Zhangjiajie, located in Hunan Province, is one of China’s most stunning natural wonders. Known for its towering sandstone pillars, lush forests, and breathtaking landscapes, the park’s unique landscape was formed over millions of years through erosion and weathering, creating a surreal and otherworldly environment.
Zhangjiajie inspired the floating Hallelujah Mountains in the movie “Avatar”. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a paradise for nature lovers, hikers, and photographers.
Explore the park’s many hiking trails, take the Bailong Elevator (the world’s tallest outdoor elevator), and enjoy panoramic views from the Yuanjiajie Scenic Area. The park is also home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including rare species such as the Chinese giant salamander and the clouded leopard.
What you need to travel to Zhangjiajie
Hotels & Flight Tickets
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Discounted Air Tickets:
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Transportation from DYG Airport to Zhangjiajie
Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport is located 10 km (6 miles) from downtown Zhangjiajie and 30 km (19 miles) from the Wulingyuan Scenic Area (gateway to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park). Here are the best ways to reach your destination:
Airport Shuttle Bus
Route: Connects the airport to Downtown Zhangjiajie (near the railway station) and Wulingyuan District (closest to the national park).
Cost: To downtown: 5–10 RMB (~$1–2 USD) / To Wulingyuan: 20–30 RMB (~$3–5 USD)
Travel Time: Downtown: 20–30 minutes / Wulingyuan: 40–50 minutes
Frequency: Every 30–60 minutes (06:30 – 20:30).
How to Board: Look for shuttle bus signs in the arrivals hall.
Taxi
Cost: To downtown: 30–50 RMB (~$5–8 USD) / To Wulingyuan: 80–120 RMB (~$12–18 USD)
Travel Time: Downtown: 15–20 minutes / Wulingyuan: 30–40 minutes
Insist on using the meter (Or agree on a price beforehand).
Have your hotel address written in Chinese to show the driver.
Ride-Hailing (Didi Chuxing)
App: Didi (China’s Uber) is available but may require a Chinese phone number.
Cost: Similar to taxis (Slightly cheaper).
How to Book: Download the Didi app (Set up Alipay/WeChat Pay for payment).
Public Bus (Budget Option)
Route: Bus 4路 (Bus #4) runs from the airport to downtown Zhangjiajie.
Cost: 2 RMB (~$0.30 USD).
Travel Time: 30–40 minutes.
Frequency: Every 15–20 minutes (06:30 – 21:00).
For ease and speed, taxis or shuttle buses are the best options. If heading straight to the national park, take the shuttle to Wulingyuan or book a private transfer.
Best Time to Visit Zhangjiajie
Zhangjiajie’s stunning landscapes are worth visiting year-round, but the ideal time depends on your preferences for weather, crowds, and scenery.
Spring (April–June)
Weather: Mild (15–25°C / 59–77°F) with occasional rain.
Pros: Lush greenery and blooming flowers. Fewer crowds compared to summer. Perfect for hiking and photography.
Cons: Rain showers may cause fog, obscuring views.
Summer (July–August)
Weather: Warm to hot (25–35°C / 77–95°F) and humid.
Pros: Clear skies and vibrant landscapes. Longer daylight hours for exploration.
Cons: Peak tourist season (crowded). Higher accommodation prices.
Autumn (September–November)
Weather: Cool and dry (10–20°C / 50–68°F).
Pros: Comfortable temperatures for hiking. Stunning autumn foliage (especially in October). Fewer tourists.
Cons: Cooler evenings.
Winter (December–February)
Weather: Cold (0–10°C / 32–50°F), occasional snow.
Pros: Snow-dusted peaks create a magical vibe. Lowest tourist numbers and cheapest prices.
Cons: Some trails may be icy or closed. Shorter daylight hours.
Key Considerations
Avoid National Holidays (e.g., Chinese New Year, Golden Week in October) due to extreme crowds.
Shoulder Seasons (April–May and September–October) offer the best balance of weather and fewer tourists.
Fog & Rain: Common in spring and summer; can obscure views but add a mystical vibe.
For the best overall experience, visit in September – October or April – May when the weather is pleasant and the scenery is at its peak!
Tianmen Mountain (Heaven’s Gate Mountain)
Tianmen Mountain is famous for its natural Tianmen Cave (Heaven’s Gate), a massive hole in the mountain that can be reached via the Tianmen Mountain Cableway, one of the longest cableways in the world. The mountain also features the Glass Skywalk, a thrilling cliffside walkway with stunning views, and the 99-Bend Road, a winding road that leads to the mountain’s summit.
Tianmen Mountain is steeped in legend and history, with the cave said to have formed when a massive rock fell from the mountain, creating a gateway to heaven. You can explore the mountain’s many trails, visit the Tianmen Temple, and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Address: Tianmen Mountain National Park, Yongding District, Zhangjiajie, Hunan.
Opening Hours: 08:00 – 17:00
Tianzi Mountain
Tianzi Mountain is known for its dramatic peaks, deep valleys, and stunning views. The mountain is named after Xiang Dakun, a local farmer who led a successful rebellion and called himself “Tianzi” (Son of Heaven). Take the Tianzi Mountain Cableway to the summit and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
The mountain is especially beautiful at sunrise when the peaks are shrouded in mist. The mountain is also home to several scenic spots, including the Imperial Brush Peak, which resembles a giant brush used by an emperor, and the Fairy Maiden Scattering Flowers, a rock formation that resembles a maiden scattering flowers.
Address: Tianzi Mountain, Wulingyuan District, Zhangjiajie, Hunan.
Opening Hours: 07:00 – 18:00
Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon and Glass Bridge
The Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon is home to the world’s longest and highest glass-bottom bridge, spanning 430 meters in length and 300 meters in height. The bridge offers breathtaking views of the canyon below and is a must-visit for thrill-seekers. The canyon itself features lush forests, waterfalls, and crystal-clear streams, making it a great destination for hiking and nature exploration.
The Grand Canyon is also home to several scenic spots, including the One-Line Sky, a narrow gorge with towering cliffs on either side, and the Heavenly Ladder, a steep staircase that leads to the canyon floor.
Address: Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon, Cili County, Zhangjiajie, Hunan.
Opening Hours: 07:30 – 17:00
Baofeng Lake
Baofeng Lake is a serene and picturesque lake surrounded by towering cliffs and lush forests. Visitors can take a boat ride on the lake, enjoy traditional folk performances, and take in the stunning scenery. The lake is especially beautiful in the early morning or late afternoon when the light reflects off the water and illuminates the surrounding landscape.
The lake is also home to several scenic spots, including the Baofeng Waterfall, which cascades down the cliffs into the lake, and the Immortal Bridge, a natural stone arch that spans the lake.
Address: Baofeng Lake, Wulingyuan District, Zhangjiajie, Hunan.
Opening Hours: 07:30 – 17:00
Yellow Dragon Cave (Huanglong Cave)
Yellow Dragon Cave is one of the largest and most impressive karst caves in China. The cave features stunning stalactites, stalagmites, underground rivers, and waterfalls. Visitors can take a boat ride through the cave’s underground river and explore its many chambers, including the Dragon Palace, which is illuminated with colorful lights.
The cave is also home to several unique rock formations, such as the Stone Flower Garden and the Crystal Palace, which are said to resemble flowers and crystals. The cave’s cool and humid environment makes it a refreshing escape from the summer heat.
Address: Suoxiyu Town, Wulingyuan District, Zhangjiajie, Hunan.
Opening Hours: 08:00 – 17:30
Yellow Stone Village (Huangshi Village)
Yellow Stone Village is one of the best spots in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park for panoramic views of the sandstone pillars. It is accessible via a cable car or a challenging hike. Once at the top, explore the many viewing platforms and enjoy the stunning scenery. The village is especially beautiful at sunset when the light casts a golden glow over the peaks.
The village is also home to several scenic spots, including the Five-Finger Peak, which resembles five fingers reaching towards the sky, and the Golden Turtle Watching the Sea, a rock formation that resembles a turtle gazing out over the landscape.
Address: Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Wulingyuan District, Zhangjiajie, Hunan.
Opening Hours: 07:00 – 18:00
Zhangjiajie is a destination that offers something for everyone, from thrilling adventures to serene landscapes. Whether you’re hiking through the Avatar Mountains, walking on the glass bridge, or exploring ancient caves, Zhangjiajie promises an unforgettable experience!
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