3-Day Private Tour to AVATAR Mt.72 odd tower& Furong Town

Introduction

Planning a trip to Zhangjiajie? This 3-day private tour promises to showcase some of China’s most extraordinary scenery, from towering sandstone pillars to a town seemingly hanging alongside waterfalls. We haven’t personally experienced it, but from detailed reviews and descriptions, it’s clear this trip offers a rich mix of natural wonder and cultural charm.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the ride on the Bailong Elevator, which is renowned as one of the tallest outdoor lifts in the world. Second, the chance to explore the Yuanjiajie Scenic Area, the inspiration behind the Avatar mountains. Lastly, the visit to Furong Town, a tranquil water town famous for its waterfalls and stilted architecture. That said, a potential consideration is the tight schedule, which might feel rushed for those wanting a more leisurely pace.

This experience suits travelers eager for visually stunning scenery, thrilling rides, and authentic small-town atmospheres. It’s perfect for those who want to pack a lot into a short trip, especially if they’re intrigued by the iconic landscape that inspired the film Avatar.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Experience world-record-breaking elevators and glass bridges that offer breathtaking perspectives.
• Natural & Cultural Mix: Combine scenic hikes with visits to ancient towns and illuminated stilted buildings.
• Efficient Route: Carefully designed itinerary maximizes major sights without overwhelming.
• Guided Convenience: Live English-speaking guides help navigate complex sites smoothly.
• Private Group: Personalized experience with flexibility for customization.
• Value for Money: A comprehensive tour that includes highlights, transportation, and skip-the-line tickets.

The Route Breakdown: What to Expect

Day 1: Tianmen Mountain & 72 Odd Towers at Night

Your journey begins in Zhangjiajie with a warm hotel check-in. Later in the afternoon, the adventure kicks off with a ride on the world’s longest alpine cable car up Tianmen Mountain. This cable car, stretching over 7,455 meters, offers stunning aerial views of the surrounding peaks and forests—an experience in itself. We’ve heard from travelers that this cable ride is a highlight, as it’s an effortless way to take in the rugged landscape.

Once atop, you’ll traverse the Glass Skywalk and Guigu Plank Road—both of which offer adrenaline-pumping, cliffside views. The Skywalk’s transparent floor makes you feel as if you’re walking in the clouds, while the Plank Road clings to the mountainside, offering an exhilarating walk lined with dramatic vistas.

As evening approaches, the sunset and light show at Tianmen Cave transform the natural arch into a luminous spectacle, with lasers, music, and colorful illumination. After descending, you’ll head to the 72 Odd Towers, a complex of stilted buildings that’s a Guinness World Record holder for its architectural uniqueness. This area lights up at night with vibrant displays, local street performances, and an architectural projection show—perfect for a camera roll but also a chance to soak in local culture.

Day 2: Zhangjiajie National Forest Park (Wulingyuan Scenic Area)

The day’s focus is on the landscapes that made Zhangjiajie famous worldwide. Enter via the Wulingyuan East Gate for an efficient start. The bright orange shuttle bus takes you directly to the Bailong Elevator, which is a marvel—riding this glass elevator up the sandstone pillars offers panoramic views that are jaw-dropping.

Next, a walk to Yuanjiajie reveals the “Avatar Hallelujah Mountain,” which served as the inspiration for Pandora’s floating mountains. The towering, pillar-like formations are awe-inspiring and look almost surreal in person. Reviewers often mention that the views here are worth the early start and any crowds, which tend to be managed well if you purchase tickets in advance.

From Yuanjiajie, the tour continues to Tianzi Mountain for a broader perspective of the “peak forest,” a sea of summits stretching to the horizon. The Tianzi Mountain Cable Car offers a quick descent back to the park’s entrance, making the most of your time.

Later, the Ten-mile Gallery—a scenic valley walk—serves as a peaceful end to the day. Some travelers opt for the small paid train here, which adds to the fun without sacrificing much time.

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Day 3: Grand Canyon Glass Bridge & Furong Town

On your final day, the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon awaits. The highlight here is walking on the famous glass-bottom bridge, which stretches over 430 meters at a height of 300 meters. The view below is spectacularly dizzying, and the experience of walking on glass over a canyon is unforgettable—an adrenaline rush for many.

After exploring the canyon, your transfer takes you to Furong Town, a scenic “waterfall-hanging town” about 1.5-2 hours away. Once there, you can wander through the stilted Tuija buildings and stone streets, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere. Many reviews highlight the illuminated waterfalls at night as a magical sight, perfect for relaxing after a busy few days.

You’ll enjoy a local dinner by the river, making this a fitting end to your trip. Staying overnight in Furong Town is recommended, giving you plenty of time to appreciate its quiet charm without rushing back to Zhangjiajie.

Transportation and Practicalities

This tour offers private group arrangements and pick-up services from designated locations, including hotels in Wulingyuan and Zhangjiajie city, as well as Zhangjiajie Hehua Airport and West Railway Station. For those staying outside the pick-up zones, a quick taxi ride to the meeting point is all that’s needed.

The itinerary is designed to be efficient, allowing you to experience the major highlights without feeling overwhelmed. Tickets and entry are arranged in advance, so you skip long lines—definite time-savers, especially at peak seasons.

The tour lasts about two days, with flexibility to customize parts of the itinerary. The inclusion of a live English guide ensures you get contextual information and helpful tips, making navigation smoother, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area.

Accommodation & Meals

While the tour package covers transportation and entrance fees, accommodations are not included, so travelers should plan to stay in Zhangjiajie or Furong Town as preferred. Dining options at each site are plentiful, from street stalls to local restaurants serving traditional Hunan cuisine.

Pricing & Value

Given the extensive sites covered, the tour offers good value. It consolidates transportation, skip-the-line tickets, and a knowledgeable guide—elements that can add up if booked separately. The private nature means more personalized attention and flexibility, especially appealing if you prefer avoiding large groups or want to tailor your experience.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

Reviewers consistently mention that the views from Bailong Elevator are among the most impressive parts—”the best elevator ride ever,” one said. They also appreciated the efficiency of the route: “It was a well-planned day, hitting all the highlights without feeling rushed.” Others noted that Furong Town provides a peaceful contrast to the busy parks, with many describing it as a “hidden gem.”

Some travelers found that timing is key—early starts help beat crowds, especially at popular spots like Yuanjiajie and the glass bridge. The nighttime show at Tianmen Cave particularly stands out as a memorable experience, transforming the natural landscape into a luminous spectacle.

A few reviewers mentioned that the tour is quite packed, so if you’re looking for a slow-paced, relaxed holiday, you might prefer fewer stops or more days. However, for travelers eager to see a lot in a short time, this route hits the mark.

The Sum Up

This 3-day private tour is a fantastic gateway to Zhangjiajie’s most iconic sights, blending thrilling rides, awe-inspiring mountain landscapes, and charming water towns. It’s tailored for travelers who want to maximize their time and take in the scenery that inspired one of Hollywood’s most famous movies, Avatar. The inclusion of skip-the-line tickets, a live guide, and private transfers makes it a convenient and hassle-free choice.

The tour’s focus on panoramic views, combined with unique experiences like the glass skywalk and the world’s tallest elevator, delivers both excitement and memorable photo opportunities. The overnight stay in Furong Town adds a quieter, authentic touch, rounding out a well-balanced experience.

Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or someone craving extraordinary scenery, this tour offers a thorough, visually stunning adventure that’s hard to match.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
It’s best for travelers over 5 years old due to the physical activity and height-related experiences. Pregnant women and wheelchair users are not recommended for safety reasons.

How physically demanding are the activities?
Most activities involve walking and some stair climbing, especially at Tianmen Mountain and Yuanjiajie. The glass bridge and elevator rides are less strenuous but still require comfort with heights.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, as this is a private tour, you can tailor parts of the schedule, such as spending more time at certain sites or skipping others.

Are tickets included?
Yes, the tour includes the necessary tickets for all major attractions, plus skip-the-line access.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport, comfortable shoes, and weather-appropriate clothing. The tour may involve outdoor activities and variable weather conditions.

Is accommodation included?
No, but suggestions for local hotels are available, and overnight stays are recommended in Furong Town for the full experience.

How long are the travel times between sites?
Travel from Zhangjiajie to Furong Town takes approximately 1.5-2 hours, and transfers between scenic sites are managed efficiently with private transportation.

Is there any shopping involved?
The tour guarantees 100% no shopping stops, focusing solely on sightseeing and cultural exploration.

This detailed adventure offers a well-rounded, exhilarating journey through Zhangjiajie’s most captivating sights, perfect for those wanting a comprehensive experience without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

You can check availability for your dates here: