The 9-Day Shanghai, Zhangjiajie, Guangzhou Private China Escape: Urban Chic & Avatar’s Mystical Realm

• 4+ star hotels
• Breakfast

Morning: Step into Yu Garden, a hidden classical garden tucked behind bustling streets. Follow your guide through dragon-adorned walls and rockeries that once belonged to a wealthy Ming Dynasty official. Afterward, wander through the lively City God Temple Bazaar—try the famous “five-spice beans” or osmanthus-flavored pear syrup candy for a taste of old Shanghai.

Afternoon: Stroll along Nanjing Road, China’s premier shopping street. Hop on the vintage sightseeing tram to experience the buzz of this historic pedestrian avenue.

Evening: Walk to The Bund, where the colonial-era buildings on one side and the futuristic skyscrapers of Pudong on the other create a breathtaking contrast. As night falls, board a Huangpu River cruise and enjoy the dazzling skyline from the water—the illuminated cityscape is truly unforgettable.

• 4+ star hotels
• Breakfast

Morning: After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Zhangjiajie, home of the surreal landscapes that inspired the movie Avatar. Upon arrival, your driver will meet you and escort you to your hotel.

Free Time Recommendation: Tonight, explore 72 Stilted Tower, a spectacular complex built in the style of a traditional Tujia village. The evening light show transforms the tower into a magical floating structure. Wander through the food street and sample local specialties like grilled glutinous rice cakes, Tujia cured meat, or the famously spicy sangxiaoguo (Tujia hot pot)—a bold introduction to Hunan cuisine.

• 4+ star hotels
• Breakfast

Morning: Enter the legendary Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. Take the Bailong Elevator, the world’s tallest outdoor lift, which shoots you up through the cliffs for an instant view of towering quartzite pillars.

Experience: At Yuanjiajie, stand before the “Hallelujah Mountain” (the floating peak that inspired Avatar). Snap a creative photo as if holding the pillar in your palm. Later, explore Tianzi Mountain, known for its dramatic peaks resembling an ancient Chinese landscape painting. Along the trails, you may meet local Tujia grandmothers selling refreshing kudzu root jelly—a perfect treat to cool down after a day of adventure.

• 4+ star hotels
• Breakfast

Morning: Ride the longest alpine cable car in the world, ascending directly from Zhangjiajie city to the top of Tianmen Mountain. Walk the thrilling glass skywalk—step onto the transparent path suspended high above the cliffs and test your courage.

Afternoon: Descend via the scenic road with 99 hairpin turns to reach Tianmen Cave (Heaven’s Door), a massive natural arch carved into the mountain. Your guide will share local legends about this sacred site, adding a layer of myth to the stunning scenery.

• 4+ star hotels
• Breakfast

Morning: After breakfast, take a comfortable high-speed train from Zhangjiajie to Guangzhou, the vibrant capital of Guangdong province.

Afternoon: Upon arrival, your driver will transfer you to the hotel. The remainder of the day is free. If you’re feeling adventurous, wander into a local neighborhood and order a bowl of congee with pork liver or dry-fried beef noodles—watch how locals enjoy their “yum cha” culture and evening supper routines.

• 4+ star hotels
• Breakfast

Morning: Explore Yongqing Fang, a beautifully restored historic district in the heart of Guangzhou’s Xiguan area. Stroll through alleys lined with traditional trawl doors and stained-glass windows. Your guide will take you to taste authentic zhusheng mian (bamboo-pressed noodles), where you can watch the chef press dough with a giant bamboo pole—a dying local craft.

Afternoon: Visit Shamian Island, a peaceful former concession area with colonial architecture, century-old banyan trees, and a relaxed European village atmosphere—perfect for a leisurely walk and photos.

Evening: Head to Haixinsha, the best spot to view Guangzhou’s modern skyline and the iconic Canton Tower across the river. Then, board a Pearl River night cruise and enjoy the glittering city lights from the water.

Tour Conclusion: After the cruise, your guide will accompany you to Canton Tower. You may choose to enjoy the free fountain and light show at the tower’s base, or purchase a ticket to ascend the tower for a stunning panoramic view of Guangzhou at night. This is where your guide will bid you farewell.

• 4+ star hotels
• Breakfast

Morning: Depart from Guangzhou for a day trip to Qingyuan, a scenic area known for its dramatic canyon landscapes. Arrive at Gulong Gorge, home to the spectacular Yuntian Bawa (Cloud Sky Domination) experience.

Experience: Take the elevator up to the cliffside, where you’ll first encounter the massive Wanzhang Cliff Waterfall—the mist from the falls instantly refreshes you. Walk across the glass bridges, hanging platforms, and skywalks, including a UFO-shaped glass platform that juts out over the canyon. For an adrenaline rush, ride the cliff coaster (ticket included), a thrilling rail track that lets you control your speed as you zoom down the mountain with stunning views all around.

Lunch Recommendation: Don’t miss the chance to taste Qingyuan chicken, a local delicacy famous for its tender, flavorful meat.

• Breakfast

Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel. Based on your flight schedule, your private driver will meet you at the hotel lobby and escort you to Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport. With memories of Shanghai’s dazzling lights, Zhangjiajie’s mystical peaks, and Guangzhou’s rich flavors, you’ll board your flight home, concluding your 9-day private China journey.