Zhangjiajie, located in Hunan Province, is a dream destination for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers. Known for its surreal sandstone pillars, lush valleys, and cloud-kissed peaks, Zhangjiajie inspired the floating mountains in James Cameron’s Avatar and continues to mesmerize travelers with its mystical landscapes. Here’s your complete guide to the most famous attractions in Zhangjiajie.
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park – China’s First UNESCO World Heritage Site
The Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is the heart of the Wulingyuan Scenic Area and was China’s first national forest park, designated in 1982. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is best known for its thousands of towering quartz-sandstone pillars, some reaching over 200 meters high, wrapped in mist and greenery.
Popular scenic areas within the park include:
- Golden Whip Stream
- Yuanjiajie Scenic Area
- Tianzi Mountain
- Huangshi Village
Hiking, photography, and cable car rides are popular here, with well-maintained walking paths and shuttle buses that make exploring the vast park convenient.
Tianzi Mountain – The Monarch of the Peaks
Located in the northern part of the park, Tianzi Mountain (meaning “Son of Heaven”) offers panoramic views of mist-covered peaks, creating a fairytale-like setting. The mountain’s scenic platform provides one of the best aerial perspectives of Zhangjiajie’s spires.
Must-see spots at Tianzi Mountain include:
- Yubi Peak (Emperor’s Writing Brush Peak)
- Helong Park
- Shentang Gulf
Take the Tianzi Mountain cable car for a breathtaking ride above deep ravines and pinnacles. Early morning is ideal to catch the sea of clouds and sunrise.
Golden Whip Stream – A Peaceful Walk Through Nature’s Gallery
For a more tranquil experience, head to Golden Whip Stream. This 7.5-kilometre walking path runs through lush forests and alongside crystal-clear waters, flanked by towering cliffs and oddly shaped peaks.
Highlights include:
- Golden Whip Rock
- Mother and Child Peak
- Camel Peak
Keep an eye out for macaque monkeys, butterflies, and birds. The trail is relatively flat and suitable for all fitness levels. It’s one of the most peaceful and photogenic walks in Zhangjiajie.
Yuanjiajie Scenic Area – Avatar’s Floating Mountains Come to Life
Yuanjiajie is perhaps the most iconic part of Zhangjiajie, thanks to its Hallelujah Mountain, which inspired the floating peaks in the movie Avatar. The otherworldly rock formations here seem to defy gravity.
Top sights:
- Avatar Hallelujah Mountain
- The First Bridge Under Heaven – the highest natural bridge in the world
- Back Garden – a maze of forested spires
You can access this area via the Bailong Elevator, a thrilling glass lift that climbs 326 meters up a cliff face, offering jaw-dropping views.
Huangshi Village – Spectacular Views Without the Crowds
Often overlooked by visitors, Huangshi Village (Yellow Stone Village) provides some of the most panoramic views in the park. Located at an elevation of over 1,200 meters, it features a peaceful walking trail around the mountain top.
Highlights include:
- Five-Finger Peak
- Natural Stone Fortress
- Trail of 10 Miles Gallery
This area is great for photography, especially at sunrise and sunset, and is accessible by cable car or footpath.
Heaven’s Gate (Tianmen Mountain) – Sky-High Adventure Awaits
Located in downtown Zhangjiajie City, Tianmen Mountain is a separate destination but a must-visit attraction. Known for its natural arch cave, called Heaven’s Gate, and the thrilling cliff-hugging glass skywalk, it offers adrenaline-pumping experiences alongside spiritual beauty.
Attractions at Tianmen Mountain:
- Tianmen Cave – A 131-meter-high natural rock arch
- 99-Bend Road – A twisting mountain road with dramatic curves
- Glass Skywalk – A transparent path clinging to the mountain edge
- World’s Longest Cable Car Ride – A 7.5 km journey from the city to the peak
Tianmen Mountain provides a different but equally mesmerizing perspective on the Zhangjiajie region.
