Top Things to Do in Zhangjiajie: Scenic Tour in China
By Martina
If you’ve ever dreamt of stepping into a real-life Pandora from the movie Avatar, then this is your destination. Trust me, the towering sandstone pillars, often shrouded in mist, are even more surreal in person than any film can capture. I’ve been fortunate enough to explore this incredible region not just once, and I’m here to give you my personal take on the absolute best things to do in Zhangjiajie, complete with practical tips to make your Zhangjiajie travel truly unforgettable.
Explore Zhangjiajie National Forest Park – The Heart of the Scenery
Let’s start with the undisputed star: Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. This is the heart of the “Avatar Mountains” and a UNESCO Global Geopark. When you arrive, you’ll immediately understand why. The sheer scale and unique geological formations are unlike anything else on Earth. The park is vast, covering multiple scenic areas, each offering distinct perspectives of its towering pillars and lush valleys.
Yuanjiajie Scenic Area
Yuanjiajie is arguably the most famous section, home to the ‘Avatar Hallelujah Mountains’ themselves. The views here are simply astounding; you’ll find yourself constantly reaching for your camera!
- Bailong Elevator: This outdoor glass elevator is an experience in itself, whisking you up the side of a cliff in mere minutes. It’s the fastest way to reach Yuanjiajie from the base. My tip: take it at least one way.
- First Bridge Under Heaven: A natural bridge connecting two peaks, offering incredible panoramic vistas.
- Mihun Terrace (Enchanting Stage): My personal favorite viewpoint in Yuanjiajie. On a misty day, it feels like the peaks are truly floating. It’s magical.
Hiking the Golden Whip Stream
After the grandeur of the peaks, the Golden Whip Stream offers a tranquil escape. This 7.5-kilometer hiking trail winds along a crystal-clear stream, flanked by lush greenery and unique rock formations. My expert tip: This is a relatively flat and easy walk, making it a perfect change of pace from the uphill climbs. It’s also a great spot to see wild monkeys – just be mindful of your belongings!
Enjoy the Serenity of Tianzi Mountain
Tianzi Mountain (Tianzishan) offers a different perspective of the sandstone pillars, often blanketed in a mystical “sea of clouds” (yun hai), especially after rainfall. It’s a truly serene experience, particularly at sunrise.
- Imperial Writing Brush Peaks: These slender, upright peaks resemble traditional Chinese writing brushes, a distinctive and beautiful sight.
- Helong Park: Offers expansive views of the surrounding landscape and a statue of Marshal He Long.
Walk the World-Famous Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge
If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon is where you’ll find it. Its main draw is the record-breaking Glass Bridge, suspended high above the canyon floor. Spanning 430 meters long and 300 meters above the canyon floor, this engineering marvel offers breathtaking views, though it’s not for the faint-hearted. My advice: Buy your tickets for the Glass Bridge well in advance, especially during peak season, as they can sell out. The canyon also offers ziplines and hiking trails, which I found to be a great combination for a half-day adventure.
Discover the Mystical Tianmen Mountain
Tianmen Mountain is famous for its massive natural arch, Tianmen Cave, and the thrilling 99-Bend Road leading up. The cable car ride from Zhangjiajie city to the top is one of the longest in the world—about 30 minutes with incredible aerial views.
My Tips:
- Wear layers. Temperatures at the top can be cooler.
- Try the cliff-hanging glass walkway if you love an adrenaline rush.
- Avoid foggy days if you want clear photos.
Take a Leisurely Cruise on Baofeng Lake
For a relaxing experience, take a boat ride on Baofeng Lake. Surrounded by lush mountains and waterfalls, the lake is a picturesque spot to unwind. It’s also a great way to see the region’s natural beauty from a different perspective. My advice: Go late afternoon for softer light and smaller groups, and don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning reflections.
Explore Yellow Dragon Cave
For a change of scenery, visit the Yellow Dragon Cave. It’s a massive karst cave system with impressive stalagmites, underground streams, and even boat rides. It’s a magical experience and a nice break from the outdoor hiking, especially on a rainy day. Guided tours usually last about 2 hours, and I recommend bringing a light jacket, as the temperature inside is much cooler than outside year-round.
Experience Tujia Traditions
Zhangjiajie is home to the Tujia minority group, and experiencing their culture is a must. Visit a local Tujia village to learn about their customs, try traditional food, and watch a folk dance performance. It’s a great way to connect with the local community and add depth to your trip. While in the city area, take some time to admire the unique architecture, like the 72-floor Tujia-stilted building, which showcases the local ethnic style.
