Comprehensive 3-Day Adventure in Zhangjiajie National Park, China

Day 1: Entrance and Yuanjiajie

Zhangjiajie, China on July 10, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Zhangjiajie City - Chongqing Xiao Mian

Start your day with a delicious bowl of spicy Chongqing noodles, a local staple to energize you for hiking.
CNY20, 0h30m

8:30am

Enter Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

Purchase your tickets at the park entrance and prepare for the lift to Yuanjiajie. The park opens at 7:30am, so arriving early helps beat the crowds.
CNY248, 0h30m

9:00am

Yuanjiajie Scenic Area

Take the Bailong Elevator up to access Yuanjiajie, famous for its Avatar Hallelujah Mountains. Spend the morning exploring the towering quartz-sandstone pillars.
CNY72 (Bailong Elevator), 4h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Yuanjiajie Snack Stand

Enjoy quick local snacks such as rice noodles and steamed buns to recharge without losing time.
CNY30, 0h45m

2:00pm

Explore nearby Golden Whip Stream entrance area

Walk along some initial part of the scenic Golden Whip Stream corridor to appreciate nature and wildlife near Yuanjiajie.
Free with park ticket, 2h0m

4:30pm

Return and check-in at a nearby hotel

Check into a comfortable hotel near the park entrance to rest and prepare for the next day.
CNY300, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Laojun Restaurant

Enjoy traditional Hunan cuisine with local specialties showcasing the region’s bold flavors.
CNY120, 1h30m
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Day 2: Tianzi Mountain & Golden Whip

Zhangjiajie, China on July 11, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Have a hearty breakfast at your hotel to prepare for a full day outdoors.
Included, 0h45m

8:00am

Travel to Tianzi Mountain Scenic Area

Take the park shuttle bus towards Tianzi Mountain, famed for its panoramic views and unique rock formations.
CNY60, 1h0m

9:00am

Explore Tianzi Mountain

Hike and take the cable car to viewpoints offering breathtaking views of the misty peaks and valleys beneath.
CNY100 (cable car), 4h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Tianzi Mountain Restaurant

Dine on simple but delicious local dishes while enjoying mountain views.
CNY80, 1h0m

2:00pm

Golden Whip Stream Walk

Spend the afternoon walking along the scenic Golden Whip Stream trail, a peaceful riverside hike through lush forest and sandstone cliffs. The trail is well-maintained and shaded, perfect for hot weather.
Free with park entry, 3h0m

5:30pm

Return to hotel

Relax and refresh after a long day of hiking.
Included, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Grand View Restaurant

Try local wild vegetables and freshwater fish dishes, complimented with traditional rice wine.
CNY130, 1h30m
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Day 3: Huangshizhai & Ten-Mile Gallery

Zhangjiajie, China on July 12, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at local cafe

Enjoy pastries and hot soy milk to start your last day in the mountains.
CNY25, 0h45m

8:30am

Head to Huangshizhai (Yellow Stone Village)

Take the cable car to this scenic area known for panoramic views of the entire Zhangjiajie region and distinct rock cavities.
CNY75 (cable car), 3h0m

11:30am

Lunch at Huangshizhai Restaurant

Sample a regional lunch with an emphasis on locally sourced mushrooms and bamboo shoots.
CNY70, 1h0m

12:45pm

Ten-Mile Gallery Scenic Area

Take an electric sightseeing bus through this picturesque valley showcasing narrow rock pillars and lush greenery.
CNY100 (bus and entry), 3h0m

4:00pm

Return to Zhangjiajie City

Head back to the city center or your next destination, completing your scenic loop.
CNY50 (taxi or shuttle), 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Tujia Minority Restaurant

Celebrate your trip with traditional Tujia ethnic dishes featuring smoked meats and spicy broths.
CNY140, 1h30m
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