5-Day Private Tour from Zhangjiajie to Fenghuang and Shanghai

Discover China’s Natural and Urban Wonders on a 5-Day Private Tour

This 5-day private journey offers a comprehensive look into some of China’s most captivating sights, combining natural beauty with vibrant city life. From the towering peaks of Zhangjiajie to the historic charm of Fenghuang and the bustling metropolis of Shanghai, it’s an adventure designed for travelers eager to see a diverse spectrum of China’s landscape and culture.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour is the seamless blend of guided exploration and culture, all wrapped up with private transportation and a dedicated guide. The tour is especially appealing for those who want a well-organized, in-depth experience without the hassle of planning each move. However, it’s worth noting that the itinerary involves quite a bit of travel time—so be prepared for long days. This experience suits travelers with an appetite for natural beauty, city exploration, and cultural sites, who also value comfort and convenience.

Key Points

Stunning Scenic Landscapes: From Zhangjiajie’s mountain ranges to Fenghuang’s ancient town, the scenery is breathtaking.
Well-Organized Itinerary: The tour covers major highlights with a good balance of sightseeing and free time.
Comfort and Convenience: Private transfers, hotel pickups, and an air-conditioned vehicle make logistics smooth.
Cultural Insights: Explore authentic towns and learn about Chinese history through guided visits.
Value for Money: The tour includes entrance tickets and flights, which simplifies planning and offers solid value.
Long Days, Rich Experiences: Expect full days packed with diverse activities, so be ready for an energetic trip.

A Deep Dive into the 5-Day Adventure

Day 1: Zhangjiajie National Forest Park & Wulingyuan Scenic Area

Starting in Zhangjiajie, the journey opens with a full day of awe-inspiring natural sights. Your guide will meet you bright and early, setting the tone for a day filled with stunning vistas. The first stop is Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, famous for its otherworldly rock formations, deep valleys, and lush greenery. The highlight here is Tianzi Mountain, accessible via the world’s longest cable car, which whisks you above a sea of jagged peaks.

We loved the way the guide explained the different mountain areas, especially Yuanjiajie, known for its resemblance to the floating mountains in the movie Avatar. The combination of deep caves, waterfalls, and stone pillars creates a landscape that feels almost surreal. The park boasts over 500 species of wildlife and vegetation—so keep your eyes peeled for monkeys and gingko trees, which are among the rarities.

Next, the tour visits the Wulingyuan Scenic Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site covering a vast 690 square kilometers. With over 560 attractions, it’s a natural wonderland. The highlight here was Tianzi Mountain, where you’ll take a shuttle to reach the top and enjoy panoramic views of peaks that seem to rise endlessly. The area’s “Four Wonders”—the Sea of Clouds, the Radiance of the Moonlight, Rays of Sunshine, and Snow—are spectacular in different seasons, offering changing scenery that keeps each visit fresh.

A significant highlight is the Bailong Elevator, a glass elevator clinging to a cliff face that takes you 335 meters high. We found it both exhilarating and a bit nerve-wracking, but the views from the top are worth it. Afterward, a peaceful hike along Golden Whip Stream reveals lush flora and tranquil waters, perfect for a relaxing walk after the more adrenaline-filled activities.

To cap the day, the Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge offers a chance to walk over the world’s longest and highest glass bridge, hanging over a canyon with views that make your knees a little weak in the best way. The excitement and the scenery make this a memorable finish before returning to your hotel.

Day 2: Tianmen Mountain & Fenghuang County

The second day begins with a drive to Tianmen Mountain, a highlight for thrill-seekers and scenic lovers alike. The park’s cliff walkways and glass walkway offer spectacular, vertigo-inducing views of the city below. The mountain’s Guinness Records—including the longest cable car ride—are a testament to its scale and engineering marvels.

We loved the contrast between the towering peaks and the cityscape, all accessible via a funicular that provides spectacular views en route. Expect about 3-4 hours exploring this iconic mountain, with plenty of time to marvel at the landscape and snap photos.

In the afternoon, the tour heads toward Fenghuang County, a beautifully preserved ancient town that feels like stepping back in time. The trip takes roughly 3 hours by road. The town itself is a photographer’s dream—blue flagstone streets, wooden stilted houses, and the vibrant customs of the Miao people. When wandering the streets, you’ll notice the unique architecture and the vibrant local culture, which makes for authentic exploration.

Day 3: Exploring Fenghuang & Flight to Shanghai

The full day in Fenghuang is a leisurely exploration of Fenghuang Ancient Town. A boat trip along Tuojiang River offers a serene view of the town’s water-bound charm, with water plants swaying and mists rising, creating almost a fairy-tale setting. The Wanming Pagoda stands as a striking landmark, with its seven-layered design and intricate decorations.

After lunch, the tour visits Tiaotiao Rock, a famous town landmark—ideal for capturing photos of the stilted buildings and the colorful Rainbow Bridge over the river. This peaceful town is perfect for wandering at your own pace and soaking in the tranquility.

Later in the day, the group transfers to Zhangjiajie airport for a flight to Shanghai (about 2 hours). The seamless transfer and included flight simplify logistics, letting you focus on enjoying your trip rather than stressing over transportation.

Day 4: Shanghai’s Modern Marvels & Historic Charm

In Shanghai, the day kicks off with a visit to the Urban Planning Exhibition Hall, where scale models and high-tech displays give a behind-the-scenes look at the city’s rapid growth. It’s a good introduction to Shanghai’s blend of past and future.

Next, the Yuyuan Garden is a highlight for lovers of traditional Chinese architecture. The garden’s delicate layout, full of pavilions, artificial hills, and exquisite stonework, offers a peaceful retreat amid the city buzz. The nearby Yuyuan Old Street is lively, with shops selling local snacks, souvenirs, and antiques—perfect for a bit of shopping and people-watching.

The afternoon is dedicated to panoramic city views from the Shanghai World Financial Center, where you’ll ascend to the 100th floor. The view over the sprawling city and the Huangpu River is stunning—an essential stop for first-time visitors.

Finally, a stroll along The Bund provides classic Shanghai skyline views, with historic European-style buildings and modern skyscrapers side by side. It’s the perfect spot to relax, take photos, and soak in the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

Day 5: Water Towns & Cultural Heritage

The last day takes you to Zhujiajiao Water Town, often called Shanghai’s Venice, with its charming canals and ancient bridges. Exploring Kezhi Garden, the Qing Dynasty Post Office, and Fangsheng Bridge gives a taste of traditional life in this 1,700-year-old town.

Later, the group visits the Jade Buddha Temple, home to two exquisite white jade Buddha statues from Burma. The temple remains an active place for Buddhist practice and offers insight into spiritual traditions.

In the afternoon, the tour wraps up at Tianzifang, a lively arts and crafts enclave with quirky shops, cafes, and galleries housed in historic Shikumen buildings. It’s a fitting final stop—combining culture, art, and lively local scenes.

What You Need to Know: Practical Details

Transportation & Comfort: The tour uses private air-conditioned vehicles, which are a huge plus for keeping everyone comfortable during long drives. Hotel pickups and airport transfers are included, so no need to worry about logistics—just sit back and enjoy.

Timing & Pace: Expect full, busy days with a mix of guided tours and free time. The itinerary is tightly packed but balanced, giving you a taste of each location without rushing through. The early starts (around 9 am) mean you get a head start on sightseeing.

Cost & Value: At approximately $1,873.69 per person, this tour covers entrance tickets, the flight from Zhangjiajie to Shanghai, private transportation, and a guide—all valuable inclusions that make planning easier. While it may seem pricey, the convenience and depth of experience justify the cost, especially considering the combined entry fees and flights included.

Group Size & Guides: The tour is private, so you’ll have a dedicated guide, ensuring personalized attention and flexible timing. Travelers have appreciated the guides’ knowledge and friendly demeanor, which enhances the overall experience.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This adventure is perfect for travelers who want a well-rounded exploration of China’s natural and urban highlights without the hassle of organizing each detail. It’s ideal for those with a moderate to high budget who value comfort, convenience, and authentic sights.

If you enjoy stunning vistas, culture, and city skylines, and aren’t bothered by long days of sightseeing, this tour offers excellent value. It’s also suitable for first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive package that hits all major attractions in a manageable timeframe.

Final Thoughts

This 5-day private tour offers an impressive blend of spectacular natural scenery, fascinating cultural sites, and modern city views. The seamless logistics, private guides, and included flights make it especially appealing for those who want an all-in-one experience without the stress of planning the details themselves.

While the busy schedule might be a challenge for some, the variety of sights ensures no day feels dull. Plus, the opportunity to see the stunning peaks of Zhangjiajie, the historic charm of Fenghuang, and the vibrant energy of Shanghai makes this an adventure worth considering.

Overall, it’s a well-priced option that delivers a lot of value, especially for travelers seeking diversity in their China trip, and who appreciate authentic, beautiful, and memorable experiences.

FAQs

Is transportation included in this tour? Yes, private air-conditioned vehicles are used for all transfers, including hotel pickups, day trips, and airport transfers.

Are entrance tickets included? All specified entrance tickets—such as Zhangjiajie parks, Tianmen Mountain, Fenghuang town, and Zhujiajiao Water Town—are included in the price.

Does the tour include flights? Yes, your flight from Zhangjiajie to Shanghai is included, simplifying your travel planning.

How long are the driving distances? The longest drive is approximately 3 hours from Fenghuang to Zhangjiajie, and around 3 hours from Fenghuang to Shanghai.

Is this tour suitable for all ages? Most travelers can participate, but consider age and physical fitness for activities like hiking, cable car rides, and walking on glass bridges.

Can I customize this tour? Yes, it’s a private tour, so you can add more days or request specific interests with prior arrangement.

Are meals included? Lunches are optional and not included in the standard package; you can choose to enjoy local cuisine along the way.

What should I pack? Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera are recommended to capture the stunning scenery.

How physically demanding is the daily schedule? Expect full days with a mix of walking, sightseeing, and some climbing or stairs. Good physical condition will enhance your experience.

What’s the best time of year to take this tour? While not specified, spring and autumn are generally ideal for the best weather and scenery, especially in Zhangjiajie and Fenghuang.

This tour balances natural beauty, cultural insights, and city exploration, making it a strong choice for those wanting a comprehensive Chinese experience with ease and comfort.