Things To Do
in Zhangjiazhuang

Zhangjiajie is a stunning city located in the Hunan province of China, renowned for its unique sandstone pillars and breathtaking natural scenery. The city serves as a gateway to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, famous for inspiring the floating Hallelujah Mountains in the film Avatar. Visitors can explore its rich cultural heritage, featuring traditional Tujia architecture and vibrant local customs.

With a pleasant climate and welcoming atmosphere, Zhangjiajie attracts nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, where you can take the iconic cable car to Tianmen Mountain for spectacular views.

afternoon
:

After lunch, hike through the park, visiting the Golden Whip Stream and the famous Avatar Hallelujah Mountain.

evening
:

Enjoy a local dinner at a Tujia restaurant and then take a stroll along the lively streets of Zhangjiajie.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion and Scenic Views
morning
:

Visit the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon and experience the glass bridge, the longest and highest in the world.

afternoon
:

Explore the Tujia Folk Customs Park, learning about local traditions and crafts.

evening
:

Conclude your visit with a night market tour, sampling street food and buying souvenirs.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of Noodles$2
🥡Takeout Meal$5
🚌Public Transport Ticket$0.50
🍺Local Beer$2
🏨Budget Accommodation (per night)$15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and unique rock formations.
  • Rich cultural experiences with local traditions and cuisine.
  • Wide range of outdoor activities for adventure seekers.
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons.
  • Language barrier may pose challenges for non-Chinese speakers.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • "你好" - Hello
  • "谢谢" - Thank you
  • "我不懂" - I don't understand
  • "多少钱?" - How much is this?
  • "厕所在哪里?" - Where is the restroom?

Places to Visit in Zhangjiazhuang

Visit one of these nice places.

Tianmen Mountain

Known for its stunning views and the iconic natural arch, the mountain offers breathtaking landscape photography opportunities.

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

With its towering sandstone pillars and lush greenery, this park is a paradise for landscape photographers.

Golden Whip Stream

A picturesque area with a beautiful stream surrounded by towering cliffs, perfect for capturing nature's beauty.

Culinary Guide

Food in Zhangjiazhuang

Zhangjiajie offers a delightful culinary experience with its diverse range of local dishes that reflect the region's rich cultural heritage.

Zhangjiazhuang Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Tujia Sour Fish

A signature dish featuring fresh fish marinated in a tangy mixture of herbs and spices, often served with rice.

Must-Try!

Spicy Tujia Pot

A hot pot dish loaded with various meats and vegetables, flavored with local spices, perfect for sharing.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Zhangjiajie Night Market

A bustling market where visitors can sample local street food, including skewers, dumplings, and sweet desserts.

Climate Guide

Weather

Zhangjiajie experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures averaging 30°C (86°F), while winters can be cold, dropping to around 0°C (32°F). Spring and autumn are mild, offering comfortable temperatures ideal for outdoor activities. Rain is common, particularly in summer, so it's advisable to carry an umbrella or raincoat during these months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

It is customary to show respect to elders, such as allowing them to go first in lines or offering your seat.

Dining Etiquette

When dining, it is polite to wait for the host to begin eating before you start and to try a bit of everything served.

Gifting Culture

When invited to someone’s home, it’s customary to bring a small gift, such as fruit or sweets, as a token of appreciation.

Safety Guide

Safety

Zhangjiajie is generally safe for tourists, with a low crime rate. However, it’s important to exercise caution in crowded areas and keep an eye on personal belongings. When hiking, follow marked trails and adhere to safety guidelines, especially if you're venturing into remote areas.

Tipping in Zhangjiazhuang

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Zhangjiajie, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated for good service.

Payment Methods

WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used, so having cash is also useful for small purchases at markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring (March to May)

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make spring a great time to visit, perfect for hiking and outdoor activities.

Summer (June to August)

Expect hot and humid weather, but it’s also the peak season for tourists. Early morning hikes are recommended to avoid the heat.

Autumn (September to November)

Cooler temperatures and stunning autumn foliage enhance the scenic beauty, making it an ideal time for photography.

Winter (December to February)

Winter can be cold, but the snowfall adds a magical touch to the landscape. Fewer tourists mean quieter trails.

Nightlife Guide

Zhangjiazhuang at Night

Zhangjiajie's nightlife is vibrant yet laid-back, with various local bars and entertainment venues offering an authentic experience. After sunset, the streets come alive with night markets, where visitors can indulge in local street food, shop for souvenirs, and enjoy cultural performances. Traditional tea houses and karaoke bars are also popular among both locals and visitors, providing a glimpse into the local social life.

Hiking in Zhangjiazhuang

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park Trails

Offering a variety of trails ranging from easy to challenging, these paths provide stunning views of the unique geological formations.

Tianmen Mountain Hiking Trail

A scenic trail leading to the summit of Tianmen Mountain, featuring breathtaking views and the famous Tianmen Cave.

Airports

How to reach Zhangjiazhuang by plane.

Zhangjiajie Hehua Airport

Located about 4 km from the city center, the airport offers domestic flights to major cities and is the main gateway for international tourists visiting Zhangjiajie.

Getting Around

Walkability

Zhangjiajie is moderately walkable, particularly in the city center where most attractions, shops, and restaurants are located within walking distance. Sidewalks are available, but some areas may have uneven surfaces due to ongoing construction. Public transport and taxis are also readily available for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Tujia Ethnic Group

The Tujia are the indigenous people of the Zhangjiajie area, known for their unique cultural traditions and hospitality.

Han Chinese

The majority demographic in Zhangjiajie, the Han Chinese community contributes to the cultural and social life of the city.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Basketball is widely played among locals, with courts available in public parks and schools.

Table Tennis

A popular sport throughout China, table tennis is played in many community centers and local clubs.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Zhangjiajie can be congested, especially during peak tourist seasons. Public transportation options include buses and taxis, which are affordable and convenient. Many tourists opt for tour buses to reach popular attractions, which helps reduce traffic congestion around major sites.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Zhangjiazhuang.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Zhangjiajie are adequate, with several hospitals and clinics available for tourists. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. Pharmacies are accessible for over-the-counter medications, but it’s recommended to bring any specific prescriptions you may need.

Discover China

Read more in our China 2025 Travel Guide.

China Travel Guide