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

Discover China’s Treasures in 9 Days: Wudang, Chengdu, Dujiangyan & Zhangjiajie

Traveling through China often feels like flipping through pages of an ancient, vibrant storybook. This 9-day tour offers a well-balanced mix of culture, natural beauty, and iconic sights, making it a compelling choice for those eager to see China’s diverse landscapes and heritage in one trip.

What we love about this experience: it hits the highlights like Wudang’s Taoist temples, the Leshan Giant Buddha, the surreal peaks of Zhangjiajie, and adorable pandas in Chengdu. The inclusion of a cable car ride to Wudang’s Golden Summit and full days exploring Jiuzhaigou and Mount Emei help create memorable, camera-worthy moments.

One thing to consider is the pace—this is a busy itinerary with early mornings and quite a bit of travel, which might be tiring for some. But overall, it’s perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive snapshot of China’s most famous sites and don’t mind a packed schedule.

This tour suits those with a curiosity for Chinese culture, nature lovers, first-timers, or anyone wanting an immersive but manageable way to experience a broad spectrum of southwestern China’s wonders.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering cultural sites, natural parks, and iconic landmarks
• Expert-led tours with detailed insights, plus a friendly atmosphere
• Balance of guided visits and free time for personal exploration
• Convenient transportation including flights, trains, and cable cars
• Authentic experiences like Tai Chi, panda encounters, and Taoist temples
• Value for money considering the multiple major sights included

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Wudang Mountain and Its Spiritual Heritage

The journey begins with Wudang Mountain, renowned for its Taoist temples and spiritual significance. Arriving at Wudangshan Airport, you’re greeted by friendly staff who transfer you to the Wudang Mountain Narada Resort Hotel—an ideal base for exploring.

The next day is dedicated to discovering Wudang’s ancient temples and scenic peaks, including a cable car ride to the Golden Summit. The view from the summit is truly spectacular—mountains stretching into the distance, clouds swirling around ancient Taoist temples. You’ll visit sites like Taihe Palace, Taizipo, and Purple Cloud Palace, each with their own unique charm.

The experience of riding the cable car to the Golden Summit is a highlight; it saves energy and offers panoramic views that you’ll want to photograph. The temples themselves, with their intricate architecture and peaceful courtyards, offer a glimpse into centuries-old spiritual practices.

Another memorable part of the Wudang experience is the visit to Yuzhen Palace with a Tai Chi session. It’s a chance to see this ancient martial art in its spiritual context and, if you’re lucky, to participate in a short practice yourself. The Yuxu Palace and Taiji Lake round out the day, blending natural beauty with sacred sites.

A traveler reviewed the experience as “excellent,” mentioning the guide’s detailed explanations and friendly demeanor, which enhances the overall atmosphere.

Transitioning to Chengdu: Pandas and Culinary Delights

After the spiritual serenity of Wudang, the tour flies to Chengdu, the city famous for its giant pandas and spicy cuisine. The morning begins with a visit to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. Over about two hours, you’ll see pandas of all ages, many lounging lazily or munching bamboo. The electric cars used inside the base make moving around comfortable, and the experience feels authentic, unlike the rushed tourist hotspots.

Following the panda visit, the tour includes a trip to Dujiangyan, a marvel of ancient irrigation engineering, and Du Fu’s Cottage, which offers insight into China’s literary past. These stops are not just sightseeing points but also deepen your understanding of local history and ingenuity.

In the evening, you’ll catch a flight to Chengdu, a city that’s lively, spicy, and full of character. Staying in a centrally located hotel like the Grand Mercure Chengdu East ensures you’re close to local eateries and markets, perfect for trying Sichuan hotpot or wandering through night bazaars.

From Huanglong to Jiuzhaigou: Incredible Natural Wonders

The next day involves a scenic train ride to Songpan, followed by a trip to the Huanglong Scenic Area, famous for its colorful pools and waterfalls. The inclusion of round-trip cable cars makes it easier to manage the steep terrain, and the views of shimmering pools against the mountains are breathtaking.

Depending on the date, the itinerary switches slightly, adding a visit to Huanglongxi Ancient Town or the Leshan Giant Buddha. The boat cruise past the Leshan Buddha, one of the largest stone Buddha statues in the world, is a peaceful way to take in this UNESCO-listed marvel. The towering Buddha, carved into the cliff face, appears even more impressive up-close, and the boat ride gives a relaxing perspective of the monument.

On Day 5, you’ll explore Jiuzhaigou Valley, known for its crystal-clear lakes, vibrant fall foliage (or spring blossoms), and waterfalls. The full-day visit includes a scenic eco-bus ride, ensuring you can cover the vast park comfortably. The landscape here is straight out of a fairy tale, with multicolored lakes and lush forests.

Traveling here is about feeling transported—every turn and vista provides a perfect photo opportunity. The travel time by train from Chengdu to Jiuzhaigou is around two hours, which is efficient for such a remote natural wonder.

Climbing Mount Emei and Visiting Dujiangyan

Following Jiuzhaigou, the tour takes you to Mount Emei, one of China’s Four Sacred Mountains. Ascending by cable car to the Jinding (Golden Summit), you’ll enjoy sweeping views and see the iconic golden statue of Samantabhadra. The summit’s clouds and mountain vistas create a truly magical atmosphere. The cable car and sightseeing bus make the ascent manageable, especially for those concerned about strenuous hikes.

On the way back, a visit to Dujiangyan Irrigation System and Du Fu’s Thatched Cottage in Chengdu enriches your understanding of Chinese engineering and literary history. The irrigation system, still in use today, showcases ancient ingenuity, while Du Fu’s Cottage offers a peaceful retreat among gardens and historic relics.

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Zhangjiajie: The Avatar-Inspired Peaks

The final leg of the journey takes you to Zhangjiajie, famous for inspiring the floating mountains in the film Avatar. Upon arrival, the Tianzi Mountain and Yuanjiajie are highlights, offering towering sandstone formations that seem almost otherworldly. The views of jagged peaks piercing the sky and the winding Golden Whip Stream are perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

The Charming Xiangxi Show adds a cultural flavor, blending local traditions and performances, rounding out your natural exploration with a taste of regional artistry.

The next day, visiting Tianmen Mountain—known for its soaring cliffs, glass skywalk, and the famous “Heaven’s Gate” arch—closes the tour with a dramatic finale. The cable car ride up Tianmen Mountain offers spectacular vistas, making it a memorable end to your adventures in China’s interior.

Practical Details and Value

This tour’s price of $1,539 per person covers airport transfers, domestic flights, train journeys, hotel stays, and guided sightseeing, making it a convenient all-in-one package. While the itinerary is busy, it offers excellent value considering it combines transportation, accommodations, and expert guides—saving you time and logistical hassle.

Travelers noted the professionalism and kindness of guides, with one mentioning how helpful and informative the guide was, particularly highlighting the detailed explanations that enriched each site.

The trip’s pace is brisk, with early mornings and long days, but for those wanting maximum exposure in a limited time, it’s perfect. Carrying comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and essentials like sunscreen and water will ensure you stay comfortable throughout.

Who This Tour Suits Best

If you’re someone who loves mixing culture with nature, appreciates well-organized guided tours, and prefers a manageable schedule that hits all major highlights, this tour will resonate with you. It’s ideal for first-time visitors to China, eager to see both iconic landmarks and lesser-known scenic spots without the hassle of planning each detail.

Travelers interested in photography, history, or spiritual sites will find plenty to love here. The inclusion of pandas, temples, natural parks, and dramatic mountain vistas makes it a well-rounded, enriching experience.

Final Thoughts

This 9-day adventure through China offers a balanced blend of cultural, spiritual, and natural sights, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking an authentic and rundown of southwestern China. The tour’s highlights are memorable, the guides are knowledgeable, and the logistics are handled smoothly, promoting a stress-free experience.

While the packed schedule might not suit those looking for a leisurely pace, it’s perfect for active travelers eager to maximize their time. From the peaceful Taoist temples of Wudang to the surreal peaks of Zhangjiajie, every moment brings something unique and awe-inspiring.

Ultimately, this tour provides fantastic value, authentic experiences, and a chance to see some of China’s most celebrated landmarks—all in just nine days.

FAQ

Is airport pickup included?
Yes, there is a free airport pickup at Wudangshan Airport (WDS) at 14:00 or 23:00 on the first day, so make sure to meet the staff with your baggage at the designated times.

Are flights and train tickets part of the package?
Yes, the tour includes domestic flights (such as from Wudang to Chengdu) and train journeys (like Chengdu to Jiuzhaigou and back), all arranged as part of the itinerary.

What should I bring for this tour?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a hat, sunscreen, water, cash, and weather-appropriate attire are recommended to stay comfortable during outdoor excursions and temple visits.

Are meals included?
Most days include breakfast, lunch, and dinner as indicated in the itinerary, but some meals are not included, so plan accordingly.

Can I participate in activities like Tai Chi?
Yes, the tour includes a Tai Chi session at Yuzhen Palace, offering a chance to experience this traditional practice in its spiritual setting.

Is this tour suitable for children or pregnant travelers?
Children under 18 need to be accompanied by an adult. Pregnant travelers are permitted if under 24 weeks. Booster seats are available if needed for younger children.

Are all attractions included?
All listed visits are part of the tour package. Tickets for attractions are purchased during booking or on the day of the tour, as third-party passes aren’t accepted.

What’s the best type of traveler for this tour?
It’s ideal for those interested in sightseeing, culture, and natural beauty, willing to keep a lively pace, and looking for a hassle-free way to explore China’s southwestern highlights.

You can check availability for your dates here: