10 Days Jiuzhaigou & Zhangjiajie National Parks In-depth Tour

Hiking tour

Choosing between Zhangjiajie and Jiuzhaigou can be a tough decision, as each offers its own unique and stunning natural beauty.

Jiuzhaigou is renowned for its breathtaking waterscapes, featuring colorful lakes, ponds, rivers, and waterfalls. The vivid hues of the water, ranging from turquoise to emerald green, create a mesmerizing scene that changes with the seasons and sunlight angles.

On the other hand, Zhangjiajie boasts magnificent mountain scenery, with towering rock pillars, misty peaks, deep gorges, dense forests, and fascinating caves. The landscape of Zhangjiajie, famously featured in the movie Avatar, resembles a mystical world straight out of fantasy.

Fortunately, you don’t have to choose between the two! Our 10 Days China National Parks tour offers you the opportunity to explore both Jiuzhaigou and Zhangjiajie in depth. Starting from Chengdu, you’ll begin your adventure with a close encounter with Giant Pandas before heading to Jiuzhaigou Valley and Huanglong via a private and comfortable vehicle. After immersing yourself in the natural wonders of Jiuzhaigou, you’ll then embark on an unforgettable journey to Zhangjiajie. Prepare to be amazed by the world’s longest glass bridge, the longest cable car, and the exhilarating skywalk. With our expertly crafted itinerary, you’ll experience the best of both worlds, ensuring an unforgettable and hassle-free adventure in China’s most spectacular national parks.

Highlights

Itinerary at a Glance

Tour map

Itinerary

Day 1 Arrival in Chengdu

Nihao! Welcome to Chengdu, the charming hometown of Giant Pandas! Upon your arrival in Chengdu, your private driver and guide will be waiting to greet you and ensure a seamless transfer to your hotel. Once you’ve checked in, the rest of the day is yours to unwind and explore the vibrant city of Chengdu at your leisure.

Day 2 Chengdu Classic Tour

After breakfast, embark on a delightful journey to fulfill your panda dreams with a short 17-kilometer drive to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, also known as Chengdu Panda Base. Home to over 100 giant pandas, it boasts the largest population of captive giant pandas globally. Witness pandas of various ages engaging in playful activities, munching on bamboo, climbing trees, and perhaps even catching a nap. If you’re fortunate to visit during autumn, you might catch a glimpse of adorable pink newborn giant panda cubs at the Sunshine Nursery House and the Moonlight Nursery House. Don’t miss the opportunity to encounter the charming red pandas as they roam about in the Red Panda Playgrounds. Dive deeper into the world of pandas with a visit to the Panda Museum, where you can uncover fascinating insights into these beloved creatures. (Note: Pandas are more active in the morning due to their preference for cooler weather, so arriving early is recommended for the best experience.)

Next, journey to the tranquil Wenshu Monastery, the best-preserved Buddhist monastery in Chengdu, and immerse yourself in its serene atmosphere. Take a leisurely stroll through Renmin Park, a beloved spot where you can observe the relaxed pace of life in Chengdu. Sit down at a traditional tea-house, savor a cup of fragrant green tea, and observe locals indulging in games of mahjong and lively conversation. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk along Jinli Old Street, an ancient thoroughfare with a history spanning over 1,800 years. Explore the charming stone-paved street lined with an array of delectable local snacks, intricate handicrafts, and captivating folk performances. (Optional: Sample some of the region’s spicy delicacies such as chuanchuan, dandan noodles, or even venture out of your culinary comfort zone and try a rabbit’s head!)

For those seeking evening entertainment, consider these optional activities:

Attend a captivating Sichuan Opera performance featuring mesmerizing acts like face-changing, fire-spitting, hand shadows, puppetry, dance, song, and acrobatics (typically from 20:00 to 21:30).
Take a scenic boat ride (30 minutes) along the Jinjiang River to admire Chengdu’s enchanting nighttime skyline as it meanders through the heart of the city (operating hours: 18:00~23:30).

Day 3 Chengdu - Chuanzhusi

In the morning, your tour guide will greet you at your hotel, marking the start of your journey as you depart the bustling cityscape of Chengdu and head towards Chuanzhusi Town, a picturesque small town nestled near Huanglong National Park. The scenic route spans approximately 350 kilometers, translating to a 6 to 7-hour drive. Despite the extended travel time, you’ll have the opportunity to make several stops along the way to break up the journey and immerse yourself in the captivating landscapes.

En route, you’ll encounter Songpan Ancient Town, often referred to as the “Ancient City on the Plateau,” recognized as one of the State Protected Historic Sites. Delve into its storied past and soak in the ambiance of antiquity as you explore its winding streets and historic landmarks.

Another highlight of your journey is the Ancient Qiang Village, where you’ll encounter the best-preserved architecture of the Qiang People, showcasing their rich cultural heritage and ancient traditions. Take in the distinct charm of the village, steeped in the customs and rituals of the Qiang nationality.

Arriving in Chuanzhusi, you’ll be greeted by the serene ambiance of this quaint town, situated at an elevation of 2980 meters (9777 feet). Chuanzhusi Town offers a harmonious blend of Tibetan culture, breathtaking natural scenery, ancient architecture, and modern conveniences, providing a tranquil retreat amidst the rugged beauty of the region.

Useful Tips:

Distance from Chuanzhusi to Jiuzhaigou National Park: 87km (54 miles)
Distance from Chuanzhusi to Huanglong National Park: 39km (24 miles)
Chuanzhusi serves as a vital transportation hub in the area, making it an ideal base for exploring Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong National Parks. The town offers a range of accommodation options catering to different preferences and budgets.

Day 4 Chuanzhusi - Huanglong - Jiuzhaigou

In the morning, your local guide and driver will escort you on a brief 30-minute journey from Chuanzhusi to the remarkable Huanglong Scenic Area.

Huanglong Scenic Area is an awe-inspiring valley renowned for its intricate terraces of colorful limestone ponds, showcasing hues of blues, greens, oranges, yellows, and whites. The name “Huanglong,” meaning ‘Yellow Dragon,’ aptly describes the distinctive geological formations that resemble a majestic golden dragon winding its way through the valley against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992, Huanglong Valley is hailed as a “World Wonder” and “Fairy Land on Earth,” boasting a mesmerizing landscape of snow-topped mountains, glaciers, waterfalls, and pristine forests teeming with wildlife.

To maximize your time and experience, it is recommended to take a quick cable car ride directly to the mountaintop, allowing you to embark on a leisurely descent through the valley to admire the breathtaking scenery. The descent typically takes 3 to 4 hours and offers opportunities to visit notable sites such as Honglong Monastery, Five-Colored Ponds, Mirror Ponds, Welcoming Guest Ponds, and cascading waterfalls, as well as temples and caves along the way.

At the pinnacle of the valley, situated at an elevation of 3556 meters, lies the crown jewel of Huanglong – the Five-Color Ponds. This mesmerizing collection of nearly 700 ponds of varying sizes and shapes captivates with its vibrant and distinct hues, creating a spectacle akin to azure green jade plates adorned with prism-like cobbles and aquatic flora.

After immersing yourself in the splendor of Huanglong, you will depart the park and embark on a scenic 2-hour drive to Jiuzhaigou, where you will check in at your hotel.

Useful Tips:

The altitude of Huanglong ranges from 3,200 to 3,600 meters (10,500 to 11,800 feet), which may pose challenges for some travelers in acclimating to high altitudes. It is advisable to refrain from strenuous activities and consider carrying oxygen or utilizing oxygen stations available in the park.
Please note that the Huanglong cable car is closed during the winter season.

Day 5 Jiuzhaigou Classic Tour | Jiuzhaigou National Park

After breakfast at your hotel, embark on a full-day exploration of Jiuzhaigou National Park with your guide. Board a sightseeing bus to enter the park and delve into the enchanting landscape of Jiuzhaigou.

Renowned for its breathtaking scenery, Jiuzhaigou is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of China’s most captivating attractions. The park, named after the nine Tibetan settlements along its length, boasts stunning blue lakes, cascading waterfalls, vibrant forests, and picturesque woodlands framed by snow-capped mountain ranges.

Jiuzhaigou is shaped like a Y-valley, comprising three main sections: Zechawa, Rize, and Shuzheng valleys. To optimize your experience, utilize the sightseeing buses that shuttle visitors between attractions. Your guide will craft a strategic route tailored to your schedule, energy level, and crowd avoidance, ensuring you explore Jiuzhaigou’s highlights at a leisurely pace.

A classic itinerary begins with a sightseeing bus ride to Nuorilang Waterfall. From there, proceed to Zechawa Valley and embark on a short hike to Five-Flower Lake and Pearl Beach. Next, venture to Rize Valley to admire Panda Lake, Five Flowers Lake, Pearl Shoal, Mirror Lake, and more. Return to Nuorilang for a well-deserved rest at the Nuorilang Tourist Center.

After rejuvenating, continue your exploration of Shuzheng Valley. Descend along Shuzheng Valley towards the park entrance, reveling in the spectacular natural scenery interspersed with traditional Tibetan villages.

Useful Tips:

Arrive early to avoid crowds and maximize your time in the park.
Wear comfortable walking or hiking shoes.
Dining options within the park are limited and pricey. Consider bringing your own food for a picnic away from the crowds.

Day 6 Jiuzhaigou - Chengdu (450 km 8-9 hrs)

After breakfast, your tour guide will meet you at your hotel in Jiuzhaigou, and you’ll begin the journey back to Chengdu. Along the way, make a stop to admire the stunning plateau lake views of Diexi Lake. Marvel at the natural beauty of the area before continuing your journey.

Once you arrive back in Chengdu, take the opportunity to relax and unwind after your travels. Enjoy a well-deserved rest at your hotel, reflecting on the memories you’ve made during your time in Jiuzhaigou.

Day 7 Chengdu - Zhangjiajie by Flight

Today, you’ll be escorted to the airport for a flight to Zhangjiajie, which typically takes about 2 hours. Upon your arrival in Zhangjiajie, your local guide and driver will be waiting for you at the exit of the train station. They will then accompany you to your hotel in the Wulingyuan Area. Take this opportunity to relax and rest after your journey.

Please note: Flights between Chengdu and Zhangjiajie may be limited, especially during low season. In the event that there are no available tickets, we may arrange for your transfer via Changsha. From there, you can take a high-speed train to Zhangjiajie, which typically takes only 2 hours.

Day 8 Zhangjiajie Wulingyuan Tour | Yuanjiajie, Tianzi Mountain, Ten-mile Gallery

After breakfast, you’ll have a full day to explore the breathtaking Wulingyuan Scenic Area, characterized by over 3,000 narrow quartz sandstone pillars. Begin by boarding a sightseeing bus to the Bailong Elevator, a remarkable feat of engineering that whisks you from the valley bottom to the pillar peak in just 1.5 minutes. This outdoor elevator is both the fastest and tallest of its kind globally.

Next, embark on a hike into the enchanting world of Yuanjiajie, famously known as the shooting location of the “Hallelujah Mountains” in the movie Avatar. Here, marvel at the South Sky Pillar, a towering landmark rising about 150 meters vertically from the deep valley. Take in the breathtaking scenery from the Enchanting Platform, where hundreds of various peaks resemble bamboo shoots stretching towards the sky. Continue to explore the lush Natural Bonsai at Backyard Garden.

Afterwards, board the sightseeing bus to Tianzi Mountain Nature Reserve, named after the leader of the local Tujia ethnic group in the Ming Dynasty. Trek to He Long Park, boasting a captivating viewing deck offering incredible vistas of peculiar stone peaks. Proceed to Dianjiang Terrace to gaze upon the West Sea Stone Forest, where rugged rocks emerge from misty canyons. Conclude your exploration with a visit to the Ten-mile Gallery, where you’ll embark on a scenic ride aboard a small green train through landscapes reminiscent of a Chinese ink painting.

After the tour, return to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.

Day 9 Zhangjiajie Tour | Grand Canyon Glass Bridge, Baofeng Lake

After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon for an exhilarating experience on the Grand Canyon Glass Bridge. Suspended between two peaks, this architectural marvel offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. At 430 meters long and 300 meters high, it’s the longest and highest glass bridge globally. Walking on the transparent glass feels like floating in the air, providing a thrilling and unforgettable experience.

After your adventure on the glass bridge, head to Baofeng Lake for a scenic cruise, where you can unwind and soak in the serene atmosphere. Surrounded by lush greenery and unique rock formations, Baofeng Lake offers a tranquil setting for relaxation. As you leisurely cruise on the boat, enjoy the reflections of the majestic peaks mirrored in the crystal-clear waters and listen to the enchanting folk songs performed by local minority groups.

Day 10 Zhangjiajie Departure | Tianmen Mountain

After breakfast, your guide and driver will meet you at your hotel lobby to embark on an unforgettable journey to Tianmen Mountain, one of the world’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Prepare for an exhilarating experience as you take on some of the mountain’s most iconic attractions.

First, you’ll board the world’s longest cable car, a 30-minute ride spanning 7,455 meters from Zhangjiajie city to the summit of Tianmen Mountain. Along the way, marvel at the awe-inspiring views of Heaven’s Door and the winding Avenue toward Heaven below. Upon reaching the top, visit Tianmen Temple, a beautiful Qing Dynasty-style Buddhist structure nestled amidst verdant forests.

Next, brace yourself for an adrenaline-pumping adventure as you traverse the cliff-hanging paths and walk on the transparent Glass Skywalk, suspended 1,430 meters above the valley floor. Feel the rush of excitement as you stroll along the 1.6-kilometer-long Cliff-Hanging Walkway, offering unparalleled views of the surrounding landscapes.

Don’t miss the opportunity to visit Tianmen Cave, also known as “Heaven’s Door,” a natural arch towering 131.5 meters above the ground. Witness the majestic beauty of this geological wonder before descending via cable car.

After an unforgettable day of exploration, your guide will accompany you to the airport or train station for your onward journey, bidding farewell as you depart from Zhangjiajie. Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel for your China tour, and we look forward to welcoming you back for your next adventure in China or Asia. Safe travels!

Price: What’s Included & What’s Excluded

The price mentioned above is for a private tour for two individuals. Prices may vary depending on the travel date, group size, hotel category, itinerary, and potential fluctuations in currency exchange rates.

What’s Included?

Skilled drivers and comfortable air-conditioned vehicles at your service.
English-speaking local professional tour guide.
Hotel accommodation with breakfast.
Domestic flights (economy class) or second class tickets on high speed train according to the itinerary.
Tickets, scheduled activities and meals included in the itinerary.
Comprehensive accident insurance.（Passport information required)
We will assist you throughout the trip from initial planning to the end of the trip.

What’s Excluded?

Overseas flight tickets
Visa application costs
Individual expenditures
Additional charge for single occupancy rooms
Suggested extra activities
Arrival and departure transportation on the initial and final days
Gratuities for tour guides and chauffeurs

Important Information for Booking a Private China Tour

How to Reserve a Private China Tour?

Booking a private China tour is a straightforward process. Simply choose the tour you’re interested in and click “Submit a Free Inquiry.” Share your preferences and requirements when filling out the form. You won’t need to make an immediate payment during this stage. Once you’ve submitted your details, one of our expert travel consultants will respond to you within 0.5 to 24 hours. After confirming all the details, you can proceed to make a deposit. If you have any questions before booking, feel free to contact the travel consultant directly.

Customize Your China Tour

The itinerary provided above is a sample that most travelers follow. However, we can tailor the tour to align with your preferences, interests, and budget. If you wish to extend the tour or have specific destinations and activities in mind, simply inform us. Our experienced travel experts will redesign the trip to meet your needs and offer you the best price. Share your ideas with us now >>

Transportation

During your private tour, you’ll be transported to various attractions within each city in a comfortable, air-conditioned private vehicle. Our selected vehicles are spacious and driven by experienced drivers. For travel between destinations, we utilize domestic flights (economy class) or high-speed trains (second class, typically less than 6 hours). Upon arrival at airports or train stations, your local guides and drivers will greet you and escort you to your hotel.

Dining

“B” denotes breakfast, which will be provided at your hotel in the morning.
“L” indicates lunch. The restaurants we select are approved by local tourism authorities and maintain high sanitary standards. Your guide will assist with ordering dishes.
“D” signifies dinner. Dinners are not included in the itinerary, giving you the opportunity to sample authentic Chinese cuisine and local snacks. If you have specific dietary preferences or requirements (such as vegetarian, halal, kosher, Indian, or gluten-free), please inform us before booking. We will do our utmost to accommodate your needs.

Accommodation & Hotel Condition for Your China Tour

Ensuring a restful night’s sleep is crucial throughout your China tour. With our private tours, you have the freedom to choose from a range of hotel classes, whether it’s luxurious 5-star accommodations, comfortable 4-star lodgings, or economical 3-star options.

All the hotels selected in each destination are conveniently situated near commercial districts or popular tourist attractions. Moreover, our longstanding partnerships with these hotels guarantee a consistent level of quality and service. Each hotel room is equipped with essential amenities such as windows, air conditioning, hot water, showers, and Wi-Fi, ensuring a luxurious and comfortable sleep experience. The English-speaking staff members are dedicated to providing high-quality service and are readily available to assist with any requests or preferences you may have.

Price: Request

(Based on a private tour for two people. Price varies depending on program, travel date, number of people.)

Free Enquiry! You don’t need to pay for the reservation.