Zhangjiajie & Fenghuang 5-Day Tour: Avatar Mountains, Glass Bridge

Summary

Private Zhangjiajie Adventure: Avatar Peaks, Glass Skywalk & Fenghuang Old Town

If you want wild mountain views straight out of Avatar plus time wandering lantern-lit streets in China’s most charming old town—all without worrying about tickets or transport—this trip covers it all: glass bridges, sky-high elevators, local legends and plenty of time to soak it all in.

What’s the experience like?

The air in Zhangjiajie hits you first—fresh, a bit earthy, especially after a morning rain. Our guide met us right at the airport with a big smile and a sign (always a relief). The drive to Wulingyuan was quick; I remember seeing locals selling peaches by the roadside. That first evening was ours to wander. I grabbed some street noodles and watched the mist roll over the sandstone peaks from my hotel window. It’s quiet here at night—just the sound of cicadas and the occasional scooter zipping past.

Next morning, we hopped on the park’s green bus to Bailong Elevator. Standing in that glass box as it climbs up the cliff is something else—my stomach did a little flip. At the top of Yuanjiajie Mountain, our guide pointed out the “Hallelujah Mountains” from Avatar. They’re real! We hiked for about two hours, stopping every few minutes because there’s always another crazy rock formation or cloud drifting by. The Platform of Forgetfulness has this view that just goes on forever, and crossing the No.1 Bridge Under Heaven felt like walking into a painting.

Tianzi Mountain was next—a different vibe altogether. The peaks are sharper here, almost like stone pencils poking through clouds. Our guide shared stories about the Tujia prince who once led his people here; you can almost picture it when you’re standing on that huge open platform looking out over everything. There were vendors selling hot sweet potatoes near the entrance—perfect snack after all those steps.

Golden Whip Stream is an easy walk—flat path, cool shade from tall trees overhead. The water runs clear enough to see pebbles at the bottom. We spotted wild monkeys swinging above us (hold onto your snacks!). Locals say each peak has its own legend; our guide told us about one shaped like an old fisherman waiting for his wife. Afterward, we took the cable car up to Huangshi Village—way easier than climbing 4,000 steps! Up top, there’s a loop trail with views in every direction; I lost count of how many photos I took.

The glass bridge is wild—375 meters long and see-through all the way down to the canyon floor below. My legs felt wobbly but it’s worth it for that rush (and yes, everyone takes off their shoes before stepping on). By late afternoon, sunlight hits the cliffs just right and everything glows gold.

Tianmen Mountain day started early with coffee from a tiny shop near our hotel (the owner’s kid waved at us). The cable car ride up is long—almost half an hour—but watching Zhangjiajie city shrink below is unreal. Walking on those glass skywalks clinging to sheer cliffs made my palms sweat more than once! We counted all 999 steps leading up to Tianmen Cave—the “Heaven’s Gate.” Afterward, our driver took us through winding roads out toward Fenghuang.

Arriving in Fenghuang felt like stepping back in time: lanterns reflected in the river at dusk, old wooden houses leaning over cobbled streets. I checked into my hotel then wandered down to one of those riverside bars for a drink—the music floats out over the water and everyone seems relaxed here.

The last morning was slow-paced: just meandering through ancient alleys lined with silver jewelry shops and Miao embroidery stalls. You’ll hear local dialects mixing with Mandarin everywhere you go. Around noon our driver picked us up for an easy ride back to Zhangjiajie airport—or you can head for Huaihua fast train station if you’re catching another adventure.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Arrival and Free Time in Zhangjiajie

• Meet driver and transfer to hotel
• Free and easy time

Day 2 — Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

• Visit Bailong Elevator and Yuanjiajie hike
• Explore Tianzi Mountain scenic spots

Day 3 — Golden Whip Stream and Huangshizhai

• Walk Golden Whip Stream
• Cable car to Huangshizhai and hike
• Visit Glass Bridge

Day 4 — Tianmen Mountain and Transfer to Fenghuang

• Visit Tianmen Mountain and cable car
• Relax in Fenghuang bars

Day 5 — Fenghuang City Tour and Departure

• Tour Ancient Fenghuang town
• Transfer to Zhangjiajie airport or train station

Top questions

Is hotel accommodation included?

No—hotels aren’t included so you can pick your own style or budget in both Zhangjiajie and Fenghuang.

How much walking is involved?

There are some hikes (like Yuanjiajie and Golden Whip Stream) but most paths are well-paved or have cable cars as options.

Are meals provided?

Dinner is included; other meals are on your own so you can try local food whenever you want.

Can children join this tour?

Yes! Kids are welcome but must be with an adult—and strollers/prams work fine for most spots.

What if I’m scared of heights?

You can skip certain parts like the glass bridge or skywalks if they feel too much—it’s flexible!

What’s included

You’ll get all entrance fees covered—including elevator and cable car rides—as well as dinner each day and private transport (airport/train pickup & drop-off). Inside parks we use eco-buses; your English-speaking guide knows all the best photo spots and stories along the way!