9 Days China Picturesque Nature Tour with Yangtze River Cruise: Guilin-Zhangjiajie-Chongqing-Yichang

After breakfast, begin one of China’s most iconic scenic experiences — the Li River Cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo. The cruise starts from Mopanshan Pier and travels approximately 84 kilometers through a landscape that looks like a traditional Chinese ink painting.

During the approximately 4-hour cruise, enjoy breathtaking views of winding rivers, emerald-green waters, dramatic limestone karst peaks, bamboo forests, and peaceful countryside villages. Along the way, admire famous scenery including A Painting of Nine Horses, one of the most celebrated landscapes along the Li River, and the scenery featured on the Chinese 20 RMB banknote.

After arriving in Yangshuo, check in to your hotel and take a short rest before exploring the beautiful Yulong River countryside. This area represents the classic Yangshuo landscape, featuring clear streams, green rice fields, reflections of karst mountains, traditional villages, and peaceful rural scenery.

Choose your preferred way to explore Yulong River:

Cycling Experience

Ride through countryside paths and enjoy close views of rivers, farmland, villages, and mountains. The classic cycling route connects Yangshuo, Jima, Shuiedi Dock, Gongnong Bridge, and West Street.

Bamboo Rafting Experience

Enjoy a relaxing bamboo rafting journey along Yulong River, drifting slowly through quiet waterways surrounded by karst peaks and countryside scenery that resembles a traditional Chinese landscape painting.

Countryside Driving Experience

Travel comfortably by vehicle between scenic viewpoints, enjoying the beautiful countryside landscapes at a relaxed pace.

In the evening, take a walk along Yangshuo West Street, a historic street where traditional Chinese culture blends with international influences. Explore local restaurants, cafés, shops, and lively street scenes.

Optional Activity:

• Impression Liu Sanjie Show: A spectacular outdoor performance directed by famous Chinese director Zhang Yimou, with the Li River and karst mountains forming a natural stage background.

Highlights:

• Cruise along the beautiful Li River
• Enjoy world-famous Guilin karst scenery
• Explore peaceful Yulong River countryside
• Experience cycling, hiking, bamboo rafting, or driving
• Discover lively Yangshuo West Street
• Optional Impression Liu Sanjie evening show

Overnight: Yangshuo

Enjoy a relaxing morning in Yangshuo, surrounded by beautiful countryside landscapes and peaceful river scenery. Take your time to experience the charming atmosphere of this famous travel destination before continuing your journey.

Afterward, your guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to Guilin Railway Station or Guilin North Railway Station for your high-speed train journey to Zhangjiajie.

The train journey takes approximately 7 hours, crossing through the beautiful landscapes of central China. Your destination, Zhangjiajie, is famous worldwide for its dramatic sandstone pillars, mist-covered mountains, and surreal landscapes that inspired the floating mountains of Avatar.

Upon arrival at Zhangjiajie Railway Station, your local guide will meet you and transfer you by private comfortable vehicle to your hotel in Wulingyuan District, the ideal base for exploring Zhangjiajie National Forest Park.

The rest of the day is free to relax, explore the local area, or prepare for the upcoming Zhangjiajie adventure.

Highlights:

• Relax in beautiful Yangshuo countryside
• Travel by high-speed train from Guilin to Zhangjiajie
• Experience China’s changing landscapes by rail
• Arrive at Wulingyuan Scenic Area
• Stay near Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

Overnight: Wulingyuan, Zhangjiajie

After an early breakfast, begin your adventure in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, the legendary “Pandora World” from Avatar and a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site since 1992. Famous for its towering sandstone pillars, mist-covered peaks, and spectacular forest scenery, the park is one of China’s most impressive natural wonders.

Start your visit at Ten-Mile Gallery, a beautiful valley filled with unique rock formations and natural landscapes that look like scenes from a traditional Chinese painting. Take a sightseeing tram through the valley and enjoy the fascinating formations along the way, then walk back slowly to fully appreciate the peaceful scenery, fresh air, and surrounding mountain views.

Continue to Yuanjiajie Scenic Area by taking the world-famous Bailong Elevator, the highest outdoor elevator in the world. The glass elevator rises vertically along the cliff face, offering a thrilling experience and spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.

At Yuanjiajie, explore the breathtaking landscape known as the inspiration for the floating mountains in Avatar. Admire the iconic Hallelujah Mountain, towering sandstone pillars surrounded by lush forests and deep valleys. Walk through the scenic viewpoints and experience the mysterious atmosphere of this incredible natural world.

Continue by sightseeing bus to Tianzi Mountain, known as the “King of Peak Forests.” The area is famous for its dramatic sandstone peaks rising through clouds and mist. Enjoy the magnificent views of the four major natural wonders: peak forests, sea of clouds, sunrise, and winter snow.

Explore famous viewpoints including Yuyi Peak, Fairy Flowers, and, if time and energy allow, Warriors Training Horse, where dozens of peaks create a natural scene resembling a warrior controlling a horse.

Finish the day with a scenic Tianzi Mountain Cable Car ride down the mountain, enjoying the spectacular rock formations passing outside your window. After sightseeing, transfer to your hotel in downtown Zhangjiajie.

Optional Activities:

• Kongzhong Tianyuan (The Field in the Sky): A photography paradise featuring terraced fields surrounded by towering peaks and views of Bailong Elevator.
• Tianmen Fox Fairy Show: A large-scale outdoor musical drama performed with Zhangjiajie’s natural landscape as the stage.

Highlights:

• Explore UNESCO-listed Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
• Visit scenic Ten-Mile Gallery
• Experience the world-famous Bailong Elevator
• Discover Yuanjiajie Avatar Mountain
• Admire the spectacular Tianzi Mountain Peak Forest
• Enjoy Zhangjiajie’s most iconic landscapes

Overnight: Zhangjiajie

After breakfast, begin your exploration of Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park, one of Zhangjiajie’s most famous attractions. Known as the “Soul of Zhangjiajie,” Tianmen Mountain combines spectacular mountain scenery, ancient Buddhist culture, thrilling cliff paths, and the legendary Tianmen Cave.

Start with the incredible Tianmen Mountain Cable Car, one of the longest mountain cableways in the world. The cable car stretches approximately 7,455 meters, connecting Zhangjiajie city center with the mountain summit at an altitude of over 1,400 meters. During the ride, enjoy breathtaking views of the winding Tongtian Avenue (Avenue Toward Heaven) and the dramatic mountain landscape below.

Explore the West Line, one of the most beautiful routes on Tianmen Mountain. Walk along the thrilling Guigu Cliffside Path, a 1,600-meter-long walkway attached to the cliff face, offering spectacular views of deep valleys, steep cliffs, and surrounding mountains.

Continue to Tianmen Mountain Temple, a historic Buddhist temple dating back to the Tang Dynasty. Surrounded by green forests and peaceful mountain scenery, the temple features traditional architecture and provides a quiet cultural experience on the mountaintop.

After the temple visit, choose your preferred route:

• East Line Hiking Route: Walk toward Yuhu Peak, passing scenic viewpoints including South Overlooking Tianmen Cave, Yuhu Peak, and Happy Grove.
• Forest Sightseeing Cable Car Route: Take the optional forest cable car to Yunmeng Fairy Summit, one of the best viewpoints on Tianmen Mountain, then walk toward Turbulent Water at Tianmen.

Continue to the incredible Tianmen Cave, a giant natural opening in the mountain measuring approximately 131.5 meters high, 57 meters wide, and 60 meters deep. Known as the “Gateway to Heaven,” it is one of Zhangjiajie’s most famous natural landmarks.

After visiting Tianmen Cave, experience the dramatic 999 Steps to Heaven, a steep staircase leading from the mountain to the cave area. Finally, take the Tianmen Mountain Express Cable Car and shuttle bus back to the tourist center.

After the tour, transfer to Zhangjiajie Railway Station and take a high-speed train to Chongqing (approximately 2–3 hours). Upon arrival, your Chongqing guide will meet you and transfer you to your downtown hotel.

Highlights:

• Ride the spectacular Tianmen Mountain Cable Car
• Enjoy views of Tongtian Avenue
• Walk the thrilling Guigu Cliffside Path
• Visit historic Tianmen Mountain Temple
• Explore the legendary Tianmen Cave
• Experience the famous 999 Steps to Heaven
• Travel by high-speed train to Chongqing

Overnight: Chongqing

After breakfast, your guide and driver will meet you at your hotel and begin a full-day exploration of Chongqing, the famous mountain city known for its unique urban landscape, futuristic atmosphere, and fascinating culture.

Start at the Three Gorges Museum, one of Chongqing’s most important cultural attractions. The museum houses more than 280,000 precious cultural relics and introduces the history of the Yangtze River, the formation of the Three Gorges, and Chongqing’s development from an ancient city with over 3,000 years of history into a modern municipality.

Continue to the impressive People’s Assembly Hall, one of Chongqing’s most recognizable architectural landmarks. Famous for its elegant classical design, the building combines traditional Chinese architectural elements with modern construction techniques and has received international recognition.

Next, experience Chongqing’s unique transportation system by taking Chongqing Rail Transit Line 2 from Huanghuayuan Station to Liziba Station. During the journey, enjoy city views and witness the famous engineering wonder where a metro train passes directly through a 19-story residential building.

Continue to Hongya Cave, Chongqing’s most popular landmark and one of the best places to experience the city’s night scenery. Built along the hillside, the complex features traditional Ba and Shu-style wooden stilt houses rising through multiple levels. When illuminated at night, Hongya Cave becomes one of Chongqing’s most spectacular views.

Optional Activity:

• Eye in the Clouds Observation Deck: Enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of Chongqing from a 520-meter-high observation platform.

In the evening, transfer to Chaotianmen Port to board your Yangtze River Cruise. Complete boarding procedures and begin your unforgettable journey through the Three Gorges.

Cruise Boarding Tips:

• Confirm your exact boarding pier before arrival, as Chaotianmen Port has multiple terminals.
• Boarding arrangements may change depending on cruise schedules, water levels, weather, and seasonal conditions.

Highlights:

• Discover Chongqing history at Three Gorges Museum
• Visit the iconic People’s Assembly Hall
• Experience the famous Liziba Metro Through Building
• Explore illuminated Hongya Cave
• Board the legendary Yangtze River Cruise

Overnight: Yangtze River Cruise

Wake up to a peaceful morning on the Yangtze River Cruise and enjoy the beautiful scenery along China’s longest river. Start your day at a relaxing pace by joining a traditional Tai Chi session on the cruise deck with a professional instructor, or enjoy a cup of coffee while watching the tranquil river landscapes pass by.

During the cruise, take part in various onboard cultural and entertainment activities. Attend the Yangtze River History and Culture Lecture to learn about the history, geography, and cultural importance of the Yangtze River. You can also enjoy seasonal themed activities, meet fellow travelers at the Captain’s Welcome Party, and watch exciting evening performances onboard.

Later, follow your English-speaking local guide for an onshore excursion to Fengdu Ghost City, a historic cultural attraction with more than 2,000 years of history. Known as the “Homeland of Divine Comedy in China,” Fengdu is famous for its unique temples, shrines, palaces, pavilions, and traditional architectural complexes.

Explore this mysterious ancient site and discover colorful statues, legends, and cultural stories related to traditional Chinese beliefs about the afterlife. The scenic area presents ancient concepts of morality, showing the traditional belief that good deeds are rewarded while wrong actions receive punishment.

The visit requires walking through historic areas with steps and slopes, so comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended.

Optional Activity:

• Feng Yan San Guo (Three Kingdoms Fire Show): A spectacular real-landscape performance featuring impressive scenery, music, lighting effects, and stories from the famous Three Kingdoms period, highlighting the loyalty and heroic spirit of General Guan Yu.

Highlights:

• Enjoy a relaxing morning on the Yangtze River Cruise
• Experience Tai Chi on the cruise deck
• Participate in onboard cultural activities
• Visit the historic Fengdu Ghost City
• Discover traditional Chinese mythology and folklore
• Optional Three Kingdoms Fire Show experience

Overnight: Yangtze River Cruise

Today is the highlight of your Yangtze River Cruise, as you sail through the spectacular Three Gorges, one of China’s most famous natural landscapes. Relax on the ship’s deck and enjoy the breathtaking scenery of towering cliffs, green mountains, winding waterways, and historic river landscapes.

The cruise will pass through the three magnificent sections of the Yangtze Three Gorges:

• Qutang Gorge – The shortest and most dramatic gorge, famous for its steep cliffs, narrow river channel, and the iconic Kui Gate, one of the most recognizable landscapes on the Yangtze River.
• Wu Gorge – Known for its elegant scenery, mist-covered mountains, deep valleys, and the legendary Twelve Peaks that have inspired generations of Chinese poets and artists.
• Xiling Gorge – The longest gorge of the Three Gorges, featuring dramatic landscapes, winding waterways, and impressive natural scenery.

During the journey, transfer to a smaller sightseeing boat for an excursion to Shennv Stream (Goddess Stream), a beautiful tributary of the Yangtze River. Cruise through this peaceful primitive gorge surrounded by steep mountains, clear water, and untouched natural landscapes.

Along the stream, admire the spectacular cliff scenery, learn about local history, and discover the traditions of the Tujia ethnic group through their traditional songs, dances, and cultural performances.

In the evening, enjoy the Captain’s Farewell Party onboard. Celebrate the final night of your Yangtze River cruise with fellow travelers and enjoy a memorable evening of entertainment and relaxation.

Optional Activity:

• White Emperor City (Baidi City): Located at the entrance of Qutang Gorge, this historic site is connected with stories from the famous Romance of the Three Kingdoms. It is also one of the best places to view Kui Gate, the landscape featured on the Chinese 10 RMB banknote.

Highlights:

• Sail through the magnificent Three Gorges
• Experience Qutang Gorge, Wu Gorge, and Xiling Gorge
• Explore beautiful Shennv Stream by smaller boat
• Discover Tujia ethnic culture and traditions
• Enjoy spectacular river and mountain scenery
• Celebrate the final cruise evening with the Captain’s Farewell Party

Overnight: Yangtze River Cruise

After breakfast, complete the cruise check-out procedure and disembark at Maoping Port. Continue your journey to the world-famous Three Gorges Dam, the largest hydropower project in the world and one of China’s greatest modern engineering achievements.

Take the arranged tourist bus to the Three Gorges Dam Scenic Area and explore this remarkable project from different viewpoints. The dam stretches approximately 2,300 meters long and plays an important role in flood control, clean energy production, and improving navigation along the Yangtze River.

With a huge reservoir capacity of approximately 39.3 billion cubic meters, the Three Gorges Dam demonstrates the impressive scale of modern engineering. During your visit, learn more about the project’s history, construction, and impact at the Three Gorges Dam Project Museum.

Optional Activity:

• Three Gorges Dam Ship Lift Experience: Take a tourist boat through the world’s largest ship lift, which raises vessels approximately 113 meters and provides a unique engineering experience.

After sightseeing, take the tourist bus to Yichang Three Gorges Center Cruise Terminal in downtown Yichang, arriving around midday. Your local guide and driver will meet you there and transfer you to Yichang Sanxia Airport or Yichang East Railway Station for your onward flight or train journey.

The 9 Days Guilin – Zhangjiajie – Chongqing – Yangtze River Cruise Nature Tour ends with unforgettable memories of China’s most beautiful landscapes, cultural heritage, and legendary river scenery.

Departure Options:

• Flights from Yichang Sanxia Airport to major cities including Shanghai, Beijing, Xi’an, Guangzhou, and Hangzhou.
• High-speed trains from Yichang East Railway Station to Wuhan, Shanghai, Beijing, Hangzhou, Chengdu, Guangzhou, and other destinations.

Highlights:

• Visit the incredible Three Gorges Dam
• Learn about China’s largest hydropower project
• Explore the Three Gorges Dam Museum
• Optional ship lift adventure
• Convenient transfer to Yichang airport or railway station

Tour Ends: Yichang Airport / Railway Station