5 Days Zhangjiajie Fenghuang Tour with Furong Ancient Town

Dear travelers, welcome to Zhangjiajie, the real-life inspiration for floating Hallelujah Mountains of Avatar. Upon your arrival, our local experts will meet you at the airport or train station for one-hour transfer (35km) to Wulingyuan Scenic Area.

After checking into your hotel, enjoy some free time to explore the area. We recommend a stroll through Xibu Old Street. Named after the exquisite handwoven brocades of the Tujia people, this vibrant pedestrian district is the heart of local culture.

As evening falls, the street comes alive with the aroma of authentic Hunan snacks—try the local "Frog Cake" or Tujia-style fried rice—while you browse traditional handicrafts and soak in the atmosphere of the West Hunan folk culture.

After breakfast, we head into the heart of the Wulingyuan Scenic Area, home to over 3,000 quartz sandstone pillars. Today is a full day trip through the "Avatar" landscape and the legendary "King of Peaks."

Morning: The Avatar World (Yuanjiajie)

We start at Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, China’s first national forest park. We’ll board the Bailong Elevator—the world’s tallest outdoor lift—to ascend 326 meters in just 66 seconds. At the summit, you’ll step into Yuanjiajie, the real-life inspiration for the floating Hallelujah Mountains.

Walk the 3,500-meter cliff-edge trail, where you’ll encounter iconic sights like the First Bridge Under Heaven, the Lost Soul Platform, and the South Sky Pillar (the original "Avatar Mountain"). As you wander, you’ll see red prayer ribbons fluttering against the backdrop of these towering, vertical stone forests—a geological phenomenon found nowhere else on earth.

Afternoon: The King of Peaks (Tianzi Mountain)

In this afternoon, we travel to Tianzi Mountain Nature Reserve. Named after the Tujia leader Xiang Dakun, who declared himself the "Son of Heaven" (Tianzi) during the Ming Dynasty, this area is legendary for its dramatic, rugged beauty.

Known as the "King of Peaks," Tianzi Mountain offers a more expansive, panoramic view of the landscape. We will visit the Dianjiangtai Platform to overlook the West Sea Peak Forest, and marvel at the Imperial Writing Brush Peaks—six slender, pen-like stone pillars that look as if they were placed there by a giant. We’ll also visit He Long Park to see the bronze statue of the legendary Marshal and take in the view from Tianzige Pavilion, which offers the most spectacular, far-reaching vistas of the entire mountain range.

Today, we experience two sides of Zhangjiajie: the high-altitude adrenaline of the Grand Canyon and the peaceful, mirror-like beauty of Baofeng Lake.

Morning: The Glass Bridge Challenge

We’ll start with 1.5-hour drive to the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon. The centerpiece here is the Grand Canyon Glass Bridge, the world’s longest and highest glass-bottomed bridge. Suspended 300 meters above the canyon floor, this architectural marvel offers a transparent view of the lush forest and mist-filled valley below. Walking across feels like floating in mid-air—a true test of courage! For the ultimate thrill-seekers, the bridge also hosts the world’s highest bungee jump platform (optional, self-pay). It is an exhilarating experience that will undoubtedly be the highlight of your trip.

Afternoon: Baofeng Lake

After adrenaline-filled morning, we head to Baofeng Lake to restore your inner peace. Nestled high in a mountain basin, this crystal-clear alpine lake is a hidden gem. You’ll board a traditional wooden boat for a leisurely cruise through the emerald waters, surrounded by towering peaks and unique rock formations. As you drift along, listen to the hauntingly beautiful folk songs performed by local minority singers - a perfect, serene conclusion to your Zhangjiajie adventure.

In the late afternoon, we will drive back to Zhangjiajie City (approx. 1 hour) for your overnight stay.

Today, you will spend half-day tour of Tianmen Mountain in Tianmenshan National Forest Park, known as as the "Soul of Zhangjiajie" and the "No.1 Sacred Mountain of Western Hunan Province". Located only 8 kilometers away from Zhangjiajie city center, the Tianmen Mountain Scenic Area is unique in that it is suitable for people of all ages, and climbing is not necessary.

First, take the 30-minute cable car (7,455 meters) ride from Zhangjiajie City to the top of Tianmen Mountain. As you ascend, you'll be treated to a panoramic view of the winding mountain road with 99 bends (the Road to Heaven) and the breathtaking beauty of the bonsai gardens. Now, brace yourself for a thrilling challenge. Take a deep breath and step on the cliff path hanging on the mountainside. Walk along the Glass Walkway, a transparent glass path that stretches for 60 meters and hovers 1,430 meters above the bottomless valley, giving you a thrilling sensation of walking in the sky. Additionally, experience the 1.6-kilometer-long Cliff-Hanging Walkway, which is built along the edges of the mountain's summits. It's truly an amazing adventure! Next, you have the option to visit Tianmen Temple, a Buddhist structure that embodies the architectural style of the Qing Dynasty (1616-1912). It is surrounded by lush green forests, providing a serene atmosphere. And, you can also visit Yunmenxianding (云梦仙顶; 1,518m), the highest point in Tianmenshan National Forest Park, to enjoy a bird's eye view of the surroundings.

Afterward, go down by escalator from the mountaintop to Tianmen Cave, the world's highest natural mountain through the cave which spans 131.5 meters. Tianmen Cave, also known as Heaven's Gate Hole (天门洞), is frequently enveloped in swirling clouds and mist, and at other times, it is illuminated by ethereal rays of sunlight, resulting in a mesmerizing and ever-changing display of light and shadows. Take your time there to capture some beautiful photographs. Following that, you have the option to either walk down the 999 steps or take the elevator. Then, welcome back to another cable car station. Take the cable car down the mountain.

After touring Tianmen Mountain, you’ll be transferred to Fenghuang Ancient Town (凤凰古城), located southwest of Zhangjiajie City (211km, 3-hour drive).

Fenghuang Ancient Town is a fairytale-like riverside treasure nestled along the tranquil Tuo River. Widely celebrated as one of China's most picturesque towns, it presents postcard-perfect scenery: the Tuo River meanders gracefully past stilted wooden houses (Tuojia Diaojiaolou), their reflections dancing on the water's surface like strokes from an ancient Chinese ink painting. This charming town also serves as an important cultural center for the Miao and Tujia ethnic minorities.

You will arrive during daylight hours, you'll find yourself walking along cobblestone streets flanked by well-preserved Qing Dynasty architecture, creating endless opportunities for beautiful photographs. The iconic Hong Bridge and the mirror-like reflections on the Tuo River make particularly stunning subjects for your camera.

As evening falls, Fenghuang undergoes a magical transformation. The lantern-lit alleys come alive with the energetic buzz of night markets and riverside bars, while thousands of glowing red lanterns cast their radiant light across the water, magnificently amplifying the beauty of the stilt houses.

Tuo River Boating Experience: Relaxing Views of Fenghuang Ancient Town (Choose Between Daytime or Nighttime Cruises)

Enjoy a scenic boat ride along the Tuo River. Opt for the daytime cruise to glide peacefully past the stilt houses and beneath Hong Bridge, where you can observe local fishermen at work, women washing clothes along the shore, and children playing by the riverbanks.

Or, take evening cruise for a completely different perspective as the town comes alive with illumination - glowing bridges and lanterns create a dreamlike atmosphere, their golden reflections shimmering across the water's surface.

Stay overnight in Fenghuang Ancient Town.

This morning, enjoy your beautiful time to discover Fenghuang's cultural treasures at your own pace. When people speak of Fenghuang Ancient Town, they inevitably recall Shen Congwen (1902-1988), the renowned Chinese writer and historian whose novel The Border Town (边城) catapulted this riverside gem to global fame.

Begin your exploration at the Former Residence of Shen Congwen, where you can walk through the preserved home of this literary master. The house contains original manuscripts and personal artifacts that reveal his deep connection to Fenghuang. Nearby, the Ancient East Gate (Donghua Gate) offers panoramic views of the old town and Tuo River from its 18th-century gate tower.

No visit would be complete without seeing the Hongqiao Bridge (Rainbow Bridge), the town's iconic landmark. Lined with teahouses and artisan shops, it's the perfect spot to photograph the stilt houses reflected in the water. You might also enjoy watching local Miao silversmiths and batik makers practice their centuries-old crafts at nearby artisan workshops.

After bidding farewell to Fenghuang, we’ll stop at Furong Ancient Town (芙蓉古镇) en route to Zhangjiajie. Prepare to discover the surreal "Ancient Town Hanging on the Waterfall" from every angle. Unlike anywhere else, this 2,000-year-old gem features a dramatic waterfall cascading through its heart.

Renamed after the 1986 film Hibiscus Town, Furong welcomes you with: Cliffside stilt houses clinging to emerald cliffs; Winding stone alleys steeped in history; A living Tujia culture thriving amid the mist.

With Asia Odyssey Travel, explore highlights of Furong Ancient Town. Visit Xizhou Bronze Pillar Garden (溪州铜柱), where a striking group sculpture depicts the Chu King and the local Tusi (chieftain) signing their peace treaty on the "Xizhou Bronze Pillar." Cast from 5,000 jin of copper, this sacred pillar is deeply revered by the Tujia people. Next, cross Tuwang Bridge (土王桥), a classic covered wind-and-rain bridge. In the morning mist, its reflection alongside the stilt houses creates a living ink-wash painting - a beautiful relic from the Tusi era. Then continue to Youyang Palace (酉阳宫), the summer retreat of past Tusi kings.

Finally, explore the waterfall!!!At Qingxiu Pavilion (观瀑台), behold the 60-meter-wide cascade framed by glowing cliffs. The misty scene feels ethereal - as if the town floats on air. (This is the Instagram moment!) Capture endless photos of this natural masterpiece.

After the tour, you will be transferred back to Zhangjiajie. It is time to end your tour.Your guide will escort you to the airport or train station for your onward journey.

Thank you for traveling with Asia Odyssey Travel! We're honored to have been part of your China tour and look forward to welcoming you back for your next Asian Vacation.