Four Hidden Summer Retreats: Stunning Scenery with Few Crowds – Go Now!
by _21_1998_George
Jul 6, 2025
1. Preparation and Arrangements Before the Trip
Best Travel Time: Spring and autumn (April to June, September to October), with pleasant weather and beautiful scenery.
Gear to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, rain gear, sun hat, sunscreen, camera, ID card, cash, and electronic payment tools.
Budget Planning: Transportation, accommodation, tickets, meals, shopping, and pocket money.
2. Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Lichuan, Leisure in the City
Transportation Tips:
Transport Options: Take high-speed train/bullet train to Lichuan (Lichuan Station) or drive by car.
From Wuhan/Yichang and other cities: High-speed train takes about 2-4 hours, ticket price around 150-300 RMB.
Operating Hours:
Lichuan Railway Station operates 24/7; most city attractions are open all day.
Address:
Lichuan City, southwestern Hubei Province, near Enshi Tusi City.
Accommodation:
City hotels (budget options around 150-250 RMB/night, recommended chains like Home Inn, Hanting, etc.).
Day 2: Enshi Tusi City
Visiting Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Address: Enshi Tusi City Scenic Area, Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Enshi City
Transportation Tips:
About 1 hour by bus or chartered car from Lichuan.
Must-Do:
Visit the Tusi Mansion, city walls, ancient buildings, and learn about Tujia culture.
Science Info:
Enshi Tusi City was the center of Tusi rule, reflecting the history and culture of the Tujia people.
Recommended Because:
Rich in history and culture, with rustic architecture and traditional Tujia experiences.
Notes:
Keep quiet and respect cultural heritage sites.
Day 3: Lichuan Shennongjia National Geopark
Visiting Hours: All day (8:00 AM - 5:00 PM)
Address: Shennongjia Scenic Area, Lichuan City, Hubei Province
Transportation Tips:
About 1 hour by car from the city; within the park, use park buses or chartered cars.
Must-Do:
Enjoy the sea of clouds, canyons, waterfalls, hiking or trekking.
Experience alpine meadows and primeval forests.
Science Info:
Shennongjia is a national geopark with rich geological, flora, and fauna resources.
Recommended Because:
Pristine natural scenery, ideal for photography and outdoor activities.
Notes:
Mountain weather changes rapidly; bring cold and rain gear.
Day 4: Lichuan Tenglong Cave
Visiting Hours: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Address: Tenglong Cave Scenic Area, Lichuan
Transportation Tips:
About 30 minutes by car from the city.
Must-Do:
Explore the underground karst cave wonders, admire stalactites, waterfalls, and underground rivers.
Science Info:
Tenglong Cave is a world-famous karst cave with high scientific value.
Recommended Because:
A breathtaking underground marvel showcasing nature’s craftsmanship.
Notes:
Wear non-slip shoes and pay attention to safety.
Day 5: Enshi Grand Canyon
Visiting Hours: All day (8:00 AM - 5:00 PM)
Address: Enshi Grand Canyon Scenic Area
Transportation Tips:
About 2 hours by car from Lichuan.
Must-Do:
Walk on the glass bridge and observation decks to admire the magnificent canyon views.
Experience the “Earth Fissure” adventure.
Science Info:
The canyon was formed by faulting and erosion, rich in geological wonders.
Recommended Because:
Stunning canyon landscapes, perfect for photography and outdoor sports.
Notes:
Be cautious with high-altitude activities and bring sun protection.
Day 6: Lichuan Ethnic Culture Experience
Visiting Hours: All day
Address: Tujia and Miao villages in Lichuan
Transportation Tips:
Join local folk culture tours or drive by yourself.
Must-Do:
Participate in Tujia bonfire parties, taste local specialties, and learn traditional crafts.
Science Info:
Lichuan is an important settlement area for the Tujia people with rich cultural diversity.
Recommended Because:
Deeply understand Tujia culture and experience ethnic customs.
Notes:
Respect local customs and practice polite behavior.
Day 7: Return Preparation
Plan:
Morning for city strolls and buying local specialties.
Afternoon take high-speed train/bullet train back to Wuhan, Yichang, or other cities.
3. Budget Breakdown (Approx. 3800 RMB)
Item - Budget Range (RMB) - Description
Transportation (High-speed train/long-distance bus) 800-1200 Round trip Wuhan/Yichang to Lichuan and local transport in scenic areas
Accommodation 1000-1500 Budget hotels or homestays, average 150-250 RMB/night for 7 nights
Tickets and Scenic Transport 800-1000 Tickets for Enshi Tusi City, Shennongjia, Tenglong Cave, Enshi Grand Canyon, etc.
Meals 500-700 Local specialty meals, about 70-100 RMB per day
Others (Shopping, pocket money) 200-300 Buying local specialties and souvenirs
Total Approx. 3800 RMB, may vary slightly depending on actual conditions
4. Must-Do Activities
Visit Enshi Tusi City to feel the historical culture
Explore the sea of clouds and canyon wonders of Shennongjia
Experience the underground marvels of Tenglong Cave
Walk on the glass bridge of Enshi Grand Canyon
Join Tujia bonfire parties and experience ethnic culture
Capture magnificent natural scenery
5. Science Knowledge
Shennongjia: A national geopark famous for its “Divine Dragon” sea of clouds, a nationally protected natural heritage site.
Tenglong Cave: A karst cave wonder with both scientific research and tourism value.
Enshi Grand Canyon: Formed by faulting and erosion, with complex geological structures and rich landscapes.
Tusi Culture: The Tusi system was a unique feudal governance form in ethnic minority areas of China; Tusi City reflects Tujia history.
6. Notes
Book transportation and accommodation in advance to avoid price hikes or no availability during peak seasons.
Be cautious in mountain and canyon scenic areas; follow guides or staff instructions.
Weather changes frequently; bring rain gear and warm clothing.
Respect local ethnic customs and travel civilly.
Keep personal belongings safe and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
Conclusion
Lichuan is a treasure trove blending rich culture and magnificent nature. This 7-day itinerary lets you fully experience the magic and charm of Enshi. Plan well and travel safely to create unforgettable memories!
Post by _31_1995_Sara | Oct 24, 2025























