9-Day Guizhou & Zhangjiajie Tour: Ethnic Villages, Ancient Towns & Avatar Landscapes

Day-by-day Itinerary

1. Day 1: Guiyang Arrival

   Upon arrival in Guiyang, you will meet your guide at the exit and be transferred by private car to the hotel for check-in. The remaining time of the day is free for you to explore the city on your own.

   Recommended Night Activity: Feast your eyes on the night view of Jiaxiu Pavilion, the iconic cultural landmark of Guiyang. Warm golden lights illuminate the three-story pavilion and its flying eaves, while the arched Fuyu Bridge casts moon-like reflections on the water.

   

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   4-star hotel in Guiyang
2. Day 2: Guiyang to Kaili by Private Vehicle
   Experience Authentic Village Life and Centuries-old Handmade Papermaking Tradition

   Set out from Guiyang and drive about 4 hours to Kaili. Along the way, the landscapes outside the window gradually transform from high-rise buildings to layer upon layer of karst peaks covered with lush greenery.

   Qingman Miao Village is your first stop. This primitive village is famous for exquisite Miao embroidery and indigo batik.

   At the entrance, you'll be offered homemade wine as a warm welcome from the villagers. Then, climb the steps along the bluestone paths.

   

   See the wooden stilted houses built into the mountainside, encounter skilled embroiderers threading their needles by the door and catch sight of the blue fabric drying in the long corridors. You will also have the chances to see their unique method of dyeing fabric.

   A one-hour drive further takes you to Shiqiao Village, known as the Hometown of National Paper in China. To this day, it still preserves the paper-making technique that has been passed down since the Tang Dynasty (618 - 907).

   Visit the papermaking workshop tucked inside a natural cave. You may see the artisans using clear spring water to rinse the bark, pound it into pulp and handcraft sheets of paper in this cool, shaded natural environment.

   Optional Activity: Experience ancient papermaking firsthand. Under the guidance of a master, scoop up the pulp in the stream with a bamboo curtain, spread fresh flowers and leaves on top, dehydrate and dry it. You can take home your own unique botanical paper.

   Tip: The home-made greeting wine is sweet, mild, and low in alcohol. Take a sip to show your respect. If you don't drink, we can also offer a non-alcoholic alternative.

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   4-star hotel in Kaili
3. Day 3: Ethnic Village Exploration in Kaili
   Discover Vibrant Ethnic Traditions, Intricate Silverwork, and Time-honored Craftsmanship

   Venture deep into traditional ethnic villages today. As wandering through Matang Gejia Village, you will be instantly attracted by locals' distinctive costumes, featuring red tassel hats, silver hairpins and sleeveless overcoats.

   Take time to explore traditional handicrafts such as embroidery and batik. Learn about their cultural implications and the step-by-step production process from the artisans.

   Next, visit Jidao Miao Village, which is beautifully nestled between mountains and water. Stroll leisurely along the stone paths to see the traditional Miao wooden houses and stilt houses. During the visit, you will gain a deep understanding of the Miao ethnic group's attire, silver ornaments, embroidery and weaving techniques.

   If you are lucky, you may even catch local artisans at work, giving you a close-up look at the intricate craftsmanship.

   

   Optional Activity: Try your hand at batik in Matang Gejia Village. Learn how to use a wax tool to draw patterns on white cloth, dip it into indigo dye and watch the intricate white patterns emerge gradually.

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   4-star hotel in Kaili
4. Day 4: Kaili to Zhenyuan Ancient Town by Private Vehicle
   Wander through Tranquil Riverside Streets and Alleys, Historic Architecture, and Mountain Temples

   A 3-hour drive brings you to Zhenyuan Ancient Town. The S-shaped Wuyang River flows through this town, flanked by ancient streets and alleys unfolding along both banks. Embraced by green mountains, it offers a tranquil and relaxed atmosphere.

   Walk slowly along the stone-paved streets, passing through historical landmarks such as Zhusheng Bridge, Xinglong Street and Sifang Well Alley. Admire the well-preserved traditional residences, guild halls, and riverside buildings along the way.

   The ancient architectural complex of Green Dragon Cave will be today’s highlight. Built layer upon layer about 500 years ago, it features a mix of Taoist abbeys, temples, ancestral halls, and pavilions as you walk up the mountain path. From a higher point, you can capture the panoramic view of the entire town below.

   

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   4-star hotel in Zhenyuan
5. Day 5: Zhenyuan to Fenghuang Ancient Town by Private Vehicle
   Immerse Yourself in the Enchanting Lights, Reflections, and Lively Atmosphere at Night

   Head to Fenghuang Ancient Town. After a 3.5-hour drive, check into your hotel upon arrival and enjoy some free time.

   In the afternoon, wander through the cobblestone streets and alleys to discover the stilt house standing by the water, ancient city walls and unique local shops.

   Pause at iconic scenic spots such as Hongqiao Bridge, Wanming Tower and the Jumping Rock to take photos and soak in the distinct architecture and water town charm of Xiangxi (Western Hunan).

   When night falls, Fenghuang Ancient Town reveals its most enchanting side. As the sun sets, the lights gradually come on. The quiet streets and alleys take on a completely different look, with rows of stilt houses glowing in warm yellow lights and music drifting from riverside bars and street performances.

   Waterfalls, ancient Bridges, pavilions and mountain shadows interweave on the water surface of Tuo River, transforming it into a flowing river of lights.

   Optional activity: Take a night cruise on the Tuo River for an even more immersive experience than viewing from the shore. From the boat, the stilt houses, ancient bridges, and riverside lanterns cast shimmering reflections on the rippling water around you.

   

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   4-star hotel in Fenghuang Ancient Town
6. Day 6: Fenghuang Ancient Town to Zhangjiajie by Private Vehicle
   Enjoy a Serene Morning and Uncover the Town’s History

   If you wake up early, you can experience the peaceful side of Fenghuang Ancient Town before the crowds arrive.

   Strolling along the Tuo River, you will see the water shrouded in a light morning mist, with the houses on both banks reflected on the surface. And take a boat ride to appreciate the landscape from a different view.

   

   If you are interested, you can visit the Former Residences of Shen Congwen or local museums at your own expense to learn about the history of this town and the culture of Xiangxi.

   Afterward, board the private vehicle to Zhangjiajie - about a 4-hour journey. Check in at your hotel upon arrival and have a good rest.

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   4-star hotel in Zhangjiajie
7. Day 7: Tianzi Mountain and Yuanjiajie in Zhangjiajie's National Park
   Venture Deep into Misty Valleys, Towering Sandstone Peaks, a Natural Stone Bridge

   Spend the whole day exploring the most representative peak-forest landscapes of Zhangjiajie. Start your morning at Tianzi Mountain by riding a cable car uphill. As you ascend, the valleys and stone pillars beneath you will gradually unfold.

   After reaching the summit, take a stroll along the pathways and enjoy the spectacular panoramic view from multiple viewing platforms. Imperial Brush Peak is one of the classic highlights here, featuring several slender peak pillars that rise from the ground. When surrounded by clouds and mist, the scene looks like a fairyland.

   Next, move on to Yuanjiajie, renowned for its dramatic sandstone peaks and deep canyons. Soaring high into the sky, its iconic landmark, the Southern Sky Pillar has inspired the floating Hallelujah Mountains in the movie Avatar. Be sure to photograph this cinematic landscape.

   Another must-see is the First Bridge Under Heaven, a natural stone bridge boasting the largest vertical height difference in the world. This wonder spans across two 350-meter-high peaks, which makes it look as if suspended in mid-air.

   

   Optional activity:
   Ride the Bailong Elevator, which clings to a cliff and covers a 326-meter vertical rise in just 66 seconds. Through the glass, you can overlook the surrounding peak forests and canyons and take in Zhangjiajie's magnificent mountain scenery from a thrilling new perspective.

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   4-star hotel in Zhangjiajie
8. Day 8: Yangjiajie Scenic Area
   Trek along Scenic Mountain Trails through Primeval Forests, Stone Peaks, and Canyons

   Compared to the classic peak-forest landscape of Yuanjiajie, Yangjiajie is famous for its perilous mountains and primeval forests, as well as its relatively smaller crowds.

   Have an exciting hike along the mountain trails, meandering through dense forests, unique rock formations and canyons.

   The Natural Great Wall is one of the most remarkable sights in Yangjiajie. A continuous row of sharp stone peaks lines the ridge, resembling a natural stone fortress that looks like the Great Wall from a distance.

   

   Climbing to the viewing platform, you can overlook the layered mountains and canyons, and fully experience the raw grandeur of the peak forests.

   Continue your trek to One Stride Ahead of Heaven. Although the mountain trail is longer and features some challenging climbs, it rewards you at the top with an expansive, spectacular panoramic view of the peaks.

   If you have the energy and a taste for adventure, challenge yourself on the Skywalk, a narrow cliffside pathway. Walking along this trail high above the valleys gives you a bird's-eye view of the rugged landscape below.

   We are going to visit Tianmen Mountain the next day, which is right in the city center, so we will drive to the hotel in downtown area to check in.

   Alternative Option: For tourists who are poor in strength or prefer less hiking, Gold Whip Stream is recommended, where you can take a relaxing stroll along the stream to see the surrounding strange rocks and encounter monkeys.

   Tips:

   Some sections of the hiking route are quite steep, so be sure to wear comfortable and anti-slip hiking shoes.

   The hiking time is relatively long; remember to bring drinking water and some light snacks to keep your energy up.

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   4-star hotel in Zhangjiajie
9. Day 9: Tianmen Mountain & Zhangjiajie Departure
   Take a Scenic Cableway ride, Admire Tianmen Cave and Challenge the Cliffside Walkway and Glass Skywalk

   The final stop of your Zhangjiajie tour is Tianmen Mountain. Take the cableway uphill and enjoy the view of the city, valleys and peaks gradually unfolding under you along the way.

   

   After reaching the summit, stroll along the cliffside plank road and soak in the dramatic mountains and the misty peak forests.

   Next, head to the most iconic Tianmen Cave, often called the "Heaven's Gate". This 131-meter-high massive natural through-mountain cave hangs between the mountain walls, presenting an imposing scene for you.

   If it is open, challenge yourself on the glass skywalk. Looking down through the transparent glass into the deep valley below offers you an exciting high-altitude experience.

   This marks the conclusion of your 9-day tour. The driver will transfer you to the airport or train station for departure.

   Tip: During winter, the glass skywalk may be closed due to adverse weather conditions like ice or snow. Rest assured, your guide will happily adjust the itinerary as needed if this occurs.

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