6 Days Surreal Zhangjiajie Tour: Avatar, Furong & Fenghuang Ancient Town

Today, you will spend half-day tour of Tianmen Mountain in Tianmenshan National Forest Park, known as as the “Soul of Zhangjiajie” and the “No.1 Sacred Mountain of Western Hunan Province”. Located only 8 kilometers away from Zhangjiajie city center, the Tianmen Mountain Scenic Area is unique in that it is suitable for people of all ages, and climbing is not necessary.

First, take the 30-minute cable car (7,455 meters) ride from Zhangjiajie City to the top of Tianmen Mountain. As you ascend, you’ll be treated to a panoramic view of the winding mountain road with 99 bends (the Road to Heaven) and the breathtaking beauty of the bonsai gardens. Now, brace yourself for a thrilling challenge. Take a deep breath and step on the cliff path hanging on the mountainside. Walk along the Glass Walkway, a transparent glass path that stretches for 60 meters and hovers 1,430 meters above the bottomless valley, giving you a thrilling sensation of walking in the sky. Additionally, experience the 1.6-kilometer-long Cliff-Hanging Walkway, which is built along the edges of the mountain’s summits. It’s truly an amazing adventure! Next, you have the option to visit Tianmen Temple, a Buddhist structure that embodies the architectural style of the Qing Dynasty (1616-1912). It is surrounded by lush green forests, providing a serene atmosphere. And, you can also visit Yunmenxianding (云梦仙顶; 1,518m), the highest point in Tianmenshan National Forest Park, to enjoy a bird’s eye view of the surroundings.

Afterward, go down by escalator from the mountaintop to Tianmen Cave, the world’s highest natural mountain through the cave which spans 131.5 meters. Tianmen Cave, also known as Heaven’s Gate Hole (天门洞), is frequently enveloped in swirling clouds and mist, and at other times, it is illuminated by ethereal rays of sunlight, resulting in a mesmerizing and ever-changing display of light and shadows. Take your time there to capture some beautiful photographs. Following that, you have the option to either walk down the 999 steps or take the elevator. Then, welcome back to another cable car station. Take the cable car down the mountain.

After touring Tianmen Mountain, you’ll be transferred to Furong Ancient Town (芙蓉古镇), located southwest of Zhangjiajie City (a 2–2.5-hour drive). This afternoon and evening, you’ll discover the surreal “Ancient Town Hanging on the Waterfall” from every angle. Unlike any other town, you’ll witness dramatic waterfall cascading through this 2,000-year-old town.

Furong Ancient Town was renamed after the famous 1986 Chinese film Hibiscus Town. Upon arrival, you’ll step into a dreamy cliffside village of wooden stilt houses and winding stone-paved alleys. Before sunset, wander the cobbled streets, admire the Tujia-style architecture, soak up local life, and savor delicious Xiangxi cuisine.

As dusk falls, the town transforms into a real-life fairy tale. Golden lanterns illuminate the streets, and the waterfall glows with vibrant colors – the perfect moment for photos. Head to Qingxiu Pavilion (观瀑台) to admire the 60-meter-wide waterfall (大瀑布), framed by glowing cliffs. The misty scene feels ethereal, as if the town is floating. (Yes, this is the Instagram-worthy shot!)

Tonight, immerse yourself in Tujia ethnic culture at Baishoutang Square (摆手堂广场): you may enjoy Folk songs echoing through the night; The lively Hand-Waving Dance (摆手舞); The primal Maogusi Dance (茅古斯舞), or Ku Jia (哭嫁), the poignant “Crying Marriage” ritual.

Stay your night in Furong Ancient Town. Let the joy, laughter, and ancient rhythms carry you into a beautiful dream.

Wake up to fresh air and cheerful mood in Furong Ancient Town. This ancient village, built beside an emerald waterfall, is veiled in mist over the You River. In the morning, the town rests quietly, accompanied only by the gentle, rhythmic roar of the waterfall – creating a peaceful and joyful start to your day. Stroll along the stone streets as locals begin their daily routines.

Now, with Asia Odyssey Travel, explore more history and culture of Furong Ancient Town. Visit Xizhou Bronze Pillar Garden (溪州铜柱), where a striking group sculpture depicts the Chu King and the local Tusi (chieftain) signing their peace treaty on the “Xizhou Bronze Pillar.” Cast from 5,000 jin of copper, this sacred pillar is deeply revered by the Tujia people. Next, cross Tuwang Bridge (土王桥), a classic covered wind-and-rain bridge. In the morning mist, its reflection alongside the stilt houses creates a living ink-wash painting – a beautiful relic from the Tusi era. Then continue to Youyang Palace (酉阳宫), the summer retreat of past Tusi kings. Nearby, you’ll encounter the main waterfall again, its waters cascading down lush green cliffs and dancing softly in the light, framed by traditional Tujia stilt houses.

Congratulations! You’ve now experienced Furong Ancient Town at its very best, enjoying both its daytime wonders and enchanting night views.

After the tour, it’s time to journey to your next destination – Fenghuang Ancient Town (凤凰古城), located about 116 km from Furong Town.

Unlike Furong Ancient Town, Fenghuang is a fairytale-like riverside treasure nestled along the tranquil Tuo River. Widely celebrated as one of China’s most picturesque towns, it presents postcard-perfect scenery: the Tuo River meanders gracefully past stilted wooden houses (Tuojia Diaojiaolou), their reflections dancing on the water’s surface like strokes from an ancient Chinese ink painting. This charming town also serves as an important cultural center for the Miao and Tujia ethnic minorities.

You will arrive during daylight hours, you’ll find yourself walking along cobblestone streets flanked by well-preserved Qing Dynasty architecture, creating endless opportunities for beautiful photographs. The iconic Hong Bridge and the mirror-like reflections on the Tuo River make particularly stunning subjects for your camera.

As evening falls, Fenghuang undergoes a magical transformation. The lantern-lit alleys come alive with the energetic buzz of night markets and riverside bars, while thousands of glowing red lanterns cast their radiant light across the water, magnificently amplifying the beauty of the stilt houses.

Tuo River Boating Experience: Relaxing Views of Fenghuang Ancient Town (Choose Between Daytime or Nighttime Cruises)

Enjoy a scenic boat ride along the Tuo River. Opt for the daytime cruise to glide peacefully past the stilt houses and beneath Hong Bridge, where you can observe local fishermen at work, women washing clothes along the shore, and children playing by the riverbanks.

Or, take evening cruise for a completely different perspective as the town comes alive with illumination – glowing bridges and lanterns create a dreamlike atmosphere, their golden reflections shimmering across the water’s surface.

Stay overnight in Fenghuang Ancient Town.