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The Imperial Pen Peak is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and towering rock formations. Visitors should hike the trail leading to the peak, enjoy the stunning panoramic views of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, and photograph the dramatic landscapes. The peak itself offers a unique vantage point of the surrounding forest and mountains, making it a top destination for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
Over 100 meters high, the Imperial Brush Peak, comprised of several peaks arranged in parallel, is said to have been formed from the imperial brush discarded by Emperor Xiang Wang after his defeat. This remarkable creation is a masterpiece of nature, scientifically explained as the result of weathering, erosion, and wear over time. Local folklore connects it with Emperor Xiang Wang, saying that after his martyrdom, his brush transformed into a stone peak, now nestled beside Shentang Bay. The "stick box" and "brush holder" containing the brush remain at Shuirao Simen. It is one of the most scenic spots in the Tianzi Mountain Scenic Area.
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;
Nearby attractions: Three Sisters Peak, Old Man Picking Herbs, Zhangjiajie Ten-Li Gallery
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Monday to Sunday 07:00-18:00
Imperial Pen Peak is one of the iconic landmarks in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. The peak’s name comes from its resemblance to an ancient scholar’s pen, which is an important symbol of Chinese culture. The area is significant due to its unique geological formations and its role in inspiring the "floating mountains" seen in the movie *Avatar*. It also holds cultural importance, representing the harmony between nature and traditional Chinese values.
Imperial Pen Peak is located within Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in Hunan Province. Visitors typically take a taxi or private car from Zhangjiajie city to the park. Inside the park, visitors can walk or take the cable car to reach the trail that leads to the peak. Public transportation options are available to reach the park entrance, but walking is necessary to explore the peak itself.
The park is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and the landscape is especially scenic. Early mornings and late afternoons provide optimal lighting for photography, particularly during sunrise or sunset.
The entrance fee to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, including access to Imperial Pen Peak, is approximately 250 RMB for adults. Tickets can be purchased both online and at the park entrance. It is advisable to book online during peak seasons to avoid long queues.
Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons (spring, summer, and national holidays). Tickets can be booked up to a few days in advance to secure your entry and avoid delays. Online booking is the fastest way to ensure availability.
Exploring Imperial Pen Peak thoroughly requires about 2-3 hours. This includes hiking the trails, enjoying the views, and taking time for photography. Visitors can also spend additional time exploring the surrounding area within the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park.
The main highlight of the Imperial Pen Peak is the view from the summit, where you can observe the unique rock formations and sweeping vistas of the surrounding landscape. Other important areas include the hiking trails leading up to the peak, which offer various vantage points and opportunities for scenic photographs.
Guided tours are available at Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, including visits to Imperial Pen Peak. Guides typically speak Mandarin, but English-speaking guides are also available on request. Audio guides in multiple languages, including English, are available for self-guided tours.
The best viewpoints are at the peak itself, offering panoramic views of the surrounding rock formations and the forest park. There are also several scenic points along the trail leading up to the peak where visitors can capture stunning photos, particularly at sunrise and sunset when the light enhances the dramatic scenery.
Begin your visit by taking the cable car to a higher elevation, which provides great views of the park. From there, hike the designated trail to reach Imperial Pen Peak. After exploring the peak, you can continue to explore other areas of the park, including nearby scenic spots or the Avatar Mountains.
There are no night visits or light shows specifically for Imperial Pen Peak, as the park generally closes by 5:00 PM. However, the early morning and late afternoon visits are highly recommended for the best lighting and quieter surroundings.
The park can be crowded, particularly during public holidays and peak tourist seasons. The least crowded times are on weekdays, especially early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Visiting during the off-season (autumn and winter) also reduces the number of tourists.
The park has basic facilities including toilets, water stations, and rest areas along the trails. There are also food stalls and small restaurants at the park entrance. Souvenir shops are available where visitors can purchase mementos of their visit.
The park offers some accessible pathways, but the trails leading to Imperial Pen Peak involve significant elevation gain, which may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. However, there are easier routes and cable cars for those with limited mobility. Children will enjoy the hike, but it may require extra care on the steeper sections.
Mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted within the park. However, cash is still commonly used at smaller food stalls and souvenir shops. It is advisable to have some cash on hand, especially for smaller purchases.
There are food options available at the park entrance, including small cafes and food stalls offering snacks and local dishes. For a more extensive selection, visitors can explore the restaurants in Zhangjiajie city, where a variety of cuisines are available.
Vegetarian food options are available at most restaurants in Zhangjiajie city. Vegan and halal options may be more limited, but some restaurants in the area cater to these dietary preferences.
Several hotels and guesthouses are located near the park entrance, ranging from budget to mid-range options. For a more luxurious stay, visitors can book hotels in Zhangjiajie city center, where more upscale accommodations are available.
Nearby attractions include the Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge, Tianzi Mountain, and Avatar Mountains. These sites can be easily combined in a day trip from Imperial Pen Peak, offering visitors a more complete experience of Zhangjiajie's natural beauty.
Yes, there are souvenir shops near the park entrance. Typical souvenirs include postcards, keychains, T-shirts, and other items themed around the natural beauty of Zhangjiajie and the *Avatar* movie.
After visiting Imperial Pen Peak, taxis or private cars are the best options for continuing your journey to other attractions or back to Zhangjiajie city. Public buses are also available for those looking to explore more of the region on a budget.
