Overview

A three-day private journey through Xiandu in southern Zhejiang, a misty 'land of immortals' of towering pillar peaks, clear rivers and film-set canyons that looks like a living Chinese ink painting.

About This Tour

This private three-day tour explores Xiandu, whose name means 'the capital of immortals,' one of the most scenic and atmospheric corners of southern Zhejiang and a favourite filming location for countless Chinese costume dramas and fantasy films. The landscape is pure ink-wash China: the solitary 170-metre Dinghu Peak, often crowned 'the world's number-one pillar,' rises sheer from the green Lianhua River, while morning mist drifts over the water at Zhutan Mountain and the cliffs of Furong Gorge. You wander between the Niweng Cave grottoes, the Xiaochibi red cliffs, the riverside Xiandu Temple and easy canyon trails, all amid a tranquil rural setting of rice fields and old villages. Travelling with an English-speaking guide and private vehicle, you set an easy, photo-friendly pace. Ideal for nature and photography lovers, families and culture seekers wanting a peaceful, painterly side of China. Best in spring and autumn, with mist most likely on cool, humid mornings. Itinerary may adjust based on weather, road and local regulations. Good to know: • Best season: spring and autumn; morning mist on the river is weather dependent • Fitness level: easy; gentle walking with a relaxed 4-5 km gorge stroll • Early starts give the best mist and soft light for photos • Order of sights may change to avoid holiday crowds and traffic • Bring a camera, comfortable shoes and sun protection

Itinerary

Day 1: Furong Gorge | Arrival in Jinyun

Your English-speaking guide meets you and drives toward the Xiandu area in southern Zhejiang. Your first stop is Furong Gorge, a steep-sided canyon where sheer cliffs and a narrow valley create the classic 'one person could hold the pass against ten thousand' atmosphere. You take an easy 4-5 km loop along well-kept paths, with one beautiful scene after another and plenty of photogenic corners; the slopes are kept wild and natural, so it is a gentle, immersive introduction to the region. Afterwards you transfer the short distance to Jinyun county town, check into your hotel and head out to sample local specialities, then enjoy a quiet evening stroll through this 'land of peach-blossom springs.' Meals: self-arranged/AA. Overnight: hotel in Jinyun.

Day 2: Dinghu Peak | Niweng Cave & Xiaochibi Cliffs

After an early breakfast you head into the heart of Xiandu, beginning with a misty morning by the Lianhua River at Zhutan Mountain, where the water and cliffs unfold like a freshly painted scroll. The day's highlight is Dinghu Peak, a slender 170-metre stone pillar rising straight from the river and widely hailed as 'the world's number-one peak'; you can ascend for panoramic views over the whole fairy-tale landscape. You also explore Niweng Cave, the Xiaochibi red cliffs and the riverside Xiandu Temple, ticking off the very spots where many famous TV dramas and films were shot. Throughout the day your guide helps you frame the best compositions and catch the shifting mist. In the evening you return to your hotel. Meals: self-arranged/AA. Overnight: hotel in Jinyun.

Day 3: Riverside Morning at Zhutan Mountain | Departure

On your final morning you return to the river for one more chance at the signature Xiandu scene - soft light, drifting fog and the reflection of pillar peaks in the calm Lianhua River, the picture that defines this 'capital of immortals.' After taking your time at the water's edge and any last viewpoints, you enjoy a relaxed breakfast and a final wander through the rural surroundings. By early to mid afternoon your guide transfers you back toward the departure city to connect with your onward train or flight, bringing the tour to a peaceful close. Meals: self-arranged/AA. Transfer back included.

What's Included

✓ Included

English-speaking guide Private vehicle & transfers 2 nights hotel (twin room) in Jinyun/Xiandu Xiandu scenic area entrance tickets (Dinghu Peak, Niweng Cave, etc.) Furong Gorge light hiking activity

✕ Not included

International & domestic flights Train tickets to/from the start city China visa Travel insurance Most meals (self-arranged or AA) Personal expenses Tips

Cancellation Policy

Free cancellation is available on most tours up to 24 hours before the start time. The exact cancellation terms for this tour are shown during booking.

Traveler Reviews

4.8★★★★★Based on 24 reviews

Pierre E.🇮🇳 India★★★★★2024-10

In hindsight, I expected Xiandu Scenic Area 3-Day : Zhejiang's Ink-Wash 'Fairyland' of Pillar Peaks & Gorges to be the headline, and it was. What I didn't expect was how much context from the guide changed what I noticed there.

Lena X.🇨🇦 Canada★★★★★2026-01

Practically speaking, I liked that the day had structure without feeling scripted. Questions were answered properly, and there was also time to look around in silence. With 3 days to work with, the balance felt sensible.

Natalie I.🇩🇪 Germany★★★★☆2026-04

The pace suited us, but this is not a lazy half day. Leave some space before whatever you plan next. For 3 days around Xi'an, the pace felt about right.

Mia L.🇯🇵 Japan★★★★★2026-03

Honestly, I would book this again for the pacing, not because every stop was spectacular. The ordinary transitions made Xi'an feel like a place rather than a set of postcards. I would still leave extra time for Xiandu Scenic Area 3-Day : Zhejiang's Ink-Wash 'Fairyland' of Pillar Peaks & Gorges.

Xiandu Scenic Area 3-Day Private Tour: Zhejiang's Ink-Wash 'Fairyland' of Pillar Peaks & Gorges