9-Day Tour Through Wudang,Chengdu,Dujiangyan&Zhangjiajie

A 9-day adventure through China’s diverse landscapes and cultural treasures offers an exciting way to see some of the most iconic sights in southwestern China. For $1,539 per person, you’ll traverse from the sacred peaks of Wudang Mountain to the adorable pandas of Chengdu, then wander through the breathtaking scenery of Zhangjiajie. With a mix of guided visits, scenic cable cars, cruises, and train rides, this tour balances culture with natural wonders.

What we particularly love about this experience are the stunning mountain views — especially the Avatar-inspired peaks of Zhangjiajie — and the chance to walk in the footsteps of Taoist monks on Wudang Mountain. The inclusion of a panda encounter at Chengdu’s research base adds a charming, memorable touch. One potential consideration is the pace; with multiple locations and long travel days, it’s best suited for those comfortable with a busy schedule and lots of sightseeing. This tour is ideal for travelers craving a balanced mix of heritage, wildlife, and awe-inspiring scenery in one compact trip.

Key Points

• Cultural immersion at Wudang Taoist temples and Mount Emei
• Iconic sights like Leshan Giant Buddha and Zhangjiajie’s peaks
• Wildlife experience with panda encounters in Chengdu
• Scenic travel via cable cars, cruises, and high-speed trains
• Authentic experiences with local guides and less touristy spots
• Value packed into 9 days for those interested in history, nature, and wildlife

You can check availability for your dates here:

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

This 9-day journey is designed to showcase a curated selection of China’s cultural and natural highlights. From the ancient Taoist traditions of Wudang Mountain to the surreal “pillars” of Zhangjiajie, the itinerary balances activity with moments of awe. It’s a busy schedule, but one that offers rich rewards for travelers who love a mix of history, scenic views, and wildlife.

Starting Point: Wudang Mountain

Arriving at Wudangshan Airport, the tour begins with a warm welcome and transfer to your hotel. Wudang is famous for its Taoist heritage and legendary martial arts. The highlight here is a cable car ride to the Golden Summit, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views over the mountains. The summit is a popular spot for both spiritual reflection and photography — expect breathtaking vistas that make the early morning climb worthwhile.

Here, you’ll also visit Taizipo and one of the temples, such as Purple Cloud Palace or Nanyan Palace. We love the way the guided visits are spaced out, giving you time to absorb the spiritual atmosphere and enjoy some peaceful moments. The availability of a Tai Chi session at Yuzhen Palace adds a chance to experience this gentle martial art firsthand, making the experience more immersive.

Visiting Mount Emei and Leshan

The next day takes us to Mount Emei, one of China’s four sacred Buddhist mountains. You’ll ascend via cable car to the Jinding (Golden Summit), where a massive golden statue overlooks the clouds. The views from here are spectacular, and the calm temple atmosphere offers a contrast to the lively city scenes.

On the way back, the tour includes a cruise by the Leshan Giant Buddha, the largest stone Buddha in the world carved into a cliffside more than 1,700 years ago. The boat ride provides a different perspective of this immense statue, which is truly an icon of Chinese craftsmanship and devotion. We appreciated the balanced itinerary that combines spiritual sites with scenic cruises, giving variety without rushing.

Chengdu and the Pandas

From the mountains, the journey continues to Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan. The highlight here is a visit to the Chengdu Panda Base, where you can spend over two hours observing the adorable pandas in their habitat. The electric cars and the relaxed pace at the base make this visit enjoyable; you see pandas of all ages, and the guide shares interesting facts about their conservation.

The next day involves a high-speed train journey to Jiuzhaigou, known for its colorful lakes and waterfalls. Depending on the season, the scenery can be stunningly vibrant or more subdued, but it’s always worth the trip. If traveling between October 1 and October 31, the itinerary shifts slightly to include Huanglongxi Ancient Town, the Leshan Giant Buddha Boat Tour, and Baoguo Temple — all adding layers of cultural and natural interest.

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The Enchanting Peaks of Zhangjiajie

The final leg of the tour takes you to Zhangjiajie, famous for its pillar-like formations that inspired the floating mountains in the film Avatar. The day includes visits to Tianzi Mountain, Yuanjiajie, and the Golden Whip Stream, each offering unforgettable views of towering rock pillars and lush forests.

The highlight is Tianmen Mountain, with its glass skywalk and 45-degree steps carved into the mountain face. The area’s dramatic scenery makes it a perfect finale to your trip. The tour’s detailed mention of the Junsheng Painting Institute adds an unexpected cultural layer, giving insight into local artistry.

Practical Details and Comfort

Transportation throughout the trip involves cable cars, shuttles, cruises, and high-speed trains. This mix keeps the travel interesting and provides different perspectives of the landscapes. The group size is not explicitly mentioned but the reviews suggest a friendly, well-organized experience with a tour guide who is attentive and informative.

Accommodations range from resorts on Wudang Mountain to hotels in Chengdu and Zhangjiajie — generally comfortable, well-located, and adding to the overall value of the package. Meals are included at key points, allowing you to try regional cuisine without additional planning.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

If you’re someone who enjoys covering a lot of ground in a short time, appreciates cultural sites with spiritual significance, and loves stunning natural scenery, this tour fits the bill. The mention of adorable pandas and Avatar-inspired landscapes appeals to families, wildlife lovers, and nature enthusiasts alike.

The busy schedule might challenge those who prefer a more relaxed pace or smaller, more intimate experiences. However, the variety and depth of the sites make it ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of southwestern China’s most iconic sights in just over a week.

The Sum Up

This 9-day tour offers a well-rounded experience of China’s spiritual, natural, and cultural highlights. Its value lies in the carefully curated itinerary, allowing travelers to see world-famous landmarks like Leshan’s Giant Buddha and Zhangjiajie’s towering peaks without the hassle of planning each leg independently. The inclusion of panda encounters and mountain temples ensures authentic moments that leave a lasting impression.

While it’s a fast-paced trip, the variety of scenic vistas, cultural insights, and wildlife encounters makes it worth considering for those eager to maximize a short visit. It’s best suited for those who thrive on active sightseeing and are open to a schedule that balances walking, cruising, and scenic drives.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation includes cable cars, shuttles, cruises, and high-speed trains, making travel between sites smooth and enjoyable.

Are meals included in the itinerary?
Meals are included at key points during the trip, giving you opportunities to sample regional cuisine without extra expense.

What is the accommodation like?
Hotels are generally comfortable and well-located, ranging from resorts on Wudang Mountain to hotels in main cities like Chengdu and Zhangjiajie.

Can I expect to see pandas during the tour?
Yes, the visit to the Chengdu Panda Base is a highlight, with over two hours dedicated to seeing pandas of various ages.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
Given the sightseeing focus, it’s suitable for families, especially those with older children who can handle busy days and long walks.

How much walking is involved?
Expect some walking at temples, scenic spots, and the panda base. The itinerary includes cable car rides and cruises to reduce walking strain.

What should I pack for this trip?
Bring comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, sun protection, water, cash, and any personal essentials. Be prepared for some high-altitude or cooler conditions on mountain sites.

This tour combines the best of China’s cultural heritage and stunning landscapes for a memorable journey that balances adventure with insight. Perfect for travelers eager to see from mountain temples to panda sanctuaries and beyond—all in just 9 days.

You can check availability for your dates here: