9-Day China Tour With zhang jia jie And Guilin Lhasa

Experience the Charm of China in 9 Days: Zhangjiajie, Guilin, and Lhasa

Imagine walking through otherworldly landscapes, soaring on glass elevators, and exploring ancient monasteries—all in just over a week. This 9-day tour offers a well-balanced mix of nature’s marvels and cultural treasures in some of China’s most iconic spots. Starting in Zhangjiajie, famed for its surreal, pillar-like mountains, the journey continues to Guilin’s breathtaking river valleys and finishes in Lhasa, the spiritual heart of Tibet, with visits to Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple.

We really appreciate the tour’s expert guides and seamless transportation, making it easier to focus on the sights instead of logistics. The small group size ensures a more personalized experience, allowing plenty of opportunities to ask questions and take in the scenery without feeling rushed.

One consideration: the schedule is packed, so if you prefer a leisurely pace, this might feel a bit intense. Still, for adventurous travelers eager to see a wide slice of China in one trip, this tour hits the sweet spot.

This tour suits those with a curiosity for both natural beauty and historic sites, as well as travelers who appreciate organized logistics combined with authentic experiences. If you’re after a comprehensive, guided introduction to China’s diverse regions, this trip could be just right.

Key Points

• Diverse Destinations: Combines natural wonders with cultural and historical sites across three regions.
• Expert Guides: Guides and drivers are praised for their knowledge and professionalism.
• Comfort & Convenience: All transportation, hotel stays, and entrance fees are included, minimizing hassle.
• Authentic Experiences: Visit iconic sites like Zhangjiajie’s Avatar-inspired pillars and Tibet’s Potala Palace.
• Limited Flexibility: It’s a tightly scheduled tour, so expect some early mornings and full days.
• Ideal for Curious Travelers: Perfect if you want a well-rounded, guided exploration of China’s highlights in a short time.

You can check availability for your dates here:

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

Starting Point: Zhangjiajie’s Surreal Landscape

Your journey begins at Zhangjiajie Hehua Airport, where guides will welcome you with a sign and whisk you to your hotel. This city is the gateway to some of China’s most extraordinary scenery. The highlight here is Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, often called the “Avatar Mountain” for its towering, pillar-like formations that seem almost animated.

We love how the itinerary includes a ride on the glass Bailong Elevator, which takes you up Yuanjiajie Mountain for stunning views. It’s a chance to see why filmmakers found inspiration here. From there, you’ll walk across the “Bridge under Heaven,” a striking feat of engineering that offers breathtaking views—and a little adrenaline rush.

Next, a transfer to Tianzi Mountain introduces you to Fairy Lady Presents Flowers, a rock formation that looks like a graceful figure. This spot offers stellar photo opportunities and a reminder that nature can sometimes feel like it’s crafted by an artist.

Tianmen Mountain and the Golden Stream

On your third day, the Tianmen Mountain experience is the highlight. Taking the world’s largest cable car up to the mountain’s summit is an experience in itself, offering panoramic vistas that make your jaw drop. Walking on the Glass Sky Walk is optional but memorable—an exhilarating way to feel connected with the clouds.

Later, the Golden Whip Stream hike allows you to breathe in fresh mountain air and enjoy a leisurely walk along a babbling brook for about three hours. This part of the trip feels like a genuine escape, with lush scenery and peaceful moments. Riding the cable car down to Huangshi Village at 1,280 meters elevates your experience, giving you a sense of being perched high above the world.

Transition to Guilin: Fast and Efficient

Getting from Zhangjiajie to Guilin involves a domestic train—D3967—which takes about five hours. The train ride itself is a comfortable way to see rural China, and the included tickets take away the hassle of booking. Arriving in Guilin, you get a free afternoon to rest, explore on your own, or simply soak in the atmosphere of this riverside city.

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Guilin’s Natural Beauty: Li River Cruise & Elephant Trunk Hill

The next morning, you’re off early for the Li River Cruise, one of China’s most iconic vistas. The small group arrangement ensures you can enjoy the scenery with a more intimate feel, and the delicious lunch onboard is a highlight. The landscape, with its dramatic karst peaks and winding river, is a photographer’s dream—and a reminder of China’s natural artistry.

After the cruise, a visit to Elephant Trunk Hill offers a fun and photogenic landmark, shaped like an elephant drinking from the river. This spot is often praised for its unique shape and picturesque setting.

Transition to Tibet: Guilin to Lhasa

The journey to Tibet involves a train from Guilin to Guiyang, then a flight to Lhasa. The train ride from Guilin to Guiyang provides a glimpse of provincial China, while the flight immerses you into the high-altitude atmosphere of Tibet. It’s a long travel day, but the anticipation builds for the next phase—exploring Tibet’s spiritual heart.

Lhasa: Monasteries, Palaces, and Sacred Sites

Upon arrival, Lhasa’s Ganden Monastery is your first stop. Perched on top of Ganden Wangpo Hill, it offers spectacular architecture and panoramic views. Guided by a Tibetan guide, you’ll learn about monastery life and Tibetan Buddhism, adding depth to your visit.

The following day, you’ll explore Jokhang Temple and Potala Palace, Tibet’s most famous landmarks. The Potala Palace, with its imposing structure and vibrant colors, is a symbol of Tibet and offers spectacular views from its hilltop position. Jokhang is a lively hub of worship, perfect for observing local religious practices.

Final Day: Departure

On your last morning, the tour wraps up with a transfer to Lhasa Gonggar Airport. It’s a fitting end to an adventure packed with incredible sights and insightful guides.

What Makes This Tour Valuable?

This trip offers value through inclusions like hotel stays, entrance fees, domestic train tickets, and airport transfers, which can add up if booked separately. The small group size and knowledgeable guides ensure you’re well looked after, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and get personal insights.

The itinerary strikes a good balance between natural beauty and cultural landmarks. You’ll see iconic sites like Zhangjiajie’s Avatar Mountains, enjoy a relaxing Li River cruise, and explore Tibet’s Potala Palace and Ganden Monastery—each with its own unique atmosphere.

On the downside, the schedule is dauntingly full; early starts and long travel days mean you need to be comfortable with a packed itinerary. Also, note the importance of booking at least 10 days in advance to secure train tickets, which underscores the need for early planning.

The tour provides a comprehensive introduction to some of China’s most memorable sights. It’s best suited for travelers who love organized tours, are eager to see diverse landscapes, and don’t mind a busy schedule.

The Sum Up

This 9-day tour offers a well-rounded experience of China’s most captivating regions. From the towering, Avatar-inspired peaks of Zhangjiajie to the tranquil waters of Guilin’s Li River, and finally Tibet’s majestic Potala Palace, you’ll cover diverse landscapes and cultural sites. The expert guides, smooth logistics, and inclusive pricing make it a practical choice for travelers wanting a lot in a short time.

If you’re someone who craves visual drama and cultural depth without the hassle of planning every detail, this tour will serve you well. It’s particularly suitable for travelers who appreciate small group settings and a balance of guided sightseeing and free time.

For those with limited time but a desire to see China’s highlights, this tour delivers a memorable snapshot of the country’s natural beauty and spiritual heritage.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, the small group size and organized structure make it an excellent choice for solo travelers looking for companionship and guidance.

Do I need to prepare anything special?
Just your passport and a sense of adventure. Remember, you need to book at least 10 days in advance and provide certain personal details for train tickets.

What’s included in the price?
The tour covers guides, transport, hotel stays, entrance fees, and domestic train tickets. Lunch is not included, giving you freedom to explore local eateries.

Are there any physical activity requirements?
There’s some walking and hiking, especially on the scenic hikes in Zhangjiajie and Tianmen Mountain. The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women due to the strenuous activities and high-altitude locations.

How is the weather?
Expect varying climates—mountain areas can be cooler, while Lhasa tends to be dry and high-altitude. Pack layers and a good sunscreen.

What’s the group size?
While not explicitly stated, the mention of small group tours suggests a limited group size, enhancing your experience with more personalized attention.

Can I customize this tour?
Since it’s a pre-arranged package, customization might be limited. However, you can often discuss specific interests with your guide once on the tour.

This 9-day China adventure balances natural spectacles with rich cultural experiences, guided by expert local guides and designed for travelers eager to see the best of what China has to offer in a single, well-organized trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: