorful lakes, forests, and peaceful scenery, while Zhangjiajie is better for dramatic mountains, viewpoints, and adventure experiences.
Can I visit Huanglong on the way to Jiuzhaigou?
Yes, if you take an early morning train from Chengdu and arrive at Huanglongjiuzhai Railway Station with enough time. The exact arrangement depends on train schedules and seasonal opening conditions.
What is the best time for this Jiuzhaigou Zhangjiajie tour?
The best seasons are spring (April–June) and autumn (September–November). Autumn is especially popular because Jiuzhaigou’s forests turn golden and Zhangjiajie often has clearer mountain views.
Is this Jiuzhaigou Zhangjiajie tour suitable for seniors?
Yes, but both destinations require walking. We can adjust the pace, reduce hiking sections, arrange more transfers, and choose hotels in convenient locations for a more comfortable experience.
Can this itinerary be customized?
Yes. Every QuietRoutes tour can be customized. We can change hotel standards, adjust sightseeing time, add Chengdu experiences, include a guide, or extend the trip according to your travel style.
