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At Tianmen Cave, visitors can experience a combination of natural beauty and thrilling activities. The most recommended things to do include taking the Tianmen Mountain Cable Car, walking the Skywalk, and exploring the cave itself. The surrounding area also offers scenic hiking routes and amazing panoramic views of the Zhangjiajie region. For a more adventurous experience, try the Glass Skywalk and take in breathtaking views from above.
Tianmen Cave, a world-renowned cave nestled on the main peak of Tianmen Mountain in Zhangjiajie Tianmenshan National Forest Park, is located 8 kilometers south of the city. It is a terraced, cliff-lined mountain, one of Zhangjiajie's earliest historical landmarks, known as Songliang Mountain during the Eastern Han Dynasty. Standing 1,300 meters above sea level, with a gate 131.5 meters high, 57 meters wide, and 60 meters deep, Tianmen Cave is the world's highest natural through-mountain cave. The "Mist rising from Tianmen" and "Sunrise glow from Tianmen" are considered rare spectacles.
Suitable for all seasons;
It has a subtropical monsoon humid climate with distinct four seasons, hot and rainy summers and warm and humid winters.
It is recommended to play for 1-3 hours;
Famous attractions: Plum Blossom Rain
free
08:00-18:00 (peak season); ticket sales end at 16:30 (Monday to Sunday, March 1st - November 30th)
08:30-18:00 (off-season); ticket sales end at 16:00 (Monday to Sunday, December 1st - February 28th of the following year)
Tianmen Cave, also known as the "Heaven's Gate," is a natural arch carved into the Tianmen Mountain. This geological wonder is an iconic symbol of Zhangjiajie and has cultural significance for its unique shape, which resembles a "door to heaven." The area has been developed into a popular tourist attraction, blending natural beauty with modern tourism infrastructure.
Tianmen Cave is located in Tianmen Mountain, about 8 kilometers from Zhangjiajie city. Visitors can access it by taxi, shuttle bus, or private car from the city. The cable car is one of the most popular ways to reach the summit, offering stunning views along the way.
Tianmen Cave is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild, and the views are clear. Avoid visiting during major holidays when crowds can be overwhelming.
The entrance fee for Tianmen Cave, including the cable car ride and the Skywalk, is approximately CNY 258 (USD 40). Tickets can be purchased both online through tourism platforms and offline at the ticket office near the base of the mountain. Be sure to check for any special discounts for group tours or seasonal promotions.
It is recommended to book tickets at least 1-2 days in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons or public holidays. Advance booking ensures you can secure your spot and avoid long queues at the ticket office.
To fully explore Tianmen Cave and enjoy the surrounding attractions, plan for about 4-5 hours. This includes taking the cable car, walking on the Skywalk, visiting the cave, and exploring the scenic viewpoints. If you're hiking or exploring the area in more detail, you may need an additional hour or two.
The must-see highlights of Tianmen Cave include the Tianmen Mountain Cable Car, the Glass Skywalk, and, of course, the cave itself. Don't miss the stunning views from the Skywalk, where the glass floor gives you a thrilling experience as you look down into the valley below. The Tianmen Cave arch is another iconic feature you should explore.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some services may offer basic English-speaking guides. Audio guides in multiple languages, including English, are available for visitors who prefer a self-guided experience.
The best photography spots at Tianmen Cave include the Skywalk, where you can capture dramatic views of the surrounding mountains and the valley below. The cable car ride also offers excellent photo opportunities. Be sure to take photos of the Tianmen Cave arch and the panoramic views from the summit.
Start by taking the cable car to the summit for the best views of the surrounding landscape. Then, visit the Tianmen Cave and walk along the Skywalk to enjoy the stunning vistas. Afterward, explore the hiking trails or take the bus back down the mountain. Be sure to stop at the viewpoints for photographs along the way.
Tianmen Cave does not offer official night visits or light shows, but the daytime views from the Skywalk and the cave are breathtaking. If you're looking for evening entertainment, check local tourism offerings for any special night tours in Zhangjiajie city.
Weekends and public holidays can be quite crowded, especially during the summer and autumn months. The least crowded times to visit are early in the morning on weekdays or during the off-season (winter). Arriving right when the park opens can also help avoid large crowds.
There are toilets, food stalls, and water stations available at various points along the mountain, particularly near the entrance and at the summit. Rest areas are provided for visitors to relax, and souvenir shops offer various local products and snacks.
Tianmen Cave is accessible for elderly visitors and children, with the cable car providing an easy way to reach the summit. However, the Skywalk and certain trails may be challenging for those with mobility issues. There are accessible paths and facilities at the base and some parts of the summit.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely accepted at Tianmen Cave. Credit and debit cards are also commonly accepted. It's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases or if mobile payment services are unavailable at certain spots.
There are several restaurants and cafes in the base area of Tianmen Mountain offering local Chinese food and snacks. In Zhangjiajie city, you'll find more diverse dining options, ranging from local Hunan cuisine to international fare.
Vegetarian and vegan food options are available in Zhangjiajie city, but they may be more limited within the Tianmen Mountain area. Halal food options are not widely available, so it's advisable to check with restaurants in advance if you have dietary requirements.
There are a variety of hotels and guesthouses in Zhangjiajie city, ranging from budget to luxury options. Some hotels near the base of Tianmen Mountain, such as the Tianmen Mountain Hotel, offer convenient access to the attraction.
Nearby attractions include Zhangjiajie National Forest Park and the Avatar Mountains. Both are easy to visit as part of a day trip, with scenic trails and breathtaking landscapes. You can also visit the Golden Whip Stream and explore the nearby hiking paths.
Yes, there are souvenir shops near the entrance and on the mountain offering items such as local handicrafts, postcards, and souvenirs related to Tianmen Cave, such as keychains, T-shirts, and jade carvings.
After visiting Tianmen Cave, the best transportation options are taxis or local buses. You can also arrange private transportation if you're heading to other attractions like Zhangjiajie National Forest Park or the Avatar Mountains.
