Hunan Zhangjiajie

1.Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park,a breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its towering sandstone pillars,lush forests,and mystical landscapes.This park inspired the floating mountains in the movie Avatar,and you'll see why-its thousands of jagged peaks rise like natural skyscrapers,often shrouded in mist,creating a dreamlike atmosphere.The most famous spot,Yuanjiajie,features the "Avatar Hallelujah Mountain," while Golden Whip Stream offers a serene hike along crystal-clear waters surrounded by vibrant wildlife.

One of the park's highlights is the Tianzi Mountain area,where you can witness stunning sea of clouds at sunrise and panoramic views of the peaks below.For thrill-seekers,the Glass Skywalk on Tianmen Mountain (nearby) provides a heart-pounding experience as you walk over a transparent bridge with a sheer drop below.Don't miss the Bailong Elevator,the world's tallest outdoor lift,which whisks you up the cliffs for an unforgettable vista.

The park is also rich in biodiversity,home to rare plants and animals like the Chinese giant salamander.Local Tujia culture adds charm-try traditional dishes like smoky bacon and sour fish soup.Whether you're hiking,taking scenic cable car rides,or capturing the surreal beauty with your camera,Zhangjiajie promises a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

2.Tianmen Mountain National Park

Tianmen Mountain National Park,one of the most spectacular natural wonders in China!Famous for its dramatic cliffs,deep valleys,and the legendary "Heaven's Gate," this mountain is a must-see for adventure lovers and nature enthusiasts.The highlight is the Tianmen Cave,a massive natural arch carved into the mountain at 1,300 meters above sea level-reached by climbing the thrilling 999-Step Stairway,symbolizing a journey to heaven.On clear days,clouds drift through the arch,creating a mystical sight you'll never forget!

Getting here is half the adventure-take the Tianmen Mountain Cableway,one of the world's longest aerial lifts,offering jaw-dropping views as you ascend over lush forests and sheer cliffs.For the brave,the Glass Skywalk clings to the mountain's edge,letting you walk above a vertical drop-not for the faint-hearted!The Circular Cliff-Hugging Walkway is another gem,winding around the mountain with panoramic vistas of the karst peaks below.

Beyond the adrenaline,Tianmen Mountain is steeped in legend,believed to be a sacred Taoist site.Local stories say passing through the cave brings good fortune-so make a wish as you enter!Don't miss the Tianmen Temple at the summit,a serene retreat amid the clouds.Whether you're here for the views,the culture,or the thrill,this mountain will leave you in awe.

3.Wulingyuan Scenic Area

Wulingyuan Scenic Area,a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of China's most breathtaking natural landscapes!Famous for its towering quartzite sandstone pillars,deep ravines,and lush forests,this area is often called a "living landscape painting." The most iconic section is Zhangjiajie National Forest Park,where over 3,000 dramatic peaks rise like stone giants-many inspired the floating mountains in Avatar.Highlights include Yuanjiajie's "Avatar Hallelujah Mountain" and the tranquil Golden Whip Stream,perfect for a scenic hike surrounded by nature's beauty.

One of the best ways to experience Wulingyuan is by riding the Bailong Elevator,the world's tallest outdoor glass lift,which offers stunning views as it climbs the cliffs.For panoramic vistas,head to Tianzi Mountain,where misty seas of clouds often swirl around the peaks at sunrise.Adventure seekers will love the Glass Bridges and thrilling cliffside walkways,while photographers will find endless inspiration in the ever-changing play of light and shadow across the stone pillars.

Beyond the landscapes,Wulingyuan is rich in biodiversity,home to rare species like the Chinese giant salamander.The local Tujia and Miao cultures add charm-don't miss their traditional stilt houses and lively folk performances.End your day with a taste of local flavors,like spicy Tujia smoked pork or wild mushroom hotpot.Whether you're here for hiking,photography,or pure awe,Wulingyuan promises an unforgettable journey into nature's masterpiece.

4.Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon

Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon,where nature's artistry creates a playground of towering cliffs,emerald waters,and adrenaline-pumping adventures!This breathtaking canyon stretches for kilometers,with vertical rock walls rising hundreds of meters high,covered in lush greenery.The star attraction is the world-famous Glass Bridge-the longest and highest of its kind-where you'll walk 300 meters above the canyon floor on a transparent walkway,with heart-stopping views beneath your feet!For those seeking even more thrills,try the cliffside zip line or bungee jump,offering an unforgettable rush.

Beyond the high-altitude excitement,the canyon's lower levels reveal serene beauty.Follow the wooden walkways along the Golden Waterfall,where crystal-clear streams cascade over mossy rocks,creating perfect photo spots.The Boat Ride at the canyon's base lets you glide through turquoise waters surrounded by steep cliffs,with occasional rainbows appearing in the mist.Keep an eye out for wildlife-this area is home to rare birds and even monkeys that sometimes peek from the forest edges!

Rich in local folklore,the canyon is said to be the dwelling place of mountain spirits.The nearby Tujia villages offer a glimpse into indigenous culture,with traditional wooden homes and handicraft workshops.End your visit with a taste of authentic Hunan cuisine-try the stuffed tofu or wild bamboo shoots harvested from these very mountains.Whether you're an adventurer,nature lover,or culture enthusiast,Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon delivers magic at every turn.

5.Tianzi Mountain

Tianzi Mountain,the crown jewel of Zhangjiajie's breathtaking landscape!Named after a local Tujia hero who led a farmers' rebellion,this majestic mountain offers some of the most spectacular panoramic views in all of China.As we ascend,you'll be greeted by a sea of towering sandstone pillars piercing through swirling clouds-often called the "Monarch of the Peak Forest." The best viewpoint?Helong Park,where you can admire the iconic silhouette of the "Warrior Taming a Stallion" rock formation while learning about Marshal He Long's revolutionary legacy.

What makes Tianzi Mountain truly magical are its ever-changing moods.Arrive at dawn to witness a golden sunrise painting the peaks,or come after rain when the entire landscape transforms into a misty Chinese ink painting.Don't miss the Imperial Writing Brush Peaks,resembling giant brushes dipped in ink-legend says they were left by the mountain's namesake ruler.For photographers,every turn offers frame-worthy compositions,especially at Shenhai Stone Forest where pillars emerge from an ocean of clouds like ancient skyscrapers.

Our journey includes riding the Tianzi Mountain Cable Car,gliding over emerald forests and jagged cliffs.Along the way,you might spot rare macaques playing in the trees or hear the songs of native pheasants.The mountain is also sacred to the Tujia people-notice their colorful prayer flags fluttering at viewpoints.As we descend,we'll pass traditional stilt houses where locals sell handwoven textiles and wild mountain tea.Hungry?Try the Tujia specialty-corn cakes baked in bamboo tubes-while soaking in these billion-year-old geological wonders.

6.Yuanjiajie Scenic Area

Yuanjiajie Scenic Area,the most spectacular highlight of Zhangjiajie's "Avatar Mountains"!As we step into this UNESCO World Heritage Site,you'll immediately understand why this landscape inspired the floating Hallelujah Mountains in James Cameron's Avatar.The towering quartz-sandstone pillars here rise like skyscrapers from an ancient forest,some reaching over 1,000 meters high!Our first stop is the iconic "Avatar Hallelujah Mountain" (formerly called Southern Sky Column),which became world-famous after the movie-see if you can spot the exact rock formation that appeared on screen!

The adventure continues as we cross the First Bridge Under Heaven,a natural stone bridge spanning two mountain peaks at dizzying heights.Brave souls can walk across this 50-meter-long,4-meter-wide marvel while enjoying panoramic views of the entire Yuanjiajie landscape.Nearby,the Lost Souls Platform offers heart-stopping views straight down vertical cliffs to the valley floor 1,200 meters below.Keep your cameras ready-the interplay of light and mist creates new breathtaking vistas every few minutes,especially when clouds drift between the peaks like rivers in the sky!

What makes Yuanjiajie truly special is how nature and culture intertwine.These mountains are sacred to the local Tujia people,who believe the pillars are petrified ancient warriors.We'll visit a traditional Tujia village where you can try millet wine and watch fascinating hand-waving dances.Don't miss the chance to take the Bailong Elevator down-this engineering marvel (the world's tallest outdoor lift) descends 326 meters down a vertical cliff face in just under 2 minutes!As we explore,listen for the calls of rare birds like the silver pheasant,and watch for playful monkeys that often photobomb visitors' pictures.

7.Yangjiajie Scenic Area

Yangjiajie Scenic Area,the wild and untamed younger sibling of Zhangjiajie's famous peaks!Often overlooked by tourists,this rugged paradise offers some of the most dramatic landscapes in all of Wulingyuan.As we enter this natural fortress,you'll immediately notice how the towering sandstone pillars here are sharper,more densely clustered,and exude a raw,primal energy-locals call it "the natural Great Wall" for its fortress-like formations.Our adventure begins at the One Step to Heaven,where a narrow stairway carved into the cliff face leads to a panoramic viewing platform that'll literally take your breath away!

The real showstopper here is the Natural Great Wall formation-a 3km-long series of razor-thin rock ridges resembling a dragon's backbone,with sheer drops of 300-400 meters on both sides!This is where you'll get those iconic photos of narrow stone bridges between towering peaks.For thrill-seekers,we'll take the Yangjiajie Cable Car up the mountain,offering eagle-eye views of the "Three Ghosts Gate" peaks and "Tiger Roaring Cliff".Listen carefully-the wind howling through these stone columns really does sound like a tiger's roar!Keep an eye out for the rare "Stone Sail" formation,a paper-thin rock slab that looks ready to catch the wind.

What makes Yangjiajie truly special is its rich Tujia culture and revolutionary history.This area was once a stronghold for local bandits (later revolutionaries),and we'll explore their hidden mountain pathways and cave hideouts.At Xiangzhi Village,you'll meet descendants of the Yang Family who've lived here for generations-try their homemade wild honey and millet wine while enjoying authentic Tujia folk songs.Don't miss the sunset at Terrace of Viewing Soldiers,where the last light turns the entire stone forest golden red-it's nature's own IMAX theater!More adventurous souls can stay overnight in a traditional stilt house and wake up to clouds floating through their windows.

8.Golden Whip Stream

the Golden Whip Stream,nature's own masterpiece carved through the heart of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park!As we begin our walk along this 7.5-kilometer crystal-clear creek,you'll understand why it's called "the most beautiful valley under heaven." The water here is so pure you can see every pebble on the stream bed,colored golden by the sunlight filtering through the lush canopy above us.Look up-those towering 300-meter quartz-sandstone cliffs on either side are decorated with hanging gardens of wild orchids and ancient bonsai-like pines that have clung to the rocks for centuries!

Our journey follows the stream past legendary rock formations like the Golden Whip Peak,a 380-meter-high stone column that gleams like gold when the sun hits it just right-local legend says it's the immortalized whip of a Qin Dynasty general.Keep your eyes peeled for wild macaques playing in the trees-they love to photobomb visitors' pictures!We'll stop at "Lovers' Peak",where two slender stone pillars stand close together like embracing figures,and the "Divine Eagle Protecting the Whip",an eagle-shaped cliff that appears to guard the main peak.The air here contains over 90,000 negative oxygen ions per cubic centimeter-take deep breaths,this is nature's best detox therapy!

What makes Golden Whip Stream truly magical is how it changes every season.In spring,the banks explode with wildflowers;summer brings emerald-green ferns and dancing fireflies;autumn paints the maple trees crimson;while winter transforms the waterfalls into glittering ice sculptures.We'll cross charming wooden bridges and pass through cool,misty grottoes where you can dip your feet in the refreshing water.Local Tujia vendors sell handmade bamboo flutes and herbal teas along the path-try some wild kiwi fruit or mountain berry wine for energy!Whether you're here for photography,birdwatching (we've spotted over 50 species today!),or simply to reconnect with nature,this tranquil valley proves that Earth's greatest artist is Mother Nature herself.

9.Baofeng Lake

Baofeng Lake,the dazzling "jewel in the crown" of Zhangjiajie's landscape!Nestled 85 meters above ground in a towering sandstone crater,this pristine alpine lake will take your breath away the moment we board our traditional wooden boat.Look how the emerald-green waters perfectly mirror the surrounding cliffs-it's like sailing through a dreamy Chinese ink painting!Those dramatic 200-meter vertical walls surrounding us are actually ancient sea formations over 300 million years old,now decorated with hanging wildflowers and cascading waterfalls.Keep your cameras ready as we glide past the "Eagle Mouth Waterfall",where a natural rock formation perfectly frames the tumbling waters like nature's own picture window.

What makes Baofeng Lake truly magical are its living postcard moments.Watch for the local Tujia singers who'll suddenly appear on cliffside platforms,their folk songs echoing across the water in perfect harmony with the mountain echoes-we call this "the singing cliffs" experience!As we round "Lovers' Peak",you might spot the rare Chinese giant salamanders (living fossils!) swimming near our boat.The lake's deepest point reaches 72 meters,yet the water is so clear you can see 15 meters down to submerged forests that create an underwater fairyland.Don't miss the "Immortal Bathing Pool",a hidden grotto where legend says celestial maidens once bathed-see if you can spot their "bath towels" hanging on the rocks (actually rare hanging moss formations!).

After our cruise,we'll visit the lakeside Tujia village where you can try steamed fish caught fresh from these mineral-rich waters,or sample wild tea grown on the surrounding cliffs.Adventure seekers can take the "Cloud Ladder"-380 steep steps cut into the cliff face leading to a panoramic viewing platform.Time your visit right (April or September mornings are best) and you might witness the lake's famous "cloud waterfall" phenomenon,when morning mist pours over the crater rim like liquid silk.Whether you're here for photography,romance,or simply to soak in nature's majesty,Baofeng Lake proves that sometimes the most beautiful treasures are hidden at the top of the world!

10.Huanglong Cave

Huanglong Cave,one of China's most spectacular karst wonders and a true underground palace of nature's artistry!As we descend into this 15-kilometer labyrinth of stalactites and stalagmites,you'll immediately feel the cave's mystical atmosphere-the constant 16°C temperature and 80% humidity create perfect conditions for these incredible formations to grow.Our journey begins at the "Dragon Dance Hall",where towering stone columns up to 20 meters high resemble a frozen dragon procession.Watch your step as we cross the first of 800 steps (don't worry,there are resting spots!),and look up to see thousands of glistening calcite crystals twinkling like stars above us-locals call this "the cave's Milky Way".

The highlight of our adventure is undoubtedly the "Dragon King's Throne Room",home to the 19.2-meter-tall "Stalagmite King"-recognized as the tallest cave column in China!This massive formation grows about 1 millimeter every 100 years,meaning it's been developing for nearly 200,000 years.We'll board an underground boat to cruise the "Xiangshui River",the longest subterranean river open to tourists in Asia.As we glide through the illuminated tunnels,spot the rare transparent fish that have evolved without eyes in this permanent darkness.The cave's acoustics are so perfect that we often host underground concerts in the "Echo Chamber",where a single note can resonate for 45 seconds!

What makes Huanglong Cave truly unique is how it combines grand scale with delicate details.In the "Needle Crystal Flower Garden",you'll see fragile aragonite crystals that resemble blooming flowers-some as thin as sewing needles!Local Tujia legends say this cave was home to a golden dragon who controlled the region's rainfall.After our 2-hour exploration,we'll surface near a traditional village where you can try cave-aged rice wine and mushrooms grown in the mineral-rich cave air.Don't miss the chance to walk across the "Heavenly Ladder",a 300-step open-air climb offering panoramic views of the surrounding karst mountains.Remember-every drop from these stalactites represents 100 years of patient growth,making Huanglong Cave not just a tourist attraction,but a living museum of Earth's geological history!

11.Ten-Mile Gallery

Ten-Mile Gallery,nature's own magnificent open-air art exhibition stretching through the heart of Zhangjiajie's breathtaking landscape!As we board our eco-friendly electric train (or choose to walk the picturesque trail),you'll immediately see how this 5-kilometer valley earned its poetic name-with towering quartzite sandstone peaks rising on both sides like a continuous scroll painting of natural wonders.Each turn reveals new "sculptures" carved by 300 million years of wind and water erosion.Look to your left at the famous "Three Sisters Peaks"-can you spot the "big sister" carrying a basket,the "middle sister" holding a child,and the "youngest sister" carrying a bouquet?The morning mist often wraps these peaks like delicate silk,creating an ever-changing masterpiece!

The gallery's most iconic landmark is undoubtedly the "Medicine Collector",a 70-meter rock formation resembling an old man with a basket of herbs on his back-local Tujia people believe it represents their legendary healer ancestor.Further along,keep your cameras ready for the "Sleeping Arhat",a massive reclining Buddha-shaped cliff,and the playful "Monkey King Peak" where you might spot real macaques mimicking the stone figure's pose!What makes this experience truly special are the seasonal changes-spring brings cherry blossoms framing the peaks,summer dresses the cliffs in emerald greenery,autumn sets the entire valley ablaze with red maples,while winter transforms it into a silent black-and-white ink painting.Listen carefully for the songs of over 50 bird species echoing through the canyon!

For a truly immersive experience,I recommend taking the return trip on foot along the wooden walkway.This lets you appreciate details like the fragrant wild orchids,ancient "living fossil" trees (like the dove tree),and maybe even spot some giant butterflies with 15cm wingspans!Local farmers sell fresh wild kiwis and mountain honey along the trail-try some for energy!Don't miss the "Peak Forest Plank Path" detour,where you can walk through a natural stone arch with panoramic views.Whether you're an artist seeking inspiration,a photographer chasing perfect light,or simply a nature lover,the Ten-Mile Gallery proves that sometimes the most beautiful art doesn't hang in museums-it's sculpted by time itself!

12.Zhangjiajie Eternal Love Scenic Area

Zhangjiajie Eternal Love Scenic Area,where China's rich cultural heritage comes alive amidst the breathtaking natural beauty of the Wuling Mountains!As we step into this 200-acre cultural theme park,you'll immediately feel transported through time-from ancient Tujia kingdom legends to revolutionary war stories,all woven together with stunning visual spectacles.The heart of our experience is the "Eternal Love Show",a 60-minute theatrical masterpiece performed in a 3,000-seat custom-built theater that uses holograms,flying performers,and even real waterfalls to tell Zhangjiajie's 10,000-year history.Watch in awe as dancers seemingly walk on water and entire mountain landscapes transform before your eyes!

What makes this park truly special is how it blends entertainment with authentic Tujia culture.In the Ancient Town replica area,you can try traditional crafts like indigo dyeing,watch Miao silversmiths at work,or join in a Tujia hand-waving dance around the bonfire.Don't miss the "Ghost Valley Glass Bridge",where special effects create the illusion of walking through mystical clouds and cracking glass beneath your feet!Kids will love the "Monkey King Adventure Zone",while foodies can sample over 50 local snacks at the night market-try the stinky tofu with wild herbs or glutinous rice cakes steamed in bamboo.As dusk falls,the entire park transforms with thousands of lanterns and the spectacular "Mountain Soul Light Show" projected onto real cliffs.

This living museum offers more than just performances-it's an immersive journey through Hunan's soul.Participate in a simulated Tujia wedding ceremony,learn to play the traditional suona horn,or challenge the "hero's path" obstacle course inspired by local bandit-catching legends.The "Red Culture Memorial Hall" powerfully showcases the region's revolutionary history through 4D experiences.Whether you're watching acrobats perform on floating platforms over the lake,making your own paper umbrella,or simply soaking in the atmosphere of ancient streets,Eternal Love Park proves that Zhangjiajie's magic isn't just in its mountains-it's in the living stories of its people.

13.Bailong Elevator

Bailong Elevator,an engineering marvel that rockets you into the heart of Zhangjiajie's "Avatar Mountains" in just 1 minute and 28 seconds!Known as the "World's Highest Outdoor Elevator",this glass-walled wonder clings to the face of a 326-meter vertical cliff,offering jaw-dropping views as we ascend.Feel your stomach drop as we launch upwards-through the glass walls you'll see the towering quartzite sandstone pillars of Yuanjiajie transform from looming giants beneath us to equals at eye level!The elevator's three separate cars can carry 4,000 visitors per hour,but the real magic happens when we emerge at the top platform-suddenly the entire "Soldiers Gathering" rock formation appears before us like a petrified army frozen in time.

What makes this experience truly unique is how it combines human ingenuity with nature's grandeur.Built in 2002 with eco-friendly design,the elevator actually reduced deforestation by replacing mountain roads.Watch for the exact moment we pass through the "Cloud Break Zone"-one second you're surrounded by mist,the next you burst into sunshine with panoramic views of the Wulingyuan stone forest!The elevator's three viewing platforms let photographers capture the Golden Whip Stream snaking through the valley below.Fun fact: The stainless steel structure contains enough cable to stretch from here to the Moon if unraveled!During peak seasons,we sometimes experience the "Flying Among Mountains" effect when clouds fill the valley,making our ascent feel like floating through heaven.

More than just transportation,Bailong represents the harmony between man and nature.Local Tujia guides joke that their ancestors would have loved this "heavenly ladder"-it's much easier than the bamboo ladders they used to harvest cliffside herbs!At the summit,we'll step onto the Avatar Floating Mountain viewing platform,where you'll recognize the exact peaks that inspired James Cameron's Pandora.The elevator operates year-round-come winter,the frost-covered cliffs create a magical ice kingdom effect.Whether you're an adrenaline junkie,photographer,or just want to save hiking time for more exploration,this record-breaking elevator delivers the most thrilling vertical journey on Earth!

14.Yellow Stone Village

Yellow Stone Village,the majestic "crown jewel" of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park and the most spectacular viewing platform in all of Wulingyuan!Known as "No.1 Wonderland on Earth",this 1,080-meter-high mesa offers 360-degree panoramas of over 3,000 sandstone pillars piercing through sea-like clouds.We'll take the "Reunion Cable Car" up the mountain-watch how the landscape transforms as we ascend through four distinct climate zones!The moment we step onto the 3.5-kilometer circular trail,you'll understand why locals say "He who doesn't reach Yellow Stone Village hasn't truly seen Zhangjiajie".Our first stop is the "Star-Gazing Platform",where on clear nights you can literally touch the Milky Way above the silhouetted peaks.

What makes this mountain truly magical are its "Five Wonders": the sunrise over "Sea of Wisdom" rock formations,the sunset painting "Fairy Scattering Flowers" peak gold,sea clouds swallowing the valleys,winter snow frosting the stone forests,and the full moon rising between "Twin Pagodas" pillars.Don't miss the "Golden Turtle Watching the Sea"-a turtle-shaped boulder that seems to swim when mist fills the valley below!The 1.5-hour hike around the mesa takes us past legendary formations like the "Jade Hairpin Flower" (a 200-meter solitary peak) and the "Heavenly Bridge",a natural stone arch only 1 meter wide with 300-meter drops on both sides.Keep your cameras ready-this is where National Geographic photographers capture those iconic Zhangjiajie shots!

Beyond the scenery,Yellow Stone Village brims with living culture.At "Tujia Singing Terrace",local performers' folk songs echo across the canyons just as their ancestors communicated for centuries.We'll visit the "Lover's Lock Wall" where thousands of couples have sealed their vows,and you can taste authentic mountain tea harvested from cliff-side bushes.The village gets its name from a Han Dynasty hermit who supposedly turned stones to gold here-try rubbing the "Alchemist Stone" for good fortune!Whether you're here at dawn when the pillars cast dragon-shaped shadows,or at dusk when the entire mountain glows amber,Yellow Stone Village doesn't just show you scenery-it lets you walk through a Chinese landscape painting come alive!

15.Laowuchang

Laowuchang,Zhangjiajie's best-kept secret and the ultimate off-the-beaten-path adventure!This hidden valley,tucked away in the northwest corner of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park,offers the most spectacular aerial views of the Wulingyuan sandstone pillars without the crowds.We'll take a special eco-shuttle through winding mountain roads to reach this pristine area,where you'll feel like you've discovered a lost world.The moment we step onto the "Terrace of the Celestial Troops" viewing platform,you'll gasp at the sight of 48 isolated stone pillars rising dramatically from the valley floor like an ancient army frozen in formation-especially magical at sunrise when mist swirls between them!

The real showstopper here is the "Sky Garden",a natural rock platform hanging 1,200 meters above sea level with sheer drops on three sides.This is where you'll get those postcard-perfect shots of "God's Farming Terraces"-layered sandstone formations that resemble giant rice paddies carved by deities.Adventurous souls can walk the "Dragon Spine Trail",a narrow 800-meter path along a razor-thin ridge with heart-stopping views.Keep an eye out for the "Peacock Opening Its Feathers" rock formation and the "Fairy Bridge",a 25-meter natural stone arch that local Tujia couples consider sacred.The air here is so fresh you can smell wild orchids and medicinal herbs growing in the cliffs!

What makes Laowuchang truly special is its authentic rural charm.We'll visit the namesake abandoned Tujia village,where crumbling wooden stilt houses tell stories of mountain life centuries ago.At "Grandpa's Farm",the last resident still tends crops using traditional methods-you might get to taste fresh corn roasted in bamboo tubes or wild mountain tea.Don't miss the chance to see the "Four Wonders": sunrise clouds filling the valley like an ocean,the golden glow on peaks at dusk,the starry skies untouched by light pollution,and the rare "Buddha's Light" phenomenon when your shadow appears haloed in rainbows on the clouds below.Unlike developed areas,Laowuchang remains refreshingly wild-you might spot pheasants,giant butterflies,or even a serow (mountain goat-antelope)!This is Zhangjiajie as nature intended-raw,majestic,and blissfully peaceful.

16.Dayong Ancient City

Dayong Ancient City,the living heart of Zhangjiajie where 2,000 years of history meet modern cultural vibrancy!As we step through the magnificent "Triple Gate" entrance,you'll instantly travel back to the Ming Dynasty-this meticulously reconstructed old town was originally built in 1370 as a military stronghold.The first thing you'll notice are the traditional Tujia wooden stilt houses lining the cobblestone streets,their upturned eaves decorated with intricate carvings of phoenixes and dragons.But look closer-these aren't just museum pieces!Artisans still practice ancient crafts inside: watch silversmiths hammering Miao jewelry,weavers making indigo batik fabrics,and woodcarvers shaping magical "Nuo Opera" masks.The air smells of sizzling stinky tofu and wild pepper oil from food stalls-let's try some Tujia bacon rice cakes wrapped in bamboo leaves!

The highlight is our "Nighttime Grand Show" at the 360° rotating theater,where holograms and live performers bring to life the legends of Xiangxi.Watch as the entire square transforms into a dancing river during the "Furong Ancient Town Flood" scene,or when 1,000 drone lights form a flying phoenix above the city walls!Don't miss climbing the "War Drum Tower" for panoramic views of the Lishui River snaking around the ancient city walls-at sunset,the reflection turns the water to liquid gold.Adventure seekers can try the "Cliffside Tea Challenge"-walking a glass walkway while sipping local "Tujia Thunder Tea" (don't worry,safety harnesses are provided!).Kids will love the "Monkey King's Treasure Hunt" through alleyways filled with interactive light installations.

What makes Dayong truly special is how it pulses with living culture.Every morning at the "Tujia Morning Market",farmers sell wild mountain herbs and fresh river fish just as their ancestors did.We'll visit the Tusi King's Palace to see reconstructed royal chambers and learn about the native chieftain system.As night falls,join the bonfire dance in the square where locals teach visitors the hand-waving dance steps passed down for generations.Whether you're tasting blood tofu at a 200-year-old inn,releasing river lanterns for good luck,or simply soaking in the harmonious blend of ancient architecture and modern energy,Dayong Ancient City proves Zhangjiajie's soul isn't just in its mountains-it's in these timeless streets where history still breathes!

17.Jiutian Cave

Jiutian Cave,Asia's most spectacular underground palace and a UNESCO-listed karst wonder!As we descend into this 2.5-million-year-old labyrinth,you'll immediately notice why it's called "Nine Heavens"-with nine massive chambers stacked vertically like celestial realms,each revealing breathtaking formations.Our adventure begins at the "Hall of Heavenly Kings",where a 38-meter-high stone waterfall shimmers under LED lights,creating an ethereal blue glow.Watch your step on the "Stairway to Heaven"-its 280 steps wind past delicate "cave coral" and "stone flags" that chime like wind chimes when touched!The cave maintains a perfect 18°C year-round,making this a magical escape from summer heat or winter chill.

The showstopper is Chamber Three's "Lotus Throne",the world's largest cave lotus formation-this 398-square-meter calcite wonder looks like a frozen waterfall of flower petals!We'll board the underground boat to cross the "Starlight River",where bioluminescent plankton sometimes makes the water glow.Look up to spot the "Jade Pillar Supporting Heaven",a 39-meter-tall stalagmite that geologists believe grows just 1 centimeter every 120 years.Don't miss the "Crystal Palace"-its walls sparkle with rare aragonite crystals resembling diamond dust,best seen when our guide shines ultraviolet lights to reveal their natural fluorescence!Local Tujia legends say this chamber was the dressing room for the Dragon King's daughter.

What makes Jiutian unique is its living cave ecosystem.In Chamber Seven,we might spot the endangered Zhangjiajie salamander or translucent cave shrimp that have evolved without eyes.The "Echo Valley" amplifies whispers into thunderous echoes-perfect for hearing the cave's "singing stalactites" (when tapped gently,they produce musical tones!).After our 2-hour exploration,we'll surface near a Tujia village where you can try "Five-Step Snake Wine" (medicinal liquor) or cave-aged tea stored in the cave's special microclimate.Adventurers can try the "Heaven's Ladder" exit-a 188-meter spiral staircase through a natural light shaft where sunbeams pierce the darkness like divine rays.Whether you're a geology enthusiast,photographer chasing that perfect stalactite reflection shot,or simply seeking nature's wonders,Jiutian Cave proves that Earth's most magnificent art galleries exist beneath our feet!

18.Mengdong River Rafting

Mengdong River Rafting,the most thrilling water adventure in all of China!As we buckle up our life jackets and grab our paddles,get ready for a 17-kilometer whitewater journey through the stunning canyons between Zhangjiajie and Fenghuang Ancient Town.This 3-hour adrenaline rush takes us down 108 roaring rapids with exciting names like "Dragon's Teeth Drop" and "Tiger Leap Gorge"-some sections reach Class IV difficulty,guaranteed to soak everyone from head to toe!Look around at those 200-meter-tall moss-covered cliffs towering above us as our inflatable raft spins through the swirling currents-the scenery is just as breathtaking as the rapids themselves!

What makes this drifting truly special are the natural wonders along the route.We'll plunge through the "Water Curtain Cave",a 30-meter-long tunnel where a waterfall showers our raft with cool mountain water-don't forget to open your mouth for a refreshing drink!In calmer sections,keep eyes peeled for wild monkeys swinging through the riverside trees and rare birds like the crested kingfisher.Our local Tujia boatmen (who've navigated these waters for generations) will share fascinating stories about the "Lovers' Cliffs" and point out medicinal herbs growing in the cracks of the canyon walls.About halfway,we'll stop at a riverside market where villagers sell grilled river fish and glutinous rice stuffed in bamboo tubes-the perfect energy boost before tackling the famous "Three-Scream Rapids" (called because you'll scream once when you see them,again when you hit them,and once more looking back!)

As we approach the final stretch,the canyon widens to reveal waterfalls cascading from both sides like liquid silver.This is when our boatmen often break into traditional Tujia hauling songs,their voices echoing off the stone walls just as their ancestors sang when transporting goods upriver.The grand finale?Shooting through the "Dragon's Mouth",a narrow chute that blasts us into a peaceful emerald-green pool surrounded by butterfly swarms.Whether you're a thrill-seeker craving excitement or a nature lover wanting to experience Zhangjiajie's wild side,Mengdong River delivers unforgettable memories-just remember to waterproof your camera and hold on tight when our boatman yells "Xià qù la!"

19.Tianmen Cave

Tianmen Cave,the most awe-inspiring natural arch in the world and the sacred heart of Zhangjiajie!Standing at 131.5 meters tall and 57 meters wide,this colossal mountain doorway looks like it was carved by divine hands-which local legends say it was!We'll take the cable car with 7,455 meters (the world's longest!) to reach this wonder,watching the landscape transform beneath us from lush forests to sheer cliffs.As we ascend,notice how the cave's perfect arch frames the sky like a portal to another realm-when clouds pour through it (which happens 200+ days a year!),you'll understand why ancient Taoists believed this was the "Gateway to Immortality".Our brave guests can climb the 999-step "Stairway to Heaven"-each step representing a Buddhist blessing-but don't worry,there's also a shaded rest area every 100 steps!

The cave's magic changes with the seasons.Spring brings cherry blossoms framing the arch,summer creates "Cloud Waterfalls" when mist cascades down the steps,autumn sets the surrounding forests ablaze with color,and winter transforms the entire scene into a frosted crystal palace.Inside the cave's cathedral-like chamber,feel the cool "Dragon's Breath" winds that constantly flow through-scientists still debate their origin!Look up to spot the "Heaven's Tears"-tiny waterfalls that drip year-round from the ceiling like liquid diamonds.Every September,the cave becomes a stage for the Tianmen Mountain International Wingsuit Flying Competition,when daredevils leap through the arch at 120km/h-their colorful suits looking like mythical birds against the stone!

Beyond its beauty,Tianmen holds deep cultural significance.At the Tianmen Temple above the cave,monks have prayed for over 1,200 years-their morning bells still echo through the valleys.We'll visit the "Wishing Wall" where visitors tie red ribbons with prayers (over 500,000 flutter here!),and you can try writing your wish on "Lucky Stone Slates" using traditional ink.Don't miss tasting "Heaven's Gate Tea",grown on the mountain's mineral-rich cliffs-locals believe it carries the cave's wisdom.Whether you're here to witness the "Golden Sunrise" illuminating the arch (best at 5:30am in summer),walk the thrilling glass walkway along the cliff face,or simply stand humbled before nature's grandeur,Tianmen Cave doesn't just show you scenery-it offers a spiritual journey.

20.Dragon King Cave

Dragon King Cave,where myth and geology collide in a spectacular underground realm!As we descend into this 30-kilometer labyrinth of stalactites and underground rivers,you'll quickly see why locals believe this was the palace of the Dragon King.The moment we step inside,the 15°C misty air greets us,revealing "Dragon's Throne"-a colossal stalagmite glowing under emerald lights,surrounded by "stone guards" resembling armored soldiers.Follow the 1.8km illuminated walkway,passing "Pearl Curtain Waterfalls" (delicate calcite strands) and "Jade Pillar Forest",where 108 stone columns rise like frozen dragons.Listen closely-the drip of "dragon tears" echoes through chambers named "Treasure Vault" and "Crystal Palace"!

The adventure peaks at the underground boat ride on the Mystic River,gliding past bioluminescent algae that paint the water electric blue.Watch for the "Dragon's Beard",a 28-meter stalactite brushing the river's surface,and the "Moon Pool",where a natural skylight beams sunlight onto the water at noon,creating a glowing orb.Brave souls can cross the "Dragon's Spine",a narrow stone bridge with a 50-meter drop-locals say those who cross gain the Dragon King's courage!Every August,Tujia shamans perform water blessings here,chanting ancient prayers that reverberate through the caves.

Above ground,the Dragon King Temple hosts lively festivals-join the "Dragon Scale Dance" or tie a wish to the 500-year-old "Luck Tree".Don't leave without tasting "Dragon Well Tea" brewed from cave-filtered water or sticky rice steamed in bamboo at nearby stalls.Whether you're here to marvel at the "Rainbow Tunnel" (prism-like light effects) or decode the mysterious stone carvings believed to be the Dragon King's messages,this cave blends natural wonder with living folklore.