At Zhangjiajie Grand View Terrace, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the iconic Zhangjiajie sandstone pillars. A must-do is walking along the observation platforms and taking in the breathtaking landscape. It's also perfect for photography, particularly at sunrise and sunset, when the light highlights the stunning rock formations. Visitors can explore the surrounding nature trails for a full experience of the area.

From the Grand Viewing Terrace, you can gaze out at the sun, taking in a panorama of thousands of magnificent peaks. Wulingyuan's sandstone peaks offer a unique perspective at every step, each step a different shape, each mountain changing its size every ten steps. It's the perfect spot for viewing sunrise, one of Zhangjiajie's four wonders (sunrise, peak forest, winter snow, and sea of fog). "Divine Chicken Pecking": Shared with "Immortal Pecking," "One Step Difficult to Walk," and "Emperor's Seat," it offers the best vantage point for viewing the "Ten-Mile Picture Gallery."
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: Tianzizuo, Xianren Bridge
free
5:00-18:00 (8:30-17:30 in winter)
Zhangjiajie Grand View Terrace is a famous viewpoint in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. It holds significance as one of the best spots to view the unique sandstone pillar formations that inspired the floating mountains in the movie Avatar. The area is part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, known for its unique geology and rich biodiversity.
Zhangjiajie Grand View Terrace is located within the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in Hunan Province. The most convenient way to reach the terrace is by taxi or shuttle bus from Zhangjiajie city. Visitors can also take public buses to the park's main entrance and transfer to a park shuttle or walk to the terrace.
The Grand View Terrace is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is early in the morning or late afternoon, particularly during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and the landscape is at its most beautiful. Sunrise and sunset offer the best light for photography.
The entrance fee for the Zhangjiajie Grand View Terrace is approximately CNY 72 (USD 11). Tickets can be purchased online via tourism platforms or on-site at the park's entrance. It is advisable to buy tickets in advance during peak tourist seasons to avoid long lines.
It is recommended to book tickets in advance, particularly during peak seasons such as the summer holidays and Chinese public holidays. Booking at least 1-2 days in advance ensures entry and saves time at the entrance.
Visitors typically spend around 1-2 hours at Zhangjiajie Grand View Terrace. This includes time to explore the observation platforms, take photos, and enjoy the scenic views. If you plan to hike the nearby nature trails, it may take longer.
The main highlight of the Grand View Terrace is the panoramic view of the Zhangjiajie sandstone pillars. The observation decks offer the best vantage points for photography, with a sweeping view of the forest park below. The surrounding nature trails are also worth exploring for additional scenic views.
Guided tours are available at the Grand View Terrace, and some guides speak English. Audio guides are also available in several languages, including English, for visitors who prefer a self-guided experience.
The best viewpoints are the main observation decks, where you can capture sweeping views of the sandstone pillars and surrounding landscape. The views at sunrise and sunset are particularly striking, with the golden light accentuating the rock formations.
Start by exploring the main observation platform to take in the expansive views of the rock pillars. Afterward, walk along the nearby nature trails for a more immersive experience of the park's unique geological features. For the best views, try visiting at sunrise or sunset.
Currently, there are no night visits or light shows at Zhangjiajie Grand View Terrace. However, the area is still worth visiting at dusk for spectacular natural light and to avoid the daytime crowds.
The Grand View Terrace can get crowded during holidays and weekends. To avoid the crowds, it is best to visit early in the morning, especially on weekdays or during the off-peak seasons (spring and autumn).
Basic facilities are available, including restrooms, water stations, and small shops offering snacks and souvenirs. There are also rest areas where visitors can relax and enjoy the scenery. It’s advisable to bring your own water and snacks for a more comfortable experience.
The main observation platforms at Zhangjiajie Grand View Terrace are accessible for elderly visitors and children. However, some of the nature trails may have uneven terrain, which could be challenging for visitors with disabilities. Wheelchair access is limited in certain areas of the park.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely accepted, and credit cards can be used at major points like the ticket counters and souvenir shops. It’s still a good idea to carry some cash, especially for smaller purchases or in remote areas where mobile payments may not be available.
There are small local restaurants and food stalls near the park's entrance offering traditional Chinese dishes. For more extensive dining options, Zhangjiajie city is a short drive away, offering a variety of international and Chinese restaurants.
Vegetarian food options are available in most local restaurants, though vegan and halal options may be more limited. It is advisable to check with the restaurant staff to ensure your dietary requirements are met.
Several hotels are located near the Zhangjiajie Grand View Terrace, including mid-range and luxury hotels. Popular choices include Zhangjiajie International Hotel and Pullman Zhangjiajie, both offering comfortable accommodations with easy access to the park.
Nearby attractions include Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Tianmen Mountain, and the Glass Bridge. These can easily be combined into a day trip, as they are all within close proximity and offer unique experiences of Zhangjiajie's landscapes.
Souvenir shops are available near the park's entrance, offering items such as traditional Chinese crafts, keychains, postcards, and small models of the sandstone pillars. These make for great mementos of your visit.
After visiting, taxis, shuttle buses, and private cars are the best options for continuing your trip. Zhangjiajie city is easily accessible, and from there, visitors can explore other nearby attractions or continue their journey.