River & Nature · Modern Cities
Lanterns and Stone Peaks
12 Days · Shanghai · Zhouzhuang · Zhangjiajie · Fenghuang · Chongqing
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Overview
Shanghai's skyline gives way to Zhouzhuang's canals, then to the quartz spires of Zhangjiajie and the lantern-lit riverfronts of Furong Town and Fenghuang, before ending in Chongqing's hillside neon — a single route through China's most photographed water towns and stone peaks.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
| Days | Destination | Core Experience | Accommodation |
|---|---|---|---|
| D1–D3 | Shanghai + Zhouzhuang | Shanghai city highlights, the Bund, Yu Garden, Zhujiajiao/Zhouzhuang water town | 3 nights in Shanghai |
| D4–D6 | Zhangjiajie | Wulingyuan, Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Tianmen Mountain | 3 nights in Zhangjiajie |
| D7 | Furong Town | Waterfall old town, Tujia minority culture | 1 night in Furong Town |
| D8–D9 | Fenghuang | Tuo River, old-town night views, Miao and western Hunan culture | 2 nights in Fenghuang |
| D10–D12 | Chongqing | Mountain-city skyline, Hongya Cave, Yangtze night views, city food; departure on D12 | 2 nights in Chongqing |
Highlights
- Shanghai's Bund skyline and a half-day in Zhouzhuang's canal old town
- Zhangjiajie's quartz-sandstone pillars, the landscape said to have inspired Avatar
- Furong Town's waterfall running straight beneath the old riverside houses
- Fenghuang's lantern-lit riverfront after dark, one of China's most-photographed ancient towns
- Chongqing's hillside skyline and Yangtze-side hotpot to close the trip
What's Included
- Private, English-speaking guide throughout
- Private car or van transfers between cities
- Handpicked boutique accommodation
- Daily breakfast and select local meals
- All permits, entrance fees, and internal transport
- Travel and medical insurance guidance
Not Included
- International flights to and from China
- Chinese visa fees
- Personal expenses and gratuities
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