Dayong

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Dayong's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
1
morning
:

Begin your adventure with a visit to the stunning Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. Take the iconic glass bridge for breathtaking views and kick-start your day with the crisp mountain air. Capture the scenic beauty and enjoy a light breakfast at a local café nearby.

afternoon
:

Continue your exploration with a hike through the breathtaking cliffs and unique rock formations that inspired the floating mountains in Avatar. Enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature as you admire the picturesque landscape. Afterward, take a cable car ride to Tianmen Mountain for awe-inspiring views.

evening
:

Finish your day with a visit to a local hot pot restaurant where you can indulge in a delicious and interactive dining experience. Engage with locals and other travelers, sharing stories and recommendations over a simmering pot of fresh ingredients. End the evening by wandering through the vibrant night market, sampling street food and shopping for souvenirs.

day 2
2
morning
:

Start your day with a picturesque boat ride on the Wu gorge, absorbing the early morning mist as you glide through serene waters. Breakfast can be enjoyed on board or at a riverside café, featuring local specialties. The tranquility of your surroundings sets a peaceful tone for the adventure ahead.

afternoon
:

After the boat ride, visit the historic Fenghuang Ancient Town, wandering through the cobblestone streets filled with traditional wooden houses. Savor a traditional lunch at a local restaurant overlooking the river, and try the famous spicy rabbit head. Spend the afternoon exploring the vibrant culture, including local handicrafts and artisanal shops.

evening
:

As night falls, marvel at the illuminated ancient architecture as you stroll along the riverbank. Enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant that offers stunning views of the town. Conclude your evening with a glimpse of traditional folk performances to immerse yourself in the local culture.

day 3
3
morning
:

On your third day, embark on a guided tour of the Changsha provincial city to explore its rich history. Pop into the famous Hunan Provincial Museum to admire its exhibits, including ancient artifacts and the mummies of the Mawangdui tombs. Enjoy a flavorful breakfast at a local café featuring Hunanese cuisine.

afternoon
:

After lunch, visit the Orange Island Park, known for its beautiful landscapes and scenic riverside views. Here, you can see Mao Zedong's youthful statue overlooking the river and enjoy various recreational activities. Spend a relaxing afternoon soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and the scenic beauty surrounding you.

evening
:

End your day in Changsha by experiencing the local nightlife, beginning with dinner at a recommended local restaurant known for its famous stinky tofu. Afterward, explore the buzzing streets filled with shops and live music, immersing yourself in the lively vibe. Don’t miss out on tasting local snacks from street vendors as you stroll through.

day 4
4
morning
:

Travel to the picturesque city of Huaihua, starting your day with a traditional Chinese breakfast at a local tea house. Delight in the aromatic brews that accompany morning dim sum, featuring local ingredients. After breakfast, explore the nearby Huaihua Cultural Square.

afternoon
:

Visit the historical sites in Huaihua, such as the Red Army Long March Memorial Hall, to learn about the rich revolutionary history of the area. Following this, enjoy a hearty lunch comprising local specialties that reflect the region's culinary heritage. Take some time to relax at one of the lush parks, enjoying nature and the charming atmosphere.

evening
:

As dusk approaches, gather for dinner at a family-owned restaurant that showcases authentic Huaihua cuisine. Savor dishes made with fresh, local ingredients, and enjoy the warm hospitality of the owners. End your day with a leisurely walk through the vibrant streets, mixed with sounds of social gatherings and laughter.

day 5
5
morning
:

Your journey continues with a scenic trip to the tranquil Dongjiang Lake. Revel in the serene morning atmosphere while enjoying a breakfast picnic by the water’s edge. Here, you can partake in some water activities while admiring the breathtaking natural surroundings.

afternoon
:

After a refreshing morning, embark on a boat tour of the lake to explore hidden coves and islands. Ensure to also pack in a leisurely lunch as you glide across the water, soaking in the expansive vista. Following the boat ride, spend some time hiking along the nearby scenic trails.

evening
:

Retreat back from Dongjiang Lake to indulge in a relaxing dinner at a lakeside café that specializes in fresh seafood. As you dine, watch the sun set over the lake, creating a magical atmosphere. Conclude the evening with some stargazing, reflecting on the beauty of nature and tranquility of the lake.

day 6
6
morning
:

Explore the beautiful city of Yangshuo, rich in karst landscapes and outdoor activities. Kickstart your day with a hearty breakfast at a local eatery that gives a taste of Yangshuo’s famous rice noodles. After breakfast, set out on a bike tour along the countryside, soaking in the serene landscape.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a leisurely float down the Yulong River in a bamboo raft, taking in the lush greenery and heightening your connection with nature. During your journey, make sure to enjoy a picnic lunch by the riverbank. Engage with local fishermen who practice traditional methods of catching fish.

evening
:

As the day winds down, savor dinner at a riverside restaurant featuring panoramic views of the karst formations. Relish in traditional dishes and celebrate the local flavors. Post-dinner, immerse in the vibrant atmosphere of Yangshuo’s night market, picking up unique crafts and sampling local snacks.

day 7
7
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Li River, known for its stunning landscapes that enchant every visitor. Enjoy a breakfast of local pastries as you set out to explore the river’s beauty on a boat cruise. The morning sun casts a magical glow over the karst mountains, providing a perfect backdrop for photos.

afternoon
:

After the cruise, venture into the town of Guilin, where you can explore the Elephant Trunk Hill, a famous symbol of the city. Treat yourself to lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling authentic Guilin rice noodles. Spend the early afternoon visiting the Reed Flute Cave, adorned with stunning natural rock formations.

evening
:

As evening descends, treat yourself to dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the beautiful landscape. Delight in local cuisine while watching the shimmering lights around you. Cap the day off with a scenic walk along the riverbanks, appreciating the stunning views and reflections in the water.

day 8
8
morning
:

Travel to the ancient city of Pingyao, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Begin your day with breakfast in a traditional courtyard hotel, soaking in the ambiance of ancient architecture. Afterward, step out to wander along the well-preserved ancient streets brimming with history.

afternoon
:

Explore various historical sites such as the Rishengchang Exchange Shop, the first draft bank in China. For lunch, taste local delicacies such as Pingyao beef in a traditional restaurant. In the afternoon, engage in visits to local museums to understand the culture and lifestyle of ancient merchants.

evening
:

At sunset, appreciate the vibrant atmosphere of Pingyao, with its lantern-lit streets. Indulge in dinner at a local family-run restaurant, where you can experience authentic flavors of the Shanxi province. As night falls, wander through the old town, witnessing traditional music performances in the streets.

day 9
9
morning
:

On your ninth day, head to the city of Yichang, renowned for its role in the Three Gorges Dam's construction. Start your day with breakfast at a local bakery, enjoying traditional pastries. After breakfast, visit the Three Gorges Dam itself, and be captivated by its scale and engineering marvels.

afternoon
:

After a guided tour, enjoy lunch at a near river restaurant with views of the dam. Spend the afternoon exploring the nearby Gezhouba Water Control Project or strolling along the Yangtze River’s beautiful banks for picturesque views. Consider taking a bike ride along designated trails for a leisurely experience.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy a farewell dinner in a restaurant featuring local cuisine and Yangtze River fish. Relish the flavors while reflecting on the incredible journey through Dayong and its breathtaking landscapes. Conclude the night with a river cruise to experience the illuminated scenery from the water.

day 10
10
morning
:

On your final day, spend a relaxing morning unwinding by enjoying a late breakfast at your hotel. Take some time to pack your bags and reflect on the experiences you’ve gathered over the past nine days. Consider taking a last walk along the river as a final farewell to this enchanting area.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a leisurely afternoon visiting local shops to purchase any last-minute souvenirs or gifts to remember your trip by. Take pleasure in some final encounters with local residents, exchanging stories of your experiences before you depart. Indulge in a farewell lunch that highlights your favorite dishes discovered during your travels.

evening
:

As your journey comes to an end, return to your hotel to organize your belongings before heading to the airport or train station. Reflect back on the vibrant cultures, breathtaking nature, and incredible food you've experienced. Leave with lasting memories and a heart full of adventures from your unforgettable trip to Dayong and beyond.

Discover Dayong

Read more in our Dayong 2025 Travel Guide.

Dayong Travel Guide