Yuanjiajie

Introducing Yuanjiajie

Yuanjiajie, located north of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, is a mountainous plateau. Densely wooded and shrouded in mist, it has been dubbed a mysterious "Pandora's World." Backed by rocky peaks and facing a secluded valley, it stretches from east to west. Key attractions include the Back Garden, the Soul-Changing Terrace, and the No. 1 Bridge Under Heaven. The No. 1 Bridge under Heaven, particularly noteworthy, spans between two mountains. With a deck width of 2 meters and a span of 25 meters, it boasts the world's largest vertical drop among natural stone slab bridges ever discovered.

The most famous attraction here is the Qiankun Pillar, the filming location for the floating mountain "Hallelujah Mountain" in the movie "Avatar." Also worth noting is the majestic Mihun Terrace, the best viewing platform in the area. Standing in the center, you can admire the magnificent views of hundreds of towering stone peaks all around you.

Climate and best time to travel

mid-subtropical mountain prototype monsoon humid climate;

Best in April and October

Tickets

Not sold separately, included in the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park ticket price of 248.00 yuan

Attraction opening hours

07:00-18:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Yuanjiajie

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Yuanjiajie is part of the Wulingyuan Scenic Area, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The area is famous for its unique sandstone pillars that inspired the floating mountains in the movie "Avatar." Yuanjiajie, in particular, is known for its breathtaking landscapes and is one of the main attractions of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Yuanjiajie is located in Zhangjiajie, Hunan Province, China. The easiest way to get there is by taxi from Zhangjiajie city or by bus to the Wulingyuan Scenic Area entrance. Once inside, the area is accessible by cable car and walking trails.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The area is open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months (March to May, September to November) when the weather is mild and the landscapes are most vibrant. Avoid peak summer seasons if you want to avoid large crowds.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee for Yuanjiajie is generally included in the multi-attraction ticket for Wulingyuan Scenic Area, which costs around 248 RMB for a 4-day pass. Tickets can be purchased online through booking platforms or at the ticket booths at the park entrance.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It is advisable to book tickets online in advance, especially during peak seasons, to avoid long lines and ensure entry. A few days ahead of your visit should be sufficient, but booking a week in advance is recommended during holidays.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To explore Yuanjiajie fully, it is recommended to spend about 4-6 hours. This will give you time to take the cable car, walk along the trails, and visit the major scenic spots.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The "Avatar" Hallelujah Mountains, famous for their dramatic sandstone pillars.
• The Yuanjiajie Glass Skywalk for a thrilling walk above the valley.
• Golden Whip Stream, a peaceful path through the forest with incredible views.
• Tianzi Mountain for panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Chinese, and some English-speaking guides may also be available. Audio guides in English are offered at the entrance and on-site for visitors who prefer self-guided exploration.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The cable car ride up to Yuanjiajie offers stunning aerial views of the sandstone formations.
• The top of Tianzi Mountain for panoramic views of the entire Wulingyuan Scenic Area.
• The Yuanjiajie Glass Skywalk provides thrilling photo opportunities over the valley.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start your day with the cable car ride to Yuanjiajie, explore the "Avatar" Hallelujah Mountains, and then hike down to Golden Whip Stream. Afterward, head to Tianzi Mountain for panoramic views before finishing with a walk on the Yuanjiajie Glass Skywalk.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

There are no regular night visits to Yuanjiajie itself, but some nearby attractions, such as Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon, offer special night tours during peak seasons. The area is best explored during daylight hours for the best visibility of the landscape.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The area can be crowded, especially during holidays and weekends. The least crowded times are weekdays outside of peak seasons, such as spring and autumn. Early mornings and late afternoons also tend to be quieter.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are toilets, rest areas, and food vendors scattered throughout the park. Small shops selling souvenirs and snacks are also available. Water stations are located at major spots, but it’s recommended to bring your own water during long hikes.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Yuanjiajie has some accessible paths, and the cable car makes it easier for elderly or disabled visitors to explore the area. However, some trails may be challenging for those with mobility issues. It’s advisable to check with the park staff for the most accessible routes.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

While cash is accepted, mobile payments via WeChat Pay and Alipay are the most common forms of payment in the park. Credit cards are accepted in some larger hotels and restaurants.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several local restaurants offering Hunan cuisine around the Yuanjiajie area, as well as cafes and snack stands. Popular dishes include spicy hotpot, stir-fried vegetables, and rice noodles.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available, although the selection may be limited compared to larger cities. Halal food options can be found in Zhangjiajie city, but they are scarce in the park area itself.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are a variety of accommodations near Yuanjiajie, including hotels and guesthouses in the Wulingyuan area. Options range from budget-friendly inns to upscale resorts, such as the Zhangjiajie International Hotel and resorts around the Wulingyuan Scenic Area.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon, known for its Glass Bridge and scenic views.
• Tianmen Mountain, famous for its natural arch and cable car ride.
• Yellow Dragon Cave, a beautiful limestone cave system.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops are available near the entrance and throughout the park, selling local handicrafts, traditional Hunan teas, bamboo products, and postcards.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Taxis and ride-hailing services like Didi are available for getting around Zhangjiajie.
• High-speed trains and buses connect Zhangjiajie to other cities like Changsha and Guangzhou.
• Zhangjiajie Hehua Airport offers both domestic and international flights.