Yuanjiajie Avatar and Tianzi Mountain and Rice Field Village Tour

Traveling to Zhangjiajie, China, and not exploring its iconic landscapes would be like visiting Paris and skipping the Eiffel Tower. This tour offers a well-rounded experience of the area’s most famous sights, with a mix of exhilarating rides, scenic walks, and local culture. It’s designed for those who want to see the highlights without the stress of planning every detail themselves.

What really makes this tour shine are three things: the knowledgeable guides who bring the scenery to life, the stunning panoramic views from every vantage point, and the smooth transportation that gets you comfortably from one spot to the next. The inclusion of lesser-known gems like the Rice Fields in the Air adds an extra layer of authenticity and peace away from the crowds.

That said, it’s worth noting that entrance tickets are not included in the initial price, which could add up if you’re traveling on a budget. Also, the tour involves quite a bit of walking and bus rides, so it’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable with a busy day outdoors.

This tour is perfect for adventure lovers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone eager to see the true majesty of Zhangjiajie’s mountains in a single day.

Good To Know

• Expert guides elevate the experience with insightful commentary and local knowledge
• Spectacular views from Yuanjiajie and Tianzi Mountain are the main highlights
• Convenient transportation with elevators and cable cars ease the upward climb
• Lesser-known spots like Rice Fields in the Air give a special, quieter experience
• Cost includes private guide and car, but tickets are paid separately
• Ideal for those with limited time who want a comprehensive day of sightseeing

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: Bailong Elevator and First Impressions

Your day begins with a pickup in Zhangjiajie, after which you’ll hop onto a comfortable private vehicle. The first stop is the Bailong Elevator, famous for its record-breaking height of 326 meters. Sitting inside this glass elevator, you’ll get a stirring view of the valley below, all while ascending in just about a minute and a half. The ride is fast, smooth, and offers perfect photo opportunities, especially for those who love capturing daring engineering feats.

While admission tickets aren’t included and cost extra, many travelers find the elevator experience itself to be worth the small added expense. One reviewer mentioned that the view from the top is “absolutely breathtaking,” setting the tone for the rest of the day.

Yuanjiajie: The Avatar Mountains

Next, you’ll take the Sky Elevator up to Yuanjiajie, the area that inspired the floating mountains in the film Avatar. Here lies the big Misa platform, offering sweeping views of the towering peaks. You’ll walk around for about an hour, passing the Sky Pillar, the largest floating mountain, which is a favorite photo spot.

According to reviews, guides like Eric, who spoke perfect English and knew the area’s history very well, made this part especially enjoyable. His local insights helped us understand the unique geology and why these formations look so surreal. The admission to Yuanjiajie is free, making this a highlight that feels accessible and authentic.

Exploring Laowuchang Village

The tour then heads to Lao Wu Chang, a mountain village inhabited by local Tujia minority people. Here, you’ll see mountain rice fields and experience a slower pace of life. The bus ride up offers scenic views, and many travelers appreciated this quieter, more personal slice of mountain life.

One review highlighted the peaceful atmosphere, noting that “live a happy and quiet life” is quite accurate here. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy a bit of local culture and perhaps snap some candid photos of traditional architecture and terraced fields.

The Majesty of Tianzi Mountain

The final major stop is Tianzi Mountain, known as the “Kingdom of Peaks.” With more than 1,000 peaks, the area offers numerous view platforms from which to admire the bizarre, jagged formations. The peaks are accompanied by lush greenery, adding to the ever-changing scenery as you walk from one platform to another.

This part of the tour lasts about three hours and isn’t included in the ticket price, but many find it well worth the extra cost. The viewpoints here provide the perfect backdrop for panoramic photos, which you’ll want to keep forever. Reviewers comment on the “beautiful trees and unique peaks,” which are exactly what make Tianzi Mountain so special.

Practical Details and Tips

Transportation and Comfort

Every step of the tour involves comfortable private transportation, including bus rides, elevators, and cable cars. These transports are crucial in saving your energy and ensuring you spend more time enjoying the scenery rather than climbing hills. The Sky Elevator and cable cars are highlights not just for their convenience but for the spectacular views they deliver during the ascent and descent.

Timing and Duration

The entire experience spans approximately 9 hours, giving you plenty of time at each stop without feeling rushed. Starting early, around 7 AM, means you can beat the crowds and enjoy a quieter experience in popular spots like Yuanjiajie and Tianzi Mountain.

Ticketing and Costs

While the tour price starts at $105 per person, note that admission tickets cost an additional 429 CNY for adults (around $60 USD). For children and seniors, the price reduces to about 293 CNY. It’s worth considering this extra expense in your overall budget, but many would agree that with the included guides and transportation, it remains a good value for such a comprehensive day.

What’s Not Included

• Entrance tickets (must be booked in advance)
• Meals and personal expenses
• Gratuity for guides and drivers (recommended if you’re happy with their service)

Final Thoughts

This Yuanjiajie Avatar, Tianzi Mountain, and Rice Field Village Tour offers a well-organized, immersive day in one of China’s most striking natural landscapes. The expert guides turn what could be just a sightseeing trip into an engaging story of geology, culture, and adventure.

If you’re someone who loves stunning vistas, authentic local scenes, and convenient logistics, this experience will suit you perfectly. You’ll appreciate the combination of easy transportation, less crowded spots, and in-depth commentary that makes the mountains come alive.

While the additional ticket costs might seem high, they’re an investment in access to top sights and the comfort of guided insights. Plus, the small group or private setup ensures a personalized experience that adapts to your pace and interests.

This tour balances value and quality, providing a memorable taste of Zhangjiajie’s awe-inspiring scenery with a touch of local flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to book tickets in advance?
Yes, you’ll need to book entrance tickets beforehand, as they are not included in the tour price. This helps avoid long lines and ensures your access to popular spots.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Generally, yes. The tour involves walking and bus rides, so it’s best for those comfortable with outdoor activity, but most travelers can participate.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. You might want to bring snacks or plan to eat during your free moments.

Can I customize the tour or choose specific sights?
Since this is a private tour, you can discuss your preferences with your guide beforehand, within the scope of the itinerary.

How much does the additional entrance fee cost?
For adults, it’s about 429 CNY (roughly $60 USD). For children and seniors, it’s approximately 293 CNY.

What’s the best time of day to start?
Starting early around 7 AM helps beat crowds and makes the most of daylight hours, especially if you want good lighting for photos.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
This isn’t specified, but given the terrain and transportation involved, it’s best to inquire directly with the provider for accessibility options.

How long do I spend at each site?
Expect about 1.5 hours at Bailong Elevator, 2 hours at Yuanjiajie, 2.5 hours at Laowuchang Village, and 3 hours at Tianzi Mountain.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable shoes for walking, and bring layers as weather can change quickly in mountain areas.

Is this tour available year-round?
Yes, between July 21, 2024, and December 7, 2026, this tour operates daily within the specified hours.

This tour offers a captivating glimpse into Zhangjiajie’s most famous sights, blending natural beauty, local culture, and expert insights into one memorable day. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for another look, it’s a journey worth taking.