Towering sandstone pillars and dense forests inspired the floating mountains in Avatar. This national park in Hunan Province draws many visitors to its glass bridges and cable cars.
In China's Hunan Province, thousands of sandstone pillars pierce through the mist in Zhangjiajie. You'll walk across glass-bottomed bridges suspended hundreds of meters above valleys, ride the world's tallest outdoor elevator, and hike beneath towering quartzite peaks that reach heights of over 1,000 meters. The landscape gained international recognition when it inspired the floating mountains in the movie Avatar, leading to one peak being renamed Avatar Hallelujah Mountain.
Getting to Zhangjiajie
Fly to Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport from Beijing (2.5 hours) or Shanghai (2 hours). The airport lies 5 km from downtown. Take high-speed trains from Changsha (2.5 hours), Guangzhou (6 hours), or Hong Kong (6.5 hours). Trains arrive at either the central Zhangjiajie station or Zhangjiajie West station.
Exploring the National Forest Park
The park's sections each showcase distinct rock formations. In Yuanjiajie, you'll find the Avatar Mountain rising 1,074 meters from the valley floor. Walk through Tianzi Mountain area for panoramic views across hundreds of peaks, particularly striking when morning mist rolls through. Buy a three-day pass for 260 RMB (March-November). Ride free shuttle buses between sections, with separate fees for cable cars.
Mountain Adventures and Glass Bridges
Walk across the 430-meter Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge, suspended high above the valley floor. At Tianmen Mountain, step onto glass walkways built into cliff faces, then take a 25-minute cable car ride to Heaven's Gate - a natural arch in the mountain. The access road winds up through 99 hairpin turns.
Best Seasons to Visit
Visit in September-October for 20°C temperatures and clear skies, but expect more tourists. April-May brings similar weather with fewer crowds and misty morning views. Winter temperatures drop below 0°C, creating occasional snow-covered peaks and lower hotel prices.
Hiking Through the Valleys
Walk the 7.5-kilometer Golden Whip Stream trail beneath towering peaks and through bamboo forests. Climb the Yellow Stone Village trail's stone steps for elevated views of the formations. Each trail takes 3-4 hours. Wear hiking boots with good grip - the paths become slick after rain.
Local Food and Markets
Try Tujia specialties like blood rice cakes, smoked bacon with dried radish, and rice wine-soaked river fish in Wulingyuan town. Browse the Xibu Street night market for spicy tofu, grilled mushrooms, and rice noodles. Most signs appear only in Chinese. Restaurants near the park entrance often adjust spice levels for international visitors.
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