Yuanjiajie Avatar and Tianzi Mountain and Rice Field Village Tour

Exploring Zhangjiajie’s Iconic Scenery: Yuanjiajie Avatar and Tianzi Mountain Tour Review

If you’re planning a trip to Zhangjiajie, this tour promises to take you through some of the most breathtaking and iconic sights within the national park. Featuring a blend of natural wonders like Avatar Mountain, Tianzi Peak, and hidden spots like Rice Fields in the Air, the experience is designed to showcase the park’s varied landscapes—all in one day. The fact that it’s a private tour with a knowledgeable guide and includes transportation makes it especially appealing for those looking for an efficient yet immersive visit.

What we love about this tour is its well-organized itinerary that balances popular highlights with hidden gems. The inclusion of Bailong Elevator, the world’s tallest outdoor sightseeing lift, adds a thrill to your ascent. Plus, the chance to explore lesser-visited areas like Laowuchang village offers a peaceful counterpoint to the crowds. On the flip side, travelers should consider the full-day commitment—almost 9 hours—so this tour suits those ready to dedicate a full day to sightseeing.

This experience is best suited for travelers who appreciate stunning mountain scenery, want a rundown of Zhangjiajie’s key sites, and prefer a guided, hassle-free day. It’s also a good pick for those interested in authentic local life, thanks to visits to traditional villages. If you’re looking for a relaxed, informative adventure packed with spectacular views, this tour hits the mark.

Key Points

• Expert-guided experience with detailed commentary enhances understanding of Zhangjiajie’s natural and cultural significance.
• Transportation and logistics are handled, including the famous Bailong Elevator, saving you time and effort.
• The tour blends popular sites like Yuanjiajie and Tianzi Mountain with lesser-known spots such as Lao Wu Chang village.
• Spectacular vistas from cable cars, elevators, and observation platforms provide endless photo opportunities.
• Entrance tickets are not included in the initial price but can be booked in advance, ensuring smooth access.
• The tour caters to travelers who enjoy a mix of natural beauty, local culture, and breathtaking views.

A Deep Dive into the Zhangjiajie Yuanjiajie Avatar and Tianzi Mountain Tour

The Excitement Begins at BaiLong Elevator

The day kicks off with a trip to the Bailong Elevator, which is quite the spectacle in itself. Standing at 326 meters tall, it’s recognized globally as the highest outdoor sightseeing elevator. Travelers get to enjoy a quick 88-second ride that elevates you above the lush green canopy, revealing what feels like a line-up of 48 peaks—a view that’s as impressive as it sounds. The elevator’s glass sides allow for unobstructed vistas, making it a perfect way to start your adventure with a bang.

While the elevator ride isn’t included in the tour price (tickets are purchased separately), it’s worth it for the experience of cruising in what’s essentially a giant glass box, feeling like you’re floating among the peaks.

Yuanjiajie: The Avatar Mountain

Once at Yuanjiajie, the highlight is the Sky Elevator ride up to the famous Avatar Mountain. Here, visitors spend about an hour walking around the Wider Misa platform, passing the Sky Pillar—the largest floating mountain from the movie Avatar. Standing 350 meters above ground, it’s a striking sight that justifies its fame.

From the platform, you get sweeping views of jagged peaks and lush greenery stretching into the distance. The Heaven Bridge, another highlight, is the highest natural bridge in the world at 350 meters above ground. Walking across it, you’ll be reminded of the natural engineering marvels found in this park. Reviewers have described the Enchanting Platform as “really charming” and “a great experience,” emphasizing the park’s ethereal beauty and the sense of being in a fairy tale.

Lao Wuchang Village: An Authentic Mountain Hamlet

The next stop takes you to Lao Wu Chang, a quaint Tujia minority village accessible via a scenic bus ride. This spot feels like a secret, with fewer travelers around and rice fields that seem to float on the mountain sides. The “48 Generals Line Up”, a line of peaks visible from here, is a striking scene—peaks standing like soldiers lining up in the distance. Walking among the platforms, you get to see mountain life in its simplest, happiest form, enjoying the peaceful rhythm of rural existence.

One reviewer, Adrienn_B, appreciated the quiet beauty and authenticity of this part of the tour, noting how it provided insight into local life quite distinct from the busy main attractions. It’s a perfect place for those seeking authenticity and a break from crowds.

Tianzi Mountain: The King of Peaks

No trip to Zhangjiajie is complete without a visit to Tianzi Mountain, known as the “Kingdom of Peaks” with over 1,000 distinct summits. Here, the atmosphere is akin to a mini Chinese painting, with peaks that resemble giant bonsai and a landscape that looks like a miniature fairyland.

Expect to spend around three hours exploring various viewpoints. The famous “Imperial Writing Brush” scene, which features on Zhangjiajie’s stamps, is here. From the different observation platforms, you’ll see peaks that seem to stretch endlessly, with a vibrant mix of trees and rocks. One guest, Tom_D, declared that Tianzi Mountain was “the most beautiful mountain in the world,” highlighting the park’s surreal, otherworldly quality.

Additional Highlights and Practical Tips

The tour is approximately 9 hours long, giving you ample time to soak in each site without feeling rushed. The private guide and vehicle support a smooth experience, ensuring you get personalized attention and convenience. Plus, the tour includes bottled water and all taxes and fees.

However, tickets to park attractions are purchased separately, with prices totaling around 429 CNY for adults and 293 CNY for children and seniors, depending on age and status. Booking these in advance is recommended to avoid delays.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Travelers like Eric, the guide mentioned in one review, make a difference—his perfect English and extensive knowledge helped bring the sights alive. Guests appreciated guides who went the extra mile; one even offered to show a local art gallery after the tour, demonstrating the level of personalized service you can expect.

Many reviewers found the views breathtaking and the guides very helpful and friendly, which makes a big difference in how enjoyable the day is. Adrienn_B praised the organized structure and helpfulness, while Tom_D highlighted how the guide’s local knowledge improved the experience.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

This tour offers a wonderfully curated experience for those eager to see the highlights of Zhangjiajie in a single day. It’s ideal if you value expert guidance, seamless transportation, and a mix of iconic and hidden sights. The inclusion of less touristy spots gives a more authentic feel and allows for peaceful moments amid stunning scenery.

Travelers who love nature photography, mountain landscapes, and cultural insights will find this tour very rewarding. It’s also suitable for those who want to maximize their time in the park without worrying about logistics—everything is arranged for you.

Keep in mind, the long day and ticket costs mean it’s best suited for travelers with a good level of fitness and some budget flexibility. It’s a comprehensive way to experience the grandeur of Zhangjiajie, especially if you’re short on time or prefer guided tours over solo exploration.

FAQs

Are entrance tickets included in the tour price?
No, the entrance tickets are purchased separately in advance for around 429 CNY for adults or 293 CNY for children and seniors. The tour itself covers transportation and guiding.

Does the tour include transportation within the park?
Yes, a private car and bus are included, helping you move efficiently between different sites without the hassle of navigating public transport.

What should I bring for this tour?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a camera. Bottled water is provided, but snacks or additional drinks are up to you.

Is this a full-day tour?
Yes, it lasts roughly 9 hours, from morning pickup to late afternoon or early evening drop-off.

Can I customize this tour or add extra sites?
Since it’s a private tour, your guide might be able to accommodate special requests or slight modifications, but major changes should be discussed beforehand.

Is this tour suitable for kids or seniors?
Most travelers can participate, but the physical demands of walking and sightseeing are considerations. Booking tickets in advance helps ensure a smooth experience.

To sum it up, this Yuanjiajie Avatar and Tianzi Mountain tour offers a well-rounded, immersive experience that combines the most famous sights with authentic local spots. Its knowledgeable guides, seamless transport, and focus on stunning vistas make it an excellent choice for travelers wanting to see Zhangjiajie’s grandeur without the stress of planning every detail themselves. If you’re after breathtaking scenery, insightful commentary, and a touch of adventure, this trip is likely to leave a lasting impression.