Things To Do
in Zhangjiajie
Zhangjiajie, located in the Hunan province of China, is renowned for its stunning sandstone pillars that inspired the floating mountains in the film Avatar. The area is part of the Wulingyuan Scenic Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which features diverse ecosystems and breathtaking landscapes. Visitors can explore its majestic natural beauty through numerous hiking trails and cable cars.
The region is also rich in local culture and traditions, making it a fascinating destination for travelers.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day early with a visit to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. Take the scenic cable car to Tianzi Mountain to capture panoramic views of the unique rock formations.
Hike through the park along the Golden Whip Stream trail to enjoy the stunning landscapes and diverse flora and fauna. Stop for lunch at a local restaurant within the park.
Return to the city and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Conclude your evening with a stroll through the Zhangjiajie city center and savor some street food.
Visit Tianmen Mountain, where you can take the longest cable car ride in the world to the summit. Once there, walk the famous glass skywalk for breathtaking views.
Explore the Tianmen Mountain Temple and enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the scenic spots. Spend the afternoon visiting the Zhangjiajie Museum to learn about the local culture and history.
Have dinner at a well-reviewed restaurant in the city. Experience a local cultural performance showcasing Hunan traditions.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at Local Restaurant | $5-$10 |
| 🏨Budget Hotel Night | $20-$40 |
| 🚕Taxi Ride | $3-$10 |
| 🚌Bus Ticket | $1 |
| 🍧Street Food Snack | $1-$3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural landscapes and unique rock formations.
- Rich cultural experiences and delicious local cuisine.
- Numerous outdoor activities for adventure enthusiasts.
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities.
- Language barrier may pose challenges for non-Mandarin speakers.
- Crowds can be overwhelming during peak tourist seasons.
- "你好" - Hello
- "谢谢" - Thank you
- "请问洗手间在哪里？" - Excuse me, where is the restroom?
- "我想要这个" - I would like this.
- "太贵了" - Too expensive.
Places to Visit in Zhangjiajie
Visit one of these nice places.
Known for its breathtaking views of pillar-like formations, ideal for capturing sunrise and sunset.
An exhilarating spot to take photos with a stunning backdrop of the cliffside and valley below.
A picturesque trail with beautiful rock formations and lush greenery, perfect for nature photography.
Food in Zhangjiajie
Zhangjiajie Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A local specialty featuring fish cooked with a variety of spices and chili, reflecting the bold flavors of Hunan cuisine.
Must-Try!
A traditional dish where tofu is smoked and served with spicy dipping sauce, popular among locals.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering a variety of street food including skewered meats, dumplings, and local snacks.
Famous for its numerous food stalls where visitors can taste local delicacies and fresh produce.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Avoid littering and follow park rules to preserve the natural beauty of the area.
Use polite language and greetings when interacting with locals. A smile goes a long way.
When dining, wait for the host to start the meal, and it's customary to share dishes among the group.
Safety
Tipping in Zhangjiajie
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in China, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated.
Mobile payment apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used. Cash is less common; ensure you have a local payment method.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Temperatures range from 10-20°C (50-68°F) with blooming flowers, making it ideal for hiking and outdoor activities.
Hot and humid, with temperatures reaching up to 30°C (86°F). Be prepared for occasional rain.
Mild weather and stunning fall foliage, perfect for photography. Temperatures range from 15-25°C (59-77°F).
Cold temperatures around 0-10°C (32-50°F) with occasional snow. The landscape turns magical with frost.
Zhangjiajie at Night
Hiking in Zhangjiajie
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic 7.5 km trail that follows the Golden Whip Stream, showcasing stunning views and rich biodiversity.
Features a thrilling hike across the world's longest and highest glass bridge, with breathtaking views of the canyon below.
Airports
How to reach Zhangjiajie by plane.
Located approximately 30 kilometers from the city center, this airport offers domestic flights to major cities and is the primary gateway for visitors.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A local ethnic minority known for their unique culture, language, and traditional clothing.
The majority ethnic group in China, comprising a significant portion of the population in Zhangjiajie.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and popular among the youth, with many local courts available.
Traditional Chinese martial arts are practiced in the region, reflecting the cultural heritage.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Zhangjiajie.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check with the staff about meat broth or fish sauce.
Gluten-free options may be limited; it's recommended to carry gluten-free snacks and inquire about ingredients.