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Zhangjiajie, China

Destination Guide

Zhangjiajie

China

Best things to do in Zhangjiajie

20 curated attractions in Zhangjiajie, China. Handpicked for every kind of traveler.

Best time

April - June, September - October

Average temp

20°C/68°F

Budget

Mid-range

Safety

Very safe

About Zhangjiajie

Zhangjiajie is famous for its towering sandstone pillars which inspired the floating mountains in the film Avatar. The city is surrounded by the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, where the pillars rise dramatically from the forest floor, creating an extraordinary natural landscape that draws tourists worldwide. This unique topography led to the development of various attractions, including the world's longest and highest glass bridge and the Bailong Elevator, which claims to be the highest outdoor lift. Visitors come primarily to hike through the scenic areas and experience the natural beauty, punctuated by cultural performances such as the Tianmen Fox Fairy Show. While it has modern amenities, the lush greenery and surreal rock formations remain the main draw.

Who it's for

Hikers and nature lovers will find plenty to enjoy, especially if they appreciate striking views. However, it might not suit those seeking historical sites or urban exploration, as the primary focus is on the dramatic landscape and outdoor activities. Expect crowds at popular spots, especially during peak seasons.

Getting around

Public transport: Good

  • The Zhangjiajie National Forest Park can take a full day to explore, with various trails and viewpoints
  • Public transport is reliable, with buses running frequently to major attractions
  • Tianmen Mountain is about a 30-minute ride from the city center
  • The glass bridge and Bailong Elevator are best accessed early in the day to avoid long lines
Furong Town

Furong Town

Historical
72 Odds Building

72 Odds Building

Modern architecture & skyscrapers
Yellow Dragon Cave

Yellow Dragon Cave

Caves & cenotes
Huangshi Village Scenic Area

Huangshi Village Scenic Area

Scenic viewpoints
Bailong Elevator

Bailong Elevator

Observation decks & city views
Baofeng Lake

Baofeng Lake

Natural Wonders
Jade Museum

Jade Museum

Specialty & quirky museums
Laowuchang Village

Laowuchang Village

Traditional villages
Bailong Cave

Bailong Cave

Caves & cenotes
Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park

Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park

National parks & nature reserves
Tianmen Mountain

Tianmen Mountain

Mountains & volcanoes
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

National parks & nature reserves
Tianmen Mountain Cableway

Tianmen Mountain Cableway

Observation decks & city views
Yangjiajie Scenic Area

Yangjiajie Scenic Area

Mountains & volcanoes
Tianzi Mountain Nature Reserve

Tianzi Mountain Nature Reserve

Mountains & volcanoes
Yuanjiajie Scenic Area

Yuanjiajie Scenic Area

Mountains & volcanoes
Tianmen Cave (Heaven's Gate)

Tianmen Cave (Heaven's Gate)

Mountains & volcanoes
Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge

Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge

Bridges
Glass Skywalk at Tianmen Mountain

Glass Skywalk at Tianmen Mountain

Bridges
Glass Bridge at Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon

Glass Bridge at Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon

Bridges

Things to do in Zhangjiajie

Tours, cruises and experiences, rather than places to visit.

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