9-Day Private Tour: From Zhangjiajie via Southern Guizhou to Guilin

Planning a trip through China’s southern landscapes often feels like stepping into a living painting. This 9-day private tour offers an in-depth look at some of China’s most captivating scenery, from the otherworldly sandstone pillars of Zhangjiajie to the lush rice terraces of Longji, and the colorful minority villages of Guizhou. What makes this experience stand out? It’s the blend of iconic sights, authentic culture, and the flexibility of a private guide — all at a price that provides real value for what you get.

What we love most about this tour? First, it’s the comprehensive itinerary that balances famous landmarks with off-the-beaten-path villages. Second, the knowledgeable guides bring local stories and insights that make each stop come alive. The only potential downside? The schedule is packed, especially on the longer travel days, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy a busy sightseeing pace. If you’re after a well-rounded, culturally rich journey with expert guidance, this could be just the trip you’re craving.

Key Points

• Diverse Landscapes: From towering sandstone pillars to rice terraces and karst mountains, the scenery is breathtaking.
• Cultural Encounters: Visits to minority villages, ancient towns, and historical sites offer authentic cultural insights.
• Private & Flexible: The private tour setup allows for personalized experiences and smooth logistics.
• Experienced Guides: Local experts help uncover hidden stories behind the sights.
• Value for Money: While the price is substantial, the wide range of destinations and inclusive transport make it worthwhile.
• Active Days: Expect a mix of walking, hiking, cable cars, and boat rides, suitable for travelers with moderate fitness.

An In-Depth Review of the 9-Day Itinerary

This tour is a true sampler of China’s southern treasures, designed for those who want a thorough, immersive experience without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. The inclusion of private transportation and guides ensures smooth transitions, allowing you to savor sights without stress.

Day 1 & 2: Zhangjiajie’s Fairy-tale Landscape and Sky-high Adventures

Starting in Zhangjiajie, the journey kicks off with visits to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park and the Wulingyuan Scenic Area. Here, you’ll be walking amongst the famous sandstone pillars that served as inspiration for Avatar. Expect to ride the longest cable car in the world and marvel at the Yuanjiajie Mountain, with its dramatic rock formations that look almost surreal.

What travelers love: The highlight for many is the Bailong Elevator, a glass lift clinging to a cliff face, offering spectacular views during its 335-meter ascent. It’s a jaw-dropping experience that’s well worth the 30-minute ride, especially if you’re a fan of engineering marvels and panoramic vistas. Numerous reviews mention that guides are always on hand to explain the significance of each spot, making the experience more meaningful.

Consideration: Entrance tickets are not included, so you’ll want to budget for that, plus keep in mind the time needed for hikes and cable car lines, which can get busy. The terrain involves some walking and steps, so moderate fitness is recommended.

Day 2: Tianmen Mountain and Its Mystical Caves

Tianmen Mountain offers another highlight — the world’s longest cable car that ascends over four miles. The views from the summit are spectacular, with clouds weaving through the peaks. Visiting Tianmen Cave, a natural arch carved by nature, adds a mystical element to your day.

Unique insight: Travelers who have been here note the “otherworldly” cloud formations and the thrill of the cable car ride. Guides often share stories about local legends surrounding Tianmen and its significance as a sacred site.

Day 3 & 4: From the Ancient to the Mysterious – Fenghuang and Mount Fanjing

Traveling onward, you’ll visit Fenghuang Ancient Town, a place that feels like stepping into a traditional Chinese painting — with stilt houses, winding lanes, and a river that reflects centuries of history. The town’s mix of Tujia and Miao cultures adds vibrant colors and stories to each corner.

Next, the journey takes you to Mount Fanjing in Guizhou, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The mountain’s peak at 2,570 meters provides breathtaking views and a chance to see rare flora and fauna. Expect a scenic drive, with a stop at Zhenyuan Old Town, a quiet water town with traditional architecture and tranquil waterways.

Traveler tip: Many review that spending time in Fenghuang and Zhenyuan feels like a step back in time, away from China’s bustling cities. The peaceful atmosphere is a breath of fresh air, especially after the busier attractions.

Days 5 & 6: Ethnic Cultures and Remote Villages

The tour includes visits to Miao villages near Kaili, where you can witness traditional folk music, dance, and craftsmanship. The villages are surrounded by mountains, and locals are proud to share their customs, including tasting local wine and exploring stilt houses.

Further afield, in Guizhou’s Congjiang County, you’ll explore Dong and Miao villages, such as Basha, an untouched village where residents still practice centuries-old traditions. Notably, in Zhaoxing Dong Village, the wooden stilt houses and scenic streams create an authentic picture of rural China.

Authentic experiences: Many reviewers mention the warmth of villagers and their hospitality, especially during folk performances or wandering through narrow alleyways. The Basha Village’s preservation of ancient architecture makes it a highlight for cultural enthusiasts.

Days 7 & 8: Scenic Bridges, Rice Terraces, and Guilin’s Natural Wonders

The highlight of day 7 is Chengyang Wind and Rain Bridge, a wooden marvel built in 1916. Walking across it provides views of traditional Dong houses, rice fields, and the surrounding mountains. It’s a peaceful spot that captures the harmony of local life.

Next, you’ll visit the Longji Rice Terraces, where terraced fields snake up the mountain slopes. The Ping’an Village offers lodging with stunning vistas, and you’ll get to walk through fields that have been cultivated for hundreds of years.

On day 8, you’ll transfer to Guilin, home to the Reed Flute Cave, a natural limestone cavern with multicolored lighting that highlights stalactites and stalagmites in formations resembling animals and landscapes.

Traveler insight: Some guests appreciate the flexibility of this day — whether they want to relax or explore more. The scenic drive from Longji to Guilin is also a chance to see more of rural China’s patchwork of green fields and traditional villages.

Day 9: Yangshuo’s Iconic Spots and the Final Farewell

The last day is a visual feast, visiting Xianggong Mountain, a popular spot for photographers capturing the vast Li River valley. Then, a bamboo boat ride along the Yulong River is a peaceful way to soak up the scenery.

The grand finale: The Impression Sanjie Liu show, staged on the Li River itself, is a truly spectacular spectacle. The combination of natural backdrop, lights, and sound creates a memorable, immersive performance that is often praised for its originality and beauty.

Travel tip: If you have a late flight, many find staying overnight in Yangshuo allows for a more relaxed experience or just to enjoy the vibrant night scene on West Street.

Why Choose This Tour? What It Means for You

This journey is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, expertly guided look at China’s scenic and cultural diversity. The private nature means you can tailor parts of the experience, ask questions, and avoid large tour groups. The inclusion of transport and guides reduces the stress of navigating public transport or language barriers, making it accessible for international visitors.

The price reflects the extensive itinerary, private transportation, and expert guides, which many consider a fair trade for the convenience and depth of experience. The trips to remote villages and cultural sites add authenticity that you might miss on a more traditional, group-only tour.

The active days and walking are worth noting — travelers should be comfortable with some uphill walks, stairs, and boat rides. The tour isn’t for those looking for a purely relaxed experience but perfect for those eager to see a wide range of sights in a short period.

Final Thoughts

This 9-day private tour offers an impressive snapshot of China’s southern wonders, blending nature, culture, and history seamlessly. It’s a great fit for travelers who appreciate detailed storytelling, scenic landscapes, and cultural richness, all delivered with personalized attention.

While the itinerary is tightly scheduled, it provides excellent value for the amount of ground covered. The guides are knowledgeable and genuinely passionate about sharing their local stories, making each stop more meaningful. Expect jaw-dropping vistas, vibrant villages, and an unforgettable journey through southern China’s most iconic landscapes.

If you’re the type of traveler who loves a carefully curated route filled with authentic experiences and stunning sights, this tour is a worthy investment. Just be ready for some active days and to allocate a budget for entrance fees — what you get in return is a memorable, deeply immersive trip.

FAQ

Are entrance tickets included in the price?
No, the entrance tickets cost approximately 1800 CNY per person and are paid separately. The tour price covers transportation and guiding.

What is the tour’s group size?
This is a private tour, so only your group will participate, providing a more personalized experience.

What modes of transportation are used?
You’ll travel in an air-conditioned private vehicle, with shuttle buses and cable cars at specific scenic spots.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
The tour involves walking, some stairs, and boat rides, so it’s best suited for travelers with moderate fitness levels who enjoy active sightseeing.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss additional days or modifications with the provider to suit your interests.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, giving you flexibility to explore local cuisine on your own.

How is the guide’s expertise?
Guides are local and knowledgeable, often sharing interesting stories and cultural insights that bring each site to life.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, sunscreen, and perhaps a camera for capturing the stunning scenery.

In summary, this private 9-day tour offers a detailed, well-balanced exploration of China’s southern landscapes and cultures. It’s perfect for those who want an immersive, manageable, and authentic experience, with the convenience of guided transport and insider knowledge. If you’re eager to see iconic sights and hidden gems alike, this journey promises a memorable adventure.