Zhangjiajie

Day Trips

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

day 1
Arrival and Orientation in Zhangjiajie
morning
:

Arrive at Zhangjiajie Hehua Airport and take a scenic drive to your hotel, soaking in the breathtaking views of the lush landscape. After checking in, enjoy a hearty breakfast featuring local specialties to fuel your adventures. Take some time to relax and acclimatize to the surroundings before heading out for the day.

afternoon
:

Visit the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park Visitor Center to gather maps and information about the trails and attractions. Spend the afternoon on a guided walking tour through the park, marveling at the unique sandstone pillars that inspired the floating mountains in the movie 'Avatar.' Capture stunning photographs and learn about the region's biodiversity and cultural significance.

evening
:

As dusk falls, return to your hotel to freshen up before venturing out for dinner. Experience authentic Hunan cuisine at a local restaurant, sampling dishes like spicy fish and stinky tofu. Conclude your first day with a leisurely stroll through the vibrant night market, where you can enjoy local snacks and shop for souvenirs.

day 2
Exploring Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
morning
:

After breakfast, set out early to explore the iconic Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, known for its towering sandstone pillars. Take the Tianmen Mountain cable car for panoramic views of the stunning landscape as you ascend to the summit. Once at the top, walk along the glass skywalk for an exhilarating experience.

afternoon
:

Continue your adventure by hiking the various trails that lead to different viewpoints, including the famous Avatar Hallelujah Mountain. Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature while soaking in the serenity of the park. Visit the serene Golden Whip Stream, where you can enjoy the sounds of flowing water and the lush greenery around you.

evening
:

Return to your hotel to unwind after a full day of hiking and exploration. Enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, trying out more of the regional cuisine. As night falls, consider attending a cultural performance featuring local music and dance to immerse yourself in the area’s rich heritage.

day 3
Adventure at Tianmen Mountain
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Tianmen Mountain, famous for its breathtaking scenery and the incredible Tianmen Cave. Take the world's longest gondola ride up the mountain, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Once at the top, explore the thrilling walkways that cling to the cliffs.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a mountain-top restaurant, visit the Tianmen Mountain Temple, a peaceful site rich in history and culture. Enjoy a hike along the scenic trails that lead to various viewpoints, each offering unique perspectives of the dramatic landscape. Don't forget to capture the iconic staircase that leads to the top of Tianmen Mountain.

evening
:

Descend back to the base and enjoy a relaxing evening at your hotel. For dinner, treat yourself to a meal featuring local specialties, perhaps sampling the renowned Zhangjiajie hot pot. Wind down by reflecting on the day's adventures and planning for the next exciting day ahead.

day 4
Discovering the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon
morning
:

After breakfast, embark on a trip to the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon, known for its stunning views and the world's longest and highest glass bridge. Walk across the bridge for a thrilling experience, feeling as if you're floating above the canyon below. Take your time to enjoy the views and capture photos of the dramatic cliffs and lush forests.

afternoon
:

Explore the canyon further by hiking along its trails, where you can see waterfalls, rock formations, and diverse flora and fauna. Enjoy a picnic lunch within the canyon, surrounded by nature's beauty. Make sure to take a moment to appreciate the tranquil atmosphere of this natural wonder.

evening
:

Return to Zhangjiajie city and relax at your hotel after a day of adventure. For dinner, venture out to a nearby restaurant to indulge in more local dishes, perhaps trying the famous Zhangjiajie rice noodles. End your evening with a leisurely walk through the city, soaking in the local nightlife.

day 5
Cultural Immersion in Fenghuang Ancient Town
morning
:

Set out early for a trip to Fenghuang Ancient Town, a beautifully preserved historical town known for its traditional architecture and rich culture. Take a leisurely stroll along the riverside, admiring the wooden stilt houses and the vibrant colors of the ancient buildings. Visit the local market to experience the daily life of the residents and sample some street food.

afternoon
:

Explore the narrow streets of Fenghuang, visiting sites like the Fenghuang Ancient City Wall and the East Gate Tower. Stop for lunch at a local restaurant, where you can enjoy authentic Hunan dishes while overlooking the river. After lunch, take a boat ride along the Tuojiang River for a unique perspective of the town.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy the stunning views of Fenghuang lit up at night, creating a magical atmosphere. Dine at a riverside restaurant, savoring the flavors of the region while listening to the gentle sounds of the water. Spend some time exploring the town's vibrant nightlife, perhaps enjoying live music or traditional performances.

day 6
Exploring the Natural Wonders of Wulingyuan Scenic Area
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the Wulingyuan Scenic Area, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its spectacular landscapes. Take a guided tour through the area, visiting iconic spots like the Yuanjiajie Scenic Area, where you'll find the famous Hallelujah Mountain. Enjoy the crisp mountain air as you hike the trails and take in the stunning views.

afternoon
:

After a morning of exploration, have a picnic lunch amidst the stunning scenery of Wulingyuan. Continue your adventure by visiting the Baofeng Lake, where you can take a boat ride and admire the surrounding cliffs and greenery. Don't miss the chance to explore the nearby caves, including the impressive Huanglong Cave.

evening
:

Return to your hotel for a refreshing break before heading out for dinner. Consider dining at a restaurant that specializes in local cuisine, enjoying dishes that highlight the flavors of Hunan. End your day with a quiet evening, perhaps enjoying a drink and reflecting on the natural wonders you’ve witnessed.

day 7
Exploring Local Villages and Culture
morning
:

After breakfast, set off to visit some local villages around Zhangjiajie to experience the rich culture and traditions of the region. Engage with the villagers, learning about their way of life and traditional crafts. Participate in a local workshop, where you can try your hand at making traditional handicrafts.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a traditional lunch in one of the villages, savoring home-cooked meals made from locally-sourced ingredients. Spend the afternoon exploring the surrounding countryside, taking in the picturesque views and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. Visit a local market to shop for handmade souvenirs and interact with friendly locals.

evening
:

Return to Zhangjiajie city for your final evening in the area. Celebrate your trip with a farewell dinner at a well-reviewed restaurant, enjoying a feast of local delicacies. Take a leisurely stroll through the city, reflecting on your immersive experiences and capturing final moments with your camera.

day 8
Departure and Reflections
morning
:

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast at your hotel, savoring your last moments in Zhangjiajie. Spend some time packing and checking out, taking one last look at the stunning scenery from your hotel. If time permits, take a short walk in a nearby park or area to absorb the beauty of the landscape.

afternoon
:

Head to Zhangjiajie Hehua Airport for your departure, reminiscing about the incredible experiences you’ve had over the past ten days. Reflect on the breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality you encountered throughout your journey. Consider planning your next adventure, as Zhangjiajie is sure to hold a special place in your heart.

evening
:

As you board your flight, carry with you the memories of the stunning views and rich cultural experiences. Enjoy the journey home, sharing stories and photographs with friends and family. Look forward to future travels that may take you back to this enchanting corner of China.

Discover Zhangjiajie

Read more in our Zhangjiajie 2025 Travel Guide.

Zhangjiajie Travel Guide