Day Tour for Furong Ancient Town and Red Stone Forest National Geological Park

Discover the Charm of Zhangjiajie’s Ancient and Natural Wonders on a Day Tour

This day tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Zhangjiajie’s diverse landscape and cultural roots. Combining visits to Furong Ancient Town and the Red Stone Forest, it’s perfect for travelers looking to experience both history and nature without the hassle of planning multiple days. The tour’s highlight is the opportunity to see stunning geological formations and explore an ancient town where the Tujia people still call home.

What we especially appreciate about this tour is its balanced approach — it provides enough time at each site to truly appreciate the scenery and history. Plus, the option to opt for bullet train travel instead of private transport adds flexibility and a local flavor to your journey. On the downside, a full day of sightseeing can be a bit rushed if you’re keen on taking your time. Still, it’s a good choice for those who want a cost-effective, immersive experience in Zhangjiajie’s outdoor and cultural gems.

This tour would suit travelers who enjoy nature and cultural exploration, especially if they prefer a guided, hassle-free day with some unique photo opportunities and insider insights. If you’re keen to learn about the Tujia people or capture dramatic red rock formations, this is a solid option.

Key Points

• Diverse Experience: Combines cultural history with dramatic natural scenery in a single day.
• Flexible Transport: Options include private vehicle or bullet train, adding to convenience.
• Authentic Culture: Visit a town with 2000+ years of history and well-preserved architecture.
• Unique Geology: Witness vibrant, weather-dependent colors of the Red Stone Forest’s carbonate rocks.
• Convenient Logistics: Includes entrance fees, guide service, and lunch, making it all-inclusive.
• Limited Time: Each site gets about two hours, so it’s best for travelers who enjoy quick but impactful visits.

In-Depth Review of the Tour Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

This tour kicks off at 9:00 am with a pickup, and you’ll spend approximately eight hours exploring some of Zhangjiajie’s most intriguing sites. While the schedule is packed, each stop offers a compelling reason to visit, filled with photo-worthy sights and cultural insights.

Stop 1: Wangcun Falls at Furong Ancient Town

Your first stop is Furong Ancient Town, formerly known as Wangcun, which means “Hibiscus Town.” The town’s name hints at its Tujia roots, and it’s a place where traditional architecture and history are alive in the well-preserved black flagstone pavements and Diaojiaolou houses.

The film Furong Town, directed by Xiejin, was shot here, adding a cinematic touch to its visuals. Travelers can enjoy the relaxed, old-world atmosphere, with the bonus of the Wangcun waterfall just outside town. It’s a striking feature—about 60 meters high and 70 meters wide—and walking behind the cascading water feels almost like stepping into a crystal palace, according to reviews.

Visitors will find that the town offers a tangible sense of history, with many original structures still intact. While it’s not as tourist-heavy as Fenghuang, it’s a place where you can soak in authentic local life. One reviewer noted that Furong Town’s scenic charm is more understated but still worth exploring for its quiet beauty and 2000-year-old history.

Stop 2: Red Stone Forest

Next, the tour heads to the Red Stone Forest National Geological Park, a landscape of karst formations and miles of red carbonate-rock stones. What makes this place special is its dynamic color palette, shifting from fiery red in the summer sun to maroon or purple on cloudy days, and even black during heavy rain.

The park isn’t just a pretty view; it’s a treasure trove of geological features including caves, canyons, lakes, and caves, making it a perfect playground for those interested in earth sciences or simply stunning landscapes. The red rocks, weather-dependent, create an ever-changing scenery that photographers will love, especially during the hot summer months when the red hues seem to glow.

Visitors can expect to walk through areas of impressive canyons and caves, with plenty of opportunities to capture dramatic photos. The park’s geological significance is highlighted by its diverse forms—caves, lakes, and karst structures—making it more than just a scenic spot.

Practical Details and Logistics

The tour includes entrance tickets to both Furong Town and Red Stone Forest Park, so there are no hidden costs upon arrival. The transportation is private, which means you won’t be stuck in a big group, and guides are available to enhance your understanding of the sites.

Lunch is included, giving you a chance to sample local cuisine and recharge for the afternoon. The tour’s expectation of about two hours at each site strikes a balance—enough to see the highlights without feeling rushed, though some travelers might wish for a little more time to explore.

Travel options include private vehicle or bullet train (second class seats) if available, which can save travel time and add a bit of local flavor. The convenience of pickup and drop-off makes it accessible for most travelers.

What Travelers Say

One reviewer pointed out that Furong Town’s charm isn’t as famous as Fenghuang but still offers authentic, scenic views and a glimpse into Tujia culture. They also appreciated the well-preserved architecture and the waterfall, describing it as “placing oneself in a crystal palace.”

Regarding the Red Stone Forest, a reviewer highlighted its color-changing stones and the geological value of the park, calling it “a gorgeous tableau of nature’s artistry.” The dynamic scenery depending on weather was a highlight, making it a photographer’s dream.

Value for Money

At $336.85 per person, the tour provides a full day of guided sightseeing, including entrance fees, lunch, and transportation. Considering the convenience and the quality of sites, it offers good value, especially for travelers who prefer to avoid the hassle of organizing multiple tickets and transportation themselves.

However, the price may seem steep for some, especially if you’re used to more budget-friendly options. Still, when factoring in the expert guide service and the all-inclusive nature, it’s a worthwhile investment for a hassle-free cultural and natural immersion.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers eager to see a blend of history, culture, and geology in one day. It suits those who enjoy guided tours, appreciate well-preserved historical sites, and want visual drama from red rock formations. It’s ideal if you’re short on time but want a comprehensive glimpse of Zhangjiajie’s unique landscape and heritage.

Travelers with an interest in Tujia culture will find Furong Town especially compelling, while photographers will love the vibrant, weather-dependent hues of the Red Stone Forest. While not for those seeking a slow, leisure-focused experience, it’s a solid, enriching day trip for most visitors.

The Sum Up

In essence, this tour offers an engaging way to see some of Zhangjiajie’s most striking sights without the need for multiple days of planning. Its combination of cultural history and dramatic geology makes it appealing for those craving a balanced cultural and natural experience. The inclusion of local guides, entrance fees, and lunch adds convenience and value, making it a good pick for those who prioritize ease and comprehensive sightseeing.

The sites visited—Furong Ancient Town and the Red Stone Forest—are both memorable, with photogenic landscapes and authentic cultural insights. The flexibility of transport options, along with positive reviews about the sites’ beauty and significance, means most travelers will come away feeling they’ve experienced a meaningful slice of Zhangjiajie.

For anyone wanting a well-rounded, scenic, and culturally enriching day in Zhangjiajie, this tour hits many of the right notes. Just remember, be prepared for a full day of exploration, and wear comfortable shoes—you’ll want to make the most of the stunning views and historical charm.

FAQ

Is transportation provided for this tour?
Yes, the tour includes private transportation, and there’s an option for a bullet train (second class seats) if available, making travel between sites smooth and comfortable.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers entrance tickets to Furong Town and Red Stone Forest, guide service, lunch, and private transportation.

How long does each site visit last?
Expect about two hours at each stop, enough time to see the highlights, take photos, and enjoy the scenery.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but consider physical mobility—walking is involved, especially around the rocky and historical sites.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, water, sun protection, and a camera are recommended to fully enjoy the scenery and capture memories.

Does the tour run rain or shine?
Yes, it typically does. The Red Stone Forest’s appearance changes with weather, which can be part of the scenic allure.

Are guides available to explain the sites?
Yes, a guide is included, providing insights into the cultural and geological significance of each location.

Is lunch vegetarian or can special dietary requirements be accommodated?
The tour includes a standard lunch, but it’s advisable to contact the provider in advance if you have specific dietary needs.

How physically demanding is the tour?
It involves walking and some uneven terrain at the parks and town, so moderate fitness is recommended.

This detailed review should help you decide whether this Furong Ancient Town and Red Stone Forest tour fits your travel style, offering a well-balanced day of sightseeing, culture, and natural wonders in Zhangjiajie.