Zhangjiajie route: Furong Town, Tianmen Mountain and more

This 3-day route through Zhangjiajie National Park in China showcases the dramatic sandstone pillars that inspired the Avatar films. The itinerary includes cable car rides, the Golden Whip Stream boardwalk, and views of the iconic towering formations rising above dense forest.

Mode
Places
Start
First time in Zhangjiajie
End
Disaster in Tianmen
Stops
5
Video author
travmap
Updated

Stops on this route

  1. First time in Zhangjiajie — UNESCO-protected sandstone pillars rising thousands of meters inspire the floating mountains of Avatar, creating otherworldly landscapes accessible via cable cars and glass…
  2. Monkey attacks… — Wild macaque populations inhabit the park's forests; visitors should secure belongings and maintain distance, as these primates may snatch items or approach aggressively when food…
  3. Furong Ancient Town — Historic traditional village within or near Zhangjiajie National Park preserving traditional Chinese architecture and local culture.
  4. Tianmen Mountain — Sacred mountain in the Zhangjiajie area known for its impressive elevation and cultural significance to the region.
  5. Disaster in Tianmen — The infamous 2013 crash at Tianmen Mountain serves as a cautionary reminder of road safety hazards on the region's steep cliff-edge highways and winding mountain passes.

Useful for your trip

Where to stay
Stay inside Zhangjiajie National Park rather than in the city to avoid crowds and long queues. The YOLO Resort costs £28/night and provides access to private sunset viewing spots.
Timing
Arrive at popular viewpoints early in the morning (around 10:00 AM) to avoid tour groups. Most crowds gather at the same spots during midday.
Avoid
Avoid carrying visible plastic bags or food on the boardwalk trails. Monkeys are known to attack bags and steal items, especially if they contain food.
Transport
Entry tickets to Zhangjiajie are scanned using facial recognition technology. No physical tickets needed; just scan your face at entry points.
Transport
The cable car descent in Zhangjiajie is considered the best in the park. It provides views similar to flying in the Avatar movie.
Timing
June is summer season with hot temperatures and heavy sweating conditions. Winter brings snow to the park, creating a completely different landscape.
Save money
DiDi taxi rides are very affordable. A 50-minute journey costs approximately £7.50. Tipping is not customary and cannot be added through the app.
Transport
Vending machines are available throughout the park selling water, soft drinks, and tea. Plan accordingly if you need refreshments during hikes.
Tip
Furong Ancient Town is over 2,000 years old with a waterfall running through the middle. The town lights up in the evening, creating a magical atmosphere.
Timing
Visit Furong Ancient Town later in the day or evening when the decorative lights turn on, including lights in the waterfall.
Tip
Furong Ancient Town has costume rental options available throughout the area for photo opportunities.
Avoid
Be aware of large spiders in accommodations. One spider in the YOLO Resort room was described as very large and thick.

Video on this route

REAL LIFE AVATAR MOUNTAINS - 3 Days in Zhangjiajie, China 🇨🇳

More routes nearby

Map