2025 Zhangjiajie Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in December)

If photos of crowds of tourists and endless lines really scare you, don't worry—I've got a clever life hack for the perfect start to Avatar Park in Zhangjiajie! 🤫✨ The secret is simple: start from the West Gate, which few people know about (pretty much, huh?). It's supposedly completely uncrowded! It's super convenient if you're staying at No. 5 Valley Inn (West Gate of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Zhonghu Township)—we stayed there and really enjoyed it! The hotel not only offers a mind-blowing view, but also perks like a tea ceremony, calligraphy, knitting, and making delicious traditional sweets—an experience you'll never forget! 🙌 Here's a step-by-step itinerary for a line-free chill-out day—save it! STEP 1: An early start at the West Gate – arrive just before it opens, before it's crowded! The East Gate is crowded, but we're already on our way! Once inside, take the bus to the Yangjiajie Cable Car, then transfer to the bus to the South Gate. STEP 2: A walk through a magical forest – we'll walk down a trail through incredibly beautiful views (beware of the cheeky monkeys 🐒). Then we'll head to the Yellow Stone Village Cable Car, transfer, and ride to Oxygen Bar Square. STEP 3: This is where the fairy tale begins! The trail along Golden Whip Stream Canyon – crowded at first, but the further you go, the steeper it gets (and there are no people at all). The trail along the emerald river between epic cliffs – it's just like in a movie! It's 7.5 km long, but we walk to the halfway point and have a blast! 🌊⛰️ STEP 4: Return the same route to the Yellow Stone Village gondola – you can grab a snack, water, and relax along the way 🥤. Take your time; the later you go, the more free you'll be. STEP 5: Battle for the best views: take the cable car to the top – no one there, just you and the mountains! In 5-7 minutes, you'll soar through the clouds. This is the most beautiful ride – the views are simply out of this world! 🚡🤩 STEP 6: At the top, the top Instagram content begins: 360° panoramas, a network of observation decks, and a super-atmospheric sunset. Warning: the cable car operates until 6:30 PM – don't get too caught up! STEP 7: Descend back (and again, the gondola is ours to use!), board the bus, and head to your cozy hotel! Why is this brilliant? ⚡ The reverse route is the opposite of the main flow. The cable car up is completely empty, with no lines. When everyone is descending and crowded, you can relax and enjoy the peaks! Key points: — It's best to go on weekdays and outside of Chinese holidays—the crowds are truly empty then. — Address: No. 5 Valley Inn: West Gate of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Zhonghu Township. — The hotel offers cultural activities: tea, calligraphy, knitting, and marshmallows—a must-try! — Check the heating—bring a blanket if necessary. 😉 I personally tested the route—everything works perfectly! Save it, share it with your friends, and be like a pro—no lines or crowds! #zhangjiajie

Have you ever dreamed of walking through the clouds and finding yourself in a world where cliffs rise from the mist like islands from a fairy tale? Then you must visit Tianmen Mountain in Zhangjiajie! 📍 How to get there: Public transport: - From Zhangjiajie Airport: buses No. 4 and 402 (15–20 minutes). - From the railway station: buses No. 4, 5, 6, or 17 (5–10 minutes). - From the city center: on foot or by taxi (the lower cable car station is near the bus station). Address in Chinese: 张家界市永定区大庸路天门山索道公司下站 💰 Entrance ticket The comprehensive ticket (including cable car or bus ride up/down + main routes at the summit) costs 288 yuan. It’s better to buy tickets online in advance (we purchased ours on Trip.com). 🚡 Which route to choose? I RECOMMEND ROUTE A! It’s logical and physically easier: you start from the highest point and go downhill, saving energy, especially for the famous 999 steps, which you’ll descend rather than climb with this plan. What to expect: 1. The world’s longest cable car (7.5 km!). You start from the city itself and in 28 minutes ascend from the hustle and bustle to the heights above the clouds. The views transition from urban landscapes to sheer cliffs and deep gorges. It’s an attraction in itself! 2. The "Heavenly Elevator" to Yunmeng Fairy Peak. From the upper cable car station, you ascend via an open elevator built into the cliff to the main peak. From here, you’ll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views. It feels like all the jagged peaks are floating in a milky mist of clouds. 3. A walk along the summit. Recommended path: start with the Western Line (featuring a glass walkway and the best views), move to the Eastern Line, and proceed counterclockwise to the mountain escalator. 4. Descent. Next, you’ll experience: the escalator inside the cliff (operates until ~4:30 PM) → descend the 999 steps to the legendary "Heaven’s Gate" arch → return to the city by bus. 🌟 My personal favorites (additional options): · Forest cable car: After exploring the peak, don’t miss this open two-seater cable car for just 25 yuan! It’s not included in the main ticket, but it’s worth it. You’ll glide slowly above the treetops in complete silence, feeling a deep connection with nature. Pure magic! For couples planning children, there’s an interesting tradition. Along the route, there’s the "Son Craving Cave": by tossing a coin or pebble into the abyss, you can try to "predict" the gender and number of future children based on the sound of the impact (its clarity and echo). There’s a decoding table next to the cave. 📌 Recommendations: · Choose a weekday for your visit. We went between 9 and 10 AM, and the queue was short. · Weather: On a clear day after rain, the clouds are most dynamic and picturesque. In foggy weather, visibility will be zero, but the atmosphere is surreal. · Gear: Comfortable shoes are a must-have. Dress in layers: it can be noticeably colder and windier at the summit. 🏮 If you still have energy (and time before departure) after Tianmen, visit the "72 Strange Towers" complex (七十二奇楼). It’s the largest hanging building in the world (according to the Guinness World Records)! It looks especially magical when lit up – like a set from a fantasy movie. Address in Chinese: 张家界市永定区武陵山大道1号

One day to explore the essence of Zhangjiajie～ 📍Attractions ✨ China’s first national forest park 🌄 Famous for its unique "Zhangjiajie landform" 🏞️ Located in Wulingyuan District 🚗 Transportation ✈️ Major transport: Hehua Airport / Zhangjiajie West Station (within the city) 🚕 Local transport: 1⃣️ Self-driving: Navigate to "Wulingyuan Landmark Gate," about 40 minutes 2⃣️ Bus: Take the coach from the city "Central Bus Station" 💰12 3⃣️ Lazy option: Taxi about 90 yuan direct 🎫 Tickets 💰 Official price: 248 yuan ⏳ Validity: Unlimited entries within 4 days 🚌 Includes eco-friendly shuttle bus inside the park 🔥 Essential Route 🔥 🏆 Officially recommended by the park! See all the highlights in one day without missing out! 🚶‍♀️ Route: Landmark Gate → Bailong Elevator → Yuanjiajie → Yangjiajie → Tianzi Mountain → Ten-Mile Gallery → Golden Whip Stream → Landmark Gate 🌟 Recommended to start at 7 AM for a walking adventure! ⏰ Itinerary Depart from the city 🚡 Take Bailong Elevator up the mountain (💰65) → View the Avatar floating mountains 🌉 Walk on the First Bridge Under Heaven → Transfer to Yangjiajie to see the natural peak walls ⛰️ Tianzi Mountain Helong Park 🚠 Take Tianzi Mountain Cableway down, 💰72 🖼️ Ten-Mile Gallery small train, one way 💰38 🌿 Take a deep breath along Golden Whip Stream 📸 Stunning photo spots Bailong Elevator: The world’s highest outdoor elevator Yuanjiajie: Avatar filming location Yangjiajie: Less crowded, beautiful natural peak walls Tianzi Mountain: Best place to view the sea of clouds Golden Whip Stream: Natural oxygen bar for a stroll 💡 Tips: 1. Remember to bring your ID! 2. Wear comfortable sports shoes 3. Bring your own snacks and water 4. Weather changes quickly, bring a jacket 5. Eco-friendly shuttle buses inside the park are free to ride

Zhangjiajie National Park is stunning at the end of October 🏞️ ⛅️🍁The best time to visit is October, Comfortable temperatures around +18°C, with a light breeze. ☁️In cloudy weather, the scale of the mountains becomes more noticeable, you can see their volume, and the landscape unfolds layer by layer like a book. Impressive. Moreover, there are fewer people in the mountains during this time, allowing you to peacefully enjoy the surrounding beauty. 🗓️ My hike through the mountains took two days, which was enough to see the main attractions. On the first day, I walked along the Golden Stream, and on the second day, I took the long route to Yuanjiajie and the Bailong Elevator. I also rode the tram with a magnificent view of the cliffs from below 🚉. Overall, a trip to the mountains is a fantastic opportunity for hiking, so make sure to wear suitable shoes. 🚠Cable cars allow you to see everything faster and view the cliffs from different angles. 🎟️ I recommend buying tickets at the hotel, as hotels often offer discounts and maps of convenient routes. 🏨 I stayed at the Qianshan Moon Resort hotel. The hotel is conveniently located near the East entrance to the park. The administrator was a wonderful lady who helped with all questions and even allowed early check-in. The hotel also provides its own shuttle service to the park entrance. ⛰️ I also recommend combining your trip to Zhangjiajie with a visit to Tianmen Mountain, which offers breathtaking views and stunning scenery.

Zhangjiajie 3 Days 2 Nights Travel Guide (Budget: 7000 RMB) 1. Itinerary Overview Days Main Attractions Highlights Accommodation Suggestions Day 1 Arrival in Zhangjiajie, Tianmen Mountain Tianmen Mountain Cableway, Tianmen Cave, Glass Skywalk Luxury hotel in city center or near the scenic area Day 2 Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Yuanjiajie Jinbian Stream, Bailong Elevator, Mysterious Platform, Huangshizhai High-end hotel near the scenic area or city center Day 3 Tianzi Mountain, Baofeng Lake (optional) or Return Sightseeing, photography, leisure Return to city center or train station/airport 2. Detailed Itinerary Day 1: Arrival in Zhangjiajie, Tianmen Mountain Transportation: Flight: Fly from your city to Zhangjiajie (book in advance recommended, economy class about 800-1500 RMB/person) High-speed train/train: Depends on departure city, more affordable Accommodation: Recommended: High-end hotels in Zhangjiajie city center or near scenic areas (e.g., Tianmen Mountain International Hotel, Country Garden Phoenix Hotel), about 800-1200 RMB per night, comfortable and convenient transportation Attractions: Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park (ticket + cableway + Tianmen Cave + glass skywalk) Ticket: 258 RMB (off-season discounts may apply) Cableway: about 100 RMB one way, 200 RMB round trip Glass Skywalk: about 138 RMB Dinner: Taste local Hunan cuisine or Tujia flavors, budget about 150 RMB/person Day 2: Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Yuanjiajie, Huangshizhai Transportation: Combination of eco-friendly buses, cableways, and walking within the park Attractions: Zhangjiajie National Forest Park (ticket: 248 RMB) Yuanjiajie ("Avatar" floating mountains) — accessible by Bailong Elevator (80 RMB) Jinbian Stream (free hiking) Huangshizhai (ticket 108 RMB, cableway about 100 RMB) Lunch: Specialty restaurants inside the park or bring your own food, budget about 150 RMB/person Accommodation: Near the scenic area or return to city center, choose high-end hotels (about 800-1500 RMB per night) for a better experience Day 3: Tianzi Mountain or Baofeng Lake, Return Options: Tianzi Mountain (ticket 248 RMB, cableway 100 RMB) — excellent spot for sea of clouds and sunrise viewing Baofeng Lake (ticket about 80 RMB) — leisure boating and photography Morning: Visit selected attractions, enjoy the tranquility and beautiful scenery in the early morning Noon: Dine inside the park or prepare a simple meal in advance Afternoon: Return to city center or train station/airport, prepare for departure 3. Budget Overview (Reference) Item Cost (RMB) Notes Transportation (flight/high-speed train) 2000-3000 Varies by departure city Accommodation 1600-2500 2 nights in high-end hotels (800-1200 RMB per night) Attraction Tickets 700 Tianmen Mountain, Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Tianzi Mountain, etc. Transportation (within park) 300 Eco-friendly buses, cableways, Bailong Elevator, etc. Meals 600 3 days, about 200 RMB per day Others (souvenirs, entertainment) 300 Shopping or leisure experiences Total ~7000 Generous budget for a high-quality experience 4. Travel Tips Book in advance: Reserve flights, train tickets, hotels, and attraction tickets early to ensure a smooth trip and enjoy discounts. Recommended gear: Comfortable hiking shoes, sun protection, rain gear (weather can be changeable), camera or spare phone batteries. Notes: Carry cash or use mobile payments; some scenic spots support WeChat/Alipay payments. 5. Highlights Recommendation Tianmen Mountain Glass Skywalk: Thrilling and stunning, experience the feeling of "walking in the air." Yuanjiajie "Avatar" Scenic Area: Strange peaks and rocks, like a fairyland. Huangshizhai: Excellent spot for sea of clouds and sunrise viewing. Baofeng Lake: Quiet lake and mountain scenery, perfect for relaxation and photography. If you have a departure city, preferences, or special needs (such as photography, leisure, adventure), let me know, and I can help you further optimize your itinerary! Wishing you an unforgettable trip in Zhangjiajie!

Dreaming of a world where nature has created the most fantastic landscapes on the planet? Then this itinerary is for you! In just 4 days, you'll visit places that look like ready-made movie sets. The journey begins in Zhangjiajie. 📍 Itinerary: Furong → Avatar Mountains (2 days) → Tianmen Day 1: Enchanting Furong Furong, also known as Furong Town, is famous not only for its unique architecture but also for a massive waterfall right in the middle of the town. In the evening, when the lights come on, it feels like stepping into a magical world reminiscent of the spirit realm from Miyazaki's animated film "Spirited Away." It's the perfect place for atmospheric photos and a dive into history. How to get there from Zhangjiajie: · Train: From Zhangjiajie West Station (Zhangjiajiexi, 张家界西站) to Furongzhen Station (芙蓉镇站). · Travel time: About 20 minutes. · Ticket price: 32–40 yuan. · Entrance fee to the town: 108 yuan. Day 2-3: The Fantastic Avatar Mountains (Zhangjiajie) For convenience, it's best to stay in a hotel in Wulingyuan Village for these two days. How to get there from Zhangjiajie: · Bus: From Zhangjiajie West Station (Zhangjiajiexi, 张家界西站) to Wulingyuan. You can show the driver or staff the sign 武陵源 (Wǔlíngyuán) to find the right bus. · Ticket price: 13 yuan. · Entrance fee to the park: From 227 yuan. Dedicate the next two days to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park — the very Avatar Mountains! ⛰️ It's important to choose the right route depending on the weather (cloudy and sunny days offer completely different views). On rainy days, the upper trail might be shrouded in mist, obscuring the Avatar Mountains! · Day 2 (Upper Trail): Take the cable car to the top of the mountain range. Walk along the "Upper Trail" for breathtaking views of the quartzite pillars. · Day 3 (Lower Trail): Descend and walk along the "Lower Trail" by the picturesque Golden Whip Stream. The air here is incredibly fresh, and your main companions are the local monkeys! 🐒 Be cautious: they're very charming but love to beg for food and might steal your belongings. In the evening, return to Zhangjiajie. Day 4: Tianmen Mountain and the Heavenly Gate Entrance fee to the park: From 288 yuan. End your tour by conquering Tianmen Mountain ("Heavenly Gate"). You'll experience one of the longest cable cars in the world, the dizzying "Glass Skywalk" on the cliffside, and the legendary "Heavenly Gate" cave-arch, reached by climbing 999 steps. It's both a challenge and a thrill!

The National Forest Geopark is located in Hunan Province near Zhangjiajie. It's very easy to get there by plane from major cities in China. From Chongqing, you can take a high-speed train in about 3 hours. A great route is to combine Chengdu, then take a 2-hour train to Chongqing, and from there, another train to Zhangjiajie. From the airport and train station, which are close to each other in Zhangjiajie, you can reach the famous 'Avatar' mountains in Wulingyuan in 40 minutes. There are hotels to suit all tastes and budgets, good infrastructure, and plenty of shops and cafes for every preference. The geopark itself is huge, and you can only partially explore it in one day. It's incredibly beautiful; this is my third visit, and it won't be my last. The main locations are always crowded, but there are spots where you can find solitude and connect with nature. If you want to take photos, you should arrive at opening time and head straight to the bus towards the elevator. Once the sun rises, photos will be overexposed. If it's foggy, the chances of seeing the mountains are minimal. I visited in summer and spring and was very lucky with the weather. The glass bridge is an hour's drive from Wulingyuan, but it's very crowded, and the views after the 'Avatar' park are less impressive. Tianmen Mountain is located in Zhangjiajie itself, near the airport, and can be visited before your flight. However, in my opinion, there's nothing particularly special about it. You climb 999 steps to see the 'Heaven's Gate,' as the locals call it, and then descend via an escalator inside the mountain—that's about all the entertainment, or you can take the cable car. In any case, many people enjoy the route; I'm just sharing my personal opinion.

【Stunning Arrival】Deep 5-Day Guide to Zhangjiajie! Take you to explore the magical world like a "fairyland"🌄✨ Have you ever dreamed of walking among the clouds, crossing canyons, and experiencing breathtakingly beautiful scenery? Zhangjiajie, known as a "World Natural Heritage" magical fairyland, is definitely a must-visit spot on your list! But many people just skim through without fully exploring. Don’t worry, this super practical and fun 5-day guide will help you explore every inch of Zhangjiajie, making your trip both exciting and unforgettable!🚀 Day 1: Arrive in Zhangjiajie, check in at Tianmen Mountain🌁 Highlights: Tianmen Mountain Glass Skywalk, Tianmen Cave, Cableway flight Suggestion: Arrive in Zhangjiajie city in the morning, settle your luggage, and head straight to Tianmen Mountain! Take the world’s longest cableway (about 30 minutes) directly to the summit, where the scenery is breathtaking. Don’t miss Tianmen Cave — this "Heaven’s Gate" looks like a giant natural door, as if leading to a fairyland. Fun Tip: Walking on the glass skywalk at Tianmen Mountain is a bit of a "courage test," but the views are absolutely stunning! Dare to try?🤪 Day 2: Explore the magical world of Yuanjiajie🏞️ Highlights: Yuanjiajie Scenic Area, Mysterious Platform, Bailong Elevator Suggestion: Get up early and head to Yuanjiajie to experience the dreamlike floating mountains from "Avatar." Don’t miss the Mysterious Platform; standing there, you’ll feel like an immortal. Take the Bailong Elevator to overlook the entire Yuanjiajie — the view is explosively beautiful! If you have the energy, choose to hike and experience the charm of the "primeval forest." Caution: The mountain paths are a bit steep, wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring snacks for energy!🍫 Day 3: Discover Huangshizhai and Jinbian Stream🌿 Highlights: Huangshizhai, Jinbian Stream hiking Suggestion: In the morning, visit Huangshizhai to feel the grandeur of the "castle in the clouds." After descending, stroll along Jinbian Stream, where the crystal-clear water and waterfalls are the perfect way to relax. You might even encounter wild monkeys along the way, so don’t forget to bring some bananas to feed them!🐒 Highlight: Take photos at the "Water Surrounds the Mountain" bridge — guaranteed to make your social media explode! Day 4: Experience the "primeval forest" of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park🌳 Highlights: Yuanjiajie, Ten-Mile Gallery, Bailong Gorge rafting Suggestion: Spend this day deeply exploring the forest park, walk through the Ten-Mile Gallery to admire the strange peaks and rocks. For thrill-seekers, try rafting in Bailong Gorge, where the rushing water lets you feel the wild charm of Zhangjiajie. Tip: Bring a waterproof phone pouch for easier photo-taking!📱 Day 5: Leisure shopping and tasting Xiangxi cuisine🎉 Highlights: Local snacks in the city, Tujia ethnic customs Suggestion: In the morning, visit the local specialty market to buy Tujia brocade and silver jewelry. For lunch, enjoy authentic Xiangxi cured meat and pickled fish. In the evening, you can watch Tujia folk song and dance performances at a specialty restaurant to experience the rich ethnic culture. Warm Reminder: Don’t miss the spicy Xiangxi snacks — the spicy kick will make you feel great and lift your mood!🔥 Summary:🌟 Zhangjiajie not only offers magical natural wonders but also rich ethnic culture and warm-hearted people. In five days, you can see the "fairyland" and experience the "human world’s warmth." Remember to bring a good mood and a camera to capture your own "fairyland memories"! Act quickly! The beautiful scenery of Zhangjiajie is waiting for you to discover — don’t let your dreams run in vain!✈️💖 If you like this guide, please like and share it so more friends can "virtually travel" to Zhangjiajie! If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment, and I’ll help you out!😉

Dreaming of dazzling night views and electrifying vibes? Zhangjiajie’s 72 Wonder Tower is the place to be 🌃! This city is famous for its jaw-dropping landscapes, and the 72 Wonder Tower delivers unforgettable cultural performances in a building that glows with energy after dark. Must-See Place: 72 Wonder Tower Address: 张家界市永定区武陵山大道1号 Opening Hours: 08:00–22:50 (Open year-round!) Admission: ¥48.00 (But here’s the legit hack: 🕟 Go before 4:30pm for a cheaper price! Saves cash and you’ll have more time to explore.) Why visit? The atmosphere is insane—think ancient Chinese architectural vibes mixed with a modern light show. It’s always full of people, so get ready for a thrilling crowd and plenty to capture for your feed. Don’t miss the performances: totally worth the ticket! Pro tips: - Arrive early (before 4:30pm) to snag discounted entry. - Bring your camera for incredible nighttime shots (the lights + design = chef’s kiss). - Get snacks beforehand as the area gets busy and queues form during peak hours. Getting Around: Zhangjiajie taxis are affordable, but download local ride apps for smoother trips. Buses along Wuling Mountain Avenue stop right near the tower. Food: Local street food stalls pop up nearby at night—try spicy grilled skewers and sweet rice cakes! Extra Tips: Check weather forecast—nighttime views are best on clear days. Cash or mobile pay both accepted. #ZhangjiajieNights #ChinaTravel #CultureTrip

📍Tianmen Mountain "Heaven's Gate" — an arch at the summit, accessible via 999 steps. One of the world's longest cable cars takes you up there 🚠 There's also a road with 99 turns. Not recommended for those with a sensitive vestibular system 🥴 Photo tip: Midway up the stairs, you might find fewer people for a better shot 😉 - Comprehensive ticket: ~278 CNY — includes the cable car and entrance fee. - Escalator inside the mountain: not included in the price. - Visit duration: 3-4 hours.

Apart from the stunning Avatar mountains in China, there's another place worth visiting, located just 30 km from Zhangjiajie National Park. That place is Tianmen Mountain. 🏔What to See? 🚠Tianmen Cable Car The longest cable car in the world! It takes you up nearly 1,300 meters in just 30 minutes. The view of the mountains is absolutely breathtaking. ⛰Heaven's Gate The main highlight is a giant arch in the rock, formed due to an earthquake many years ago. To reach it, you'll need to climb over 900 steps. 🌁Glass Cliff Path At the very top, there's even a glass walkway you can stroll along! 💡 Tip: Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and fully enjoy the views. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a light jacket—it can get chilly at the top. It might also be foggy, which adds an extraordinary atmosphere to the place.💦

Zhangjiajie is famous for its unique quartz sandstone peak forest landscape, with towering peaks and deep gorges. It inspired the “floating mountains” in the movie Avatar. Here, natural scenery and ethnic customs blend together, perfect for hiking, photography, and adventure, with highlights in every season! 🌄 Must-visit Attractions 1️⃣ Yuanjiajie: The prototype of the “Hallelujah Mountains” in the movie Avatar! Standing on the viewing platform, thousands of stone peaks rise sharply like cut by knives and axes, and when shrouded in mist, they seem to float in the air. 2️⃣ Tianzi Mountain: At an altitude of 1,262 meters, it offers an extremely broad view! You can see peak forests, sea of clouds, sunrise, and sunset all at once. Key spots include Helong Park and Yubi Peak (a stone peak shaped like an upright brush). 3️⃣ Jinbian Stream: A 7.5-kilometer-long canyon trail! Walking along the stream, you’ll see strange peaks and rocks on both sides, crystal-clear water, and may even encounter macaques. It’s great for an easy hike. 4️⃣ Ten-Mile Gallery: A 3-kilometer-long canyon trail! The stone peaks on both sides have various shapes. When riding the small train, the guide will tell legends like the “Herbalist Old Man” and the “Three Sisters Peaks.” 5️⃣ Tianmen Mountain: Famous for the “Heaven’s Gate” cave! Highlights include a winding mountain road with 99 bends, a staircase with 999 steps, and a glass skywalk. From the top, you can overlook the entire Zhangjiajie city. 6️⃣ Huanglong Cave: One of Asia’s largest karst caves! Inside are stalactites, stalagmites, and underground rivers intertwined. With lighting effects, it looks like an underground palace, perfect for adventure lovers. 7️⃣ Yangjiajie: More primitive than Yuanjiajie! The peak forest is denser, and the core attraction “Natural Great Wall” is a natural barrier formed by connected stone peaks, ideal for visitors who prefer less crowded routes. 8️⃣ Baofeng Lake: A high mountain lake! The water is clear like a mirror, reflecting the surrounding peak forest. When boating, you can hear Tujia sisters singing mountain songs in call-and-response. Food Recommendations 🐟 Sanxia Guo (Three-Ingredient Pot): Zhangjiajie’s signature dish! Cured meat, tofu, radish, and other ingredients are slow-cooked in a dry pot, spicy and flavorful, perfect with rice. 🍖 Tujia Steamed Pork: Fatty but not greasy pork belly steamed on a bed of dried beans or preserved vegetables, soft and tender, a must-have at Tujia banquets. 🌶️ Sour and Spicy Fish: Fresh small fish marinated with glutinous rice flour and chili, then deep-fried. The outside is crispy, inside sour and spicy, great as a drinking snack. 🍚 She Fan (Community Rice): Traditional Tujia dish! Glutinous rice mixed with wild mugwort and cured meat, steamed together, with a fresh wild vegetable aroma and rich taste. 🍯 Kudzu Root Powder: Local specialty! Made from wild kudzu root powder mixed with water, smooth and tender, can be sweetened with honey or sugar, relieves spiciness and is healthy. Transportation ✈️ Airplane: Fly to Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport, then take a taxi or airport shuttle bus (about 30 minutes) to the city or scenic area. 🚄 High-speed Rail: Arrive at Zhangjiajie West Station, then take a bus or taxi (about 20 minutes) to the city. To get to the scenic spots, take a tourist shuttle. 🚌 Scenic Area Transportation: • Forest Park Ticket Gate: Take an eco-friendly shuttle bus to various attractions (included in the ticket). • Tianmen Mountain: Take the cable car up and down (about 25 minutes one way) or take the scenic bus along the mountain road. • Huanglong Cave/Baofeng Lake: Need to take a dedicated shuttle or taxi from the city. Accommodation 🏨 City Hotels: Many options, prices range from 200 to 800 RMB per night, near bus or train stations, convenient for taking shuttle buses to scenic spots. 🏡 Wulingyuan Homestays: Near the Forest Park ticket gate, prices 150 to 500 RMB per night, walking distance to the scenic area, suitable for in-depth travel. 🏕️ Mountain Top Accommodation: No hotels on Tianmen Mountain summit, but there are a few guesthouses in the Forest Park at Tianzi Mountain and Yuanjiajie (basic conditions, need to book in advance). Tips 1️⃣ Buying combo tickets is more cost-effective: Zhangjiajie Forest Park tickets are valid for 4 days and include eco-friendly buses. Tianmen Mountain, Huanglong Cave, and other attractions require separate tickets. Check packages in advance. 2️⃣ Wear non-slip shoes: Many stone steps in the scenic area, slippery when wet. Wear sports shoes or hiking boots, avoid slippers or high heels. 3️⃣ Bring a raincoat: Mountain weather changes frequently and rain can come anytime. A raincoat is more convenient than an umbrella for hiking. 4️⃣ Visit during off-peak times: Before 7 AM or after 3 PM, fewer crowds, no queues for photos or cable cars. 5️⃣ Respect customs: Tujia and Miao ethnic areas. Avoid touching minority costumes or headwear casually, and ask permission before taking photos.

Zhangjiajie is one of the most magical places in China, where every location resembles a movie set. Start with Tianmen Mountain, known as "Heaven's Gate." It's home to the famous Tianmen Arch, reached by 999 steps. You can ascend the mountain on one of the longest cable cars in the world. Adrenaline junkies should consider walking across the Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge, suspended 300 meters above the canyon. At 430 meters long, it was the highest and longest glass bridge in the world. The transparent floor offers an indescribable experience. An equally impressive area is Yuanjiajie, home to the cliffs that inspired the creators of Avatar. Here, you should see the "First Bridge Under Heaven" and ride the Bailong Elevator, the tallest outdoor elevator in the world. And in the evening, check out the show "Fox Fairy of Tianmen Mountain"—a grand musical on an open-air stage at the foot of the mountain, where a love legend comes to life against a natural backdrop. #china #zhangjiajie #Hunan #Chinatravel #Zhangjiajie #Hunan

📍 Itinerary Overview Drop everything and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Zhangjiajie! Whether you’re chasing jaw-dropping mountain views or craving tasty eats, this trip is about to get seriously vibe-y. 💯 🚩 Sightseeing Route Kick things off at the famous Zhangjiajie National Forest Park— a fantasy landscape! Wulingyuan and its crazy-high peaks are a must-see. Take the cable car for those “wow” moments and explore the canyons wrapped in mist. Pro tip: Hit up the park early to catch the mountains absolutely glowing in the morning sunlight. That sunrise is next-level gorgeous! 🌄 🏖️ Must-Visit Attractions - Zhangjiajie National Forest Park (Eastern Gate entry recommended) - Tianmen Mountains - Golden Whip Stream (peaceful riverside walks with epic photo ops) 🚇 Transportation Getting around is a breeze! Local buses between hotspots, or grab a Didi if you’re feeling extra. 🚐 📷 Photo Spots You seriously can’t go wrong here—every angle is Insta-worthy. For major clout: - Sunrise at the mountain peaks (those morning rays hit different 🤩) - Misty canyon views (total cinematic vibes) - Tianmen Mountain - Golden Whip Stream bridges Don’t sleep on close-ups of fall leaves and foggy treetops—your feed will thank you. 🏠 Accommodation Zhangjiajie Ruyuan Homestay (Wulingyuan Landmark Store, National Forest Park) - Review: Location is clutch—right by the river and a quick walk to the park’s east gate and dining/shopping. The vibes are chill, quiet, and surrounded by insane mountain views. Super clean rooms, fresh air (no smoke smell, yay!), and mega hygiene with sanitized surfaces and disposable toiletries. Beds are super comfy, and the breakfast is superb. 💡 Tips - Dress for quick weather changes (layers = lifesaver). - Download offline maps just in case. Ready to level up your travel game? Zhangjiajie is calling—let’s go! 🚀

Day 1 Ballong Elevator: A 10-minute elevator ride takes you to the famous Mount Hallelujah (also known as the "Avatar Mountains"). Lost Soul Platform: A 20-minute walk takes you to the No. 1 Bridge Under Heaven. Tianzi Mountain: End the day enjoying the views from this majestic mountain. Day 2 Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon: Explore the picturesque canyon. Glass-bottomed Bridge: About 45 minutes by car. Walk across the famous glass bridge. Baofeng Lake: Visit this beautiful mountain lake. Day 3 Tianmen Mountain Scenic Area: Spend the day exploring this area with its famous cave and winding roads. Trip to Fenghuang: In the evening, take the high-speed train (1 hour) to Fenghuang Ancient Town. Day 4 (Explore Fenghuang) Seen Congwen Former Residence: Visit the famous writer's house museum. Hongqiao Bridge: A 10-minute walk from Shen Congwen's house. Yang Family Ancestral Hall: Another attraction within walking distance. Wanming Pagoda: End your walk at this pagoda. Save ✅#Zhangjiajie #AvatarMountains #China

In early November, we visited Tianmen Mountain, one of the most impressive attractions in China. We stayed in Zhangjiajie for four days, and during all those days, the weather was rainy and foggy, which only added to the mystical atmosphere of the place. We chose Route A. Currently, the second half of the cable car is under maintenance, so from the middle station, we were taken by bus directly to the base of the famous 'hole'—the Heavenly Gate of Tianmen. We managed to take a few photos before everything was enveloped in thick fog. Next, we ascended to the summit via escalators (paid, included in Route A at the moment), where the fog shrouded everything around. In November, this is said to be a common occurrence. We descended the 999 steps on foot—it took about 15 minutes, but due to the rain, the steps were wet and slippery, and it was already dark. Keep in mind: the steps are narrow, so you have to place your foot sideways. Currently, the descent from the mountain is done via a large cable car, and then a bus takes you back to the station where Route A begins. Despite the rain and fog, the atmosphere of Tianmen Mountain is mesmerizing—it's like stepping into another world 🌫️

Ready to step into Pandora? 🌿 Welcome to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, the breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Site that inspired the floating “Hallelujah Mountains” from Avatar. With over 3,000 sandstone pillars wrapped in mist, this park in China’s Hunan Province feels like stepping straight into another world. Top Spots to Visit: Zhangjiajie National Forest Park (Wulingyuan Scenic Area, Zhangjiajie City | Open 07:00–18:00 | ¥225 for a 4-day pass) Avatar Hallelujah Mountain: Visit the Yuanjiajie Scenic Area to witness the world-famous pillar that inspired Avatar — the views are absolutely surreal! Bailong Elevator: Ride the world’s tallest outdoor glass elevator, soaring 326 meters high for an epic panoramic view. Golden Whip Stream: Take a peaceful walk along crystal-clear waters surrounded by towering cliffs — keep your camera ready for wild monkeys! Tianzi Mountain: Hop on the cable car to reach the best viewpoints, where the misty peaks seem to float above the clouds. Yangjiajie Area: A hidden gem for those seeking tranquility and breathtaking natural rock formations away from the main crowds. Night View 🌌 Stay overnight in Wulingyuan Town to enjoy the park’s magical nighttime atmosphere. As mist rolls through the illuminated peaks, Zhangjiajie transforms into a mysterious wonderland — perfect for night photography or a quiet stroll near the park gates. Recommended Stay (West Gate Area): 🏨 Zhangjiajie Yuji Hotel – A top-rated boutique stay just minutes from the West Gate entrance of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. Guests love its cozy modern design, scenic mountain views, and easy park access. It’s ideal if you want to start your hike early or enjoy sunrise and sunset moments without long transfers. Travel Tips: Plan at least 2 full days — the park is massive with multiple scenic areas. Bring water and snacks; options inside are limited and pricey. Wear non-slip hiking shoes — expect lots of stairs and uneven trails. Best time to visit: April–October for clear skies and magical mist effects. Download the park map offline — phone signal can be weak. Getting There: From Zhangjiajie City, take a taxi or local bus to Wulingyuan Entrance Gate (about 40 minutes). Book tickets and accommodation in advance through Trip.com to save time and ensure availability during peak season. Food: After exploring, unwind in Wulingyuan Town with authentic Hunan cuisine — spicy tofu, smoked pork, and hotpot dishes are local favorites. Weather Tip: Even during summer, the temperature drops quickly at higher elevations. Pack a light jacket, especially if you plan to enjoy the sunset or night view. #ZhangjiajieNationalForestPark #AvatarMountains #Wulingyuan #ChinaTravel #Tripdotcom #NatureEscape #HunanTravel #ZhangjiajieYujiHotel #ChinaItinerary

#falladventures 📍 Location: Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park, Yongding District, Zhangjiajie, Hunan ⏰ Recommended duration: 4-6 hours ➡️ Go early to avoid the crowd! 💰 Tickets: RMB 278 (includes cable car) 👟 Note- ticket price excludes the Glass Skywalk shoe covers ¥5 ｜ Escalator ¥32 that cover the 999 stairs stretch if you choose not to climb. ✨ Best value route: A Line — cable car straight to the top + climb 999 steps (with paid escalator option) for an epic view with minimal effort. ⚠️ Book 3 days in advance via the official WeChat account. Bring your ID for super fast face-scan entry! 🌈 Top 5 Must-See Spots ① Tianmen Cave ☁️ The world’s highest natural mountain-through cave — walking through the mist feels like entering heaven’s gate! 🧗♀️ Climb up/down 999 steps for that iconic moment (or take the escalator if your legs give up 😅). Remember it’s a separate payment for this escalator not included in the Line A combo ticket price. If you choose Line A, you are climbing down. ② Glass Skywalk (East/West Trail) 👣 East route = fewer people & wilder views! Walk along a 60m transparent cliffside path. ③ Tianmen Mountain Cable Car 🚡 At 7,455m, it’s the longest in Asia — a 30-min ride through clouds, cliffs, and villages. 🎥 Grab a window seat! Perfect for cinematic vlog shots that feel like flying through the sky. ④ 99-Bend Tongtian Avenue 🚌 Known as the “Mountain of 99 Curves”! The bus ride feels like a real-life roller coaster 🎢 🌄 Best for drone or panorama shots — the view from the top is insane! ⑤ Yunmeng Fairy Peak 🌅 Highest point on Tianmen Mountain — reach out and touch the clouds! 🚠 Take the forest cable car (¥25 one-way) for relaxing, scenic vibes. 🚶♀️ Lazy Route Recommendation: A Line → Cable car up → West Glass Skywalk → Guigu Cliff Path → Tianmen Temple → Forest Cable Car → Yunmeng Peak → Escalator → Tianmen Cave → Fast Cable Car down

Zhangjiajie is like stepping into an enlarged natural bonsai, a magical journey of mountains, water, clouds, and rocks. This carefully prepared guide will help you explore Zhangjiajie without missing any breathtaking sights. Part One: Core Concepts and Itinerary First, distinguish the three main scenic areas: 1. Wulingyuan Scenic Area (Zhangjiajie National Forest Park): · Highlights: The inspiration for the Hallelujah Mountains in Avatar, the First Bridge Under Heaven, and filming locations for Journey to the West. This is the soul of Zhangjiajie and a must-visit! · Includes: Yuanjiajie, Yangjiajie, Tianzi Mountain, Huangshizhai, Jinbian Stream, Ten-Mile Gallery, etc. · Recommended visit: 2 days 2. Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park: · Highlights: Tianmen Cave, 99 Bends mountain road, glass skywalk, high-altitude cableway. The most thrilling and immersive experience. · Recommended visit: 1 day 3. Grand Canyon Scenic Area (including the Glass Bridge): · Highlights: Yuntian Du Glass Bridge—one of the highest and longest glass bridges in the world, canyon hiking. · Recommended visit: Half a day --- [4-Day Classic Panorama Tour] No backtracking This itinerary is the golden choice to experience the essence of Zhangjiajie, covering all three major scenic areas. Day 1: Arrive in Zhangjiajie → Check-in → Stroll around Xibu Old Street · Morning/Afternoon: Arrive at a hotel near Zhangjiajie city center or the Wulingyuan entrance. · Afternoon: If time permits, explore Xibu Old Street in Wulingyuan Town, taste local snacks, and recharge for tomorrow’s hike. · Accommodation suggestion: Near the Wulingyuan entrance for easy access to the park early next day. Day 2: Wulingyuan Core - Mountain Tour (Yuanjiajie + Tianzi Mountain) · Route: Enter from Wulingyuan entrance → Take the eco-bus to Bailong Elevator (optional but highly recommended) → Yuanjiajie (the core of the core: Maze Platform, Hallelujah Mountain, First Bridge Under Heaven) → Take eco-bus to Tianzi Mountain (Helong Park, Imperial Brush Peak, Fairy Offering Flowers) → Take Tianzi Mountain cableway (optional) down → Take eco-bus back to the entrance. · Core experience: The instant shock of the Bailong Elevator, overlooking the Avatar floating mountains from Yuanjiajie. · Dinner: Try authentic Tujia cuisine, such as Sanxia Guo (Three Down Pot). Day 3: Wulingyuan Core - Valley Tour (Jinbian Stream + Ten-Mile Gallery) → Head to city · Route: Enter from the Forest Park ticket gate → Hike Jinbian Stream (about 7.5 km, flat and easy, picturesque scenery) → Take eco-bus at Shui Rao Si Men to Ten-Mile Gallery (optional small train ride) → Exit the park. · Afternoon: Pick up luggage and transfer to Zhangjiajie city for check-in. · Core experience: The quiet coolness of Jinbian Stream and unexpected encounters with monkeys; the strange peaks and rocks of Ten-Mile Gallery. · ⚠️ Note: Today you enter from one gate and exit from another, so plan luggage storage and transportation in advance. Day 4: Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park → Return trip · Core: Choose Route A or B (cableway up/car down or car up/cableway down). · Route: Take the Tianmen Mountain cableway to the summit → Walk the west or east glass skywalk (shoe cover fee required) → Visit Guigu plank road → Take the mountain escalator down to Tianmen Cave → Hike down the 999 steps (or pay for escalator) → Take eco-bus to experience the 99 bends mountain road down. · Afternoon: End the trip and head to the airport/train station for departure. --- [3-Day Essential Tour] For tight schedules If time is limited, skip the Grand Canyon and focus on the core Wulingyuan and Tianmen Mountain. · Day 1: Same as Day 2 of the 4-day tour (Wulingyuan mountain tour). · Day 2: Same as Day 3 of the 4-day tour (Wulingyuan valley tour), overnight in the city. · Day 3: Same as Day 4 of the 4-day tour (Tianmen Mountain), depart in the afternoon. --- Part Two: Transportation, Tickets, and Accommodation · How to get there: · By plane: Arrive at Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport, about 10 km from the city. · By high-speed train/train: Arrive at Zhangjiajie West Station, about 10 km from the city. · Tickets (peak season reference): · Wulingyuan: 228 RMB (includes eco-bus, valid for 4 days). Bailong Elevator 65 RMB, Tianzi Mountain cableway 72 RMB, etc. · Tianmen Mountain: Starting at 278 RMB (includes cableway/eco-bus, timed tickets, book in advance!). · Grand Canyon + Glass Bridge: 219 RMB. · Accommodation options: · For Wulingyuan focus: Stay near the Wulingyuan entrance for easiest park access. · For Tianmen Mountain focus: Stay in Zhangjiajie city for more dining and entertainment options. --- Part Three: Food Experience · Sanxia Guo (Three Down Pot): Zhangjiajie’s signature dish, dry pot or soup pot with various ingredients stewed together, spicy and flavorful. · Tujia smoked bacon: Smoked and fragrant, enhances any dish. · Rock ear mushroom stewed with native chicken: Nutritious and delicious highland specialty soup. · Artemisia rice cake: Glutinous rice cake made with mugwort, fragrant and soft. --- Part Four: Pre-trip Must-Reads (Helpful TIPS) 1. Best seasons: · Spring (April-June): Mountain flowers bloom, misty clouds, dreamlike. · Autumn (September-November): Clear skies, colorful forests, best visibility. · Avoid major holidays like May Day and National Day for crowds and poor experience. 2. Clothing guide: · Mountain weather is changeable with big temperature differences between day and night. Comfortable hiking shoes are a must. · Sunscreen in summer, anti-slip and warm clothes in winter. Raincoats are more practical than umbrellas. 3. Other essentials: · ID card: Required for all tickets. · Power bank, some cash (signal may be unstable on the mountain), mosquito repellent, snacks, and water. Zhangjiajie is not an ordinary mountain; it is a geological legend carved by nature over millions of years. Take this guide and experience the breathtaking grandeur that reaches the clouds! Wishing you a pleasant journey filled with awe!

🌨️Tianmen Mountain Winter Snow Record｜The Happy Snow-Watching Home for Southerners 🌨️This winter, you must go to Tianmen Mountain to see the snow. Personally tested, the snowy wonderland after the snow is 10 times more beautiful than the pictures! Cliff rime, ice hanging at Tianmen Cave, here’s the essential guide, even beginners can easily take great photos✨ 🌟Post-snow exclusive scenic list - ✔️Tianmen Cave: The 999 steps are covered in white snow forming a "Heavenly Ladder," the "Tianmen Exhaling Mist" with clouds flowing out of the cave is a unique sight. When the sun shines through the cave after the snow, every shot is wallpaper-worthy. - ✔️Guigu Plank Road: The rime corridor on the cliff is breathtakingly beautiful, one side is a snow-covered cliff, the other side is a valley with rolling sea of clouds, endless photo opportunities. - ✔️Yunmeng Fairy Peak: The highest point of Tianmen Mountain, after snow you can overlook the entire "snow forest and sea of clouds." At sunrise, the rime glows golden, romantically heart-stirring. - ✔️Glass Plank Road: Underfoot is a vast white snowy valley, the plank road is covered with thin ice, thrilling and photogenic, holding the railing makes walking safer. 🚩Route & Transportation Pitfall Guide - ✔️Choose Route A for sure: Cable car up the mountain (28 minutes through clouds to enjoy snow) → West Line Glass Plank Road → Yunmeng Fairy Peak → Mountain escalator to Tianmen Cave → Environmental bus down, no detours, saves energy and sees more sights. - ✔️Major transport: Take high-speed train to Zhangjiajie West Station, then 20-minute taxi to the visitor center. Mountain roads can ice over in winter, do not drive yourself. - ✔️Time-saving tip: For Route A, book the 7-8 AM early shift to avoid crowds and grab the best spots. 📸Photo Tips for Great Shots ✅ Spot: At Tianmen Cave Plaza, find stone stools for low-angle shots (zoom in 2x on phone to avoid crowds), overlook the 99 bends snowy road from Panlong Cliff for great depth. ✅ Outfit: Choose 350g+ waterproof down jacket in red/yellow to stand out instantly against pure white snow, maximize photo layering. ✅ Technique: Friends squat low for upward shots, capture natural walking poses, rime as background acts like a built-in filter. ❗️Winter Survival Tips 1. Essential gear: Waterproof touchscreen gloves, anti-slip snow boots + crampons (10-15 RMB/pair in the park), hand warmers and phone warmers to prevent power loss. 2. Book tickets online 1 day in advance: Ticket + cable car combo about 278 RMB, half price for students, buying on site is more expensive and may be sold out. 3. Safety first: Icy steps are very slippery, "look at scenery don’t walk, walk don’t look at scenery," don’t expose food to avoid monkey theft. 4. Best time: Late December to mid-February. The snow-watching dream of southern kids, Tianmen Mountain really delivers! The shock of snow-covered peaks can only be understood by going there.

Day 2: Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge Vibes Checked out the iconic Zhangjiajie glass bridge and OMG, it’s like walking on air! The whole crew braved the cloudy, rainy weather—umbrellas out, but the views were still mind-blowing. This bridge is literally suspended over the Grand Canyon at Zhangjiajie National Forest Park (Address: Wulingyuan District, Zhangjiajie, Hunan, China; Park Hours: 7:00am–6:00pm), and even with the mist, you can see dramatic cliffs, endless trees, and rivers winding way below. Walk carefully, especially when the glass gets slick in the rain! The adrenaline + scenery = unreal. Also, life hack: Grab 2x small 🥟 (dumplings) and boom, you’re good for breakfast, lunch, AND dinner. Street food in the rain hits soooo good! Day 3: Tianmen Mountain (aka Heaven’s Gate) Took on Tianmen Mountain and the legendary 999 stairs to Heaven’s Gate. Full-on stair master challenge, trust me—your legs will feel it—but the epic views at the top are totally worth the climb! Cloudy skies made the whole vibe mysterious, with fog rolling over the cliffs. (Address: Tianmen Mountain, Yongding District, Zhangjiajie, Hunan, China; Cable Car Hours: 8:00am–5:30pm.) Don’t forget to snap a pic when you finally reach the top… if you’re not too out of breath 😂. Day 4: 72 Strange Buildings Nighttime adventures at the 72 Strange Buildings, which get seriously cool after dark—literally, pack layers because the mountain air is straight-up chilly 🥶! The entire area lights up, making the quirky architecture look totally magical under the cloudy skies. Located near Zhangjiajie city center, these buildings are a wild mix of design styles and the perfect spot for mysterious night vibes. Pro Tip: Plan your trip with trip.com to lock in the best deals for tickets and hotels in Zhangjiajie. The weather might be moody, but this place? Next-level unforgettable!

Sharing an honest review based on my actual experience after a 5-day trip to Zhangjiajie and Fenghuang Ancient Town. 🗓️Recommended Itinerary · Day 1: Climb Tianmen Mountain in Zhangjiajie → Explore Jiulu Night Street · Days 2-3: Full exploration of Tianmen Mountain (2 days required) · Day 4: Arrive at Fenghuang Ancient Town → Enjoy the night view · Day 5: Relax leisurely → Return home ⚠️Fenghuang Ancient Town Tips • Parking: Recommended to use the plaza parking lot at the entrance of the ancient town, as the internal roads are very narrow and traffic is congested. • Accommodation: · Many riverside accommodations, but there are many bugs (insect repellent is essential) · Recommended to find and negotiate directly on-site (around 200 yuan possible) • Commercialization: · Shops are densely packed, and restaurant conditions are not great · It might be better to enjoy simple street food • Traditional Costume Rental: · Night rental prices are cheaper · Nighttime photography has a better atmosphere, but securing a photo spot during peak season can be challenging 💡Overall Impression · Special Visit: Recommended to combine with nearby attractions rather than visiting alone · Best Visiting Time: Choose a less crowded period to avoid peak season The beautiful night views and unique atmosphere are charming, but the excessive commercialization and congestion should be taken into account.

Great hotel and super friendly owner. Mr. Li greeted us with a smile and is super friendly. He speaks minimal English and he did his best explaining the things we can do. He helped us to plan our Zhangjiajie National Park itinerary for 3 days. He even made the reservations for us and made arrangements for luggage forwarding to the train station. Made our trip so much easier and pleasant. Let's talk about the hotel. The lobby is slightly basic. They have a reading corner, tea drinking area, luggage drop off area and waiting area. The room is spacious and clean. Everything looks new and well maintained. The TV is huge has several local channels available. Wi-Fi is alright, we didn't use much as you still need your VPN. Bathroom is separate is clean and complete with the shampoo and body wash. Water pressure is good. Very good. No mini fridge in the room. You can do your own laundry on the roof top. Washing machine, detergent and drying area provided. The location on Google Maps is slightly off (The actual location is somewhere around Zhangjiajie Emperor Hotel on Google Map). It is actually located beside Suo River which flows from Zhangjiajie National Park and has several stone river crossings near the hotel. Speaking of location, it is a 30 mins walk to ZNP main entrance. 40 minutes drive to Zhangjiajie Airport, 10 minutes walk to the bus stop which we took to the glass bridge/canyon. Getting food and shop around this hotel is pretty easy. There are street food, restaurants (halal restaurant as well), cafes, convenient shops, traditional clothes rental, and Xibu Old Street. For full review, you can check out my YT channel Hotel Travelmania. #travel#couplestrip#thingstodo#familytravel#china

The Avatar Mountains are located in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park and can be reached by plane. For example, from Moscow, with a transfer via Shanghai, Beijing, Chengdu, and other cities. I'll say right away that besides the Avatar Mountains, there are many interesting things to see in this area, such as the Sky Arch or the Glass Bridge. All these locations are located in different parks and take a full day, so it's best to fly to Zhangjiajie for a week to take your time seeing everything. The Avatar Mountains are located in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. Admission is charged; people typically buy a four-day ticket for two for 10,000 rubles, but you can essentially see everything in one or two days at most. As for the park itself, it's very large, but the coolest location, where you can actually see the Avatar Mountains, is at the Tinqiao stop. I recommend staying there longer and taking it all in. All the other stops are demos. There are several entrances to the park, but the essence is the same everywhere, as the park is essentially a loop, and the buses run along almost the same route. I would recommend entering through the east gate from Wulingyuan Village. Buses run throughout the park, and at first it might be a bit confusing. You just board at various stops, and they'll take you to different locations, but at the end, you'll end up back where you started. We weren't very lucky, as we arrived at Avatar Mountain during Golden Week, and there were so many local tourists there that I didn't even realize where we were. We simply wandered around in the crowd, the noise was insane, and I didn't enjoy the place at all. I hope you have better luck. #zhangjiajie #China

The famous #zhangjiajie Heaven's Gate is located on Tianmen Mountain and is one of the places you can see on the mountain. Don't forget that there's an entrance fee, so it's best to bring your passport. The cable car that takes you up the mountain is located in the city of Zhangjiajie. Your journey begins there. Besides the Heaven's Gate, you can simply walk along the mountain, enjoy the stunning views from above, and also find a small glass bridge. Don't confuse it with another bridge, which is located in a different park called the Grand Canyon. If you want to see the large glass bridge, you'll need to go elsewhere. It's located in the Grand Canyon, while Tianmen Mountain offers the Heaven's Gate and other interesting sights.

October 11th - Avatar Park. We bought tickets at the box office to avoid any problems with entry (the price was 228 rubles for 4 days). Keep in mind that if you buy a ticket between 7 and 8 am, you must go through the turnstile at that time and through that entrance for all 4 days. You can negotiate entry with a receipt. We were at Entrance A. Tianzi Mountain (天子山) (天天). One-way cable car (816 rubles - bought on Trip.com). We ascended in thick fog. We hung out until 10:00 to see the mountains. Next is the 10 Mile Gallery (ShiLiHuaLang). In reality, the gallery is only 6 km long, running through a green valley; you need to climb some steps to get to it. Along the way, you'll see over 200 rocks of various shapes. We walked from the cable car to the gallery, which took us about three hours at a leisurely pace. Then we bought a ticket for the tourist train (431 rubles, bought it on Trip.com) and rode peacefully, with our child waiting for the train. 🙃 The route isn't overcrowded with tourists and is very scenic.

🗺️3-Day Tour of Zhangjiajie | Classic Combination of Wulingyuan and Tianmen Mountain・Suitable for All Groups 1. Introduction Explore Zhangjiajie in 3 days! Take your parents on a cable car ride to see the sea of clouds over the peak forest, challenge your heartbeat with friends on the glass plank road, and chase macaques with kids in the forest park. The itinerary balances activity and rest, enjoy spicy "Three Pot Stew" and kudzu root noodles to your heart’s content, the whole family will have a great time~ 2. 🗓️ Itinerary Overview D1: Arrive in Zhangjiajie → Zhangjiajie National Forest Park (Golden Whip Stream · Yuanjiajie) → Stay in the scenic area D2: Zhangjiajie National Forest Park (Tianzi Mountain · Ten-Mile Gallery) → Stay in the city D3: Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park → Return trip 3. Daily Detailed Plan 🏞️Day 1: Explore the Peak Forest · Seek the Quiet Valley 📍Zhangjiajie National Forest Park (5A) Highlights: "China’s first national forest park," with three thousand unique peaks rising abruptly. The Golden Whip Stream has clear water where you can see macaques and Chinese giant salamanders. Elderly can take the Bailong Elevator (72 RMB/person) directly to Yuanjiajie, saving effort and offering a stunning view. 🕙7:30-18:00 (Recommended to enter by 8:00 to avoid crowds) 💰225 RMB (includes ticket + eco-bus, valid for 4 days, free for seniors over 60 and children under 1.2 meters) 📸Photo spot: Yuanjiajie Qian Kun Pillar (the floating mountain prototype from "Avatar," viewing platform for panoramic peak forest shots) 🍖Lunch: "Mountain People’s Home" inside the park (about 50 RMB per person, recommended mildly spicy Three Pot Stew + steamed pumpkin, kid-friendly) 💡Tips: The Golden Whip Stream trail is 5.7 km long; with elderly, walk half the way (2 km to Zicao Pool and return); do not feed macaques to avoid scratches. 🗻Day 2: Tianzi Mountain Views · Stroll the Gallery 📍Tianzi Mountain (part of the forest park) Highlights: "An enlarged bonsai, a miniature fairyland," watch the sunrise over the peak forest at Helong Park (optional). Elderly can take the cable car (72 RMB/person) down for ease. 🕙7:30-18:00 (included in the ticket) 📸Photo spot: Tianzi Pavilion viewing platform (overlooking "Imperial Brush Peak," looks like a fairyland when shrouded in mist) 📍Ten-Mile Gallery Highlights: The canyon’s unique peaks resemble a painting. You can take a small train (38 RMB/person) or walk; both elderly and children find it easy. Along the way, the "Three Sisters Peaks" and "Herbalist" rock formations are very vivid. 🕙7:30-18:00 (small train 8:00-17:30) 🍜Dinner: "Master Hu’s Three Pot Stew" in the city (about 60 RMB per person, signature Three Pot Stew + kudzu root noodles, popular with locals) 💡Tips: Tianzi Mountain has many stairs; prioritize cable car for elderly. For Ten-Mile Gallery, buy a one-way train ticket (take the train there, walk back to enjoy details). ⛰️Day 3: Tianmen Cave Opens · Walk in the Clouds 📍Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park (5A) Highlights: Climb 999 steps to Tianmen Cave, take the world’s longest cable car (7,455 meters) for a bird’s-eye view of the city. The glass plank road (5 RMB/person for shoe covers) is thrilling; elderly can use the adjacent non-glass path. 🕙8:00-18:00 (recommended to go early at 8:00 to avoid cable car queues) 💰278 RMB (includes ticket + main cable car, half price for elderly/children) 📸Photo spot: Platform directly in front of Tianmen Cave (shoot the 999 steps + full view of Tianmen Cave, stand sideways to avoid backlight) 🍖Lunch: "Tianmen Food Court" inside the park (about 45 RMB per person, smoked meat with bracken + egg fried rice, moderate flavor) 💡Tips: Those afraid of heights can bypass the glass plank road; Tianmen Cave stairs are steep, elderly can take the elevator (32 RMB/person) directly to the cave entrance. 4. ✨Zhangjiajie Survival Guide 1️⃣Transportation: Taxi from city to forest park costs 30 RMB; Tianmen Mountain is within walking distance. Eco-buses inside the park are free and stop on request. For elderly and children, it’s recommended to stay one night inside the park to reduce back-and-forth travel. 2️⃣Clothing: In spring, wear a light jacket + sweater (temperature difference of 10℃+ between morning and night). In summer, short sleeves + sun protection clothing (strong UV in mountains). In autumn, windbreaker + long pants. Wear non-slip sports shoes (many stairs). 3️⃣Prohibitions: No smoking inside the forest park (important for fire prevention); no leaning on railings on Tianmen Mountain plank road; avoid buying overpriced souvenirs at the park entrance, city supermarkets are more affordable. 4️⃣Accommodation: Stay inside the forest park on Day 1 (e.g., Bajie Youth Hostel, 300-400 RMB/night, near eco-bus station), stay near the train station in the city on Day 2 (e.g., Vienna Hotel, 400-500 RMB/night, with family rooms). 5. 🛍️Must-Buy Souvenirs ①Zhangjiajie Kudzu Root Noodles (40 RMB/bag, easy to prepare, suitable for elderly and children) ②Vacuum-packed Xiangxi smoked meat (60 RMB/jin, farmhouse flavor, great for cooking) ③Tianmen Mountain cultural keychain (25 RMB each, printed with Tianmen Cave pattern, good for gifts) ④Dried kiwi fruit (30 RMB/bag, sweet and sour, no additives) 6. Closing Interaction The beauty of Zhangjiajie is the grandeur of peaks piercing the clouds, the liveliness of streams winding around rocks, and the heartbeat on the glass plank road. If you come, would you most want to take your parents on the cable car to see the sea of clouds, or challenge the glass plank road with friends?

The Perfect Stress-Free Itinerary 🪐 Many believe that one day in Zhangjiajie is not enough to see anything. That’s a myth! This tried-and-tested itinerary will allow you to cover all the main 'Avatar' views and return before dark. 🚀 'Anti-Crowd' Itinerary for 1 Day: ⏰ 7:30 - MORNING: BEAT THE CROWD · Entrance: Not through the main one! Take a taxi to the South Entrance (Zimugyang Entrance). · First stop: Head straight to the Bailong Elevator (百龙天梯) without delay. You’ll be among the first to reach the top while the crowds are still arriving at the main entrance. ⏰ 9:00 - 12:00: THE TOP OF AVATAR’S WORLD · 'Avatar Hallelujah' Viewpoint: From the elevator, walk 10 minutes to the Yuanjiajie platform — the iconic spot with floating pillar-like mountains from the movie poster. Capture your main shots here! · Transfer: Take the park bus to the Yangjiajie stop. The views here are even grander, and there are fewer people. ⏰ 12:00 - 14:00: LUNCH AND REST · Snack break: In the Tianzi Mountain area, there are cafes and food stalls. Prices are high, so it’s better to bring sandwiches/fruits with you. ⏰ 14:00 - 16:00: DESCENT INTO THE CANYON · Cable car: At Yangjiajie, take the Yangjiajie Cable Car for a breathtaking descent and fantastic views. · Walk along the bottom: Enjoy an easy and scenic walk through the Golden Whip Stream Canyon. Follow the trail for about 1.5-2 km — it’s the most accessible and beautiful section. ⏰ 16:30 - EXIT · Finish: The trail will lead you to the Main Entrance (Wulingyuan Entrance), from where you can easily take a taxi or bus back to the city. 💡 Pro Tips: · Download the park map offline! The signage can sometimes be confusing. · Carry water and sunscreen. The trails can get quite warm. Ready for an adventure? This itinerary is your key to the magic of Pandora on Earth! 🎢