Tour Itinerary
DAY
1
Xi'an
Transfer via: flight - your arrangement
Activities for today: Airport transfer, Muslim Quarter
Tour Guide & Driver Service:
Upon arrival at Xi'an Xianyang International Airport, your local guide will warmly greet you and escort you to your hotel for check-in. If your schedule allows, the remainder of the day is yours to discover the vibrant flavors of Xi'an's famous Muslim Quarter, a bustling hub of local cuisine and culture.
DAY
2
Xi'an
Activities for today: Daqin Terracotta Art Factory, Museum of Qin Terracotta Warriors and Horses, Xi'an City Wall
Tour Guide & Driver Service:
Today’s journey through history begins at the Daqin Terracotta Art Factory, where you’ll witness artisans skillfully recreating ancient techniques to craft Terracotta warriors and horses.
Next, step onto one of archaeology’s grandest stages—the Terracotta Warriors Museum. Walk among thousands of life-sized soldiers, chariots, and horses, each uniquely sculpted and arranged in military formation. Recognized as one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of the 20th century, this awe-inspiring army reveals the ambition and artistry of China’s first emperor.
As the afternoon unfolds, ascend the grand Xi’an City Wall—the most complete ancient fortification surviving in China and one of the world’s largest historic defense systems. Stroll or bike along its broad ramparts, taking in views where imperial history meets modern city life, and feel the enduring spirit of ancient Chang’an.
DAY
3
Xi'an/Chengdu/Jiuzhaigou
Transfer via: train - our arrangement
Activities for today: train station transfer
Driver Service:
Your journey continues as our Xi'an driver escorts you to Xi'an North Railway Station this morning, where you'll board the high-speed train to Chengdu.
Upon arriving at Chengdu East Railway Station, you will transfer to another high-speed train bound for Huanglongjiuzhai Railway Station. Our local driver will be ready to greet you upon arrival and take you on the scenic two-hour drive to your hotel in Jiuzhaigou.
DAY
4
Jiuzhaigou
Activities for today: Jiuzhaigou National Park
Tour Guide & Driver Service:
08:00 am: Meet your expert local guide in your hotel lobby and set out for a full-day immersion in the breathtaking beauty of Jiuzhaigou National Park. Renowned as a “water wonderland,” Jiuzhaigou reveals its magical soul through crystal-clear lakes, cascading falls, and vibrant pools. Today, you’ll explore its most enchanting sights—from the serene Long Lake and dazzling Five Flower Lake to the playful Panda Lake and reflective Mirror Lake. Discover the lush Reed Lake, admire the multi-hued Color Pool, and feel the mist of majestic waterfalls like Nuorilang, Shuzheng, and the sparkling Pearl Shoal. Every turn brings a new masterpiece of nature, inviting you to witness why this valley is truly a paradise on earth.
DAY
5
Jiuzhaigou/Huanglong/Chengdu
Transfer via: high speed train - our arrangement
Activities for today: Huanglong National Park (one way cable car - up), train station transfer
Jiuzhaigou Tour Guide & Driver Service:
After breakfast, embark on a scenic two-hour drive from Jiuzhaigou to the breathtaking Huanglong National Park—home to one of the world’s three most spectacular travertine terraces. Stretching 3.6 kilometers beneath the majestic Xuebao Peak (Snow Treasure Mountain, 5,588m), its golden-hued formations cascade like a giant yellow dragon, giving the valley its legendary name. Over millennia, geological shifts, glacial activity, and natural mineral reactions have sculpted this dazzling landscape into a true wonder of nature.
The crown jewel of Huanglong awaits at the valley’s peak (3,556m): the Five-Color Ponds. Here, 693 vibrant pools glow in varying shades and shapes, glistening like scattered emeralds under the sky. Beyond the travertine terraces, the park also boasts majestic snow-capped peaks, ancient glaciers, lush forests, and cascading waterfalls—along with being a protected habitat for Giant Pandas and Snub-nosed Monkeys. This unparalleled beauty earned Huanglong its UNESCO World Natural Heritage status in 1992.
While a full hike to the Five-Color Ponds and back typically takes 6 hours, you’ll enjoy a relaxed and efficient visit: glide up by cable car to the upper viewing area, then wander leisurely downhill, taking in unforgettable vistas at every turn.
Following roughly three hours of exploring Huanglong’s wonders, you’ll depart with your guide and driver for Huanglong Airport, where you’ll board your scheduled flight to Chengdu.
Chengdu Driver Service:
Upon arrival at Chengdu East Railway Station, a warm welcome awaits—your private Chengdu driver will greet you and transfer you smoothly to your hotel for check-in and a well-deserved rest.
DAY
6
Chengdu
Activities for today: Chengdu Giant Panda Breeding Research Base, Leshan Giant Buddha
Tour Guide & Driver Service:
Today’s adventure begins at the world-famous Chengdu Giant Panda Breeding Research Base, where you’ll come face-to-face with China’s most beloved ambassadors. Watch these charming creatures munch on bamboo, playfully tumble, and laze in their lush habitats—an unforgettable morning surrounded by nature and gentle wildlife.
Next, we journey to the awe-inspiring Leshan Giant Buddha, a UNESCO World Heritage site carved majestically into the riverside cliffs. Standing at over 70 meters tall, this serene stone masterpiece has gazed over the confluence of three rivers for more than a millennium. You’ll have time to admire it from both the riverbank and vantage points along the wooded paths, feeling the profound sense of history and craftsmanship. (*Note: A boat trip to see the panoramic view of the Giant Buddha is available.)
As the afternoon light softens, we’ll make our way back to Chengdu, leaving you with lasting memories of cultural wonders and natural treasures—and the peaceful smiles of pandas to carry with you.
DAY
7
Chengdu/Zhangjiajie
Transfer via: high speed train - our arrangement
Activities for today: Train station transfer, Tianmen Mountain
Chengdu Driver Service:
This morning, our Chengdu driver will escort you to Chengdu East Railway Station for the high speed train to Zhangjiajie.
Zhangjiajie Tour Guide & Driver Service:
Upon your arrival at Zhangjiajie West Railway Station, your friendly local guide and driver will greet you and whisk you away to the magnificent Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park. Your adventure begins with a ride on the world's longest cable car, soaring above lush forests and deep valleys as you ascend toward the clouds. The panoramic views unfolding beneath you are nothing short of breathtaking.
At the summit, step onto the thrilling Cliffside Plank Road for an unforgettable two-hour hike along the mountainside. For those seeking an extra rush, you can opt for the glass plank walk—daringly built over a sheer vertical drop—offering a heart-pounding perspective (available at an additional cost).
After your walk among the peaks, find a moment of tranquility at the Tianmen Temple, a peaceful retreat nestled amid the grandeur of the mountain. Then, descend gently via the Forest Sightseeing Cable Car, gliding through vibrant greenery back to the main cable station.
Your journey continues with a scenic gondola ride to the mid-station, followed by a shuttle bus trip along the famously winding Tongtian Avenue—also known as the "Avenue to Heaven." This exhilarating road leads you to the awe-inspiring Tianmen Cave, a natural archway carved through the mountain that feels like a gateway to another world.
DAY
8
Zhangjiajie
Activities for today: Ten Mile Natural Gallery, Bailong Elevator, Yuanjiajie-Avatar Mountain, Tianzi Mountain (one way cable car)
Tour Guide & Driver Service:
Start your day with an early breakfast, then journey to the UNESCO-listed Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, where you'll discover its most iconic landscapes at the Ten-mile Gallery, Yuanjiajie, and Tianzi Mountain.
Hop aboard the scenic tram through the Ten Mile Natural Gallery, a storybook valley where natural stone formations—like the God of Longevity, the Old Herb Picker, and the Three Sisters Peaks—unfold before your eyes.
Next, ascend via the Bailong Elevator—the world's tallest outdoor lift—to the wonderland of Yuanjiajie. Here, towering sandstone pillars rise from the mist, famously inspiring the floating mountains of Avatar. Follow scenic trails to the mesmerizing Ecstasy Terrace and the breathtaking First Bridge, a natural span connecting two peaks.
Continue by shuttle to Tianzi Mountain, renowned for its sweeping views. At Helong Park, admire the elegant Yubi Peak and seek out the legendary Fairy Flowers amid the sea of sandstone spires. For the adventurous, a short walk leads to the impressive Warrior Training Horse rock formation.
Conclude your day with a scenic cable car descent, gliding past dramatic pillars and valleys as the landscape unfolds beneath you.
DAY
9
Zhangjiajie/Departure
Transfer via: flight - your arrangement
Activities for today: Golden Whip Stream, Baofeng Lake
Tour Guide & Driver Service:
After breakfast at your hotel, set out for the legendary Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. Your first stop is the enchanting Golden Whip Stream—a serene valley that feels like stepping straight into the magical world of Avatar. Enjoy a leisurely 2.5‑hour hike along its clear waters, surrounded by towering quartz‑sandstone pillars and lush greenery.
Next, continue to the tranquil Baofeng Lake, nestled among emerald peaks. Here, you’ll embark on a short scenic cruise, gliding across calm waters as songs from local boatmen echo between the cliffs—a truly peaceful interlude in the heart of the mountains.
As the afternoon draws to a close, we’ll escort you to the airport, carrying with you the fresh air, stunning views, and quiet magic of Zhangjiajie.
DEPARTURE IDEAS:
Zhangjiajie Hehua Airport serves flights between major domestic cities including Beijing, Shanghai, Xian, Changsha, Chengdu, Chongqing, Nanjing, Hangzhou, Guangzhou, Shenzheng, Qingdao, etc. and some international cities like Bangkok, Osaka, Seoul, Incheon, etc. Besides, you can also take the high-speed train to domestic cities, like Hong Kong (6-7 hours), Shanghai (7-9 hours), Chongqing (2-4 hours), Chengdu (4-6 hours), Changsha (about 2 hours).
