9-Day Private Tour to Chongqing,Yangtze River, Zhangjiajie and Guilin

Travelers looking for a deep dive into China’s diverse landscapes and vibrant cities will find this 9-day private tour offers a well-rounded, immersive experience. From the bustling streets of Chongqing to the breathtaking peaks of Zhangjiajie and the serene beauty of Guilin, this itinerary covers some of China’s most iconic sights. Plus, traveling via a luxurious Yangtze River cruise on the Victoria Cruise adds a touch of elegance and relaxation that many travelers cherish.

What we really like about this tour is the seamless combination of different modes of transport—cruise ships, private cars, cable cars—and the way it balances cultural sights with natural wonders. The inclusion of local guides with deep knowledge helps bring each destination alive, adding insights that you simply can’t get from guidebooks. However, an important consideration is the long driving days, especially when transferring between cities like Yichang and Zhangjiajie; it might feel a bit tiring if you’re not used to extended travel days.

This tour suits travelers who love a mix of culture, stunning landscapes, and comfortable travel logistics. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate the convenience of a private guide and well-organized itinerary, ensuring you see the highlights without the hassle of planning each detail yourself.

Key Points

• Comprehensive route: Explore China’s top highlights, including Chongqing, the Yangtze River, Zhangjiajie, and Guilin.
• Luxury cruise experience: The Yangtze River cruise on a 5-star vessel offers comfort and scenic beauty.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable, local guides enhance your understanding of each site.
• Balanced itinerary: Mix of natural, cultural, and modern sights with enough free time.
• Value for money: All entrance fees and transportation are included, making it straightforward.
• Long travel days: Be prepared for some extended drives between cities.

An In-Depth Look at the 9-Day China Tour

Starting in Chongqing and the Yangtze River

Your adventure begins in Chongqing, a city famed for its spicy cuisine and lively atmosphere. The tour kicks off with a pick-up from your hotel or airport, followed by an easy transfer to the Chaotianmen pier where you board the Victoria Cruise, a top-tier vessel that promises comfort and style. Expect check-in between 18:30 and 21:00, with departure scheduled for 21:30. This first night on board sets the tone—relaxing, scenic, and a taste of river life.

The highlight of this cruise is the chance to see the Three Gorges, including the Qutang Gorge—the shortest yet most dramatic—and the Wu Gorge, known for its mist-shrouded peaks. We loved the way the cruise guide explains the significance of these gorges, making the scenery more meaningful. The cruise also offers onshore excursions, such as Fengdu, famously called the “Ghost City” with its Jade Emperor Scenic Spot built along the mountains and rivers. The Fengdu Jade Emperor Scenic Spot, with traditional architecture and mythic imagery, provides a tranquil, cultural pause. One reviewer noted, “The scenic spot is built along the mountains and river, using the Jade Emperor image as the overall shape,” which adds depth to your visit.

Day 2 & 3: Navigating the Three Gorges

Flowing into the Qutang Gorge, you’ll witness some of the most impressive landscapes—craggy rocks and winding water passages that seem to stretch forever. As the cruise moves into Shennv Stream, you’ll hop off at Badong for a boat ride along mossy rocks and lush greenery. The chance to see ancient hanging coffins and hear the Tujia folk songs makes this a memorable experience.

The following day, you’ll explore the Three Gorges Dam, the world’s largest hydroelectric project, offering a glimpse into China’s engineering prowess. Booked with a knowledgeable guide, you’ll learn about its gigantic scale and importance. Then, a transfer drives you from Yichang to Zhangjiajie, a 4.5-hour journey giving you a taste of China’s vast landscapes.

Days 4 & 5: Zhangjiajie’s Natural Marvels

Zhangjiajie is a highlight for nature lovers. Known for its towering sandstone pillars, it’s the real-life inspiration behind Pandora’s floating mountains in James Cameron’s Avatar. We loved the Tianzi Mountain, accessible via a cable car that offers panoramic views of the cloud-kissed peaks. The Yuanjiajie area, with its iconic platform-shaped formations, is perfect for photos and feeling like you’ve stepped into a fantasy world.

The Wulingyuan Scenic Area is a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasting more than 560 sights including caves, waterfalls, and forests. The Bailong Elevator, standing 335 meters tall, is not just a feat of engineering but also a fantastic way to get instantly elevated above the lush landscape. If you’re into hiking, the Golden Whip Stream provides a peaceful, scenic walk along a pristine river amid cliffs and greenery.

A reviewer mentioned that “the scenery as the inspiration for Avatar was stunning; the landscape is surreal and totally worth the long day of sightseeing,” highlighting how well the natural wonders resonate with visitors.

Day 6 & 7: Tianmen Mountain & Fenghuang Ancient Town

On Day 6, you’ll explore Tianmen Mountain, known for its “Heaven’s Gate” arch, a natural mountain pass, accessible via a cable car that offers breathtaking vistas. Walking on the cliff-side glass walkway is a thrill—just hold on tight! Expect about 3-4 hours at the park, giving ample time to soak in the views and stroll around.

Later that day, the drive to Fenghuang County (approximately 3 hours) introduces you to one of China’s best-preserved ancient towns. The blue-stone streets, traditional stilt houses, and vibrant Miao customs make this a photographer’s paradise. Several reviews appreciated the authentic village atmosphere; one guest loved wandering the ancient town and soaking in the local vibe.

On Day 7, a boat cruise along the Tuojiang River reveals the fairy-tale charm of Fenghuang, with water gently lapping against the old walls. Visiting Tiaotiao Rock and the Wanming Pagoda offers insight into local architecture and history. Later, a visit to the Chengyang Dong Village showcases the famous Wind and Rain Bridge—a unique Dong-style construction that’s both functional and artistic.

Days 8 & 9: Longji Rice Terraces & Guilin

Traveling from Fenghuang to the Longji Rice Terraces is a scenic journey, about 90 minutes ride. The terraced fields, carved into mountainsides since the Yuan Dynasty, give you a chance to learn about the Zhuang people’s farming traditions. We enjoyed the panoramic views from the viewpoint, imagining the effort it took to craft these landscapes centuries ago.

The last days focus on Guilin, famous for its karst landscapes. Visiting the Reed Flute Cave with its luminous stalactites and stalagmites feels like walking into an underground palace. The Elephant Trunk Hill, shaped like an elephant stretching its trunk into the river, is another iconic photo stop.

The highlight is the Li River cruise to Yangshuo, offering some of China’s most celebrated scenery. The 4-hour boat ride with buffet lunch lets you relax while gazing at the rolling hills and traditional villages. We loved the view from Xianggong Hill, which is the perfect vantage point to see the river’s winding beauty—an Instagram-worthy moment.

Practical Considerations

This tour is priced at $3,043.14 per person, which, considering the inclusions—entrance fees, private transport, most meals, and a luxury cruise—offers good value. The private guide service ensures personalized attention, and the hotel pickups and drop-offs make logistics straightforward.

One thing to keep in mind is that the long drives between destinations—especially Yichang to Zhangjiajie, and Fenghuang to Longji—mean some days will involve several hours on the road. This might be tiring if you prefer slow-paced sightseeing, but it’s unavoidable given the distances China’s vast landscapes cover.

The itinerary balances guided tours with free time, giving you flexibility to explore or relax as you wish. The group discounts and mobile tickets also add a bit of convenience, making the entire experience smoother.

Final Thoughts

This 9-day tour offers a full-on China experience—adventure, culture, and landscape all wrapped into one. The combination of luxury cruises and well-organized sightseeing means that you’ll see some of China’s most famous sights without the stress of planning every detail yourself. It’s perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free trip with expert guides and authentic experiences.

The value for money is evident when you consider the number of sites visited, the quality of transportation, and the included entrance fees. It’s a great package for those who want a guided, curated journey through some of China’s most iconic regions, without sacrificing comfort or depth.

If you’re up for long drives, enjoy natural wonders, and want to see diverse scenery—from river gorges to mountain peaks—this tour hits all the right notes. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors or travelers seeking a balanced mix of cultural and natural highlights with the security of a well-structured itinerary.

FAQs

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your Shanghai hotel or airport and drop-off at Guilin, streamlining your travel logistics.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers entrance tickets, private transportation, air-conditioned vehicles, most meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), and the Yangtze River cruise. Some activities or optional extras may incur additional costs.

How long is the Yangtze River cruise?
The cruise departs from Chongqing and includes several days navigating through the Three Gorges, with stops at Fengdu, Qutang Gorge, Wu Gorge, and Shennv Stream.

Are there long travel days?
Yes, expect some long drives, such as the 4.5-hour transfer from Yichang to Zhangjiajie and other intercity journeys, which are part of the adventure but may be tiring.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, there’s room for flexibility in timing and activities, especially with guides on hand to adjust based on your interests.

Are meals included?
Most breakfasts and lunches are included, with dinners available optionally. Specific hotel stays and dinner costs are not included.

Is this tour suitable for families or older travelers?
The tour’s focus on sightseeing and walking may be suitable for most able-bodied travelers, but the long drives and some hiking might require consideration for those with mobility issues.

To sum it up, this 9-day China tour blends natural beauty, cultural richness, and luxury comfort into a well-rounded journey. It’s ideal for those who want to see the country’s highlights without the hassle of organization, appreciating the insights of expert guides and the stunning scenery along the way. Whether you’re captivated by the dramatic gorges, towering mountains, or ancient towns, this trip delivers an authentic and memorable Chinese adventure.