Yichang is the joint of the upper and middle reaches of the Yangtze, the longest river in Asia and the mother river of China. From Yichang, the river flows down much more gently while the mountains on the river banks become less steep. Therefore, it is usually the starting or ending point of the Yangtze River Cruise. Before or after the cruise, it is perfect having an extended tour from Yichang to unlock the mysterious Shennongjia National Nature Reserve.

On arrival in Yichang, you will be picked up from the cruise pier or railway station and transferred to Muyu town in the southern piedmont of Shennongjia. It usually needs four hours on the way.

In the UNESCO-listed Shennongjia National Nature Reserve live thousands of higher plant species and hundreds of rare animals, among which the white bear, white snub-nosed monkey, and some other albino mammals have attracted the attention of scientists from all over the world. In addition, the unique geographical environment and distinctive microclimate have also made it an ideal resort to escape the summer heat along the Yangtze River.

Today, with your guide, you will discover this area, including its summit- Shennongding, and take chances to encounter giant salamander, snub-nosed monkey, clouded leopard, and Asian black bear.

This morning, proceed to explore the other side of this nature reserve to enjoy its waterfalls and streams. After lunch, move forward the north to Wudang Mountain. Arrive after about four hours and then check in for refreshment.

Wudang Mountain, the birthplace of Taoism, Wudang martial arts, and Taichi, is as famous as the world-renowned Shaolin Temple. The splendid buildings scattered on the mountain display the magnitude of the imperial temples, embody the mystery of Taoism and the elegance of traditional Chinese gardens.

After breakfast at the hotel, you will take the cable car up to the mountain top, visit its Golden Palace, and then hike down with a stop at the Zixiao Palace, built according to the heaven palace in Chinese myths.

In the morning, enjoy an authentic Taichi performance and visit Yuxu Palace. Initially built in the Ming Dynasty, it is the largest among the many buildings on Wudang Mountain. Afterward, have lunch and then get to the railway station of Shiyan for a high-speed train to Wuhan. On arrival, the local guide will pick you up and transfer you to your hotel.

As the largest transportation hub in inland China, Wuhan is easy to access with any other city you want to go to, either by air or land. After breakfast, be transferred to the airport or railway station for your flight or train to your next destination. Or optionally, you may like to spend an extra day in Wuhan to explore the city and the people's life.