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The most recommended activity at Tianmen Mountain Tongtian Avenue is walking along the famous Glass Skywalk, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Visitors can also take the Tianmen Mountain cable car, one of the longest cable cars in the world, to reach the mountain summit. Don't miss the "Heavenly Gate" natural arch, a unique geological formation that is an iconic feature of the area.
Tianmen Mountain, the highest mountain in Zhangjiajie's Yongding District, lies just 8 kilometers from the city center. It's named after the natural wonder, Tianmen Cave. Tongtian Avenue, a winding mountain road, boasts 99 bends, resembling a jade belt, with each winding path closely connected and stacked one after another, creating what has become known as "the world's greatest highway wonder." The 10.77-kilometer route leads directly from the landmark gate to the foot of Tianmen Cave, with the elevation rising dramatically from 200 meters to 1,300 meters. After walking along Tongtian Avenue, Mr. Shen Peng happily inscribed the words "Winding Road to Heaven" in a powerful, upright calligraphy.
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: Ladder to Heaven, Tianmen Cave, Lingxiao Terrace
Included in Tianmen Mountain Scenic Area
08:00-18:00; Last admission: 16:00 (Monday to Sunday, January 1st - December 31st)
Tianmen Mountain is a sacred mountain in Chinese folklore, with a history that dates back to ancient times. The "Heavenly Gate" natural arch, formed by centuries of erosion, is considered a symbol of spiritual elevation. The area is a significant site for both natural beauty and cultural importance, attracting both tourists and pilgrims.
Tianmen Mountain is located in Zhangjiajie, Hunan province. The easiest way to get there is by taxi or private car from Zhangjiajie city (approximately 30 minutes). There are also public buses to the Tianmen Mountain Cable Car Station. Once you arrive, the cable car is the most popular way to reach the summit.
The attraction is open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM. The best times to visit are during weekdays or in the off-peak season (spring and autumn). Avoid public holidays and weekends if you prefer fewer crowds. Early morning visits are recommended to experience the sights with fewer people.
The entrance fee for Tianmen Mountain is generally around 258 RMB, which includes access to the cable car, Glass Skywalk, and other attractions. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online in advance, particularly during peak seasons.
It is advisable to book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons (summer and national holidays). Booking a few days ahead is recommended to ensure availability, though a week in advance may be necessary for national holidays.
A visit to Tianmen Mountain Tongtian Avenue typically takes 3-4 hours, depending on how much time you spend at each section. If you're taking the cable car and walking the Glass Skywalk, it may take about 3 hours. Longer visits can be made if you explore more of the trails or enjoy the views at the summit.
The must-see highlights include the Glass Skywalk, the Heavenly Gate Arch, the Tianmen Mountain cable car, and the scenic viewpoints along the way. The walk along the Tongtian Avenue, also known as the "Avenue to Heaven," with its steep steps and stunning views, is a memorable experience.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and English-speaking guides may also be available, though it's best to check ahead of time. Audio guides in English are sometimes available for rent at the entrance or cable car station.
The best viewpoints are at the Glass Skywalk, which provides sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The Heavenly Gate Arch is another iconic photography spot, as well as the cable car ride itself, which offers spectacular aerial views of the entire region.
Start by taking the cable car to the summit, then walk along the Tongtian Avenue to the Heavenly Gate Arch. After visiting the arch, take the Glass Skywalk for panoramic views. If time permits, explore other trails at the top or visit the temple at the summit.
Currently, there are no night visits or light shows at Tianmen Mountain Tongtian Avenue. However, some special events may take place during public holidays or festivals, so it's worth checking for any seasonal events.
The attraction can get crowded, especially on weekends, holidays, and during peak tourist seasons. The least crowded times to visit are weekdays during the off-season (spring and autumn), with early morning being the best time for fewer crowds.
There are toilets, rest areas, and snack shops at various points along the mountain. The summit also has a restaurant and souvenir shops. It’s a good idea to bring water and snacks, especially if you plan to explore the trails or take the cable car.
The Tianmen Mountain Tongtian Avenue is partially accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, especially with the cable car providing easy access to the summit. However, the Tongtian Avenue itself involves walking up steep stairs, which may be challenging for some visitors. Children and elderly visitors should be mindful of the terrain.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and credit cards are widely accepted throughout the attraction. Cash is also accepted, but mobile payments are the most convenient option.
There are several restaurants and cafes at the summit offering local Chinese dishes and snacks. In Zhangjiajie city, there are numerous restaurants serving Hunan cuisine, and many options for international dining as well.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some restaurants in Zhangjiajie city and at the summit. Halal food is also available in certain areas of the city, especially in neighborhoods with Muslim communities.
There are several hotels in Zhangjiajie city, ranging from budget to luxury. Some hotels are located near the Tianmen Mountain Cable Car Station, providing easy access to the attraction. Options include the Tianmen Mountain Hotel and other accommodations near Wulingyuan Scenic Area.
Nearby attractions include Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, which features the famous Avatar Hallelujah Mountains, and the Tianmen Mountain Glass Skywalk. These landmarks can easily be combined into a day trip from the city.
Souvenir shops at Tianmen Mountain sell local handicrafts, traditional Chinese items, and products featuring the Tianmen Mountain theme, such as postcards, keychains, and glass products. The most popular souvenirs are items related to the Heavenly Gate Arch and the mountain's natural beauty.
After visiting Tianmen Mountain, the best transportation options are taxis or private cars for convenience. Public buses are available, but taxis provide more flexibility if you wish to visit other nearby attractions like Wulingyuan Scenic Area or Zhangjiajie National Forest Park.
