From Movie to Footsteps: Four Days in Zhangjiajie
We are from Taiwan, China. We have long been fascinated by the quartz sandstone peaks of Zhangjiajie described in textbooks. We wanted to see the prototype of the floating mountains in Avatar with our own eyes and experience the unique customs of the Tujia people in western Hunan, so we invited friends and planned this 4-day 3-night trip to Zhangjiajie.
Click here for a detailed itinerary.
1. Cost Guide
At first, we checked travel guides and compared quotes from multiple online travel agencies. The estimated total cost for 5 people was about NT$29,800. After contacting tour guide A Zhe to customize a private group, all tickets, private cars and accommodation were arranged in advance. The total price was only NT$26,200, saving NT$3,600. All prices were clearly marked with no hidden fees.
Email: hunanVIP_intltravel_Riyue@hotmail.com
2. Daily Itinerary
Day 1: Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park - 72 Wonders Building
Upon arriving in Zhangjiajie, the tour guide Riyue met the group at the airport and we checked into a hotel in the city center. The entire day was spent visiting Tianmen Mountain, taking the extremely long mountain cable car to ascend the mountain, visiting Tianmen Cave and the glass walkway, strolling along the mountain top walkway, and after sunset, we took a night tour of the 72 Wonders Building to enjoy the light show of the Tujia stilt houses. The pace was leisurely, no need to get up early to queue, we walked while taking photos, immersing ourselves in the cloud-top wonder of Tianmen Mountain, and in the evening, we tasted the local specialty "Three Dishes Pot".
·The Tianmen Cave is a natural cave that penetrates through the mountain. It is said that in ancient times, the local people would pray here for rain, and it was thus called "Tianmen Spouting Mist".
·The temperature on the mountain is relatively low. Please make sure to bring a light jacket. For the glass walkway, you need to wear shoe covers. In rainy weather, the mountain path is slippery, so please walk carefully.
Day 2: Yuanjiajie - Tianzi Mountain
In the morning, we entered the park from the Wulingyuan Signpost Gate and took the park's eco-friendly vehicle to Yuanyazi. We visited the Pillar of Heaven, the World's First Bridge, and the Confused Platform. In the afternoon, we went to Tianzi Mountain and admired the peak forest landscapes such as the Imperial Brush Peak and the Flying Clouds. While walking, we listened to the explanations. We had plenty of time to enjoy the views and didn't rush. We stopped at the viewing platform to wait for the clouds. We saw the original form of the suspended mountain and witnessed the ever-changing shapes of the peak forest. When the clouds rose, it was like a fairyland.
·The Yuanjiajie Kunqiuzhu (Divine Pillar) is the inspiration for the "Hallelujah Mountain" in the movie "Avatar".
·The scenic area is quite large. Make sure to wear anti-slip sports shoes. There are few supply points on the mountain, so you can bring a small amount of drinking water with you.
Day 3: Yangjiajie - Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge
In the morning, we visited Yangjiajie and admired the natural Great Wall-like cliff formations. We also explored Wulongzhai. In the afternoon, we went to the Grand Canyon, walked across the popular glass bridge to overlook the canyon streams, and strolled along the bottom trail. Some sections of Yangjiajie are a bit challenging, so proceed with caution. The glass bridge experience is novel and thrilling, and the entire journey is relaxed and comfortable. The cliff formations of Yangjiajie are grand and imposing, while the glass bridge offers a wide view. These are two completely different experiences of the landscape.
·The natural Great Wall of Yangjiajie is a peak-wall landscape formed by the erosion of water over millions of years. It stands like an artificially constructed wall across the mountains.
·People with acrophobia can walk along the inner side of the glass bridge. In the canyon, the ultraviolet rays are strong, so be sure to apply sunscreen.
Day 4: Golden Whip Stream - Tusi Castle - Departure
Take a morning walk along Jinbian River, hike along the stream, and enjoy the towering peaks and lush forests on both sides. Then head to the Dushi City, visit the Tujia hanging houses, watch the Tujia ethnic folk performances, experience the intangible cultural heritage, and have lunch before boarding the plane for the return journey. In the morning, there are few people and it is quiet, with fresh air. Take a leisurely walk and experience the minority culture of Xiangxi. Jinbian River is serene and healing, and Dushi City allows you to deeply understand the history and living customs of the Tujia people.
·Jinbianxi is the filming location for the scene of "The Monkey King: Three Battles Against the White Bone Spirit" in the 1986 version of "The Monkey King".
·The Jinbianxi Trail is quite long. You can simply choose the most scenic section to visit. In the Tusi City, do not buy expensive local specialties at random.
4. The advantages of traveling with tour guide Riyue
Riyue is familiar with all scenic spots in Zhangjiajie and the historical legends of the local Tujia people. He flexibly adjusted the travel order according to the weather to avoid crowds. He booked all attraction tickets in advance to save us queuing time. A private car was arranged for seamless transfers. He understands the eating habits of visitors from Taiwan, China and recommends authentic and affordable local food. He patiently answers questions throughout the trip, and the itinerary can be adjusted at any time. There is no shopping at all, only pure sightseeing.
5.Personal Travel Tips
1. The weather in Zhangjiajie mountain area changes quickly. Bring a lightweight raincoat whether sunny or rainy. Do not climb mountains with umbrellas.
2. There are many steps in the scenic area. Wear comfortable non-slip sneakers. Avoid slippers or sandals.
3. If you want to see sea of clouds, go up the mountain early in the morning. Fog is more likely to appear after rain.
4. Do not trust low-cost tour solicitors on the street to avoid shopping tour traps.
Share Riyue's whatsApp: +8619522591430
Riyue's email address: hunanVIP_intltravel_Riyue@hotmail.com
Riyue's wechat ID: 19522591430
