zhangjiajie national forest park tourism

A Complete Guide to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park Adventure

The Zhangjiajie National Forest Park covers an expansive area of 264 square kilometers, necessitating a four-day validity for tickets due to its vastness. With five ticket stations, careful tour planning is crucial for visitors.

The nomenclature of various scenic spots in Zhangjiajie, such as Zhangjiajie, Wulingyuan, Yuanjiajie, Yangjiajie, Tianzi Mountain, and Tianmen Mountain, can be confusing. To clarify, Zhangjiajie is the city name, with three primary scenic spots:

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park (Wulingyuan Scenic Spot) in Wulingyuan District
Tianmenshan National Forest Park in Zhangjiajie City
Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Scenic Spot in Cili County

Although these spots are relatively close, with a 40-minute drive between Zhangjiajie National Forest Park and Tianmen Mountain, and another 40-minute drive from Zhangjiajie National Forest Park to the Grand Canyon, visitors should plan accordingly. Within the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park scenic area, the main attractions are Yuanjiajie, Yangjiajie, Tianzi Mountain, and Huangshizhai —the four primary peaks, each with its unique attractions.

At the base of the mountain, two hiking destinations, namely Golden Whip Stream and Ten-mile Nature Gallery , provide additional exploration opportunities. Shuttle buses facilitate transportation between these scenic spots. However, it’s crucial to note that the shuttle bus routes on the mountain and at the mountain’s base operate independently. To ascend or descend the mountain, visitors have the option of using cable cars or elevators.

PS: Tickets for major scenic spots in Zhangjiajie involve staged entry for ascending the mountain. It is advisable to purchase tickets in advance, considering there is a capacity limit for park entry. Late purchases may result in a lack of availability for the desired time period.

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Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is located in the Hunan Province of China. Specifically, it is situated in the Wulingyuan Scenic Area, which is part of Zhangjiajie City. The park is known for its stunning sandstone pillars, lush forests, and scenic landscapes.

Zhangjiajie is currently accessible by air, train, and coach from several major cities in China, including Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, and Guilin.

By Air: Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport is the sole airport in Zhangjiajie, situated approximately 10 km from the downtown area and 25 miles from Wulingyuan Scenic Area. Visitors can reach the city center by taking city bus no. 4.

Zhangjiajie Railway Station : The primary railway station is located in Yongding District, around 12 kilometers (about 7 miles) from the city center. It provides connections to more than ten major cities in China, such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Changsha. Bus No. 1, 2, 6, and 7 connect the Main Railway Station with the city center.
Zhangjiajie West Railway Station : This station operates both high-speed trains to Changsha and regular-speed trains to Chengdu, Chongqing, Guangzhou, Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Hangzhou. It is about 8.5 kilometers (5 miles) from downtown Zhangjiajie, with city bus lines 4, 6, 7, 16, and 17 available at the train station.

💡Note: Train journeys often have extended durations, taking at least 10 hours, and are generally not recommended due to the considerable travel time involved.

Here are two travel options to reach Zhangjiajie National Forest Park:

Option 1: By Air and Coach

Take a flight to Zhangjiajie Hehua Airport.
From the airport, take city bus 402 or 4 to Zhangjiajie Central Bus Station.
At Zhangjiajie Central Bus Station, board a coach bound for Zhangjiajie National Forest Park.
Alternatively, you can take a taxi from the Central Bus Station to the park, which may take nearly 1 hour and cost approximately CNY 120-200.

Option 2: By Train and Coach

Take a train to Zhangjiajie Railway Station.Upon arrival, walk to the nearby Zhangjiajie Central Coach Station.
Board a coach from Zhangjiajie Central Coach Station to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park.
The entire journey is expected to take between 50 to 90 minutes.

Option 3: Private Car or Tour

Opt for a private tour from downtown to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park for a personalized and convenient exploration, with the added benefit of hotel pickup and drop-off in Zhangjiajie downtown or the train station.

🌷Tips: The admission fee includes Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Tianzi Mountain Nature Reserve, Suoxi Valley Nature Reserve, Yangjiajie Scenic Area and the battery car.

Peak Season Caution: The East Gate (Wulingyuan ticket station) and the South Gate (Zhangjiajie National Forest Park ticket station) attract the highest number of visitors each year , resulting in potentially longer waiting times, especially during peak seasons. Plan accordingly to manage wait times.

Huangshizhai Isolation: Among the scenic spots, Huangshizhai stands as a solitary peak not directly connected to the other three famous spots. Visitors to Huangshizhai may need to retrace their steps or opt for a cable car descent.

Interconnected Scenic Spots: Yuanjiajie, Tianzi Mountain, and Yangjiajie are seamlessly linked, allowing for easy exploration and ascent using shuttle buses within the mountain.

Tour Route Flexibility: The provided tour route reminders are intended to guide tourists in selecting the most convenient entry gate based on their preferences and needs. Tailor your park entry to match your specific requirements for a more personalized and efficient experience.

Start at East Gate (Wulingyuan ticket station).
Take the Tianzi Mountain Cable Car to reach Tianzi Mountain, visiting Helong Park, West Sea Stone Forest, Fairy Offering Flowers, and Imperial Writing Brush Peaks.
Proceed to Yuanjiajie Scenic Area, exploring Enchanting Platform, Hallelujah Mountains, and The First Natural Bridge under Heaven.
Descend the mountain by taking the Bailong Elevator.
Visit the Ten-mile Nature Gallery, including Longevity Man Greeting Visitors, Herb Collecting Old Man, and Three Sisters.
Exit at East Gate.

Tour Time: One day

Cost: Entrance Fee + Tianzi Mountain Cable Car (Single Trip) + Bailong Elevator (Single Trip) + Ten-mile Gallery Tourist Train (Single Trip)

💡Note: For this specific route, travelers have the option to take a shuttle bus directly to either the Bailong Elevator or Tianzi Mountain Cable Car . This enables a convenient ascent up the mountain without the need for walking. This streamlined route is particularly well-suited for individuals with time constraints who aim to experience the essential attractions directly.

Start at the South Gate (Zhangjiajie National Forest Park ticket station).
Take the Huangshizhai cable car to ascend the mountain.
Explore Huangshizhai, including Pavilion of Six Wonders, Star Picking Terrace, and Ruins of The Heaven Bridge.
Continue to Golden Whip Stream, visiting Mother and Child Peak, Golden Whip Rock, and Zicao Pool.
Proceed to the Ten-mile Nature Gallery, with highlights such as Longevity Man Greeting Visitors, Herb Collecting Old Man, and Three Sisters.

Cost: Entrance Fee + Yellow Stone Village Cable Car (Round Trip) + Ten-mile Gallery Tourist Train (Single Trip)

💡Note: This route allows you to explore Huangshizhai and Golden Whip Stream, two spots that may be challenging to visit from other ticket stations. However, it’s important to note that ascending the hill can be demanding. This tour is ideal for those with ample time who wish to experience all the attractions, especially the unique features of Huangshizhai and the scenic beauty of Golden Whip Stream.

Start at the North Gate (Tianzi Mountain ticket station).
Take a shuttle bus to ascend the mountain.
Explore Tianzi Mountain, including Helong Park, West Sea Stone Forest, Fairy Offering Flowers, and Imperial Writing Brush Peaks.
Proceed to Yangjiajie Scenic Area, visiting Wulong Village and Air Corridor.
Continue to Yuanjiajie Scenic Area, exploring Enchanting Platform, Hallelujah Mountains, and The First Natural Bridge under Heaven.
Take a shuttle bus back to Tianzi Mountain.
Take another shuttle bus to descend the mountain.
Return to the North Gate.

Cost: Entrance Fee

💡Note: The main advantage of opting for the Tianzi Mountain Ticket Station is the availability of a complimentary shuttle bus for ascending the mountain, eliminating the need for additional fees for cable cars or the Bailong Elevator, as well as avoiding the necessity of hiking. However, there are drawbacks, including relatively inconvenient traffic and a city bus to the Tianzi Mountain ticket station with only one departure per hour.

Start at the West Gate (Yangjiajie ticket station).
Take the Yangjiajie cable car to ascend the mountain.
Explore Yangjiajie Scenic Area, including Wulong Village and the Air Corridor.
Proceed to Yuanjiajie Scenic Area, visiting Enchanting Platform, Hallelujah Mountains, and The First Natural Bridge under Heaven.
Continue to Tianzi Mountain, exploring Helong Park, West Sea Stone Forest, Fairy Offering Flowers, and Imperial Writing Brush Peaks.
Take the Yangjiajie cable car to descend the mountain.
Return to the West Gate.

Cost: Entrance Fee + Yangjiajie Cable Car (Round Trip)

Yuanjiajie Scenic Area is undeniably a must-see in Zhangjiajie tourism. Situated in the northern part of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, it proves to be an outstanding destination for witnessing world-class karst landscapes, particularly renowned for its captivating sandstone pillars. Notably, Yuanjiajie Scenic Area still hosts a population of the Tujia nationality, adding a unique cultural dimension.

This locale has earned the affectionate title of “the core of Zhangjiajie” from tourists both locally and internationally. Encompassing an expansive 1200 hectares, Yuanjiajie offers a captivating panorama. As you explore, the enchanting sight unfolds before your eyes—thousands of distinct mountains standing spectacularly with unique shapes and postures, all visible from the deep valley.

Bailong Elevator (百龙天梯)

The Bailong Elevator stands as a crucial transportation and scenic facility within the core area of Yuanjiajie Scenic Area, extending its significance to the entirety of the Wulingyuan Scenic Area. Commencing operations in April 2002, this remarkable elevator boasts a vertical height difference of 335 meters. Experience the thrill of its impressive maximum speed of 5 m/s, completing the entire 326 meters ascent in a breathtaking 1 minute and 28 seconds. Recognized by the Guinness World Records as the world’s tallest outdoor elevator, it exemplifies the seamless fusion of natural beauty and human ingenuity.

The introduction of the Bailong Elevator has effectively addressed the long-standing traffic bottleneck issues that plagued the scenic spot for years. Without the elevator, the arduous climb from the mountain’s base to Yuanjiajie would have taken five or six hours.

Upon reaching the entrance platform, one can’t help but notice the limited space, often crowded with visitors—given that most people’s first destination in Wulingyuan is the Bailong Elevator. Gazing upward, the imposing four Chinese characters of “百龙天梯” (Bailong Elevator) come into view. Adding to the lively atmosphere, some monkeys are present, and a tossed orange elicits a skilled display of peeling and feasting by one of these clever primates.

Bailong Elevator: My Past Encounter

Navigating through a lengthy indoor passage to reach the elevator, I found myself in a queue, surrounded by a crowd of people. With three elevators available, each featuring two floors capable of seating 62 people on each level, I opted for the second floor. As soon as the door opened, I hurried in and secured the prime viewing position in the front row.

The elevator initiated its ascent swiftly in the dimly lit space, accompanied by an audio explanation that allowed us to grasp insights into the Bailong Elevator and prepare for the upcoming spectacle. As the announcement reached the point of “please pay attention to the front of you,” everyone refrained from blinking, anticipating the moment. Suddenly, the elevator burst through the darkness, unveiling a vast expanse of stone peaks rising dramatically from the ground. This striking scene was a stark contrast to the view from the base of the mountain, prompting exclamations from everyone on board.

Despite the progressively widening panoramic view as the elevator continued its ascent, the entire journey lasted a mere 88 seconds, and we soon arrived at the station. The moment of emerging from the darkness was undeniably breathtaking, yet the cost of CNY 65 did seem quite steep.

Enchanting Platform (迷魂台)

Exiting the elevator, you find yourself on a relatively small observation deck, often crowded and offering a less-than-ideal view. Following the throng, you head towards the Enchanting Platform, a considerable distance away. Along the path, the mountain forest is adorned with numerous blooming pink azaleas.

The Enchanting Platform holds a prime position as one of Yuanjiajie’s natural viewing spots, offering an unparalleled panorama. From this elevated platform, Zhangjiajie’s myriad unique peaks sprawl before your eyes. Stone formations of various heights stand majestically in the valley, resembling pavilions, birds, beasts, and divine entities. Countless postures and scenes unfold, creating a captivating tapestry of natural beauty.

The scene transforms into a fairyland when a few drifting clouds add to the enchantment.

Hallelujah Mountains (哈利路亚悬浮山)

The Southern Sky Pillar in Yuanjiajie is famed as the real-world inspiration for the “Hallelujah Mountains” depicted in the renowned film Avatar. On January 1, 2010, this pillar, also known as the Pillar between Heaven and Earth, was officially renamed the Hallelujah Mountains. Boasting an elevation of 1074 meters above sea level and a vertical height of approximately 150 meters, the pinnacle is adorned with lush vegetation at its summit.

It possesses a distinctive form, tapering both upwards and downwards while maintaining a thicker middle section. This unique formation gives the impression of a mountain suspended in the air when the lower portion is veiled by mist

In December 2008, Hollywood photographer Hansen conducted a four-day photoshoot in Zhangjiajie. The captivating landscape images captured during this period served as the inspiration for various elements of the fictional world of “Pandora” in the American science fiction blockbuster “Avatar.” Notably, the depiction of the “Southern Sky Pillar” became the visual prototype for the iconic “Hallelujah Mountain” in the film.

The First Natural Bridge under Heaven (天下第一桥)

The First Natural Bridge under Heaven, recognized as one of the top ten superb sceneries in Zhangjiajie , spans between two towering mountains, securing its place as the world’s largest natural stone bridge with the most significant vertical height difference discovered to date.

This remarkable bridge measures about 3 meters in width, extending over 20 meters in length, with a relative height of nearly 400 meters. The tree on the bridge stands tall, vines cascade along its sides, and the space beneath remains mysterious and deep.

Viewed from a distance, the bridge appears majestic and steep, yet as you walk upon it, the experience is akin to traversing an ordinary road.

This natural stone bridge originated between two mountains that were once a single entity. However, due to the middle stone’s relatively fragile nature, succumbed to the effects of weathering, collapse, and the erosive forces of sun, rain, and mountain floods over time. The culmination of these natural processes has given rise to the extraordinary wonder that stands today.

Goat Village (羊寨)

Opposite the Back Garden lies Goat Village, nestled against a towering mountain adorned with ancient trees that stretch towards the heavens, casting shadows that blanket the sky and sun. The forest is often frequented by wild goats, and the nocturnal air is filled with the distant “bleating” of these creatures, earning the place its name, “Goat Village.”

In the era of the Republic of China, this area fell under the control of bandits. Even today, remnants of gates, castles, moats, wells, and mills from that time can still be discovered.

From the mountain’s summit, a breathtaking panoramic view unfolds, revealing the meandering Golden Whip Stream as it peacefully flows through a landscape dotted with hundreds of stone formations. The scene exudes a sense of tranquility and harmony.

Tianzi Mountain can be aptly described as “untouched natural splendor.” Its landscapes and attractions are entirely shaped by nature, devoid of any artificial alterations. This enchanting destination boasts not only extraordinary mountains and rivers but also embraces authentic local customs and distinctive national cuisine for visitors to experience. Renowned for its four captivating phenomena—the Sea of Clouds, the Radiance of the Moonlight, Rays of Sunshine, and Winter Snow—Tianzi Mountain truly embodies the unspoiled beauty of original scenery.

Tianzi Mountain Cable Car (天子山索道)

The Tianzi Mountain Cable Car, acclaimed as one of “China’s Top Ten Tourist Cable Cars,” spans a total length of 2,084 meters and covers a remarkable height difference of 692 meters.

With a swift single trip duration of just six minutes and twenty-two seconds, it provides an awe-inspiring journey through captivating scenery. Following the Huangshizhai Cable Car, it stands as Zhangjiajie’s second scenic cable car and serves as the primary mode of transportation for visitors entering the Tianzi Mountain Scenic Area. For a single trip, the ticket price is CNY 72.

Helong Park (贺龙公园)

At the forefront is Helong Park, where a monumental bronze statue positioned atop a stone pedestal seamlessly merges with the surrounding natural environment. This statue represents the largest bronze sculpture erected in China within the last century.

Shentang Gulf (神堂湾)

Shentang Gulf stands as an enigmatic celestial realm—a verdant labyrinth unspoiled by human presence. Nestled within a deep concave valley, it is encircled by sleek cliffs, perpetually veiled in mist and rain. The bottom of the valley, shrouded in mystery, is aptly named the “mysterious kingdom of heaven,” with its depths remaining unfathomable.

West Sea Stone Forest (西海峰林)

Upon traversing Shentang Gulf, you’ll find yourself in a magical valley where an army of peculiar peaks rises from the ground, forming the “West Sea Stone Forest.” These peaks boast various shapes, from a turtle gazing into the distance up close to a distant warship setting sail, creating an enchanting and diverse landscape.

As you move ahead, the western side of Tianzi Pavilion reveals two distinct scenes: “Fairy Offering Flowers” and “Imperial Writing Brush Peaks.”

Fairy Offering Flowers (仙女散花)

After gazing at the distant mountain for an extended period without perceiving its charm, you may eventually recognize that the focal point is a small stone. If you capture the moment through your lens and zoom in, you’ll witness the emergence of an image – a fairy adorned with flowers on her head, featuring a high nose and pointed chin, and wearing a faint smile. The trees on the lower stone rock resembled flower baskets in her hands, as if she were joyously dispersing a bouquet of flowers to the world.

Imperial Writing Brush Peaks (御笔峰)

The Imperial Writing Brush Peaks reveal their distinct features unmistakably. The peaks on the right mimic an inverted imperial writing brush, while those on the left resemble a completed picture, with even the tip of the brush vividly represented. According to an ancient Chinese legend from the Song Dynasty, these sharp peaks were, in fact, the “imperial writing brushes” discarded by Prince Xiang after he met his downfall.

For visitors, Sky Field Garden stands out as a unique attraction within Zhangjiajie Forest Park. However, among the locals, opinions are divided. Some commend its distinctive and otherworldly scenery, while others dismiss it, viewing it as a local money-making scheme disguised as farmland.

In my personal perspective, Sky Field Garden is a scenic gem with its own distinct charm, setting it apart from other attractions in Zhangjiajie. Positioned within the ‘Old House Area’ scenic spot, it resembles a precious pearl perched over 1000 meters above sea level, across the valley from Yuanjiajie.

Spanning approximately 3 hectares, the sloping trapezoidal field takes the shape of a gourd, with a heart-shaped section nestled halfway up, resembling delicate jewelry. The fields exhibit meticulous care, displaying regular patterns and adorned with crops, surrounded by purple flowers.

Accessing Sky Field Garden is no easy feat; the path winds through woods and shrubs, with no protective barriers on the platform, extending over the abyss. Despite the challenging journey, few tourists make the climb, often opting for the convenience of the Bailong Elevator from Yuanjiajie to witness Sky Field Garden from a unique vantage point.

Encompassing approximately 40 square kilometers, Yangjiajie Scenic Area is situated in the northwest of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, adjoining Yuanjiajie to the east and Tianzi Mountain to the north. As the latest addition to Zhangjiajie’s scenic spots, Yangjiajie is renowned for its spectacular landscapes featuring towering rocky peak walls.

The scenic area boasts rich biodiversity, with macaques scattered throughout the cliffs and valleys, flocks of egrets gracefully soaring through the air, and peculiar flowers, including the vibrant five-colored flowers.

Renowned for its challenging terrain, the mountain paths in Yangjiajie are considered the most difficult to traverse in Wulingyuan. Some routes are reinforced with steel bars, requiring vertical climbs. As such, this terrain is better suited for energetic young people and middle-aged tourists seeking adventurous challenges.

One Step to the Heaven (一步登天)

The highest point in the scenic area is a petite viewing deck nestled atop the mountain. To reach this summit, one must ascend a narrow iron ladder comprising 32 steps, allowing only a single person to pass at a time. The summit itself is flat and enclosed by iron railings, offering an excellent panoramic view of the surroundings.

Wulong Village (乌龙寨)

Previously recognized as Black Dragon Village, situated at an elevation of 1122 meters above sea level, Wulong Village has harbored bandits since the time of the Republic of China. The village itself stands over 300 meters high, surrounded by steep stone walls. Accessible only through a 1000-meter-long exhilarating road, this route to the village top is dotted with numerous natural checkpoints. Along the way, you may navigate through holes, crevices, or sidle along precipitous pathways.

Contrary to expectations, Wulong Village is a modest compound featuring old courtyard houses with several wooden structures. Within the village, an array of weapons and bandit attire are on display, and for a nominal fee, visitors can capture memorable moments through photographs as keepsakes.

Tianbo Mansion (天波府)

Following the journey through Wulong Village, the path ascends by climbing an iron ladder affixed to the rock wall, reaching the nearly deepest section of Yangjiajie . Despite its name, Tianbo Mansion may evoke images of a grand estate constructed by the Yang family in the mountains. However, it surprises visitors as it turns out to be a platform situated atop a mountain peak, enveloped by numerous stone hills, and it serves as an extraordinary vantage point offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.

Air Corridor (空中走廊)

The air corridor stretches along the mountainside of a prominent peak, spanning 300 meters in length. It widens to less than one meter at its broadest point and narrows to just a foot at its tightest spot. Positioned beside a sheer precipice with seemingly endless depths, those traversing the corridor appear as if walking in mid-air. This challenging path takes approximately an hour to navigate, characterized by steep terrain and strong winds.

The simple railing installation underscores the need for extreme care, discouraging those lacking the courage to ascend. Despite the challenges, the corridor provides a panoramic view, showcasing the opposite mountain and offering a breathtaking overlook of the expansive terraces below. It serves as an exhilarating aerial observation platform within the Yangjiajie scenic spot.

Five-colored flowers (五色花)

The existence of the “five-colored flower” in the world is likely a mystery to many, as this unique blossom undergoes several transformations throughout the day. Research reveals that within the Yangjiajie Scenic Area, a peculiar flower thrives in the upstream region of the Liucui Stream. This arboreal community comes to life in late spring and early summer annually.

Standing at a height of 3 to 5 meters, the flowering branches are clustered, each branch adorned with approximately 12 flowers showcasing a remarkable array of five colors. What makes this floral spectacle even more enchanting is that the colors undergo several changes throughout the day, accompanied by a delightful fragrance.

Situated in the southern part of the scenic area, Zhangjiajie’s Huangshizhai, also known as Yellowstone Village, serves as an expansive and centralized observation platform within Zhangjiajie Forest Park. Ascending to the summit of Huangshizhai offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the sandstone mountains, making it an ideal location for witnessing the sunrise and the mesmerizing sea of clouds.

Huangshizhai boasts over 20 observation decks, each providing a wide perspective and optimal angles for sightseeing. Notable decks include the Ruins of The Heaven Bridge, the Star Picking Terrace, the South Sky Pillar, and the Dinghai Magical Needle.

For those opting to ascend on foot, be prepared for a climb involving thousands of steps, demanding considerable physical exertion. Alternatively, visitors can choose to take a cable car to the summit and then leisurely walk down the mountain, offering a balanced combination of convenience and scenic exploration.

Among the natural inhabitants of Huangshizhai, small monkeys are a common sight. While these playful creatures may approach tourists in search of food, it is crucial for safety not to engage or provoke them.

💡Note: Generally, visitors who have explored both the Yangjiajie Scenic Area and the Yuanjiajie Scenic Area may find that a visit to the Yellowstone Village Scenic Area is not essential. Yellowstone Village and Yuanjiajie are located in opposite directions, offering similar scenic views. The primary distinction lies in the proximity of Yellowstone Village to the forested mountain peaks, providing visitors with potentially clearer and more immersive views of the landscape.

Pavilion of Six Wonders (六奇阁)

The Pavilion of Six Wonders, perched atop Huangshizhai, serves as both a man-made pavilion and a scenic viewing platform. Its name is derived from Zhangjiajie’s six natural wonders—strange mountains, water, clouds, stones, trees, and birds and animals.

This three-story structure is designed to replicate ancient pavilions, resembling a tower when viewed from a distance. Adorned with a yellow-tiled roof, gracefully warped cornices, and painted beams, the pavilion exhibits exquisite architectural detailing.

The upper floor of the Pavilion of Six Wonders offers a breathtaking vantage point. Leaning over the rail, visitors can indulge in the splendid scenery of Zhangjiajie, capturing exceptionally beautiful photos.

Additionally, during the winter season when snow blankets the landscape, the Pavilion transforms into a stunning spectacle. The pristine white snow contrasts with the gray walls and red rails, creating a picturesque winter scene at Huangshizhai.

Star Picking Terrace (摘星台)

Star Picking Terrace, an elevated pinnacle on its own, stands as the premier observation point within Huangshizhai. Its summit, flat and encircled by the guardrail, offers an unparalleled viewpoint.

As you ascend and take in the expansive scenery, the peaks of Huangshizhai unfold before your eyes in a single sweeping glance. Ranging from stout columnar formations to solitary peaks, interconnected structures, and parallel arrangements of similar columns, the landscape presents a diverse and captivating display. Gazing upward, the sky feels within reach, evoking a sensation as though one could stretch out and grasp the stars above.

Ruins of The Heaven Bridge (天桥遗墩)

Situated between Huangshizhai and Yuanjiajie in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, the Ruins of The Heaven Bridge is a striking formation comprising a group of elliptic cylinder-shaped stone peaks that soar over 200 meters high.

Arranged in a 3,000-meter-long valley, these six stone peaks exhibit equal size and spacing, culminating in a platform at their summits. Beginning with the No. 1 stone peak near Yuanjiajie, the peaks ascend sequentially and then descend to the No. 4 stone peak. Together, they form an arc resembling a series of bridge piers.

The entire scenic spot is equipped with viewing platforms, rest areas, and comprehensive facilities for visitors to enjoy the picturesque landscape.

During the rainy and foggy season, a mesmerizing sea of clouds and fog envelops the area, causing the bridge piers to intermittently disappear and reappear. This creates a mystical ambiance, resembling a row of structures standing in a watery expanse.

Guides mention that following a rain shower, a nearby rainbow often forms, perfectly aligning with the height and curvature of the bridge piers. This creates the illusion of a rainbow bridge suspended above the stone peaks, giving rise to the evocative name “Ruins of The Heaven Bridge.”

The Treasure Box with Sealedbook (天书宝匣)

The Treasure Box with Sealedbook is an isolated stone peak featuring a small platform at its summit. On this platform rests a three-dimensional stone structure resembling a box, with its lid seemingly pulled off. Despite its modest height, this solitary peak rises prominently, surrounded on all sides by cliffs that prohibit close access. The landscape offers a panoramic view from afar, as there is no accessible passage to approach the peak closely.

South Sky Gate (南天门)

Ascending from the Golden Whip Stream, the South Sky Gate marks a point on the mountainous path leading to the summit of Huangshizhai. It’s worth noting that if you opt for the cableway, you won’t pass through this particular location. Despite its name implying a heavenly view, the South Sky Gate is just the beginning of a longer journey towards the mountaintop.

The South Sky Gate takes the form of a natural arch, created by the slanting rock peak and stone walls, showcasing nature’s remarkable craftsmanship. The stone pathway traverses through the gate, where the opening is narrow and profound, enveloped by wild trees on both sides. Adjacent to the South Sky Gate on the right is a peculiar stone, standing at approximately 20 meters in height. Its humanoid resemblance exudes a sense of might and awe, almost as if it stands as a guardian of the South Sky Gate.

Now, venture into the initial allure found at the entrance of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park—the Golden Whip Stream Scenic Area. This 7.5 km-long stream derives its name from one of Zhangjiajie’s 10 wonders, the Golden Whip Rock. Within the Golden Whip Stream Scenic Area, you’ll encounter a diverse range of flora and fauna, complemented by distinctive peaks and rocks.

Dayangba Square (大氧吧广场)

Dayangba Square, situated at the entrance of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, stands out as the most densely populated area within the entire park. Upon entering the forest park and proceeding inward, one can identify Dayangba Square upon encountering a gathering of monkeys and a prominent large copper lock.

This square is surrounded by lush greenery, offering a refreshing atmosphere. Renowned as the location with the highest concentration of negative oxygen ions in the country, many visitors make it a priority to take a deep breath, immersing themselves in the invigorating scent of nature. Dayangba Square is a popular spot for feeding monkeys and capturing group photos.

Pigsy Carrying Wife on the Back (猪八戒背媳妇)

This peak has a peculiar form, resembling the imaginative depiction of Pigsy carrying his wife on his back. On the right side of the peak, the figure of Pigsy is discernible, while on the left side, a smaller figure represents his wife, who is also depicted holding a small umbrella—creating a vivid scene. However, the interpretation of these peculiar peaks and rocks is subjective, varying from person to person, as what one perceives might not necessarily align with another’s interpretation.

Mother and Child Peak (母子峰)

Located approximately 200 meters to the east along the Golden Whip Stream, the Mother and Child Peak is characterized by a slender stone pinnacle, about 100 meters in height, standing amidst a cluster of peaks on the left bank.

This rock formation resembles a middle-aged woman with clearly outlined head and waist features. The facial features are vaguely discernible, conveying a kind and dignified expression. Positioned facing southeast, the figure appears as if eagerly anticipating the return of a loved one. Adjacent to this main peak, a smaller one is nestled, creating the impression of a child nestled in its mother’s chest, gazing up with a childlike innocence towards the maternal figure.

Golden Whip Rock (金鞭岩)

The Golden Whip Rock, standing at a height of approximately 400 meters, stands out prominently as another representative instance among the myriad of unique peaks and stones in Zhangjiajie . It emerges from the ground, reaching towards the sky, crafted entirely from quartz sand that glows with a golden sheen in the sunlight. The peak’s surface resembles a sleek, straight-edged knife, featuring straight and unblemished lines.

Magical Hawk Protecting the Whip (神鹰护鞭)

To the left of the Golden Whip Rock, a peak extends like a hawk spreading its wings, exuding a sense of awe-inspiring, untamed wilderness. Majestically positioned alongside the Golden Whip Rock, it stands as a vigilant guardian, watchful day and night. Locals vividly depict this peak as the “Magical Hawk Protecting the Whip.”

Rock of Splitting the Mountain to Save Mother (劈山救母峰)

A line of rocks resembling a cone, a spear, a long-handled giant axe, and even one resembling a squatting dog can be observed. Amidst these peaks, a mountain summit is cleaved in half, appearing as though a sharp axe has sliced through it, resulting in a smooth and symmetrical rock surface. This formation is known as the “Rock of Splitting the Mountain to Save Mother.”

Legend has it that in ancient times, a child named Chen Xiang witnessed his mother being pressed at the mountain’s base by the Emperor of Heaven for violating heavenly rules. Displaying intelligence and filial piety from a young age, Chen Xiang dedicated himself to kung fu practice. Upon mastering his skills, he wielded a sharp axe to split the mountain peak and successfully rescued his mother.

Two Tortoises Visiting the Stream (双龟探溪)

Adjacent to the “Mountain-Splitting Rock to Save Mother,” within the thick, diverse woodland, lies a massive rock measuring approximately 10 meters in diameter and 30 meters in height. At its summit, two large rocks overlap, taking on the appearance of tortoises. The rock itself features an arched back, and a head that looks upward, extending its feet, resembling a pair of affectionate tortoises. This formation is famously named the “Two Tortoises Visiting the Stream.”

Zicao Pool (紫草潭)

Situated in the central stretch of Golden Whip Stream, this location boasts a pool with a purple-red rock bottom, measuring around 5 meters in length, 4.5 meters in width, and 2 meters in depth. The stream at the pool’s upper end rushes vigorously, while the pool itself remains tranquil and clear, allowing fish and shrimp to swim leisurely. The pool’s bank, shaded by thick foliage, provides a respite from the sun. The pool’s edge features a spacious slope of large purple-red stones, inviting visitors to take a break, sit, or recline.

Reunion from Afar (千里相会)

Nestled at the base of the Zicao Pool, amidst a collection of scattered peaks, stand two distinct stone peaks—one tall and the other short—in a configuration resembling humanoid figures. Positioned facing each other, they give the impression of a couple joyfully reunited after a prolonged separation, gazing at each other with affection. These rocks are aptly named “Reunion from Afar.”

The Ten-mile Nature Gallery spans a 5.8-kilometer valley, representing the essence of the Suoxigu Natural Reserve. Along the sides of this extensive valley, diverse and abundant natural landscapes unfold, creating an immersive experience akin to walking through a living painting.

The peaks flanking the valley take on shapes that resemble natural sculptures, with over 200 stone formations resembling figures such as people, immortals, birds, and beasts. Notable attractions include the renowned Herb Collecting Old Man, Longevity Man Greeting Visitors, and the striking Ferocious Tiger Roaring.

Winding Attic (转阁楼)

The Winding Attic is a stone peak that ascends from the ground, presenting the appearance of a multi-tiered pagoda when viewed from a distance. Upon closer inspection, it resembles a winding attic, featuring a narrow, meandering footpath leading up to the roof.

Longevity Man Greeting Visitors (寿星迎宾)

The Longevity Man Greeting Visitors is a distinctive rock formation embodying the likeness of an elderly individual, reminiscent of a venerable birthday celebrant. The contours of the stone peak artfully capture the essence of an old man joyfully waving his hand, wearing a warm smile, and eagerly anticipating the arrival of visitors.

Herb Collecting Old Man (采药老人)

The Herb Collecting Old Man, often referred to as the Old Man’s Rock, boasts a remarkably lifelike depiction. The portrayal captures an elderly figure, bent with age and carrying a bamboo basket, meticulously collecting a valuable assortment of herbs.

This attraction not only stands out as a prominent landmark in the Ten-mile Natural Gallery but also holds the esteemed distinction of being one of the city’s ten superb views in Zhangjiajie.

Ferocious Tiger Roaring (猛虎啸天)

Facing westward from the Ten-mile Natural Gallery, there are two peaks extending in a north-south direction, creating the illusion of a tiger roaring vigorously toward the sky when observed from a distance. This renowned sight is famously known as the Ferocious Tiger Roaring.

Husband and Wife Rock (夫妻岩)

Two neighboring upright rocks create a harmonious pair, with the left one standing tall and majestic, while the right one is shorter and softer in appearance, evoking the image of a couple joyfully reunited after an extended separation. This formation is appropriately named the Husband and Wife Rock.

Monkey Slope (猴子坡)

Towards the conclusion of the Ten-mile Natural Gallery, the landscape transforms with the emergence of jagged rocks displaying peculiar shapes, surrounded by flourishing forest trees. This area is a favored gathering spot for groups of monkeys, and as a result, it has earned the name “Monkey Slope.”

Three Sisters (三女峰)

Similarly, at the endpoint of the Ten-mile Natural Gallery, three slender rocks can be observed, standing gracefully and shaped like three beautiful women. This picturesque arrangement is appropriately named the Three Sisters.

🚞Mini Electric Train

Within the Ten-mile Natural Gallery, the miniature electric train has gained popularity among numerous visitors. For those who prefer not to traverse the entire journey on foot, opting for this small train on the ascent is a convenient choice. The fare for a one-way trip is CNY 38, while a round trip is priced at CNY 76.

In Wulingyuan Scenic Area, numerous dining options, predominantly farmhouse restaurants, cater to visitors. However, specific restaurant hunting is often unnecessary.

It’s more practical to align meals with your tour schedule , considering the substantial energy expenditure during mountain hikes. Bringing your own provisions for energy replenishment is an option, or you can return to your accommodation for a meal. Alternatively, you can dine near the attractions where you are staying.

Each shuttle bus station within the scenic spot features a snack street offering items like glutinous rice cake, sweet potatoes, and grilled sausages. Restaurants near bus drop-off points typically have vegetable dishes priced above CNY 15, while those with meat exceed CNY 30. Bush-meat dishes may cost more than CNY 80, and some establishments are open to price negotiations.

Additionally, fast food options, including familiar chains like McDonald’s, can be found at elevated locations such as Huangshizhai and Tianzi Mountain.

Generally, dining within the scenic area tends to be pricier compared to options outside its confines.

Zhangjiajie, located in the Hunan province of China, offers a unique culinary experience with distinctive features that reflect the broader characteristics of Hunan cuisine. Here are some notable features of Zhangjiajie food:

Spicy Flavors : Like much of Hunan cuisine, Zhangjiajie food is known for its bold and spicy flavors. Locals have a penchant for using chili peppers and other fiery spices to create dishes that pack a punch.

Tujia Minority Influence : The Tujia ethnic minority has a significant presence in Zhangjiajie, and their culinary influence is evident in the local cuisine. Tujia-style dishes, such as smoked pork and various pickled vegetables, are commonly enjoyed in the region.

Mountain Ingredients : Zhangjiajie’s mountainous terrain has an impact on its food culture. The region is rich in diverse flora and fauna, and local dishes often incorporate ingredients sourced from the mountains. Wild mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and herbs unique to the area may find their way into Zhangjiajie dishes.

👍San Xia Guo (三下锅)

Zhangjiajie’s standout culinary offering is the renowned Zhangjiajie Mixed Pot, also known as San Xia Guo. This dish features a combination of lamb’s belly, beef belly, pork belly, fat sausage, pig’s trotters, and pig’s head meat as its primary components. Typically, a selection of three meats is made, and the dish can be prepared in either a dry pot or a soup pot. In the case of the dry pot, there is an absence of broth, resulting in a notably spicy flavor.

Serving sizes are generally substantial, providing enough for three individuals. This dish is readily available in local eateries, and for a highly recommended experience, Chef Hu’s Three Pot is suggested.

👍Preserved Pork (腊肉)

Preserved Pork is a popular culinary choice in Zhangjiajie, commonly prepared by stir-frying with ingredients like garlic sprouts, peppers, and spring bamboo shoots. This dish is renowned for its savory and spicy taste, featuring well-textured meat that is both lean and slightly fatty, without an excessive greasiness.

👍Homestyle Stir-Fried Pork (农家小炒肉)

Savoring the renowned home-style dishes of Hunan, a plate of farmhouse-style stir-fried pork on the mountains within the scenic area stands out. The locally sourced ingredients, coupled with the distinctive wild pepper, contribute to the dish’s unique and refreshing taste.

👍Stewed Chicken with Shi’er (岩耳炖鸡)

Shi’er, colloquially referred to as Yan’er thrives on the sandstone cliffs in the Wuling mountainous region. Resembling fungi, wood ear, or tree ear, Shi’er is exceptionally rare, making it one of the three treasures of Zhangjiajie due to the local challenge of finding and harvesting it.

A delectable winter treat is the Stewed Chicken or Duck with Shi’er, known for its ability to provide warmth during chilly winter days and nights. Nowadays, this dish is readily available in numerous restaurants, featuring an exceptionally delicious and nourishing stew soup.

👍Sour Fried Fish (酸炸鱼)

Among the Tujia and Miao communities, a little-known delicacy, Sour Fried Fish, stands out with its unique local flavor.

Fresh fish, coated in rice powder, ferments in a sealed jar to achieve a delightful sour taste. The fish is then expertly fried in local tea oil, resulting in a delicious snack that’s neither fatty nor fishy. With a golden color, tender exterior, and a sweet-sour profile, this treat, with a long shelf life, is not only available in Zhangjiajie’s eateries but can also be taken back to your hotel for a delightful snack.

👍Blood Tofu (血豆腐)

Blood tofu is a distinctive dish among the Tujia Minority Groups, traditionally a New Year essential. Tujia people blend tofu, pork, pork blood, and pepper into small balls, smoke and bake them until golden. When prepared for consumption, the balls are sliced and fried with chili and garlic.

Despite its unassuming appearance, the dish is pleasantly chewy and aromatic, boasting high nutritional value suitable for all ages.

👍Glutinous Rice Cake (糍粑)

Glutinous Rice Cake is one kind of snack made up of steamed glutinous rice. The traditional preparation methods involve combining glutinous rice flour with water to form a thick batter, adding brown sugar for sweetness. The mixture is then steamed or boiled until it solidifies into a sticky and chewy cake. Glutinous Rice Cake with brown sugar in Zhangjiajie may be molded into various shapes or cut into bite-sized pieces.

👍Kiwi Juice (猕猴桃汁)

Kiwifruit is a significant specialty of Zhangjiajie, known for its delicate and juicy nature. The “kiwi juice” derived from it offers a delightful blend of sweetness and sourness, packed with exceptional nutritional benefits. Easily accessible in supermarkets, this tasty and affordable treat is a popular choice for locals and visitors alike.

In Zhangjiajie’s Wulingyuan Scenic area, you’ll find a range of accommodations, including star hotels, resort hotels, and homestays. Your choice can be tailored to your budget and preferences.

Accommodations within the scenic area are generally limited, but staying in Wulingyuan urban area near the East Gate ticket station provides convenient access to food, shopping, and entertainment. For those planning to visit Tianmen Mountain, consider staying in the downtown city nearby for a two-day visit.

During my visit to Zhangjiajie, I stayed at ZiShan Ecological Resort, which is in close proximity to the East Gate ticket station. I have fond memories of my stay, and it offered a great experience.

Shell Youth Holiday Hotel

This budget hotel attracts a youthful clientele, eschewing luxury amenities and big-brand affiliations, yet consistently achieves high occupancy rates.

Nestled by the picturesque Suoxi River, it’s conveniently located, requiring just over 10 minutes on foot to reach the Wulingyuan entrance ticket station. The hotel’s decor is straightforward yet cozy, featuring one of the rare setups with separate wet and dry bathrooms, all at an affordable price.

Adding to its charm, the hotel’s rooftop restaurant provides a unique dining experience. Guests can enjoy their meals while taking in the breathtaking distant views, creating a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere.

ZiShan Ecological Resort

The ZiShan Ecological Resort has gained significant popularity as a preferred homestay in Zhangjiajie in recent years. Among the various room options, the transparent Forest Room stands out as the most favored by tourists, and during my stay, I opted for this particular accommodation.

Strategically situated near the Wulingyuan East Gate, the resort combines Tujia decorative elegance with modern aesthetics, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of a hidden mountain retreat. Upon arrival, guests are warmly greeted by butlers and concierge staff, extending a welcome from the parking lot.

Featuring 35 guest rooms, including two distinctive glass Forest Rooms, each room possesses its individual name. The layout of my chosen room included expansive front and rear double terraces, complemented by large floor-to-ceiling windows adorned with delicate white gauze curtains. The room was thoughtfully stocked with various amenities.

ZiShan Ecological Resort elevates the guest experience by offering a buffet breakfast and an array of Hunan specialty dishes such as rice noodles, fried rice, and assorted snacks. Ordering from the room is made easy, as guests can contact the hotel butler to request the menu and place restaurant orders. Once the dishes are prepared, guests can conveniently proceed to the restaurant.

The resort provides a unique blend of relaxation, allowing guests to unwind in a soothing bath accompanied by the sounds of forest birds. Additionally, it offers a level of service akin to a five-star city hotel, ensuring a well-rounded and enjoyable stay.

No. 5 Valley Inn

Zhangjiajie’s No. 5 Valley Inn is not only the zenith among homestays in the region but also ranks among the top 10 most beautiful homestays globally. Positioned at a mere 2 km from the Yangjiajie Ticket Station in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, it stands as an epitome of scenic elegance.

The heartening tale behind this haven involves a couple who, forsaking the allure of urban prosperity, returned to their roots in Zhangjiajie. They transformed an abandoned valley into a veritable paradise, now known as No. 5 Valley Inn.

Respecting the local architectural heritage, the inn, built down the hillside, mirrors the stilted structures of the Tujia people. Every brick, stone, wood, and ounce of soil used in its construction is locally sourced.

Comprising 38 rooms spread across five courtyards, each room at the inn offers a breathtaking view of the natural surroundings through oversized floor-to-ceiling windows. The room designs are not only aesthetically rich but also wonderfully diverse, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the serene atmosphere—whether observing lotus ponds, admiring the valley, listening to the rain, or stargazing under the night sky.

Beyond the captivating accommodations, the inn offers an array of experiences. Guests can indulge in a buffet barbecue, partake in various performances, and join in the festivities around a grand campfire, and engage in hand-swaying dances.

Tianmen Mountain is situated to the south of Zhangjiajie city, in the opposite direction of Wulingyuan. Typically requiring a full day for exploration, visitors in Zhangjiajie can enjoy distant views of Tianmen Cave.

Tianmen Mountain boasts renowned attractions such as Tianmen Cave, Ghost Valley Plank Road, and the thrilling adventure of the artificially constructed Glass Skywalk.

At the summit of Tianmen Mountain, there are two main routes: the east line and the west line. For those with limited time, it’s advisable to prioritize the west line and consider skipping the east line. This recommendation stems from the fact that the key attractions at the top of Tianmen Mountain are predominantly concentrated along the west line.

The entrance fee is CNY 232, covering a scenic spot ticket priced at CNY 75 and an internal transportation fee of CNY 183. This transportation fee includes a one-way cable car, shuttle bus, and the upper escalator between Tiammen Cave and the mountain summit.

Tianmen Cave (天门洞)

The configuration of Tianmen Cave is exceptionally distinct, featuring an enormous fan-shaped opening at the mountain’s center, measuring 131.5 meters in height, 57 meters in width, and 60 meters in depth.

A challenging ascent of 999 steep and narrow steps, aptly named “the Stairway to Heaven,” leads to the cave. Perpetually enshrouded in dense mists, the cave exudes a mystical ambiance throughout the year.

According to legend, Tianmen Cave originated from a mountain collapse during the Three Kingdoms period, solidifying its status as the most iconic attraction on Tianmen Mountain.

Glass Skywalk (玻璃栈道)

The Glass Skywalk at Tianmen Mountain hangs over the eastern and western edges of the mountain peak, forming a glass observatory suspended from a cliff. The pathway consists entirely of see-through glass, offering a view of the deep valley below. Walking on it feels like you’re in the sky—super thrilling and crazy joyful!

Keep in mind that the cableway might close during thunderstorms, strong winds, or heavy snow. It’s a good idea to check the weather forecast before you travel.

Tianmen Mountain Cableway (天门山索道)

The cableway at Tianmen Mountain holds the title of the world’s longest, stretching an impressive 24,458 feet (7,455 meters). It kicks off its journey from the City Garden downtown and wraps up at the mountain’s summit.

Sitting in the cable car feels like you’re suspended in mid-air. The ascent from the mountain’s base to an altitude of over 1,500 meters takes approximately 27 minutes for a one-way trip. During the ride, you get a scenic view of the city. The cable car hits the midpoint and then sharply ascends, running right along the cliff wall, making the journey incredibly exhilarating.

🤔Tianmen Mountain or Zhangjiajie National Forest Park: Which to Visit First?

The best plan for your Zhangjiajie visit depends on your arrival time. If you get there around noon, it’s a good idea to head to Tianmen Mountain first. This way, you can maximize the latter half of the day and avoid the peak crowds.

On the flip side, if you arrive late at night or early in the morning, it’s advisable to head straight to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park from the train station or airport. Save your Tianmen Mountain exploration for the last day to make the most of your time in Zhangjiajie.

🌌Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon: World’s Tallest and Longest Glass Bridge

The standout feature in the canyon is undoubtedly the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge, renowned for its transparent, glass-bottomed structure. When it debuted in 2016, it held the title of the world’s longest and tallest glass-bottomed bridge. Stretching 430 meters in length and 6 meters in width, the bridge hangs suspended approximately 260 meters above the ground, spanning the canyon between two mountain cliffs.

For an added thrill, right in the middle of the bridge, you have the opportunity to experience the world’s highest bungee jump.

🎫Admission ticket: Grand Canyon Ticket A: CNY 118 + CNY 3 insurance; Grand Canyon and Glass Bridge Ticket B: CNY 219 + CNY 3 insurance; Glass Bridge Ticket C: CNY 138 + CNY 3 insurance.

🤔Choosing Between Glass Bridge and Glass Skywalk: Which to Visit?

Opting for Tianmen Mountain is a wise choice. Apart from the thrilling glass plank road, Tianmen Mountain boasts additional natural attractions like Tianmen Cave. It’s also conveniently located closer to the urban area, ensuring easy transportation and comprehensive facilities within the scenic spot.

On the other hand, the Grand Canyon, a relatively recent tourism project, centers around the Glass Bridge with fewer additional attractions to explore. However, it offers more outdoor entertainment experiences, such as bungee jumping and paragliding, providing a different kind of adventure for visitors.

Here are some final tips for traveling to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park:

Pre-book round-trip flights, hotels, and attraction tickets in advance during the peak season.

Major cities have direct flights to Zhangjiajie.

Don’t trust strangers’ words when leaving the station, and refuse unregistered taxis.

Be skeptical of accommodations and restaurants recommended by strangers or drivers, as they may involve kickbacks.

Purchase tickets for Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park at least 3 days in advance; on-the-spot purchases may not be allowed.

Visitors planning to explore Tianmen Mountain are advised to stay in the downtown the night before. Avoid staying in Wulingyuan as the downtown city is closer to Tianmen Mountain.

Be cautious of unlicensed guides on the roadside; many independent travelers fall victim to scams.

Tickets may not be available on the day of the peak season.

First-time visitors to Zhangjiajie are advised not to travel alone due to the complex and unpredictable mountainous environment. Traveling with companions or joining local tours is safer.

Flow control measures are in place at the Grand Canyon Glass Bridge.

Do not feed monkeys or provoke them. Monkeys can be aggressive, and snacks should not be held in hand.

Carry an umbrella as there may be occasional light rain in the mountains.

Zhangjiajie offers a variety of hotels and guesthouses with good value for money. Staying near Wulingyuan is recommended for shorter travel distances.

The little shuttle bus goes between different scenic spots, while the big shuttle bus connects scenic spots to cable cars. It’s important to figure out the right bus to take before waiting to avoid wasting time.

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is extensive, and without a guide, it’s challenging to navigate.

Zhangjiajie’s cuisine is known for being spicy and sour. Inform in advance if you cannot tolerate spicy food.

🎫Do I need a visa for China?

Yes. Most visitors to China will need a visa to enter the country. The type of visa you need will depend on the purpose and duration of your trip, as well as your nationality. If you are a resident of the US, you must apply for a Chinese visa at the Consular Office in the country. On the other hand, inhabitants of countries like Japan, Canada, and the UK can request a visa through the Chinese Visa Application Service Center .

🤔 Why is it necessary to install a VPN in China?

In China, the government has strict regulations on internet access, leading to the blocking of popular websites and social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Google, and YouTube. To access these sites, a VPN is suggested as a means of bypassing the restrictions. It is important to choose a reputable VPN provider and use caution while doing so. ExpressVPN has been historically deemed the most reliable VPN for this purpose, despite being heavily targeted by China’s censors. Nevertheless, it is still a widely preferred option owing to its ease of installation and user-friendliness.

📲 Is it necessary to have a Chinese SIM card while in China?

Yes. It is crucial to acknowledge that accessing the internet in China may pose limitations due to certain websites being prohibited or filtered. To ensure uninterrupted connectivity while staying in China, purchasing a local SIM card is advisable. For optimum results, acquiring SIM cards from either China Unicom or China Mobile is recommended. While China Mobile has the most comprehensive coverage in China and is a market leader, China Unicom is more compatible with foreign phones, enabling 3G and 4G services. Or you can purchase a SIM card online .

🔮 Should I buy China travel insurance?

Yes. Although China is generally a safe country for travel, it is still possible to encounter accidents or other unexpected occurrences. Therefore, obtaining travel insurance can provide a sense of security and financial protection. In my research, I have found that World Nomads is a reputable travel insurance provider that covers a wide range of activities and is recommended for the average traveler. Nevertheless, I advise you to compare insurance quotes from various providers before making a decision.

🚙 Can you rent a car in China?

Unfeasible . Obtaining a Chinese driver’s license to rent a car and self-drive may seem like an option, but it is not a practical choice for most foreigners. Therefore, many prefer to opt for a driver or public transportation when navigating China, as it proves to be more convenient.

✈️ What’s the best site to purchase flight tickets for China?

I suggest using Trip for affordable flights to China. As a China-based company, they often offer lower prices compared to foreign companies. Additionally, they offer English-speaking phone support in case of any issues.

🏡 What is the best way to book hotels in China?

Not only does Trip offer a wider range of flight options, but it also provides a greater selection of hotels to choose from. Moreover, Agoda is a reliable resource for hotels throughout Asia.

🎒What do I pack for China?

Travel adapter and converter: China uses a different electrical system than many other countries, so it’s important to bring a travel adapter and converter if you plan to use electronic devices such as phones, cameras, and laptops. Sunscreen: The UV index in China can be high, particularly during the summer months, and prolonged exposure to the sun without protection can cause skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer. Deodorant: It should be noted that finding deodorant in China may not be a simple task.

📚 Can a guidebook for traveling to China be useful?

Yes . If you’re planning to travel to China for the first time, a travel guidebook can be a valuable resource, and Lonely Planet is one of the most reputable guides available globally. Its comprehensive itineraries and recommendations take into account your personal preferences and can save you both time and money. The insider tips are also extremely helpful in navigating China’s unique cultural landscape like a local.

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Monkeys are scattered throughout Zhangjiajie National Park, in Hunan, China

What to expect from Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

This monkey doesn't seem to interested in the beautiful cliffs behind

What to see inside Zhangjiajie National Forest Park?

Natural Bridge information rock Zhangjiajie, China

A few things to note about my time at Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

Map of Zhangjiajie Viewpoints throughout the park

The lines for the buses can be very long, especially at peak times of the day.
Many Chinese visitors seemed much more interested in taking photos with my partner and I (especially me, due to me thick beard I was told ) . This seemed quite strange to me considering the background was the beautiful Zhangjiajie National Forest Park ! One woman even insisted her baby be in the photo. Just me and the baby, no worries about the actual scenery right?! This happened around 30 times throughout the day! Not counting the not-so-subtle sneaky photos from
There was quite a lot of trash, especially in the more popular areas, that did diminish the beauty of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park a little for me . Make sure your garbage is properly disposed of.

Introduction information board to the Golden Whip Stream Scenic Area, Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

I was naively expecting fresh mountain air, but there was a fair amount of smog during my visit. There’s not too much you can do to solve this, but just be aware heavy smog levels aren’t great for the air quality that you breathe .
It was honestly exhausting. I was sore for days after the 30.8km distance covered today. Most of this distance was purely staircases. Still, entirely worth the pain and stiffness!
While there are a few places to buy snacks and water, such as the Tianqiao bus stop and the popular viewpoints, I highly suggest bringing some something to eat .

Video on exploring Zhangjiajie Forest Park in China

This short video takes you through what you’ll see in this section of the Wulginyuan Scenic Area of China. If you enjoyed this post, don’t forget to subscribe to my Youtube channel.

Book your travels to Zhangjiajie

You can take a guided tour of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. There is a number to choose from and you’ll learn about the area through a knowledgeable guide.
For accommodation in the city of Zhangjiajie itself, I stayed at Hostel Geographer . Easy walking distance from the train station, cheap, comfortable and very clean. I definitely recommend staying here.

Note: The link above is an affiliate link. If you make a purchase, at no extra cost to you, I make a commission from the sale. Please, contact me if you have any questions at all.

Where to stay in the city of Wulingyuan

Looking through giant cracks in the earth inside Zhangjiajie, in Wulingyuan Scenic Area

Highlights of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

This parent monkey cuddling it's baby is a pretty cute site!

The views were unlike anything I have ever seen before
I loved the wild monkeys along the path.
The quiet trails really let you soak in the beautiful scenery and allow you to appreciate it much more.

Further Related Reading

Here is the absolute best thing’s to do in China!

Thanks for reading!

Happy and safe travels,

A comprehensive guide to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park - Wulingyuan Scenic Area #china #zhangjiajie #travelchina

Thank you for sharing.

Hey Tony, thanks for the comment! Glad you enjoyed the post! Hope you have a great time if you visit the national park!

The bus between Zhangjiajie and Wulingyuan is only 13元 and the last one is at 6.30pm

Hey Sally, thanks for the update! Appreciate the good info! Thanks – Ben

Zhangjiajie Itinerary | The complete guide for 3 days in Zhangjiajie

One of the most mystical places we have ever been to, and our second favourite place in China after The Great Wall near Beijing, Zhangjiajie National Park and the Wulingyuan Scenic Area has to be right at the top of your must-visit places on a trip to China. Even though the place rose to fame as the inspiration for James Cameron in his blockbuster hit Avatar , this China landmark is still not on many tourists and travellers’ radar. Although over the next few years, we expect that to change, so make sure you visit it as soon as possible. You won’t regret it. To help you along – especially since most of the information out there is pretty confusing – we’ve put together this epic 3 days in Zhangjiajie guide for this UNESCO World Heritage site; our ultimate Zhangjiajie itinerary.

What is the Zhangjiajie National Forest?

Ok, the first thing that’s pretty important to understand is that when people talk about Zhangjiajie, they are generally referring to the absolutely stunning national park, but what’s really important to know is that there are two cities – Zhangjiajie and Wulingyuan, that are located either side of the Wulinguan Scenic Area , in which sits the Zhangjiajie National Park (one of 4 main areas). The cities are about 45 minutes to an hour (traffic dependant) apart, and based on your Zhangjiajie itinerary, it’s key to choose the right location to base yourselves. We’ll delve a little deeper into that when we talk about accommodation…!

So what exactly is the Zhangjiajie National Forest?

This is actually the first area that was discovered in the Wulingyuan Scenic Area, with Tianzi Mountain , Yuanjiajie (the most famous section with the Avatar Hallelujah Mountains) and Yangjiajie making up the other 3 areas of the park. However, with it being the first discovered area, it’s the name that has really stuck and is far better known than the Wulingyuan Scenic Area.

The whole park however offers breath-taking scenery, gravity-defying sandstone pillars and some of the best hiking that we have ever had the luck to explore.

Located in the northwest of the Hunan Province, the scenic and historic interest area spans across 400 square kilometres.

zhangjiajie national forest park tourism

How long do I need in Zhangjiajie?

Although it depends on your general hiking ability and fitness levels, we believe that you need to give yourself at least 3 days to explore all the key sights and viewpoints in Zhangjiajie and Tianmen. Although this article outlines what is a bit of a whistle-stop Zhangjiajie itinerary, with pretty intense (but very achievable) routes for those 3 days, you could easily extend your stay in the area and do our suggested itinerary over a 5 day period if you wanted to do it in a more relaxed way.

And if you are even faster travellers than us, and can only dedicate one day to this incredible area, we would recommend that you take our day 1 itinerary – you’ll see the most famous sights.

What is the perfect Zhangjiajie itinerary?

Day 1 | The Bailong Elevator, Avatar Mountains, Yangjiajie and Tianzi Mountain
Day 2 | Golden Whip Stream & Huangshi Village
Day 3 | Tianmen Mountain

How to get to Zhangjiajie National Park and Wulingyuan Scenic Area

So if you’re doing a much larger China itinerary, you’ll most likely be doing the more common loop from Beijing (check out our Beijing itinerary here ), Xi’an (we also have a Xi’an city guide ) and Chengdu – from here, we would recommend that you take a train to Changsha, stay the night in Changsha and then get the train to Zhangjiajie.

There are very much two different classes of train travel in China: the super modern, fast, clean efficient bullet trains that make major intercity journeys an absolute pleasure and in my opinion better than a flight. And then there are the more local intercity trains, which are waiting to be updated and if you’ve travelled in Asia, much more something you’ll be accustomed to facing. For the train from Changsha to Zhangjiajie you’re looking at the latter.

Booking trains in China is actually a relatively simple process. Unless you have a Chinese mobile, ID and understand Mandarin, you’ll need to use a third party supplier. We booked ours through China Highlights , which was a great service, they add a small mark up to the ticket prices, but it’s very easy to use. They also have a great app China Train Booking .

Helpful tip: You can pick up all your train tickets for travel at any mainline station in China. Just make sure you have the booking reference and your passport with you!

You can also take a bus directly from Fenghuang (the Ancient city of Phoenix), another popular stop on the tourist trail in China. The bus was very comfortable and took about 4 hours. We’d recommend that if you’re travelling in the busier summer holiday time (July and August) or around any major China holidays to book in advance. The best option seems to be China Bus Guide . However, although we did this journey in reverse (from Wulingyan bus station to Fenghuang) we were able to buy tickets at the bus station the day before we travelled.

If you’d like more advice on a full China itinerary, make sure you get in touch with us here , or leave a comment below and we’ll come back to you!

The obvious other alternative is to look into flights. Which, although more expensive than the train or bus options, is definitely faster and more convenient. Check out the latest prices on Skyscanner .

Travel Insurance for China

Got your travel insurance booked? We promise to never push a brand or product we don’t personally use, and the travel cover from Safety Wing is a policy we don’t just use, but we highly recommend. They offer some of the most flexible policies, amazing customer service and are affordable too.

Check out the latest travel insurance prices with Safety Wing here.

Where to stay in Zhangjiajie?

As we mentioned a little earlier in the article, it really is important to make sure that you base yourself in the right area. Zhangjiajie is actually a city (as most things are in China, surprisingly larger than we expected, with 1.5 million inhabitants). It is the location for the cable car to take you to Tianmenshan (Tianmen Mountain), which we suggest as part of day 3 of our Zhangjiajie itinerary, however, for days 1 & 2, you definitely will want to stay in Wulingyuan. Most of the accommodation options here are walkable to the main entrance of the Zhangjiajie National Park and it has much more of a feel of a small town, which is really nice.

As the drive from Zhangjiajie city to the park entrance is 45 minutes, we’d really recommend you stay in Wulingyuan, particularly if you are keen to get there early and beat the crowds to the best spots. The easiest way to get to Wulingyaun from Zhangjiajie is to take the bus from the main bus station, handily also located right next to the main train station.

Budget : Backpackers will like the Wuling Yuantu Youth Hostel – it’s right next to the Wulingyuan ticket office so very handy! It has free wifi and really lovely rooms, so worth a look in!

Mid-range: We stayed at the Maosao Family Hotel and really liked it. It was a quick walk to the main entrance to the park, had lovely rooms with wooden features and soft white sheets – we particularly thought the family rooms had great value.

Luxury : There are quite a few good high-end hotels in Wulingyuan but we’d probably pick the Pullman , also since it has one of the best restaurants with Western food!

Buying your tickets for Zhangjiajie National Park, Wulingyan Scenic Area and Tianmen Mountain

For tickets to Zhangjiajie National Park and the Wulingyuan Scenic Area:

You can buy your tickets at any of the main gates into the park. The best bet is to get to the main gate in Wulingyuan as early as you can, the ticket office opens at 7.00 am. It’s always worth carrying your passport with you at all times in China – at most of the major tourist attractions you will need it, and here is no different. Your tickets (credit card style passes) are linked to your ID, and on your first time through the turnstiles they link your fingerprint to your pass!

If you’re a student, it’s worth taking the relevant ID with you as you’ll also be entitled to some pretty good discounts.

Tickets cost: 248 RMB (35 USD / 27 GBP) – this is a 4 day pass that covers your entry, access to all 4 areas of the park and buses within the park. Note that there are additional costs for the Bailong Elevator (72 RMB / 10.25 USD / 7.80 GBP) and Cable Cars (79 RMB / 11.25 USD / 8.60 GBP).

Insider Tip: Join the local tour guides, jump the fence and you’ll get your tickets before anyone else. We did it and it meant we were on the first buses!

For tickets to Tianmen Mountain :

Chat to your accommodation and ask them to book your tickets in advance! They’ll need a photo of your passport which they send on to the ticket office to book your tickets, you will then collect the physical tickets. The ticket office is located at the base of the cable car, and there is a designated counter for pre-ordered tickets. There are morning or afternoon tickets available and you’ll definitely want to get yourself into one of the morning slots – the earlier you can get up Tianmen Mountain the better, as it can get quite busy by the afternoon.

There is a cable car that runs up to the top of Tianmen Mountain, and you’ll either be allotted a journey up on the cable car and down on the bus. Or vice versa. We would actually recommend asking for the bus up – it’s a relatively hairy drive up the mountain, with 99 hairpin turns in total, and although pretty exhilarating, it would be twice that on the descent.

Tickets for Tianmen Mountain cost: 261 RMB (37.25 USD / 28.40 GBP) and the ticket office opens from 7.00 am (note the park only opens from 8.00 am).

If you don’t feel so comfortable doing this itinerary without a tour guide, have a look at the various guided options with Get Your Guide .

Day 1 in Zhangjiajie

Ready to go and explore one of the most beautiful places in the world? Let’s kick off on the first day of your ultimate 3 day Zhangjiajie itinerary!

Bailong Elevator

So, get yourself up super early, get hold of your passes, and once in the main station, there are heaps of buses that ferry people around to all sections of the park. Point out that you want to go to the Bailong Elevator (also known as the Hundred Dragon Elevator) in the Yainjiajie section of the park and they’ll let you know which bus number to get on – it’s a relatively straight forward process, but with so many people and buses can appear quite confusing at first.

We managed to get onto the first bus of the day, and it was totally worth it! Once you arrive at the Bailong Elevator (the end of this bus line), you will need to purchase a ticket at the Bailong Elevator counters. There is an additional cost for the riding the elevator, but in our opinion it is totally worth it. The ticket price for this is: 72 RMB / 10.25 USD / 7.85 GBP.

Try and squeeze into the front of the elevator against the glass walls, face outwards and prepare yourself for the best lift ride of your life.

Tip: If you don’t get to the Bailong Elevator early, you can expect to queue for some time – we heard reports of people waiting a couple of hours to take the lift! So it’s really worth making the extra effort to be one of the first…

Avatar Mountains & Yuanjiajie

At the top of the Bailong Elevator, there is only one path that leads away, so you really can’t go wrong. Follow this path for about 400m where you’ll come to another bus station, where buses are waiting to take you along to the viewing platforms of the Southern Sky Column, the inspiration for the Avatar Mountains .

Along this walkway you’ll also encounter the First Bridge Under Heaven and the Lost Souls Platform. Each spot is amazing, and if you’re some of the first there in the morning, you get to experience this all without the crowds.

The walk should take you around 60 – 90 minutes depending on your speed and how much time you take to explore.

The next stop for the day is into the most recently discovered section of the park, Yangjiajie. There is a bus that will take you from the end of your walk in Yuanjiajie to Yangjiejie.

At the bus station, head out towards the Tianbo Mansion viewpoint. It’s about a 90 minute or so round trip, and you need to return here to move on to the next stop of the day. The walk to the viewpoint is really unique in that you’ll pass through the ancient Wulong Village, where you can still see the local traditional way of life.

Heading on past the village, you then come to a very narrow naturally formed crevice, where the mountain has split, it’s a decent hike up plenty of steps, but there are a number of places to stop and have a rest on the way.

At the end of the path there is the opportunity to climb (on some relatively rickety looking metal stairs), up to the top of one of the sandstone pillars, which offers beautiful views of the Natural Great Wall.

Tianzi Mountains

After returning to the Yangjiajie bus station, get on a bus for the journey to the Tianzi Mountains, this is the last section to explore for today. This for us provided two of the most ‘wow’ moments of the day. Firstly, and the bad wow, there’s actually a McDonalds at the summit of Tianzi Mountain!

But then for the amazing wow: Head past the McD’s and look for the Warrior Taming Horse lookout. This has to be, for us anyway, the best viewpoint on the mountain.

Keep exploring the tracks at the top, as there are stunning viewpoints everywhere, and once you’ve had your fill of idyllic scenery, we’d suggest that you walk all the way down. You can of course take the cable car back down, which is probably slightly easier on the knees. But, much to our surprise, the walk down was virtually deserted and we passed hardly anyone, except some poor souls who thought it would be a good idea to walk up Tianzi Mountain. No matter your fitness level, don’t attempt that!

There are a few café’s to stop at and get refreshments along the way, but the walk down really does provide different levels and perspectives of the sandstone pillars to appreciate. And you get to pass through the stunning Southern Heavenly Gate. You can’t go wrong if you keep following the signs towards the Ten Mile Natural Gallery.

Once at the base, you’ll see a tram that you can take along this approx. 2 mile journey (not actually 10 miles as the name suggests), or just walk down. Here there are buses that can take you back to the Wulingyuan park entrance.

Note: If you wanted to extend your itinerary, you could quite easily separate Tianzi Mountain into its own hike!

Day 2 in Zhangjiajie

The golden whip stream.

So today it’s not quite as important to be first to the Park entrance, as you don’t need to rush to beat the queues at the Bailong Elevator. However, follow exactly the same initial journey as the first day and get the bus towards the lift – you’ll be wanting to get off the bus at the stop beforehand, called the Golden Whip Stream. Make sure you mention this to your driver (or point it out on the map) and they’ll stop for you at the right spot. And it is still definitely trying to get to the start as early as you can!

The first part of today’s hiking is really gentle, as the Golden Whip stream takes you along the river that flows in the valley. The most rewarding part of this is that you get the complete alternative to yesterday’s views, looking up to the looming sandstone pillars.

The Golden Whip Stream should take an hour or so to complete. You’ll also likely to bump into a few monkeys, but worth noting that it’s good to steer clear of them, we saw them on someone’s back opening their bag, looking for food.

Huangshi Village

When you reach the end of the Golden Whip Stream – the interestingly named Oxygen Square – we’d suggest that you hike up to Huangshi Village. This is definitely the toughest section of our suggested itinerary as it is a pretty long climb up. And in general nothing but stairs… about 5,000 of them and a good 90 minutes of continuous stair climbing.

If you’re not keen on the hike up, you can also take a bus from Oxygen Square to the Huangshi Village cable car. You’ll pay extra for this ticket.

At the summit, we’d recommend that you take a walk around the entire mountain top, it’s meant to take around 3 hours in total, but in reality you can definitely do it a bit quicker. And it’s definitely worth the extra effort to walk all the way around – at the far side you see the Avatar Hallelujah Mountains from the reverse side.

After finishing the loop, head back down the stairs to Oxygen Square. It’s much quicker on the way down and only takes about an hour.

Once you’re back down, you can either head back along the Golden Whip Stream (if you have the energy) to catch the free bus back to the Wulingyuan entrance. Or alternatively you can exit the park here at the Forest Park Station exit, where you will find buses heading back to Wulingyuan bus station.

Note: you have to pay for this bus back to Wulingyuan but it’s not expensive at 20 RMB (2.85 USD / 2.20 GBP).

Day 3 in Zhangjiajie

Tianmen mountain.

If you are staying in Wulingyuan, make sure that you allow yourself enough time to get to the Cable Car Station in Zhangjiajie city, the buses depart for Zhangjiajie from Wulingyuan bus station and depart every 20-30 minutes from around 7.00am. If you point out to the bus driver that you want to get off at the Cable Car, the bus drivers are usually super helpful and will let you know when to get off, but it’ll be quite obvious as you’ll see the cable car.

99 Turns Bus Ride

Once you’ve got hold of your tickets from the cable car station, if you are heading up on the buses first (don’t worry if not, the information is just in reverse and you’ll like do the mountain first before walking the Stairway to Heaven), head out to the rear of the building and you’ll see a load of buses waiting to ferry people up. This is actually the first bus ride of two you take to get up Tianmen. But don’t worry – it’s really easy. The first bus take around 10 – 15 minutes to the start of the National Forest Park, from here you then walk up the steps and check in with your tickets, joining another queue (not very long) to take you on another bus up which drives you to the summit.

We’re a little confused as to why you need to transfer buses but that’s the process!

Photo credit: Eamon Hayes

The journey up Tianmen Mountain is a pretty wild ride. If you get motion sick, it’s worth having a tablet beforehand as you’re in for 99 hairpin turns to make it to the top. Apart from slightly hair-raising, it offers absolutely stunning views of the surrounding area.

Stairway to Heaven

After arriving at the bus station, you immediately see why this place is so important. Directly translated as ‘Gateway to Heaven’, in front of you lies a super impressive stairway, leading up to Tianmen Cave.

In total there are 999 steps, and although it’s daunting, you actually do the climb in next to no time! There are also plenty of areas that you can stop and have a seat on the way up! If you aren’t keen on attempting the climb, you can also take the escalator up instead that sits hidden to the right of the stairs.

At the summit of the Stairway to Heaven, you’re actually still quite a way from the top of Tianmen Mountain, but luckily there are escalators (7 of them from memory) that will take you all the way.

Walking the Mountain

Now at the top of the elevators, you now have a choice to either head out right or left, (to the East or West walkways) if, like us, you want to walk around the whole of the mountain. It is really worth doing this, as although it’ll take around 4 hours, the walk is not so strenuous.

If you head out to the East walkways first, they seemed to be less crowded than the West side, this may of course been due to our timings. Along the walk, you’ll encounter some seriously impressive walkways that jut out from the side of the mountain, and there are a couple of glass walkways that are really worth doing (even if you’re not great with heights). The first you’ll come to is the East Glass walkway, and although not as impressive as the West one, still very much worth doing. You pay an extra 5 RMB (0.70 USD / 0.55 GBP) but in reality this is the cost for the shoe covers to keep the glass clean.

If you are taking the Cable Car up, it would make more sense to head to the West walkways first, so you’re not doubling back on yourself.

After you arrive back near the start of your mountain top walk, you’ll reach the cable car – which is a great experience by itself. Once the longest cable car in the world, you have a 30 minute relaxing return journey all the way back to the original cable car station in Zhangjiajie.

If you have more energy than us, you could also squeeze another activity into day 3 of the itinerary! If so, check out our recommendations below of bonus activities to add. Although, to be honest, we were exhausted by the end of this!

We obviously did loads of hiking (up to 20km each day and much of that up and down), however, you definitely can use more buses and cable cars than we did which will be a little easier on the legs. If you are planning on doing loads of hiking, it’s definitely worth getting a leg massage in Wulingyuan – it really eases the aches and loosens the muscles for the next day’s adventure!

Read next: Here is our perfect 2 weeks in China itinerary and travel guide!

When is the best time of year to visit Zhangjiajie?

Zhangjiajie weather follows much of the northern hemisphere, in that it has the classic four seasons of spring, summer, autumn and winter. Winters can get down to freezing, but would offer stunning views, and is the quietest time of year. Summer can get pretty hot (over 30 degrees). And between May and August are the wettest months! But in a place that experiences over 200 days of rain or misty clouds, make sure that you take waterproof clothing regardless of when you go.

The best time of year – think less humid, warm but not hot and less chance of rain – are April and October. We were there in September and had wonderful weather, although quite humid on two days with the final day quite misty. The Chinese holiday months of July and August are also the busiest, so likely that accommodation costs will be higher, and the parks fuller.

Top tip: Don’t forget that the temperatures can be quite a bit colder on the mountain tops, so be prepared!

Bonus Activities to add to your Zhangjiajie itinerary

Yellow Dragon Cave

Just a short bus ride from Wulingyuan (20 minutes) is this enormous karst cave network, covering 100, 000 square metres. The Yellow Dragon Cave (or ‘Huanglongdong’ in Chinese) is a massive cave complex featuring a reservoir, underground waterfalls, pools and two underground rivers. Yes, China really does it bigger and better!

Some of the world’s largest stalactites and stalagmites form inside the cave, and it’s a really interesting journey to see them, and all the attractions which are illuminated in bright colours. That said, it can feel a little touristy – the many hued lights and many other visitors mean this is quite a commercial experience.

As to the journey itself, you’ll do parts of it by foot and the others through a 800m long boat cruise on the Xiangshui River. All of it is guided, and takes about 90 minutes.

At time of writing, it cost 100 RMB (14.30 USD / 11 GBP) for the ticket, and only 1 RMB for the bus which is Bus No 1 from Wulingyuan Bus Station.

Photo Courtesy of Bill Hertha / Flickr

Baofeng Lake

As most of your time in Zhangjiajie and the Wulingyuan Scenic Area is about mountains and glass walkways, its worth doing something more water-based, like Baofeng Lake. This lake is 72 metres deep and about 2.5 km long, flanked by beautiful steep peaks. The water is incredibly clear and reflects the surrounding area, making this a beautiful, peaceful place to visit.

While you’re there, you can also do a scenic boat ride where you’ll take in the mountains to the tune of local singers performing Tuljia songs. You can also get off the boat and explore the fountains and a waterfall, via a short hike.

It costs about 96 CNY (14.70 USD / 11 GBP) and you get there via Bus No 1 from the Wulingyuan Bus Station.

Grand Canyon and Glass Bridge

Last but definitely not least is the Grand Canyon and the Glass Bridge. These are technically two separate ‘attractions’ in that you can pay for them separately, or a combo ticket – more on that below.

The absolutely beautiful canyon is perfect for walking and hiking – you take wooden trails over a 3-4 hour hike, starting with the mind-blowing Strip of Sky, a long gap between two mountain cliffs where only one person fits at a time. You’ll walk a 700 meter long trail down to the bottom, before traversing through the canyon where you can also try your hand at the Sky Ladder Plank Road and the Southern Red Flag Canal, a beautiful canal that powers the nearby villages.

But it is the glass bridge that really attracts most visitors. The bridge (which shouldn’t be confused with the glass walkways on Tianmen mountain), is the world’s longest and highest glass bridge. Called ‘Yuntiandu’ it means ‘a way of clouds to the sky’ since it seems almost suspended in the air. The entire thing is transparent glass, giving you a heart racing view down to the bottom of the canyon.

It costs 118 RMB (16.80 USD / 13 GBP) for just the Grand Canyon, CNY 138 (20 USD / 15 GBP) for just the Glass Bridge and CNY 219 (31.30 USD / 24 GBP) for the combo ticket, at time of writing. From Wulingyuan bus station you take the bus to Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon which takes 20 minutes.

Zhangjiajie Travel Tips – What to pack for your Zhangjiajie Itinerary

You’ll definitely want to make sure you’ve got a decent day bag to take with you. We love our Osprey day bag and find it perfect for everything we need to carry on a day trip. But what are the essentials to include?

Water bottle. Throughout China, the tap water isn’t drinkable. Do yourself a favour and get a LifeStraw – it’ll save you money in the long run and it’s good for the planet.
Camera. The most important thing in our opinion. The landscapes are truly out of this world.
Waterproof jacket or poncho. It can be cloudy and rainy up on the mountain, more likely than not. So make sure that you’ve got something that keeps you dry.
Sunscreen and sunglasses. On the other hand, it can be surprisingly hot up there. We were really lucky that we had two sunny hot days.
Snacks . You’ll want to take some good snacks for the walks, there are limited options on the mountains away from the main cable car stations.
Great hiking shoes! If you’re like us and you want to explore, make sure you’re wearing a comfy pair of shoes, we walked on average of 20km each day, and a lot of that is steps. You can of course do less of the hiking, but it’s the best way to get away from the crowds. We love our Salomon XA Pro 3D .
Tissues or toilet paper . You never know if there’s going to be any toilet paper on that bathroom break!

What apps should I use in Zhangjiajie?

We’ve actually created a super handy guide to all the apps that you need for travelling in China – check that out here . That said, here are some of the crucial ones:

Most importantly, make sure that you get a good VPN – it’s the most important app to have on your phone, otherwise you won’t be able to use most of the day to day programs that you are used to using. Think no Google, no Facebook, no WhatsApp, no Instagram etc… you get the picture.

We’d strongly recommend that you pick ExpressVPN . We used both that and its biggest competitor NordVPN , and found that on speeds and access, ExpressVPN just comes out slightly ahead – but both are great products!

And download the VPN and other apps before you go. Play Store won’t be available in China (without a VPN).

The other key apps that we’d recommend that you download:

Taxi service. Uber (and our Southeast Asia favourite, Grab), don’t work in China. However, China does have their own equivalent which is pretty much the same – DIDI Chuxing .
Maps. So for hiking routes, we love Maps.Me , as a lot of the routes are on here, when they don’t appear on Google Maps. You can also download regional and very detailed offline maps which means that even if you have no internet, you are always able to find your way around. It works on GPS positioning, which doesn’t require 3G connectivity. Quite useful in the mountains of Zhangjiajie!
Translation. The most tricky thing about travelling in China is definitely the language barrier. Unlike the rest of South East Asia, English is pretty much not spoken outside the major cities. So it’s worth having Google Translate in your pocket. They also have a handy offline version for Chinese so you don’t need the internet to work it either.

What camera equipment and other gear do we use?

We’re living proof that you don’t need the most expensive gear to travel the world and take good photos. Here are some of our must have items that make it into the packing list for all our travels.

Main Camera: Panasonic Lumix FZ1000
Drone: DJI Mavic Air – Fly More Combo
GoPro: Hero 7 Black
GoPro Dive Case: Go Pro Housing
GoPro Case: Smatree GoPro Carry Case – Small
Packing Cubes: Eagle Creek Packing case
Backpack: Osprey Farpoint 70
Powerbank: Anker Powercore
Phone: Xiaomi Mi 9
Hard drive: Transcend Slim Storejet 2TB
Laptop: Lenovo IdeaPad 720s
Headphones: Bose Quiet Comfort 35
Wifi Hotspot: GlocalMe G4

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Where are we now?

London, England

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Where is Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

What to see in zhangjiajie national forest park.

The park is endowed with many attraction spots, such as the Yellow Stone Stronghold (Huangshizhai), Yaozizhai, Yuanjiajie and the Golden Whip Stream.

Yellow Stone Stronghold (Huangshizhai)

Yellow Stone Stronghold, also known as Yellow Stone Village or Huangshizhai, Yaozizhai is located west of the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. It is named after a story whereby Huang Shi saved Zhang Liang from misfortune when the latter isolated himself from society in this forest.

Occupying an area of 41 acres and 1,200 meters (0.8 miles) above sea level, this stronghold is the largest observing spot of the forest park. One cannot claim to have completed a Zhangjiajie National Forest Park tour without visiting Yellow Stone Stronghold. The main attraction spots include Tranquil Trail in Fir Woods, Imperial Edict and the Precious Box, Needle Peak, the Southern Gate to Heaven, Five-Finger Peak and so on.

Golden Whip Stream

Sceneries along the Golden Whip Stream are most enchanting in the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. Named after the Golden Whip Rock that it flows by, this stream, 5.7 kilometers long (3.5 miles), joins the Lute stream in the west and Suoxi Stream in the east. A 300-meter (984 feet) walk from the gate of the park will lead you to the entrance of the Golden Whip Stream. Flanked by ridges and peaks, the crystal clear water makes it possible to observe every action of the fish in the water. Wild flowers are in abundance here.

The northern part of the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is the essential tourist route. Yuanjiajie is a natural platform that faces giant rocks rising from deep valleys and surrounded by higher mountains. Unique in their shapes and covered with pine trees, these rocks resemble a vivid Chinese painting.

About 98% of the area is covered with vegetation. There are 720 species of the 102 families, including all the five most important floras, namely, the rose family, pulse family, grass family, composite family and orchid family. Some of these trees are rare and regarded as national treasure. For example, the Dove tree, known as living fossil, can be traced back as early as the Fourth Ice Age. The great variety of plants in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park takes up 82% of all the flora families in Hunan Province.

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park also boasts a variety of animals. Exuberant forests offer them ideal habitats to live in and procreate their own species. There are more than 149 kinds of chordate animals inhabitants in this park. Among them, 28 kinds are under national protection, amongst which, are the Golden Pheasant, Rhesus Monkey, Giant Salamander and Musk Deer. Visitors will be able to hear birds singing and see monkeys playing in the tree.

How to get to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

If you arrive Zhangjiajie by train, then you can take a direct bus at the bus station near the railway stations to Wulingyuan. Zhangjiajie High Speed Rail Bus Station (near Zhangjiajie West Railway Station ) has regular tourist buses to Wulingyuan every ten minutes from 07:45 - 16:10 and the bus journey takes about 40 minutes. The bus fare is around CNY 13. Zhangjiajie Central Bus Station (beside Zhangjiajie Railway Station ) operates direct buses to Wulingyuan from 07:00 - 17:00, taking about one hours and CNY 13. If arriving in Zhangjiajie by air, it is advised to take bus no.4 or a taxi to Zhangjiajie Central Bus Station and get on a direct bus there to Wulingyuan.

Where to stay in Zhangjiajie National Park

There are hotels and inns in the park and near the Wulingyuan Entrance, most of which do not provide toiletries. A standard double-bed room costs CNY 300 or so. Suoxi Shanju Light Luxury Resort Hotel is a good recommendation.

Is it difficult to visit Zhangjiajie with seniors or children?

No, to finish the visit is not difficult for seniors or kids who are fit and capable of doing moderate physical activities. The roads and steps to the major sights are reasonably good to walk. In addition, the scenic area is well-equipped with sightseeing battery cars and cable cars.

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park Entrance Fee and Opening Hours

Ticket prices, opening hours, fees for the elevator, cable cars and the tourist train.

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Zhangjiajie National Forest Park Travel Tips & Tours

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

Famous for its unique peaks and stunning scenery, Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is China's first national forest park inaugurated in 1982 and was listed as a UNESCO geopark in 2004. The park is part of the much larger 397.5 km2 (153.5 sq mi) Wulingyuan Scenic Area, which was officially recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992.

Highlights and Travel Tips

The most notable geographic features of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park are the pillar-like formations that are seen throughout the park. With an immense area of 4,810 ha (11,900 acres), the park features several stunning scenic areas that allow visitors to take in these amazing peaks, including Yuanjiajie, Golden Whip Stream Trail, Tianzi Mountain, and Yangjiajie, etc.

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park covers a large area, and this is reflected in the lifespan of its ticket: one ticket is valid for four consecutive days. There are buses that transport visitors between spots within the park, but it is ideal to have a guide to help you navigate inside the park, especially for visitors with a tight schedule.

While the park is huge, the scenery may seem similar in certain spots. Considering time is precious for most visitors traveling to China, two days should be enough to check off the top highlights of the park. If you only have one day to visit the park, you should still have sufficient time but you may feel a bit rushed if you want to cover the best spots of the park, such as the Golden Whip Stream Trail, Bailong Elevator, Yuanjiajie, and Tianzi Mountain.

Be aware that the park can get crowded even in low season. There are likely to be long lines at the cable cars and the Bailong Elevator during peak seasons. We recommend visiting the popular spots as early as possible to avoid the crowds.

Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes since the park requires a lot of walking and stairs can get slippery on wet days. There are wild monkeys at some parts of the park and visitors should avoid holding food in their hands.

Yuanjiajie Scenic Spot

Yuanjiajie is home to one of the park's quartz-sandstone pillars, the 150-metre Southern Sky Column, which is said to have inspired the floating rocks in the film of "Avatar" and thus has been officially renamed "Avatar Hallelujah Mountain." Visitors can take the Bailong Elevator up to Yuanjiajie, or hike about 1 hour from Qianlixianghui up to Yuanjiajie.

Yuanjiajie is relatively less crowded but perhaps even more scenic than other sections of the park. For those who want to do a little off-the-beaten-track hiking, Yuanjiajie offers many trails leading away from the main paths. This is the chance to veer off the tourist trail and maybe even see some wildlife. For people who would rather stick to the main route, Yuanjiajie also has a nice paved path which heads west from the upper station of the Bailong Elevator and features excellent views of the surrounding peaks, as well as some terrifyingly high natural bridges where you might not want to look down.

Bailong Elevator

With an elevation of 326 m (1,070 ft), Bailong Elevator is the world's tallest outdoor elevator. This dramatic elevator clinging to the side of a cliff is an easy way for visitors to ride up to the Yuanjiajie area. The elevator carriage has glass walls on the sides, allowing visitors to appreciate the scenery while ascending.

Golden Whip Stream Trail

This popular walking trail winds from the Forest Park Gate to the Bailong Elevator along a rushing brook, which is its namesake. The trek features beautiful scenery from the base of the park's famous pillars. The rock formations rising up from the floor of the valley and towering over you can make it feeling like you are "walking amongst giants." This is also where the park's monkey population comes out to play. The 5.7 km trail is mostly flat and takes about 2 hours at a modest pace. Visitors can walk part of the trail if they have limited time or want to save effort for other parts of the large park. There is an uphill path at the middle of the trail where visitors can veer off to hike up to the Yuanjiajie scenic spot.

Huangshizhai (Yellow Stone Village) Scenic Spot

Occupying an area of 41 acres and 1,200 meters (0.8 miles) above sea level, Huangshizhai features the largest viewing platform of the forest park. Huangshizhai is directly inside the park's Forest Park Gate. The peak can be reached by a quick cable car ride or by climbing up more than 3800 stone stairs. A visit to this scenic area normally takes about 1.5 hrs.

Tianzi Mountain Scenic Spot

While touristy, the Tianzishan area offers spectacular views over a forest of the pillar peaks the park is famous for. A 15-minute epic cable car ride takes visitors to/from the viewing platform at the top of the peak, passing by numerous peaks along the way. For those who are not able or willing to walk a lot, this is a great area to visit as it requires less walking and the views are exactly what you want to see when visiting Zhangjiajie. Visitors who want more activity can hike down after visiting the top of Tianzi Mountain, which takes about two hours. The end of the hiking route is at the terminus of the Ten-Mile Gallery Route. We don't recommend hiking up the route to the top of Tianzi Mountain, since it would be too strenuous for most visitors.

Ten-Mile Gallery Route

This beautiful 2km route runs along the foot of the peaks of the Tianzi Mountain area. Great views and lots of greenery make this one of the most popular areas of the park. Visitors can choose to walk or take the sightseeing tram through the valley. At the furthest end of the Ten-Mile Gallery Route, there is a hiking route visitors can walk up to or down from Tianzi Mountain.

Opening Hours and Ticket Prices

Opening hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Entrance fee (including shuttle bus): 225 RMB (March to November) / 115 RMB (December to February) Huangshizhai cable car: 65 RMB (one way) Bailong Elevator: 72 RMB (one way) Tianzishan cable car: 72 RMB (one way) Yangjiajie cable car: 76 RMB (one way) Ten-mile gallery tram: 38 RMB (one way) / 52 RMB (round trip) Average time for this activity: 1 to 2 days

How to Get There

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is located about 30 km to the north of downtown Zhangjiajie. There are buses traveling between downtown Zhangjiajie and the two popular gates of the park every 10 minutes: Forest Park Gate and Wulingyuan Gate. The bus ride takes about 45 minutes and costs 12 RMB per person. If you take a taxi from Zhangjiajie airport or railway station, it costs about 100 RMB and takes about 45 minutes.

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Four Day Hiking Guide For Zhangjiajie, China [UPDATED FOR 2024]

Nic Hilditch-Short - Last updated on July 12th, 2024 at 8:56 am

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Where and what is Zhangjiajie!? Located in the

Years ago I remember seeing these amazing dream like photos a friend posted on Facebook, pillars of sandstone covered in thick foliage floating above a tropical forest below. Somewhere I immediately set my heart on seeing, but set in the middle of China I never really thought all those years ago it would be somewhere I would ever visit, let along spend 4 days exploring! Heading into this magical place we were blown away, it felt like somewhere from another world, the influences on the film Avatar were clear to see, but there was also an element of Jurassic world! With monkey infested forests, a snow storms and enchanting views these are our four days of adventure in this most amazing place: The Zhangjiajie National Forest Park!

Where and what is Zhangjiajie!?

How to visit this magical place, day one: setting foot in this magical place, day two: a mist descends as we ascend yet another mountain, day three: the monkeys come out as the snow falls, day four: the skies clear as the views over the frosty landscape come into view, a week in this magical town to remember and some amazing calligraphy as a souvenir , have you been to the amazing zhangjiajie national forest park, book your accommodation here, book your transport here:.

Located in the Hunan province this magical place is a huge national park called the “Wulingyuan scenic area” or often “Zhangjiajie National Forest Park” it comprises of several mountains, rivers and of course the pillars the park is famous for. After inspiring the floating forest of Avatar it has become more and more popular! Created by natural erosion these sandstone pillars stand along at sometimes over 1000 ft tall, making this unique scenery like something from a lost world on a fantasy planet!

We’ve actually written a whole other post detailing how to get to here, what transport to use, where to stay and our must see spots in the park, including a route to take if you only have a day! Check it out here:

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park travel guide and maps!

But to summarise, to visit The Zhangjiajie National Forest Park you will have to take the train probably through one of the larger cities such as Changsha or Yichang. You should then take the bus to Wulingyuan village which is at the entrance to the park and stay here to make the most of your time. You should take up the 4 days too if you have chance and plan each one out and have a route!

On our first day we were a little overwhelmed by the sheer size of the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. Having 4 days might have felt like enough time initially to explore all the must see spots but once we got inside we started to wonder if we would actually get around it. Especially seeing as we couldn’t afford to take the cable cars each day!

We decided to get off at the first stop on the bus and hike to the top of the mountains that way. Walking along the 10 miles gallery (actually just under 6km!) we got our first real glimpse of the magnificent columns and pillars of this magical place. Towering above us as we stared up at their weird and wonderful formations it was hard not to just stop in awe. But this was just the start of the days explorations in the stunning Zhangjiajie National Forest Park!

Wandering passed the impressive 3 sisters peaks we began our steep ascent to the top of the Tianz mountain. An unrelenting series of steps that wound its way through the thick forest, seemingly without end. However the steep nature of the terrain meant we gained height fast and as the trees opened up the views we had been waiting for revealed themselves.

This section of the path was also pretty quiet and so the sound of the birds and the whistle of the wind through the branches really made it even more spectacular. The heavenly platform might have involved an additional 128 steps but the views were worth the effort to look over the entire Zhangjiajie National Forest Park!

Up on the top we managed to take in the view from Yunqing rock just as the clouds were rolling in. We literally watched as they coated everything in a blanket of thick white mist. Despite the now ruined views there was something quite magical about watching the fog just descend like that, but of course, now it was time to head back down as there was nothing more to be seen!

Up here we were also surprised to find a McDonald’s, this park has been developed for tourism as is popular with Chinese visitors. The infrastructure of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is great for exploring the park and despite the ominous yellow M up here is doesn’t actually spoil the park once you are on the trails and there are many to be found completely empty!

The second day we awoke to find the thick fog was still blanketing the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, we knew the views from the top that we had come to witness would be all but invisible. It was disappointing but we were determined to push on and get out hiking again for a second day. We had 4 days to use in a row and we would be using them!

We decided on the second day to take in the Golden Whip Stream, a 5/6 km path down the meandering river that cuts its way through the sea of pillars that tower above. Wandering along the valley floor the going was much more relaxed and the view completely different than those we had previously encounters as well as a must do area within the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park.

Half way down the stream is another trail up to the top… here we go for another hike up yet another mountain! This trail was yet another scenic path up to the top level with some great look out points over the lower sections of the park. Once at the top we were again greeted with a whiteout, it was disappointing for sure but the walk itself was wonderful and well worth the effort.

Day three and we awoke to a dusting of snow covering the village, as we made our way over to the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park entrance we could make out the white peaks in the distance. It was cold, minus 1 over night, but it all looked so beautiful.

The clouds were once again quite low as we entered the park from this alternative but more spectacular entrance but they were beginning to rise too. Covering the very tops of the pillars we had a stunning view in the centre of this amazing valley, this entrance is definitely more dramatic!

We decided to tackle yet another mountain on our third day, this time the Yellow stone village that sits on it’s own at the bottom end of the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. Hiking up here doesn’t lead you to the top section of the park like the other trails but instead to this isolated peak itself, which is wonderful and annoying at the same time!

As we hit the trails it was cold and snow covered a layer of the path right away, as we began to get higher and higher it quickly turned to ice and made the paths treacherous! It was around this time that the first monkeys started to appear, at first just one large red faced male to looked rather aggressive.

He blocked the path as we edged gingerly passed him, we had been warned to look out for these so it was a little intimidating! But as we headed on further a whole family of them appeared, little babied clinging to their mothers and a whole hoard of them trundled passed! It was so magical and surreal, we had been disappointed earlier on not to see any of the parks famous monkeys, but now we has seen an entire clan!

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It was our last day and the day we had been holding out for, the weather report suggested today was going to offer the best weather conditions and we were ready to make the most of it. Having walked around most of the park by now we knew the hotspots and where we wanted to make sure we saw on this crisp and clear day.

We decided then to take the cable car up to the top of the park to save us some time and get straight up there. As soon as we stepped off the platform we could see it was just sheer ice up here but the views over the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park were clear!!!

Overnight the temperatures had dropped on the peaks to well below freezing and so we invested in some traditional ice shoes the local women were selling for only £1! This made a world of difference!

Seeing the peaks up here covered in a dusting of snow just made this wonderful place even more magical, our last day here turned out to be perfect and we were able to re-visit many areas and viewpoints in the park and now take in the simply stunning vistas.

The pillars seemed to go on for miles in layers that were like something from a fairytale, having gotten up here as soon as and fast as we could we stayed in the park until it went dark, visiting so many incredible spots and at times having the park to ourselves. Whilst at the enchanting terrace and the natural rock bridge, an absolute highlight of the park, we were even interviewed by CCTV, a Chinese channel for their travel program!

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With the changing weather conditions and also getting our dates mixed up to move on we ended up spending an amazing week in Wulingyuan. Meeting some amazing people from all over the world and also getting to know the old man who ran our hostel: Mr. Ning.

Chinese calligraphy, writing, hand painted, art,

A one time college professor in Chinese and Maths he could speak no English and yet we managed to have some amazing and interesting chats with him! He is also amazing at calligraphy and one night offered to do us an amazing piece for us, for only a beer! We watched as his brush danced across the precisely folded paper and he wrote down our message for us.

Here is what it says “Peace through travel, life though adventure and create your own path” as well as our names and his signature! What an amazing souvenir of our time in this wonderful place!

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Nic Hilditch-Short

Hey! I’m Nic, one-half of The Roaming Renegades.

I have a passion for travel, photography, heavy metal music (particularly Rammstein), Arsenal FC, gaming, mountaineering and pugs (Dooku RIP & Billy)

I have a BA in Fine Art and an MA in Design & Art Direction before I started galavanting around the globe! So far, I’ve been to 68 countries in 5 continents.

I’ve spent 2 years travelling around Southeast Asia including travelling the length of Vietnam twice on a motorbike, visiting off the beaten track locations such as Myanmar and Brunei and seeking out adventure opportunities along the way like canyoning, climbing and mountain hiking.

I’ve also spent 6 months exploring Eastern Europe, again visiting more unusual places such as Moldova, Kosovo, Ukraine and the breakaway state of Transnistria. I’ve visited all but 3 countries in Europe whilst both backpacking and using the UK as a base to explore Western Europe.

I have also lived in Australia and New Zealand for a total of over 3 years whilst doing Working Holiday Visas. I called Melbourne and Christchurch home during this period and explored both countries extensively whilst using these as bases.

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11 comments

The monkeys are adorable, I’m jealous you got so close to them!

I would love to go here, after seeing it in Avatar it’s been on my list. Next time I visit China I will be there exploring, it just looks so beautiful 🙂

OMG this is so much like Avatar! I need to go here ASAP. Never thought there was so much in China, but then again it is a super huge country.

This would be an amazing place to hike! Seeing wildlife is one of the incredible reasons to hike. The monkeys are so cute and the snow looks really beautiful on the trees!

Don’t know what would be better hiking that valley full of columns or hanging with the monkeys. Especially that one with enough gumption to try to intimidate you, bet he had all kinds of personality.

What an adventure! These giant pillars that reach so high into the sky – just wow. As for the monkeys – so amazing to see! We will visit the Snow Monkeys in Japan next week!

I have always wanted to go here since I saw it on a postcard. Although, how do you pronounce it?!

Woweeeee! I love the look of this! It really reminds me of the pinnacles in Borneo. It really looks so beautiful!

What an incredible 4 days! It sounds like there is a lot to see and do here. Those views are amazing, but I think they look even prettier with snow! I probably would have been freaked out by the monkeys 😛

This looks like an incredible journey! The Zhangjiajie mountains have been on my bucketlist every since I heard of them when Avatar came out. I had no idea that monkeys lived there and now its jumped to the top of the list! Thanks for sharing.

I love your article, it was unlike usual tourist cr@# that i find in internet. True adventurers instead;)

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Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is one of China’s most famous sites. The severe, tree-covered karst formations, swathed in mist, look like something out of mythology. The whole park area has three scenic areas with numerous attractions, one of which provided the inspiration for the mystical floating mountains in the movie, Avatar .

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park Facts

Location: 279 Jinbian Road, Wulingyuan District, Zhangjiajie, Hunan Province
Opening Hours: 08:00-17:00 daily
Entrance Ticket: March-November: 245 RMB; December-February: 145 RMB
Recommended Visiting Time: at least 2 days

*The entrance ticket is valid for 4 days and includes a sightseeing bus fee.

What to See in Zhangjiajie Park?

Zhangjiajie National Park consists of 3 scenic areas: Yuanjiajie, Yangjiajie and Tianzi Mountain. There are numerous attractions, sights, and some world-record-holding locations, making the parking area noted for its beauty, and mystical appearance.

To maximize your travel experience and make your time-efficient, we listed the top-rated attractions in the park that you should not miss.

1. Yuanjiajie Avatar Scenic Area

Yuanjiajie is a must-visit area within the park. You’ll easily get charmed by its eye-catching vistas:

Hallelujah Mountain - The movie Avatar took inspiration for its floating mountains from here, large karst with a thick covering of jungle-like forest at the top.
Bailong Elevator - It is the tallest outdoor elevator in the world, providing a great view of the floating mountains.
First Bridge Under Heaven - It is the world’s highest natural arch, suspended 357 meters above the valley below.

2. Tianzi Mountain Nature Reserve

This 93 square kilometers (22.98 acres) section of Zhangjiajie Park area is especially beautiful in spring and fall when the tree cover is at its thickest and the weather is misty and mild.

The whole Tianzi Mountain area is also a unique piece of landscape and geology. It has an interesting place named “ Fields in the Air ”, a terraced field surrounded by steep cliffs on 3 sides that plunge into a jungle-filled gorge. However, it is very hard to find the hidden path to get there on your own.

We can arrange an English-speaking local guide for you, who will help you go deeper and smoother. Feel free to contact us !

3. Yangjiajie Scenic Area

Yangjiajie is located northwest of Yuanjiajie and southwest of Tianzi Mountain – and borders on both of these areas of the park. Yangjaijie is a fusion of majestic nature and bandits’ legends , which offers visitors an opportunity to experience its unique ethnic culture and customs.

Yangjiajie is home to 3 main attractions:

Xiangzhi Stream is a deep gully, packed with dense vegetation.
Dragon Spring Gorge is a giant natural wall, broken and thrown into rocky chaos by the passage of time.
Baihou Valley (100 Monkey Valley), is home to...monkeys- wild macaques and egrets call this place home.

4. Golden Whip Stream

In eastern Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Golden Whip Stream wanders 7.5 kilometers (4.66 miles) and is named for the 380 meters (1,247 feet) high Golden Whip Rock.

This area is famous for its verdant foliage, lush vegetation, and steep valley walls. It’s a kind of paradise for plants, a naturally protected valley more or less untouched by man .

5. Yellow Stone Village

Huangshi (yellow stone) Village is a massive rock forest of yellowish craggy karsts, jutting out from the jungle valley below. The area is known for its beautiful sights, monkey population, and it is the earliest spot developed for tourism in Zhangjiajie.

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park Travel Tips

1) Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn are the best times to visit the park when the weather is mild, neither freezing cold nor sweltering. 2) How to Get There: It is easy to find buses from Zhangjiajie Central Bus Station at the city center to parts of the forest park. 3) Where to Stay: Wulingyuan Town borders the park, so it is a great place to stay if you want to get into the park directly. 4) Avoid Crowds: Don’t go during Chinese holidays, especially National Day (October 1-7) and Labor Day (May 1-5).

Read more to know How to Visit Zhangjiajie National Forest Park if you are planning to go.

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If you tour Zhangjiajie with us, our travel experts will arrange everything for you according to your needs. Our experienced English-speaking guides will escort you and adjust your itinerary according to the weather changes. They are local and know everything about Zhangjiajie.

Please feel free to share with us your tour ideas . We look forward to serving you soon! Perhaps one of our best Zhangjiajie tours will interest you:

2-Day Zhangjiajie National Forest Park Tour
4-Day Zhangjiajie City Essence Tour Package
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One Day Guide To The Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, China

Published: November 11, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Genovera Gurrola

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Travel Tips

Introduction

Welcome to Zhangjiajie National Park, a breathtaking natural wonderland located in the Hunan province of China. Known for its towering sandstone pillars and lush greenery, Zhangjiajie is recognized as China’s first national forest park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park’s stunning landscapes served as an inspiration for the fictional floating mountains in the movie Avatar, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.

Zhangjiajie National Park covers an expansive area of over 1,500 square kilometers, housing various scenic areas like Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Yuanjiajie Scenic Area, and Tianzi Mountain. The park offers a myriad of opportunities for hiking, sightseeing, and immersing oneself in the beauty of nature.

Getting to Zhangjiajie National Park is relatively easy. The nearest major city is Zhangjiajie City, which is well-connected by domestic flights and trains from major cities in China. Once you arrive at Zhangjiajie City, you can easily access the park through a short bus or taxi ride.

Before embarking on your journey, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the entrance fees. The ticket prices vary depending on the specific areas you wish to visit within the park. It is recommended to purchase a combined ticket, which grants access to multiple scenic areas and is more cost-effective.

When it comes to accommodation, there are various options available near the park. From luxury hotels to guesthouses and hostels, you can choose accommodation that suits your budget and preferences. Staying near the park allows for easier access and an immersive experience in the natural surroundings.

It is worth noting that the weather in Zhangjiajie National Park can be quite unpredictable. The best time to visit is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the temperatures are moderate and the landscapes are vibrant. However, if you don’t mind the crowds, the summer season (July to August) offers lush green scenery and pleasant weather for exploring.

In the following sections, we will provide a one-day itinerary to help you make the most of your visit to Zhangjiajie National Park. Each section will outline the highlights of the specific areas you should explore, along with tips and recommendations to enhance your experience.

Getting to Zhangjiajie National Park

Getting to Zhangjiajie National Park is convenient, thanks to its well-developed transportation network. The nearest major city is Zhangjiajie City, which can be reached by air or train from various cities in China.

If you prefer to travel by air, Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport is the closest airport to the park. It offers flights to and from major cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Chengdu. Once you arrive at the airport, you can take a shuttle bus or taxi to the park, which is approximately a 30-minute drive away.

If you prefer a scenic train journey, Zhangjiajie Railway Station is well-connected to major cities across China. There are high-speed trains and regular trains available, offering a comfortable and efficient way to reach the city. From the railway station, you can take a short bus or taxi ride to the park, which is around 40 minutes away.

Once you arrive in Zhangjiajie City, there are several options for reaching Zhangjiajie National Park. The most convenient and popular way is by taking a bus. There are regular buses that operate between the city and the park. The journey takes approximately 40 minutes to an hour, depending on the traffic conditions.

Alternatively, you can also hire a taxi or use a ride-hailing service to reach the park. The advantage of taking a taxi is that it offers more flexibility in terms of time and stops along the way. However, it is important to negotiate the fare with the driver beforehand or make sure the meter is used.

Once you arrive at the park entrance, you will need to purchase an entrance ticket to access the different scenic areas. It is recommended to buy a combined ticket, which allows entry to multiple areas within the park and offers better value for money.

If you prefer a hassle-free experience, you can also book a guided tour or hire a local guide who can provide insights and assistance throughout your visit to Zhangjiajie National Park. They can help you navigate the park, provide information about the different areas, and ensure you make the most of your time there.

Overall, getting to Zhangjiajie National Park is relatively easy and offers various transportation options. Whether you choose to travel by air, train, bus, or taxi, you will have no trouble reaching this magnificent natural wonderland in the heart of China.

Entrance Fees

Before exploring the wonders of Zhangjiajie National Park, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the entrance fees. The ticket prices vary depending on the specific areas you wish to visit within the park.

Zhangjiajie National Park is divided into multiple scenic areas, each with its unique attractions and landscapes. Some of the popular areas include Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Yuanjiajie Scenic Area, and Tianzi Mountain.

It is recommended to purchase a combined ticket that grants access to multiple scenic areas. This not only offers better value for money but also allows you to explore different parts of the park without needing to purchase separate tickets for each area.

The cost of the combined ticket may vary depending on the season. During peak seasons, such as spring and autumn, the ticket prices may be slightly higher compared to the off-peak seasons.

It is important to note that ticket prices are subject to change, so it’s advisable to check the official website or inquire at the park entrance for the most up-to-date information.

In addition to the entrance ticket, certain attractions within the park may have additional fees or require a separate ticket for entry. For example, the Bailong Elevator, which is a glass elevator that offers breathtaking views, requires an extra fee for a ride.

When purchasing the tickets, it’s recommended to bring cash as credit card payments may not be widely accepted. It’s also a good idea to carry small denominations of Chinese currency for convenience.

If you prefer a more immersive experience in the park, you can also consider purchasing a cable car ticket. The cable car offers a scenic ride and allows you to reach certain viewpoints and attractions more easily. However, please note that cable car tickets are separate from the entrance ticket and have their own pricing.

Overall, the entrance fees for Zhangjiajie National Park provide access to a wealth of natural beauty and unforgettable experiences. Remember to plan your visit accordingly and budget for the tickets to make the most of your time in this stunning natural paradise.

Accommodation Options

When visiting Zhangjiajie National Park, you have a range of accommodation options to choose from, catering to different budgets and preferences. Whether you’re looking for luxury hotels, cozy guesthouses, or affordable hostels, you’ll find something that suits your needs near the park.

For those seeking a luxurious and comfortable stay, there are several high-end hotels located in close proximity to Zhangjiajie National Park. These hotels offer spacious rooms, modern amenities, and often provide stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. Some of these hotels even have direct access to the park, allowing for easy exploration.

If you prefer a more local and intimate experience, there are numerous guesthouses and boutique hotels available. These accommodations are often family-run and provide a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Staying in a guesthouse allows you to connect with the local culture and get personalized recommendations from the hosts.

For budget-conscious travelers, there are several hostels and budget hotels available near the park. These accommodations offer comfortable dormitory-style rooms or private rooms at affordable prices. While they may not have luxurious amenities, they provide a clean and convenient base for exploring the park.

It is important to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak seasons, as rooms can fill up quickly. Online booking platforms and hotel websites are the easiest way to secure your preferred accommodation. Additionally, it’s a good idea to read reviews and check the location of the accommodation to ensure it is conveniently situated for your visit to Zhangjiajie National Park.

Staying near the park has its advantages, such as easy access to the entrance and the ability to enjoy the serene surroundings early in the morning or late in the evening. Some accommodations also offer shuttle services to the park, making it even more convenient for visitors.

In terms of amenities, many of the accommodations near Zhangjiajie National Park have on-site restaurants serving both local and international cuisine. Some may also offer facilities like spas, swimming pools, and fitness centers, providing opportunities for relaxation after a day of exploration.

Overall, the range of accommodation options near Zhangjiajie National Park ensures that every traveler can find a place to stay that suits their preferences and budget. Whether you’re looking for luxury, comfort, or affordability, you’ll have no trouble finding the perfect accommodation for your visit to this stunning natural wonderland.

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Understanding the weather and choosing the best time to visit Zhangjiajie National Park can greatly enhance your experience and ensure you make the most of your trip.

Zhangjiajie National Park experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by four distinct seasons.

Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) are considered the best seasons to visit the park. During this time, the temperatures are moderate, ranging from around 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F). The weather is pleasant, and the landscapes are vibrant, with blooming flowers in spring and colorful foliage in autumn. These seasons are also less crowded compared to the peak summer months.

Summer (July to August) is the peak tourist season in Zhangjiajie National Park. The temperatures can reach as high as 30°C (86°F), and the humidity is relatively high. However, the lush greenery and dramatic landscapes make it a popular time to visit. It’s important to note that summer is also the rainy season, so be prepared for occasional showers and carry an umbrella or raincoat.

Winter (December to February) can be quite cold in Zhangjiajie National Park, with temperatures ranging from 0°C (32°F) to 10°C (50°F). While the park may not be as crowded during this time, the landscapes may not be as vibrant, and some trails may be closed due to icy conditions. However, if you don’t mind the cold weather, winter can offer a unique and tranquil experience in the park.

It’s recommended to check the weather forecast before your visit and pack accordingly. Dressing in layers is advisable, as the temperatures can vary throughout the day. It’s also a good idea to carry sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent, especially during the summer months.

Visiting the park during weekdays or outside of Chinese national holidays can help you avoid large crowds and have a more peaceful experience. Early morning and late afternoon are generally less crowded compared to the midday hours, so plan your itinerary accordingly to make the most of your time.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Zhangjiajie National Park depends on your preferences and priorities. Whether you’re looking for mild temperatures, vibrant landscapes, or a quieter experience, there is a season that will suit your needs. Regardless of the time of year, Zhangjiajie National Park is sure to leave a lasting impression with its stunning beauty and natural wonders.

One Day Itinerary

If you have only one day to explore Zhangjiajie National Park, don’t worry! With a well-planned itinerary, you can still experience the park’s highlights and create unforgettable memories. Here’s a suggested one-day itinerary to make the most of your visit:

Morning: Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

Start your day early and head to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, the most iconic and picturesque area of the park. Take a shuttle bus to the Wulingyuan Scenic Area, which is the entrance to the park.

From there, ride the Bailong Elevator, the world’s tallest outdoor elevator, to reach Yuanjiajie. Marvel at the stunning sandstone pillars and breathtaking views that inspired the floating mountains in the movie Avatar.

Continue your exploration by visiting the famous landmark called the Hallelujah Mountain, also known as the Avatar Hallelujah Mountain. Immerse yourself in the mystical atmosphere and enjoy the panoramic vistas.

Afternoon: Yuanjiajie Scenic Area

In the afternoon, make your way to Yuanjiajie Scenic Area. Take a shuttle bus to Tianzi Mountain, known for its lofty peaks, picturesque ravines, and stunning panoramic views.

Explore the various viewpoints and walk along the trails that lead to unique rock formations, such as the Fairy Bridge and the West Sea Stone Forest. Along the way, you’ll be greeted by the awe-inspiring beauty of nature at every turn.

Don’t miss the famous “Heavenly Pillar” – a massive sandstone pillar resembling a towering monolith. Take a moment to capture the breathtaking scenery and soak in the serenity of this natural wonder.

Evening: Tianzi Mountain

As the day draws to a close, head to Tianzi Mountain for a magical experience. Take a cable car ride to the mountaintop and witness the sunset casting a mesmerizing glow over the landscape.

Stroll along the cloud-piercing walkways, admire the sea of clouds below, and marvel at the panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. If you’re lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of the famous “Sea of Clouds” phenomenon.

As night falls, descend from Tianzi Mountain and make your way back to the park entrance. Reflect on the day’s adventures and appreciate the beauty of Zhangjiajie National Park illuminated by the night sky.

Tips for Exploring Zhangjiajie National Park

Start your day early to make the most of your time in the park and avoid the crowds.
Wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water and snacks for the day.
Follow the designated trails and respect the natural environment by not littering.
Use a map or hire a local guide to navigate the park and learn about its history and significance.
Be prepared for changing weather conditions and carry a light jacket or raincoat.
Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and memorable moments.

Remember, this one-day itinerary provides just a glimpse of the beauty and wonders of Zhangjiajie National Park. If possible, consider extending your stay to fully immerse yourself in this natural paradise and explore other scenic areas within the park.

With careful planning and a sense of adventure, your one-day visit to Zhangjiajie National Park will leave you with awe-inspiring memories that will last a lifetime.

As the sun rises over Zhangjiajie National Park, begin your day by exploring the enchanting Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. This stunning area is known for its towering sandstone pillars, verdant vegetation, and breathtaking vistas. To start your adventure, take a shuttle bus from the Wulingyuan Scenic Area, the park’s entrance.

One of the highlights of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is the famed Yuanjiajie Scenic Area, which served as the inspiration for the floating mountains in the movie Avatar. To reach this area, take a thrilling ride on the Bailong Elevator, the world’s tallest outdoor elevator, offering panoramic views as you ascend.

Once you arrive at Yuanjiajie, prepare to be amazed by the surreal beauty of the sandstone pillars that seem to emerge from the clouds. Explore Chengmen Trail, a scenic walkway that leads you through these majestic natural formations. Keep an eye out for landmarks like the Avatar Hallelujah Mountain, a towering sandstone pillar that resembles an otherworldly monolith.

Continue your exploration by visiting the captivating Tianzi Mountain, which can be reached by shuttle bus. This area offers awe-inspiring vistas of deep ravines, jagged peaks, and ancient forests. Take a leisurely stroll along the various trails and viewpoints, immersing yourself in the natural wonders that surround you.

Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the unparalleled beauty of the Fairy Bridge, an iconic rock formation that spans the abyss. As you wander through the misty forests and winding paths, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a mystical realm straight out of a fairy tale.

As you soak in the grandeur of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, take breaks at the various viewing platforms to capture the breathtaking scenery with your camera. It’s a perfect time to savor the tranquility and appreciate the harmony between towering pillars, lush vegetation, and cascading streams.

After a morning of exploration and immersion in the natural wonders of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, you can continue your journey to other areas of the park, such as Yuanjiajie Scenic Area or Tianzi Mountain, or venture into neighboring scenic spots like the Golden Whip Stream or Huangshi Village.

Remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring water and snacks for your morning adventure. Be mindful of the park’s rules and regulations, such as staying on designated trails and respecting the environment by not littering.

Embark on a captivating journey through Zhangjiajie National Forest Park during the morning hours, and discover why this UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its ethereal beauty and awe-inspiring landscapes.

As the sun reaches its zenith, it’s time to continue your Zhangjiajie National Park adventure by exploring the mesmerizing Yuanjiajie Scenic Area. This area offers a plethora of natural wonders, from towering sandstone pillars to lush forests and panoramic vistas. Hop on a shuttle bus from Zhangjiajie National Forest Park to make your way to this enchanting destination.

Upon arrival at Yuanjiajie, be prepared to be immersed in a surreal landscape that inspired the floating mountains in the movie Avatar. Marvel at the awe-inspiring sandstone pillars, some of which reach heights of over 1,000 meters. Take a peaceful and scenic walk along the Chengmen Trail, which winds its way through these towering natural formations.

As you traverse the picturesque trails, keep an eye out for iconic landmarks that have become symbols of the area. One such landmark is the Avatar Hallelujah Mountain, a towering pillar that resembles an otherworldly monolith. Its striking beauty and unique shape make it a favorite spot for capturing breathtaking photos.

Continue your exploration by visiting the captivating Tianzi Mountain, which can be reached by a short shuttle bus ride. The panoramic vistas from the mountaintop are simply breathtaking, offering sweeping views of deep ravines, jagged peaks, and sprawling forests.

Take your time to wander along the well-marked trails and visit various viewpoints, each providing its own unique perspective of the landscape. Be sure to stop by the Fairy Bridge, a stunning rock formation that spans the abyss, creating an ethereal sight that seems to defy gravity.

As you meander through Tianzi Mountain, you’ll be surrounded by a serene atmosphere and greeted with glimpses of nature’s beauty at every turn. Capture the magic of the moment in photographs or simply sit back and take in the breathtaking vistas of this picturesque mountain range.

As the afternoon draws to a close, savor the remaining moments in Yuanjiajie Scenic Area, savoring the tranquility of nature and reflecting on the wonders you have witnessed. If time allows, you may choose to venture into other areas of the park or simply find a serene spot to enjoy the beauty and serenity of your surroundings.

Remember to carry water, snacks, and sunscreen for a comfortable afternoon of exploration. As with all areas of Zhangjiajie National Park, be respectful of the environment and follow the park’s regulations to ensure the preservation of this natural wonder.

Explore the captivating landscapes of Yuanjiajie Scenic Area during the afternoon hours, and let the surreal beauty transport you to a magical realm that exists only in dreams.

As the day draws to a close, venture to Tianzi Mountain, the final stop on your journey through Zhangjiajie National Park. Renowned for its lofty peaks, breathtaking panoramic views, and ethereal beauty, Tianzi Mountain offers a magical setting to end your day of exploration.

Reach Tianzi Mountain by taking a shuttle bus from Yuanjiajie Scenic Area. Upon arrival, ascend to the mountaintop by riding a cable car, enjoying the scenic ride and anticipation of the mesmerizing views that await you.

As you step onto the mountaintop, you’ll be greeted by a mystical atmosphere. Stroll along the walkways that seemingly pierce through the clouds, taking in the awe-inspiring vistas of deep ravines, towering peaks, and verdant valleys below.

Explore the various pathways and viewpoints that offer unparalleled panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. From the Heavenly Pillar, a massive sandstone monolith that stands majestically against the sky, to the Sea of Clouds that blankets the valleys on misty evenings, the beauty of Tianzi Mountain will take your breath away.

As the sun begins its descent, witness the extraordinary display of colors that paint the sky during the sunset. The warm hues radiate over the landscape, transforming Tianzi Mountain into a dreamlike scene. Capture these magical moments with your camera or simply sit back and immerse yourself in the peaceful serenity of the surroundings.

As evening falls and darkness envelops the landscape, descend from Tianzi Mountain and make your way back to the park entrance. Reflect on the wonders you’ve witnessed throughout the day and appreciate the beauty of Zhangjiajie National Park illuminated by the night sky.

Take a moment to savor the tranquility of the park before bidding farewell to this magnificent natural wonderland. Whether you choose to pause at a peaceful viewpoint or find a quiet spot to reflect, allow yourself to immerse in the peace and serenity that Zhangjiajie National Park embodies.

Remember to check the operating hours of the cable car and shuttle buses to ensure a smooth return to the park entrance. Dress warmly, as the evenings can be cooler at higher elevations, and carry a flashlight or headlamp for added convenience as the sun sets.

End your day at Zhangjiajie National Park with a sense of awe and wonder, cherishing the memories of the enchanting landscapes and captivating beauty of Tianzi Mountain.

Wear comfortable shoes and dress in layers, as the weather can change throughout the day.
Carry a reusable water bottle and stay hydrated, especially during the warmer months.
Bring snacks, as there may not be many food options within the park.
Carry a map or use a navigation app to help you navigate through the park’s various scenic areas.
Consider hiring a local guide who can provide insights into the park’s history, culture, and hidden gems.
Take breaks at the various viewpoints to rest, take photos, and immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes.
If photography is your passion, bring your camera and extra batteries to capture the park’s beauty.
Be prepared for the weather conditions, as rain showers can occur, especially during the summer months. Carry a waterproof jacket or umbrella.
Plan your visit during weekdays or outside of Chinese national holidays to avoid large crowds.
Check the park’s official website or inquire at the entrance for any updates and information regarding closures or changes in operating hours.
Respect the local customs and traditions and be mindful of the park’s regulations.

By following these tips, you can have a smooth, enjoyable, and memorable experience exploring Zhangjiajie National Park. Embrace the beauty of nature, immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes, and appreciate the rich biodiversity that makes this park a true gem in China.

Zhangjiajie National Park is a natural wonderland that captivates visitors with its towering sandstone pillars, lush forests, and breathtaking vistas. From the iconic Zhangjiajie National Forest Park to the magnificent Yuanjiajie Scenic Area and the enchanting Tianzi Mountain, the park offers a range of awe-inspiring landscapes to explore.

Getting to Zhangjiajie National Park is relatively easy, with convenient transportation options from Zhangjiajie City. The park’s entrance fees are reasonable, and there are various accommodation options nearby to suit different budgets and preferences.

The best time to visit the park is during the spring and autumn seasons when the weather is mild, and the landscapes are vibrant. However, each season offers its own unique charm, from the lush greenery of summer to the tranquility of winter.

With a well-planned itinerary, you can make the most of your visit to Zhangjiajie National Park, exploring iconic areas in the morning like Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, delving into the beauty of Yuanjiajie Scenic Area in the afternoon, and ending your day with the mesmerizing views of Tianzi Mountain. Throughout your journey, remember to follow park regulations, respect the environment, and embrace the tranquility of nature.

Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or a photography enthusiast, Zhangjiajie National Park offers an unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe of the wonders of the natural world. So, lace up your shoes, pack your camera, and embark on an adventure of a lifetime in this stunning natural paradise.

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Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

Top choice in Zhangjiajie

Among China’s crop of surreal landscapes, Zhangjiajie has got to be a contender for one of the most impressive. A forest of spectacularly weathered spires rises up out of a verdant valley that's filled with dripping moss, fragrant blossoms and acrobatic monkeys. Come dusk, the ensemble is serenaded by a chorus of chirping insects.

The national park encompasses 690 sq km, and deciding where to go can be a daunting task. Your hotel should provide you with a map and also help you plan out a route best suited to your needs.

The first thing to know is that there are two primary entrances: the main gateway town of Wulingyuan (武陵源, Wǔlíngyuán) and the less-developed Forest Park (森林公园, Sēnlín Gōngyuán). There are other entrances as well, but you won’t use them unless you’ve booked lodging there.

Regardless of the entrance you take, all itineraries start on the valley floor and climb up to the top of the spires, where the main scenic areas are found. You can make use of cable cars, a glass elevator, a mini monorail and a network of free shuttle buses to get around, but however you do it, you’ll still need to walk a fair amount.

If you’re starting in Wulingyuan, you’ll need to queue for a bus to either the chairlift or the monorail (hikers go to the monorail) at the entrance – don’t get in the wrong line, and don’t get intimidated by the sheer chaos and theme park–like crowds here. The park is big enough to absorb vast numbers of people, and if you’re hiking most of the way, you’ll have no trouble finding solitude.

If you start at the Forest Park, you’ll need to hike roughly two hours along the flat valley floor to the elevator, or begin climbing up to the upper section after an hour.

In total, there are five main scenic areas: Tianzi Shan, Yangjiajie, Yuanjiajie, Golden Whip Stream and Huangshi Village. You can’t see all the areas in one day, so plan accordingly.

Weather wise, it's extremely hot and humid from April through September. Rain is common, so come prepared.

Suggest an edit to this attraction

Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Tiānzǐ Shān

This area is at the top of the plateau near the Wulingyuan entrance, and enjoys many of the park's more spectacular viewpoints. It can be reached directly…

Located on the backside of the park is this unexpectedly fun hike, which descends into a valley (beneath a cable car) before climbing back up a series of…

Located near the top of the Bailong Elevator (白龙天梯; Báilóng Tiāntī; one way ¥72), this scenic trail is a succession of one incredible panorama after…

Binglang Valley

19.63 MILES

If you speak some Chinese and want to get well off the beaten track, this staggeringly beautiful mountain valley and its caves, natural arches and…

Golden Whip Stream

On the canyon floor, the Golden Whip Stream area is a peaceful, flat trail meandering 5.7km east from the Forest Park entrance to the Bailong Elevator …

Tianmen Mountain

16.68 MILES

Visible from anywhere in Zhangjiajie City, this distinctive mountain range features Tiānmén Dòng (天门洞), a prominent keyhole cut through the mountainside…

Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon

15.75 MILES

The Grand Canyon's primary attraction is the world's highest (300m) and longest (430m) glass bridge, which famously closed a mere two weeks after opening…

Yellow Dragon Cave

10.09 MILES

A 48-hectare cave network that consists of a large number of chambers, subterranean pools, lakes and falls, all illuminated in fancy colours. It's a two…

Nearby Zhangjiajie attractions

1 . Yuánjiājiè

2 . Yángjiājiè

3 . Golden Whip Stream

4 . Huangshi Village

From the Forest Park entrance, there is an early opportunity for a bird's-eye view of the towers from Huangshi Village, a 3km loop on a plateau 1048m up…

5 . Tiānzǐ Shān

6 . Yellow Dragon Cave

7 . Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon

8 . Tianmen Mountain

The Top 5 Attractions in Zhangjiajie

Zhangjiajie is known for its unique tourist sights, including strange-shaped pillars, hidden valleys, seas of cloud, and limestone caves. It is one of the must-see places in China.

The main attractions of Zhangjiajie are in Wulingyuan Scenic Area. Towering sandstones mesas, dense forests, and deep ravines are the gorgeous natural landscape of the scenic area. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is the most famous part of it.

The glass bridge in Grand Canyon and Tianmen Mountain in the downtown are another two famous attractions of Zhangjiajie. It usually takes 3–4 days to cover the attractions.

1. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park , about 40 minutes' drive north of downtown Zhangjiajie, became China's first national forest park in 1982. It features Zhangjiajie's classic rocky tower scenery.

It consists of five main tourist areas: Yuanjiajie, Tianzi Mountain, Yangjiajie, Huangshi Village, and Golden Whip Stream.

Bailong Elevator - Zhangjiajie's very own great glass elevator - is the largest and tallest outdoor elevator in the world and provides quick access to Hallelujah Mountain (usually after queuing a long time).

2. Tianmen Mountain

Tianmen Mountain , located on the south of Zhangjiajie city, is the second most-recommended tourist area in Zhangjiajie after the forest park.

With a height of 1,519 meters (4,983 feet), Tianmen Mountain is the highest peak in Zhangjiajie and is regarded as the soul of Zhangjiajie.

It is not only a paradise for scenery, but also for photography and adventure.

The highlights of Tianmen Mountain are Tianmen Mountain Cableway (the longest in the world), 99 bends, the Cliff-Hanging Walkway, the Glass Sky Walk, and Tianmen Cave.

3. Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge - World's Longest and Highest

Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge is getting a lot of attention from travelers. The bridge spans two steep cliffs, and uses transparent glass as its bottom.

With a total length of 430 meters, suspended 300 meters above the valley floor, it's now the longest, highest glass-bottom bridge in the world.

4. Baofeng Lake - a Place to Enjoy Some Leisurely Time

Baofeng Lake Scenic Area is a World Natural Heritage site, listed in 1992. The area includes two parts: Baofeng Lake and Yingwo Stockaded Village. Baofeng Lake covers an area of 30 hectares (75 acres) and has a depth of 72 meters (236 ft).

Surrounded by mountains, the lake is filled with pure runoff water from the mountain peaks. Looking down at the lake from the mountains, the lake is like a jade mirror.

The natural beauty of the lake and the surrounding mountain villages blend human culture and landscape. There are also majestic waterfalls and Baofeng temple.

5. Yellow Dragon Cave - a Huge and Mesmerizing Underworld

Yellow Dragon Cave , also a World Natural Heritage Site, is praised as the most beautiful cave in the world by UNESCO experts.

With an area of 10 hectares (25 acres), a length of 7.5 kilometers (4.5 miles), a height of 140 meters (460 ft), the cave is one of the largest karst caves in China.

It boasts underground streams, fantastic rocky shapes, and huge caverns.

More Zhangjiajie attractions:

Wulingyuan Scenic Areas
Tianmen Fox Fairy Show
Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon
Fenghuang Ancient Town

Recommended Tours of Zhangjiajie

Want to tour Zhangjiajie? China Highlights can help you tailor-make a tour, with your own knowledgeable, English-speaking guide, to get the best views and full lowdown of the stunning natural scenery.

China Highlights has some well-designed tours of Zhangjiajie , which are popular and highly recommended. You can modify them while booking to suit your needs or contact us for a tailor-made tour of Zhangjiajie .

Recommended Extended Tours:

Beijing – Xi'an – Zhangjiajie – Guilin/Yangshuo – Shanghai
Beijing – Xi'an – Zhangjiajie – Yangtze River – Shanghai

Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries

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A Trip To Zhangjiajie National Forest in China

Zhangjiajie National Forest is located in the Hunan province of China. It is known for its incredible natural beauty, unique geological formations, and breathtaking landscapes resembling the movie Avatar sets. The park covers an area of over 3,000 square kilometres and is home to over 3,000 unique rock formations, towering sandstone pillars, and deep ravines that have been carved out by millions of years of erosion. These formations are so unique that they have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The main attraction of the park is the towering sandstone pillars that rise up from the forest floor, often shrouded in mist and clouds. Locals call these pillars the "Hallelujah Mountains" due to their resemblance to the floating mountains in the movie Avatar.

Cable Car Ride

One of the best ways to experience the park is by taking a cable car ride up to the top of Tianmen Mountain. The cable car ride is a breathtaking experience that takes you up to a height of over 4,000 feet, offering incredible views of the park and the surrounding area. Once you reach the top, you can explore Tianmen Cave, a natural archway formed by millions of years of erosion. This cave is over 400 feet high and has the world's highest natural archway.

Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge

Another must-see attraction in the park is the Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge, the world's longest and highest glass-bottomed bridge. The bridge spans over 1,400 feet and is suspended over a deep canyon. Walking across the bridge is not for the faint of heart, as you can see straight down to the bottom of the canyon through the glass floor.

Zhangjiajie National Park aka Floating Mountains

Avatar Hallelujah Mountain Trail

In addition to the stunning natural beauty, the park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The park is home to over 5,000 plant species, many of which are rare and endangered. The park is also home to various wildlife, including macaques, civets, and the elusive clouded leopard.If you are looking for an adventure, there are plenty of hiking trails in the park that offer incredible views of the landscape. One of the most popular hikes is the Avatar Hallelujah Mountain Trail, which takes you through the heart of the park and offers incredible views of the towering sandstone pillars. The trail is not for the faint of heart, as it can be steep and challenging in places, but the views are well worth the effort.

The Information

Getting around.

Once in Zhangjiajie, use local transport, such as buses or taxis, to reach the park entrance at Wulingyuan Scenic Area. Inside the park, utilize internal shuttle buses and scenic elevators like the Bailong Elevator to access the mountain areas. Plan to visit nearby attractions like Tianzi Mountain and Yuanjiajie Scenic Area for a complete experience.

Getting There

The closest airport is Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport in Zhangjiajie, with connections from major Chinese cities. From there, it is about 30 minutes by car to the main road of hotels. Alternatively, take a train or bus from cities like Changsha or Wuhan.

Destinations

Travel Guide

Zhangjiajie 2 Days Itinerary

Is 2 days enough to travel zhangjiajie.

Since Zhangjiajie boasting the UNESCO heritage forest park and conspicuous Avatar Mountains draws the high attention among many travelers home and abroad, you must be one of them to be interested in a personal trip there. Is 2 days enough for a trip to Zhangjiajie? Absolutely, you can make a 2-day trip to Zhangjiajie no matter you are in China or other foreign countries, with long expecting discovery of the famous Zhangjiajie National Forest Park and more!

Where to Go If You Have 2 Days in Zhangjiajie?

There are a lot to see and do in Zhangjiajie and you will also have lots of stunning things to discover during a short 2-day trip. Besides the magnificent National Forest Park at Wulingyuan to appreciate thousands of erecting sandstone pillar mountains and the incredible prototype of floating Avatar Mountains, you will be able to get close to the charming Tianzi Mountain famous for its wondrous sea of clouds like Chinese ink paintings, experience the highest elevator speed at Yuanjiajie, peaceful and refreshing brook and valleys, etc. Furthermore, you can go to take some risks to walk along the highest and longest glass-bottomed bridge in the world at Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon, or take the sightseeing cable way up to Tianmen Mountain to appreciate the natural made large cave to heaven with a thrilling riding along the 99-turned mountain path. If you are interested in lovely lakes, you can have a laid-back enjoyment of the emerald place. If you like more geometric wonders, go to Yellow Dragon Cave to see the colorfully ignited stalactites and stalagmites with various shapes. Here is the Zhangjiajie Attractions Map for your better understanding of the top highlights! For all highlights in Zhangjiajie, please check the Best Things to Do in Zhangjiajie and Top 14 Zhangjiajie Attractions to plan your detailed Zhangjiajie 4 Day Itinerary.

Zhangjiajie Attractions Map

How to Plan your Zhangjiajie 2 Day Itinerary?

Arrive in Zhangjiajie by Early Flight / Train or 1 Day in Advance

To start your exploration of Zhangjiajie natural highlights, you need to arrive in the city very early in the morning at least. As a Zhangjiajie trip usually start with Wulingyuan National Forest Park at 08:00-09:00, which is about 50-60 minutes’ car distance from the city downtown, airport and railway station, it is advised to arrange a flight or train arriving in Zhangjiajie before 06:30. And if it allows, it is best to arrive in Zhangjiajie at night or in the late afternoon before your touring day, which can let you have a good rest before the trip and keep away from many worries and hurries!

Plan A: 2 Days Wulingyuan National Forest Park Exploration

If you want to explore all the natural highlights of Wulingyuan National Forest Park, you can spend the both days in the park to see the different strange formation and magic natural creation.

Day 1: Huangshi Village + Golden Whip Brook

Visit Zhangjiajie National Forest Park from the Forest Park Ticket Station to see Huangshi Village, where holds the largest viewing deck to admire the countless stone mountain pillars with various shapes, with one looking like a giant lion from a distance.

Then, go to enjoy a pleasant walk along the wandering Golden Whip Brook with picturesque clear waterscape, fragrant blooms, chattering birds, etc. down in the lush valley. After that, transfer to your hotel at Wulingyuan downtown.

What to do in the evening: Charming Xiangxi show (beside Pullman Zhangjiajie Wulingyuan Hotel, Guihua Road, Wulingyuan District. 19:30-21:00 for first show; 21:00-22:30 for second show, 1.5 hours)

Day 2: Yuanjiajie + Tianzi Mountain

Today, enter the park again from the Forest Park Ticket Station and first take Bailong Elevator famous for its outstanding highest speed of 5m/s leading the whole world. After reaching the upper station, explore all sandstone mountain columns at Yuanjiajie including the eye-catching Avatar Hallelujah Mountain, authentic prototype of that in the movie “Avatar”.

Then, take the sightseeing bus to Tianzi Mountain that is reputed as the “King of peak forest”, and to appreciate the large coverage of bamboo-shoots like emerald stone peaks and the mysterious view of sea of clouds lingering frequently. After the visit, transfer to Zhangjiajie airport or railway station to leave for your next destination or back home.

Plan B: Zhangjiajie Avatar Mountains with Amazing Tianmen Mountain

If you favor the floating Avatar Mountains and the unbelievable meandering mountain road and natural cave at Tianmen Mountain, you can also plan you 2 days separately on Wulingyuan National Forest Park with the top 2 sites and Tianmen Mountain.

Day 1: Yuanjiajie + Tianzi Mountain

Visit Wulingyuan National Forest Park from the Forest Park Ticket Station and first take Bailong Elevator famous for its outstanding highest speed of 5m/s leading the whole world. After reaching the upper station, explore all sandstone mountain columns at Yuanjiajie including the eye-catching Avatar Hallelujah Mountain, authentic prototype of that in the movie “Avatar”.

What to do in the evening: Tianmen Fox Fairy show (foot of Tianmen Mountain Forest Park, Guanling, Yongding District, Zhangjiajie. 20:15-21:45, 1.5 hours)

Day 2: Tianmen Mountain

Today, start the exciting Tianmen Mountain visit from Tianmen Mountain Cable Way experience, which is the longest cable way in whole Asia to enable you to have a full view of the mountain cave, meandering Avenue toward Heaven with 99 turns, etc. Moreover, you will not miss the thrilling treading moments on the Cliff Hanging Walkway and Glass Sky Walk built on the cliff, worthy admiration of the rare Tianmen Cave, and the gingerly going down on the steep 999 Steps. Furthermore, take your breath to take the sightseeing bus along the roller-coaster like Avenue toward Heaven to get down to the foot of Tianmen Mountain. After the visit, transfer to Zhangjiajie airport or railway station to leave for your next destination or back home.

Plan C: Zhangjiajie Avatar Mountains with Adventurous Glass Bridge Walking & Karst Cave Scenery

This 2 day itinerary plan is most suitable if you like to see the Avatar Mountain and take the adventure on the global high-profile Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge.

Day 2: Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon + Yellow Dragon Cave

Today, transfer about 40 minutes to Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon in Cili County to take your challenge of walking on the heart-stopping Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge that is the highest and longest glass-bottomed bridge among the whole world, with 430 meters (1,411 feet) long and 300 meters (984 feet) high. The transparent glass bottom will let you see everything clearly deep in the canyon and make you feel walking in the air. You will also enjoy the verdant valley sceneries during the thrilling exploration. Then, go to Yellow Dragon Cave to marvel at the colorful hidden paradise. This popular site preserves precious underground rivers, waterfalls, caverns and the wonderful 10,000 stalagmites and stalactites within the 100,000 s. q. m. enormous Karst cave. After the visit, transfer to Zhangjiajie airport or railway station to leave for your next destination or back home.

If You Have 3 Days:

If you got 3 days, you can arrange you first day for arriving in Zhangjiajie City. On Day 2, head to take Bailong Elevator to see Avatar Hallelujah Mountain at Yuanjiajie and take the sightseeing bus to Tianzi Mountain. On Day 3, you can transfer to walk on the long glass bridge at Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon and admire Yellow Dragon Cave. Also, you can arrange that day to take the long cable way to explore Tianmen Mountain, and then leave Zhangjiajie after touring. Learn more about How to Spend 3 Days in Zhangjiajie >>

If You Have 4 Days

Most people arrange 4 days to travel to Zhangjiajie. If so to you, you can plan Day 1 for flight/ train arrival with less tight pace. If you want a deeper discovery to Wulingyuan National Forest Park with peculiar mountain pillars and natural wonders, you can plan you Day 2 and Day 3 both to the park and visit the top sites including Yellow Mountain, Golden Whip Brook, Yuanjiajie and Avatar Hallelujah Mountian, and Tianzi Mountain. However, if you want to enjoy more kinds of sightseeing and adventures in Zhangjiajie, you can arrange you Day 2 to visit Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge at Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon and the splendid Yellow Dragon Cave, and Day 3 to visit Yuanjiajie and Tianzi Mountain at the forest park area. For Day 4, it is recommended to visit Tianmen Mountain to experience the thrilling Glass Sky Walk, 99 turned Avenue toward Heaven and more exciting things to see and do. Learn more about How to Spend 4 Days in Zhangjiajie >>

If You Have 5 Days:

5 days is well enough to have a deep discovery of all Zhangjiajie highlights. The 1st day is also for arriving in Zhangjiajie. On you day 2 and day 3, make your in-depth exploration to Wulingyuan National Forest Park to see Huangshi Village, Golden Whip Brook, Avatar Mountain at Yuanjiajie and Tianzi Mountain. On day 4, you can enjoy wonderful time at Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon with the Glass Bridge and Yellow Dragon Cave. And on the last day, go to Tianmen Mountain to see things hard to find in the world, and then you can take your flight or train off Zhangjiajie. And if you would like to see more ancient and ethnic sites, you can arrange day 4 to Tianmen Mountain and then to transfer to Fenghuang Ancient Town and spend day 5 in the famous antique city and leave for your next destination or back home. Learn more about How to Spend 5 Days in Zhangjiajie >>

Zhangjiajie Travel Tips & Notes

It is suitable to visit Zhangjiajie at any time in a year. The best traveling seasons are Spring and Autumn with best comfortable weather. In Spring during March to May, all flowers there are blooming among the most verdant green mountain range, and the fresh air with singing of birds help to create your great traveling mood. In Autumn from October to November, mountains and forests are covered with layers of warm yellow and orange, which is great for nice photography. In Summer, Wulingyuan National Forest Park has lower temperature to be a good summer resort to go, and it is good to walk along the streams and dense forest, however, since summer is the rainy season here, you are suggested to prepare raincoats. Furthermore in winter, it is a good time to avoid crowds, besides, many places including the national forest park are covered by snow to change the attraction into a pure beautiful lady, which is awesome for a photography tour.

Convenient flights and trains are available in Zhangjiajie City. Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport, with 10 minutes’ driving distance to the downtown, has good air connection with 42 domestic cities including Beijing, Shanghai, Xian, Changsha, Chengdu, Chongqing, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Kunming, Nanjing, Hangzhou, Tianjin, Qingdao, etc. and international cities including Bangkok, Osaka, etc. Besides, Zhangjiajie Railway Station is also frequently used for reaching the city, which is rightly at the city downtown. It serves trains from Changsha (4.5-5.5 hours), Yichang (4.5-5 hours), Tongren (about 7 hours), Wuhan (10 hours), Xian (15 hours), Shanghai (20 hours), Beijing (23 hours), etc.

Zhangjiajie offers various luxury hotels and budget hostels and boutique accommodation for your stay during the trip. For your several days discovering Wulingyuan Scenic Area including Wulingyuan National Forest Park, Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon, etc., we suggest you arrange the hotel at Wulingyuan Town, which needs only 10 minutes to Wujiayu Ticket Station and 20 minutes to Forest Park Ticket Station by car. However, for your arrival day especially by a late flight or train and if you plan to visit Tianmen Mountain, it is suggested to stay in Zhangjiajie City downtown.

For spring and autumn, light sweaters, long shirts and long pants are suggested. Temperature in Wulingyuan National Forest Park is about 5-10℃ lower than that in the city area, and the temperatures varies a lot from day to night. In summer, shirts and shorts are enough, besides, it is advised to prepare light coats for lower temperature in early morning and at night. In winter, it is a little cold in Zhangjiajie, and down jackets, sweaters, warm pants and socks, scarves, gloves, etc. are better to keep warm. Remember to wear comfortable shoes or sneakers, because you will have a lot of steps to walk around those natural scenic spots. Since it often rains in Zhangjiajie, you are highly suggested to bring your raincoats or umbrellas. Besides, bring sunblock, sunglasses and hat to protect your skin and eyes.

Most accommodations in Zhangjiajie offer Western toilets. However, in the scenic area, there are only a few Western types to suite foreign visitors, which can be found at some major toilet blocks. One more, remember to bring your own tissue.

Wulingyuan National Forest Park is very large and has many ways, so it is complicated for people to travel independently to catch all the top highlights in an enjoyable and relaxing way. To help you enjoy a worry-free trip to Zhangjiajie, we suggest you travel with us, and our local guide and driver will escort you from your hotel to the scenic area and our guide will take you to the best sightseeing deck and give interesting introduction of the sites and stories to enrich your experience. All you need is to focus on the highlights. If you are interested, please feel free to contact us directly!

Best Zhangjiajie Tour Packages 2024/2025

No matter how many days you plan to stay in Zhangjiajie, China Discovery always has a suitable tour for you. We are also specialized in high-quality private tours as well as tailor-made tour packages that fit you best according to your own interests, requirement, traveling time, etc. Below are the Best Zhangjiajie Tour Packages 2024/2025. If you have no idea where to start, please don't hesitate to contact our travel experts for help.

Our customers Xian from China visited Tianmen Mountain in Zhangjiajie, Hunan, China in June, 2024.

If you show interests in the natural splendid landscapes and like to take challenges, this 4 Days Zhangjiajie Exciting Tour will be your satisfactory selection.

Fenghuang Ancient Town before night falling in June, 2024.

This 5-day Zhangjiajie Fenghuang tour is the best way to fully make use of your time in Zhangjiajie. Admire all natural must-sees in UNESCO Zhangjiajie Forest Park with a cultural relaxation at antique Xiangxi flavored Fenghuang Ancient Town.

Chona from Philippines visited Tianzi Mountain, Zhangjiajie in September, 2018

Are you caught by the fabulous photos of Zhangjiajie and want to have a great look of its famous natural wonders in person? This tour is really suitable if you want to discover the famous Zhangjiajie National Forest Park and the exciting glass bridge in the most classic way!

Tianmen Mountain Photographed by Our Guest Manolis in September 2023

Your ultimate exploration of all natural wonders in Zhangjiajie Forest Park plus adventures to thrilling Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge and Tianmen Mountain

Huangshi Village Taken by Our Client Keena from USA in September 2020

The leisure trip to see the top wonderful natural mountains and cliffs, caves and lakes, valleys and streams in wonderful Zhangjiajie

Our clients Yannick's group from Belgium visited Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in July 2019

Your exciting hiking journey of amazing Tianmen Mountain and real "Yuanjiajie Avatar Mountains" in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park area

Unbelievable nature exploration of two big UNESCO Heritage lands, Zhangjiajie National Forest Park and Fanjingshan Mountain in Southwest China.

Our clients Miriam's group visited Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in 2017

Visit the top travel destinations in vast China, Beijing, Xian and Shanghai, with the fabulous trip to Zhangjiajie and Guilin with stunning natural miracles.

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Zhangjiajie National Forest

About zhangjiajie national forest.

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, located in the Hunan Province of China, is a breathtaking natural wonder renowned for its towering sandstone pillars, lush forests, and stunning natural beauty. Covering an area of approximately 11,900 hectares, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a masterpiece of nature’s craftsmanship, offering visitors an unparalleled experience in awe-inspiring scenery and ecological diversity.

The park is best known for its unique rock formations, known locally as “stone forests,” which are characterized by thousands of towering quartzite sandstone pillars that soar into the sky, creating a surreal landscape reminiscent of a mythical realm. Among its most famous landmarks is the “Avatar Hallelujah Mountain,” which served as inspiration for the floating mountains depicted in James Cameron’s blockbuster film “Avatar.”

Beyond its iconic rock formations, Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is also home to dense subtropical forests, crystal-clear streams, and serene lakes, providing habitat to a rich array of plant and animal species. Visitors can explore the park’s numerous hiking trails, offering panoramic views of the dramatic landscape and opportunities to encounter rare wildlife, including macaques, civets, and various bird species.

Additionally, the park features attractions such as the Bailong Elevator, one of the world’s tallest outdoor elevators, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding scenery, and the Tianmen Mountain Scenic Area, known for its vertigo-inducing glass skywalks and the “Heaven’s Gate” natural arch.

With its ethereal beauty, diverse ecosystems, and cultural significance, Zhangjiajie National Forest Park stands as a testament to the power and majesty of nature, captivating visitors from around the world with its otherworldly charm and timeless allure.

Physical Characteristics

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, located in Hunan Province, China, boasts a landscape of towering sandstone pillars, verdant valleys, and mist-shrouded peaks. The park is renowned for its unique rock formations, with some pillars reaching heights of over 200 meters (656 feet).

The tallest pillar, known as the “Southern Sky Column,” stands at an impressive 1,080 meters (3,543 feet) above sea level. These natural wonders are accentuated by dense forests, serene streams, and cascading waterfalls, creating an ethereal atmosphere that has inspired countless artists and filmmakers.

Zhangjiajie’s stunning scenery, coupled with its rich biodiversity, makes it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike.

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is home to a diverse array of wildlife species, thriving in its lush forests and rugged terrain. Here are ten of the most popular wildlife species found in Zhangjiajie:

Chinese Giant Salamander: A critically endangered amphibian, known for its large size and nocturnal habits.
Reeves’s Pheasant: A colorful bird species native to China, often spotted foraging on the forest floor.
Clouded Leopard: A secretive and elusive cat species, distinguished by its cloud-like coat pattern.
Golden Pheasant: A striking bird species with vibrant plumage, commonly seen in the park’s wooded areas.
Chinese Serow: A goat-like mammal known for its agility in navigating steep cliffs and rocky terrain.
Red-Bellied Squirrel: A small mammal species frequently encountered darting among the trees in search of food.
Chinese Bamboo Rat: A burrowing rodent species found in bamboo forests, playing a crucial role in ecosystem health.
Chinese Muntjac: A small deer species known for its distinctive bark-like call and solitary nature.
Chinese Cobra: A venomous snake species inhabiting forested areas, posing a threat to small mammals and birds.
Mandarin Duck: A colorful waterfowl species, often observed swimming in the park’s ponds and streams.

These and many other species contribute to the rich biodiversity of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, offering visitors a glimpse into the natural wonders of this enchanting landscape.

Experiencing Zhangjiajie

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, renowned for its towering sandstone pillars and lush greenery, offers visitors a multitude of ways to engage and experience its natural beauty. Here are some of the key experiences available to visitors:

Scenic Hiking Trails: Explore the park’s network of well-maintained hiking trails, winding through dense forests and offering panoramic views of the iconic quartzite pillars, such as the famous Avatar Hallelujah Mountain.

Glass Skywalks and Bridges: Admire the breathtaking vistas from the park’s glass-bottomed skywalks and bridges, including the Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge, which spans a dramatic canyon and offers heart-pounding views of the surrounding landscape.

Cable Car Rides: Take a thrilling cable car ride to reach elevated viewpoints within the park, providing bird’s-eye views of the towering peaks and deep valleys below.

Photography and Sightseeing: Capture the stunning natural scenery of Zhangjiajie through photography, with numerous designated viewpoints and scenic overlooks scattered throughout the park.

Cultural Experiences : Learn about the local culture and history of the Tujia ethnic minority, who call the surrounding area home, by visiting traditional villages and experiencing their customs and traditions.

Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for the park’s diverse wildlife, including colorful bird species, elusive mammals, and fascinating reptiles, while exploring its trails and pathways.

Rock Climbing and Adventure Sports: For the more adventurous visitors, Zhangjiajie offers opportunities for rock climbing, zip-lining, and other adrenaline-pumping activities amidst its rugged terrain.

Nature Interpretation Centers: Visit the park’s nature interpretation centers to learn more about the unique geological formations, flora, and fauna that inhabit this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

From leisurely hikes to adrenaline-fueled adventures, Zhangjiajie National Forest Park provides an immersive and unforgettable experience for visitors of all interests and ages

1. What is Zhangjiajie most known for?

Zhangjiajie is most renowned for its breathtaking natural scenery that inspired the Hallelujah Mountains in James Cameron’s blockbuster film, “Avatar.” Situated in Hunan Province, China, its most iconic feature is Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, part of the larger Wulingyuan Scenic Area—a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The park is famed for more than 3,000 quartzite sandstone pillars and peaks, many of which rise over 200 meters (656 feet) high, alongside ravines, gorges, waterfalls, streams, and limestone caves. The landscape is covered in lush vegetation, providing a stunning contrast to the towering columns of rock.

One of the park’s most famous attractions is the Tianzi Mountain area, offering some of the most spectacular views of the pillars. Another highlight is the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge—the world’s longest and highest glass-bottomed bridge at its opening—providing thrilling views of the canyon below.

This combination of unique geological formations, coupled with rich biodiversity and cultural significance, makes Zhangjiajie a destination of awe-inspiring natural beauty and a magnet for tourists and nature enthusiasts from around the globe.

2. What makes Zhangjiajie unique?

Zhangjiajie’s uniqueness stems from its extraordinary natural landscape and geological features that distinguish it from other natural attractions worldwide. Here are several aspects that contribute to its uniqueness:

Quartz Sandstone Pillars : Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is home to over 3,000 quartzite sandstone pillars and peaks, creating a forest of towering stone spires. This is a rare geological phenomenon where years of physical erosion, mainly from expanding ice in winter and the growth of plants, have sculpted these pillars into various shapes and sizes. Some of these pillars reach heights of over 800 meters (2,624 feet), with many standing in isolation, surrounded by deep ravines and gorges.
Inspiration for Avatar : The surreal landscape of Zhangjiajie gained international fame as the inspiration for the floating Hallelujah Mountains seen in James Cameron’s “Avatar.” The striking resemblance of these towering pinnacles to the film’s fantastical landscapes has heightened Zhangjiajie’s appeal and mystique, attracting visitors eager to experience its Avatar-like scenery firsthand.
Rich Biodiversity : Beyond its geological wonders, Zhangjiajie boasts a rich biodiversity within its lush forests, hosting numerous species of plants, animals, and birds, some of which are rare and endemic. This biodiversity adds another layer to the area’s natural beauty, offering a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and researchers.
Cultural Heritage : The region is also culturally significant, with a history of habitation by various ethnic groups, including the Tujia, Miao, and Bai peoples. Their rich cultural heritage is reflected in their traditional customs, festivals, and folk arts, adding a human dimension to the natural splendor of Zhangjiajie.
Innovative Tourism Infrastructure : Zhangjiajie has developed unique tourism infrastructure to enhance visitor experience without compromising its natural beauty. Noteworthy examples include the Bailong Elevator, the world’s highest outdoor lift, embedded along a cliff face, and the Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge, offering thrilling views from high above the canyon floor.

These elements together make Zhangjiajie a unique destination that offers not only stunning natural landscapes but also a deep cultural experience, making it a must-visit location for travelers seeking both adventure and cultural enrichment.

3. What other national parks are close to Zhangjiajie?

Zhangjiajie, located in Hunan Province, China, is surrounded by several other notable natural areas and national parks, each offering its own unique landscapes and attractions. While not all are national parks in the strictest sense, they are protected natural areas that provide similar experiences of outdoor adventure and scenic beauty. Here are a few notable ones close to Zhangjiajie:

Tianmen Mountain National Park : Located just south of Zhangjiajie city, Tianmen Mountain is famous for its towering limestone mountain, which is accessed via one of the world’s longest cable car rides. The mountain features the remarkable Tianmen Cave, a natural archway through the mountain, and a glass skywalk clinging to the cliffside, offering daring visitors breathtaking views.
Wulingyuan Scenic and Historic Interest Area : While Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is a part of this larger UNESCO World Heritage Site, Wulingyuan encompasses other areas as well, such as Suoxi Valley Nature Reserve, Tianzi Mountain Nature Reserve, and Yangjiajie Scenic Area. Each of these areas boasts similar stunning landscapes of sandstone pillars, ravines, and lush vegetation.
Fenghuang Ancient Town : Though not a national park, Fenghuang is a well-preserved ancient town near Zhangjiajie, known for its distinctive stilted houses along the Tuojiang River, traditional Miao and Tujia ethnic culture, and picturesque scenery. It offers a cultural complement to the natural beauty of the nearby parks.
Mangshan National Forest Park : Located in Yongzhou, Hunan Province, Mangshan is known for its biodiversity, including several rare and endangered species, dense forests, and the Mangshan pit viper. It also features one of China’s largest forest-covered areas and offers stunning mountainous scenery.
Hupingshan National Nature Reserve : Situated in Hunan Province, this reserve is notable for its primeval forests, diverse flora and fauna, and significant conservation efforts. It’s a bit farther away but represents another aspect of Hunan’s rich natural heritage.

While these areas are not all national parks in the legal sense, they are significant protected areas that offer visitors a range of experiences from ancient cultural heritage to breathtaking natural landscapes, all within a relatively short distance from Zhangjiajie.

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COMMENTS

Zhangjiajie, China
The real ones are in Zhangjiajie. There are 243 peaks and more than 3,000 pinnacles and spires in the national park. Scenes in Avatar come to mind when the peaks are caught in the right light or when the early morning mountain mist rolls in around them. In 1982, Zhangjiajie National Forest Park became China's first national forest park.
A Complete Guide to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park Adventure
Option 2: By Train and Coach. Take a train to Zhangjiajie Railway Station.Upon arrival, walk to the nearby Zhangjiajie Central Coach Station. Board a coach from Zhangjiajie Central Coach Station to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. The entire journey is expected to take between 50 to 90 minutes.
How to Visit Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is crowded with Chinese tour groups, especially during public holidays, such as Labor Day (May 1-3), National Day (October 1-7), and the summer vacation period in July and August.. Here are some tips for avoiding crowds and queues: Try and visit the park on weekdays.; Arrive early and beat the crowds. The park opens at 8am.
Comprehensive guide to visiting Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, China
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park covers an area of 18.6 square miles (29.9 km) within the Wulingyuan Scenic Area of the Hunan Province in China. In 1982, this became China's very first national forest park - and just one look is enough to understand why!
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
per adult (price varies by group size) 4-Day Zhangjiajie Tour to All Highlight Attractions with VIP Lift. 41. Recommended. Adventure Tours. from. $559.00. per adult (price varies by group size) Full-Day Private Tour of Zhangjiajie (Wulingyuan) National Forest Park.
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park: Map, Weather & How to Get to
Location: northeast part of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, connected with Golden Whip Stream Recommended Visiting Time: 2-2.5 hours Hiking Time: about 1-2 hours to get up and 1 hour to get down Huangshi Village Physical Needs: Moderate (It is suggested to take cable car to get up and down to save energy and time. Only 10 minutes is needed on the cableway.)
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
The Glass Bridge spans two cliffs in Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon, about 25 kilometers (16 miles) northeast from Zhangjiajie National Forest Park's main gate.. The glass skywalks are built along the edges of the summit of Tianmen Mountain, which is in Zhangjiajie city proper.. Bailong Glass Elevator is inside Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. Built onto the side of a huge cliff, it provides an ...
Top 9 Things to Do in Zhangjiajie
Name Country Email. The best things to do in Zhangjiajie include visiting the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Suoxi Valley, Tianzi Mountain, Yangjiajie, Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon with Glass Bridge, Tianmen Mountain, Phoenix Ancient Town (Fenghuang), and the Red Stone Forest in Guzhang County of Xiangxi.
ZhangJiaJie 3 Day Itinerary: Everything you need to know, Travel Guide
The ticket to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park covers you for 4 days, and it's recommended you spend at least 2 days to account for the weather. To see everything, I think you'd definitely need the whole 4 days. Opening hours: It says the park opens at 8am but I swear it opens at 7am, if not earlier. It's a bit confusing and I still don't know ...
Zhangjiajie Itinerary
It costs 118 RMB (16.80 USD / 13 GBP) for just the Grand Canyon, CNY 138 (20 USD / 15 GBP) for just the Glass Bridge and CNY 219 (31.30 USD / 24 GBP) for the combo ticket, at time of writing. From Wulingyuan bus station you take the bus to Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon which takes 20 minutes.
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, set up in 1982, is the first authorized national forest park in China. The area covers 480 thousand square meters (185 square miles). This park, together with Suoxi Valley Nature Reserve, Tianzi Mountain Nature Reserve and Yangjiajie Scenic Area makes up the Wulingyuan Scenic and Historic Interest Area, also ...
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park Travel Tips & Tours
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is located about 30 km to the north of downtown Zhangjiajie. There are buses traveling between downtown Zhangjiajie and the two popular gates of the park every 10 minutes: Forest Park Gate and Wulingyuan Gate. The bus ride takes about 45 minutes and costs 12 RMB per person. If you take a taxi from Zhangjiajie ...
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. In 1982, the park was recognized as China's first national forest park with an area of 4,810 ha (11,900 acres). [2] Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is part of a much larger 397.5 km 2 (153.5 sq mi) Wulingyuan Scenic Area.In 1992, Wulingyuan was officially recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. [3] It was then approved by the Ministry of Land and ...
Four Day Hiking Guide For Zhangjiajie, China [2024]
I called Melbourne and Christchurch home during this period and explored both countries extensively whilst using these as bases. Get In touch: [email protected]. Guide to an amazing 4 days exploring the monkey-infested Zhangjiajie National Forest Park was an adventure we will never forget.
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park: Facts, Map & What to See
The whole park area has three scenic areas with numerous attractions, one of which provided the inspiration for the mystical floating mountains in the movie, Avatar. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park Area Zhangjiajie National Forest Park Facts. Location: 279 Jinbian Road, Wulingyuan District, Zhangjiajie, Hunan Province; Opening Hours: 08:00-17: ...
One Day Guide To The Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, China
Zhangjiajie National Park experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) are considered the best seasons to visit the park. During this time, the temperatures are moderate, ranging from around 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F).
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
Zhangjiajie is in the northwestern part of Hunan Province in central China. The main draw is the Wulingyuan Scenic Area, which was added to the UNESCO World Heritage list, including Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Tianzi Mountain and Suoxiyu Nature Reserve. Here, traveling through countless cloud-kissing mountains, clear streams and leafy ...
Top 14 Attractions in & around Zhangjiajie
No.1: Wulingyuan Scenic Area. Type: Forests, Scenic/ Historic Walking Areas Sites: Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Tianzi Mountain, Yuanjiajie, Yangjiajie Wulingyuan Scenic and Historic Interest Area, located in the northwest of Zhangjiajie City, was listed into the UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992.It is noted for more than 3000 narrow sandstone pillars and peaks across most of the site ...
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
China, Asia. Top choice in Zhangjiajie. Among China's crop of surreal landscapes, Zhangjiajie has got to be a contender for one of the most impressive. A forest of spectacularly weathered spires rises up out of a verdant valley that's filled with dripping moss, fragrant blossoms and acrobatic monkeys. Come dusk, the ensemble is serenaded by a ...
The Top 5 Attractions in Zhangjiajie
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, about 40 minutes' drive north of downtown Zhangjiajie, became China's first national forest park in 1982. It features Zhangjiajie's classic rocky tower scenery. It consists of five main tourist areas: Yuanjiajie, Tianzi Mountain, Yangjiajie, Huangshi Village, and Golden Whip Stream.
A Trip To Zhangjiajie National Forest in China
The park is home to over 5,000 plant species, many of which are rare and endangered. The park is also home to various wildlife, including macaques, civets, and the elusive clouded leopard.If you are looking for an adventure, there are plenty of hiking trails in the park that offer incredible views of the landscape.
Zhangjiajie 2 Day Itinerary: How to Spend 2 Days in Zhangjiajie
Plan B: Zhangjiajie Avatar Mountains with Amazing Tianmen Mountain. If you favor the floating Avatar Mountains and the unbelievable meandering mountain road and natural cave at Tianmen Mountain, you can also plan you 2 days separately on Wulingyuan National Forest Park with the top 2 sites and Tianmen Mountain. Day 1: Yuanjiajie + Tianzi Mountain.
Zhangjiajie National Forest
About Zhangjiajie National Forest. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, located in the Hunan Province of China, is a breathtaking natural wonder renowned for its towering sandstone pillars, lush forests, and stunning natural beauty. Covering an area of approximately 11,900 hectares, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a masterpiece of nature's ...

A Complete Guide to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park Adventure

Table of Contents

Bailong Elevator (百龙天梯)

Bailong Elevator: My Past Encounter

Enchanting Platform (迷魂台)

Hallelujah Mountains (哈利路亚悬浮山)

The First Natural Bridge under Heaven (天下第一桥)

Goat Village (羊寨)

Tianzi Mountain Cable Car (天子山索道)

Helong Park (贺龙公园)

Shentang Gulf (神堂湾)

West Sea Stone Forest (西海峰林)

Fairy Offering Flowers (仙女散花)

Imperial Writing Brush Peaks (御笔峰)

One Step to the Heaven (一步登天)

Wulong Village (乌龙寨)

Tianbo Mansion (天波府)

Air Corridor (空中走廊)

Five-colored flowers (五色花)

Pavilion of Six Wonders (六奇阁)

Star Picking Terrace (摘星台)

Ruins of The Heaven Bridge (天桥遗墩)

The Treasure Box with Sealedbook (天书宝匣)

South Sky Gate (南天门)

Dayangba Square (大氧吧广场)

Pigsy Carrying Wife on the Back (猪八戒背媳妇)

Mother and Child Peak (母子峰)

Golden Whip Rock (金鞭岩)

Magical Hawk Protecting the Whip (神鹰护鞭)

Rock of Splitting the Mountain to Save Mother (劈山救母峰)

Two Tortoises Visiting the Stream (双龟探溪)

Zicao Pool (紫草潭)

Reunion from Afar (千里相会)

Winding Attic (转阁楼)

Longevity Man Greeting Visitors (寿星迎宾)

Herb Collecting Old Man (采药老人)

Ferocious Tiger Roaring (猛虎啸天)

Husband and Wife Rock (夫妻岩)

Monkey Slope (猴子坡)

Three Sisters (三女峰)

🚞Mini Electric Train

👍San Xia Guo (三下锅)

👍Preserved Pork (腊肉)

👍Homestyle Stir-Fried Pork (农家小炒肉)

👍Stewed Chicken with Shi’er (岩耳炖鸡)

👍Sour Fried Fish (酸炸鱼)

👍Blood Tofu (血豆腐)

👍Glutinous Rice Cake (糍粑)

👍Kiwi Juice (猕猴桃汁)

Shell Youth Holiday Hotel

ZiShan Ecological Resort

No. 5 Valley Inn

Tianmen Cave (天门洞)

Glass Skywalk (玻璃栈道)

Tianmen Mountain Cableway (天门山索道)

🤔Tianmen Mountain or Zhangjiajie National Forest Park: Which to Visit First?

🌌Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon: World’s Tallest and Longest Glass Bridge

🤔Choosing Between Glass Bridge and Glass Skywalk: Which to Visit?

🎫Do I need a visa for China?

🤔 Why is it necessary to install a VPN in China?

📲 Is it necessary to have a Chinese SIM card while in China?

🔮 Should I buy China travel insurance?

🚙 Can you rent a car in China?

✈️ What’s the best site to purchase flight tickets for China?

🏡 What is the best way to book hotels in China?

🎒What do I pack for China?

📚 Can a guidebook for traveling to China be useful?

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