Zhangjiajie Zishan Manju: A Poetic Retreat in the Wilderness
by Henry Price Henry`78
May 26, 2025
🌳 Accommodation Choice:
Check in at Zishan Manju, a hotel nestled within pristine forests offering tranquil surroundings. The architecture blends Tujia culture with modern design, featuring unique glass treehouses and cozy family rooms where you can enjoy panoramic natural views right from your bed. The property also boasts an infinity pool, restaurant, tea lounge, and attentive butler service for an exceptional stay experience.
🚗 Transportation Guide:
- By Air: After arriving at Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport, the hotel butler will arrange airport pickup (approx. 40-minute drive).
- By Train/HSR: Alight at Zhangjiajie West Station where the butler will organize station transfer (about 30 minutes to the hotel).
🗺️ Nearby Attractions Itinerary:
- Zhangjiajie National Forest Park (walking distance to Zimugang Ticket Station): A UNESCO World Heritage Site with breathtaking sandstone pillars, deep canyons, and cascading streams. Morning: Take eco-buses to Yuanjiajie to visit Avatar's "Hallelujah Mountain" and First Bridge Under Heaven. Afternoon: Explore Yangjiajie's cliffside plank walk at Tianbo Mansion. Evening: Stroll along Golden Whip Stream for canyon views and possible wild macaque encounters.
- Tianmen Mountain (50-minute drive): Start early and opt for Route A. Ride the world's longest alpine cablecar to visit Tianmen Cave, Glass Skywalk, Ghost Valley Plank Path, and the winding 99-Bend Road. The monumental cave, thrilling glass walkway, and dragon-like mountain road are awe-inspiring.
- Baofeng Lake (20-minute drive): Dubbed "Jade Pool on Earth," this emerald lake surrounded by peaks offers boat tours with ethnic song-and-dance performances. Hike to Eagle's Nest Village afterward.
- Huanglong Cave (25-minute drive): A spectacular karst cave with dazzling stalactites and stalagmites illuminated by colorful lights. Cruise through Xiangshui River's underground waterways before exploring deeper caverns.
🍲 Food Recommendations:
- Sanxiaguo: Zhangjiajie's signature hotpot with preserved pork, trotters, and tripe served spicy. Try at Master Hu's Sanxiaguo.
- Rock Fungus Chicken Stew: Local delicacy combining mountain fungus with free-range chicken for nourishing broth. Recommended at Shangui Zhai.
- Tujia Mixed Pot: Hearty stew with shredded meat, tofu, radish, and cabbage offering rich flavors.
❗ Important Notes:
- Pack rain gear and layers for Zhangjiajie's changeable weather.
- Beware of monkeys 🐒 in scenic areas – keep snacks hidden.
- Book attraction tickets (especially Tianmen Mountain) in advance to avoid delays.
Post by brynn_3749 | Jun 7, 2025













