Tianmu Mountain - From my trip to Ismayilli, Azerbaijan
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Tianmu Mountain

4.6
·491k reviews·Hang Zhou Shi, China

Ascend to Heaven's Gate via the legendary 999 steps or a thrilling glass skywalk. Experience a natural wonder and a dazzling light show.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings (19:00-20:30)

Magical light show awaits

CrowdMedium
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Tianmu Mountain - From my trip to Ismayilli, Azerbaijan

Tianmu Mountain

Best Time

Evenings (19:00-20:30)

Magical light show awaits

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Ascend to Heaven's Gate via the legendary 999 steps or a thrilling glass skywalk. Experience a natural wonder and a dazzling light show.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Conquer the 999 steps and walk on air at the glass skywalk for unforgettable views!"

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be climbing 999 steps! Comfortable footwear is essential for the ascent.

💧 Stay Hydrated

Bring water, especially for the climb. You can also buy it there, but it's pricier.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The 999 Steps

The 999 Steps

Tianmen Mountain

Conquer the legendary 999 steps leading to the Heaven's Gate archway. A true test of endurance with breathtaking rewards.

Heaven's Gate Archway

Heaven's Gate Archway

Tianmen Mountain

Marvel at the colossal natural archway, a natural wonder carved into the mountainside. An iconic symbol of Zhangjiajie.

Evening Light Show

Evening Light Show

Tianmen Mountain

Experience a magical light show illuminating the mountain and its natural wonders. A dazzling spectacle not to be missed.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Tickets in Advance

Secure your tickets for Tianmen Mountain ahead of time, especially if you plan to visit during peak season or for the evening light show. This avoids potential disappointment and long queues.

Prepare for the 999 Steps

The iconic ascent involves 999 steps. Pace yourself, wear comfortable shoes, and stay hydrated. It's a challenging but rewarding climb for stunning views.

Best Times

When
Evenings (19:00-20:30)
Why
Magical light show awaits
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

✨Light show on Tianmen Mountain. Time: 19: 00-20: 30✨ Remember to book tickets in advance on Trip.🎫 #zhangjiajie #travelchina #china#tripcom#chinatrip
@trip.com_chinatravel
145.5K likes • 1.6M views

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be climbing 999 steps! Comfortable footwear is essential for the ascent. TikTok

💧 Stay Hydrated

Bring water, especially for the climb. You can also buy it there, but it's pricier. TikTok

can you guess my fav thing to do with my hair #tianmenmountain #zhangjiajie #china #studyabroad
@parspdpdp
143.9K likes • 1.9M views
reddit.com

tianmen mountain peak guide

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Save time and guarantee entry by booking your tickets in advance. TikTok

⏳ Allow Ample Time

Don't rush! The 999 steps and exploring the mountain take several hours. Reddit

reddit.com

Tianmen Mountain

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be climbing 999 steps! Comfortable footwear is essential for the ascent. TikTok

💧 Stay Hydrated

Bring water, especially for the climb. You can also buy it there, but it's pricier. TikTok

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Save time and guarantee entry by booking your tickets in advance. TikTok

⏳ Allow Ample Time

Don't rush! The 999 steps and exploring the mountain take several hours. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are consistently awestruck by the natural beauty of Tianmen Mountain, particularly the iconic Heaven's Gate archway and the thrilling glass skywalk. The challenging 999 steps are a highlight for many, offering a sense of accomplishment. However, some find the crowds overwhelming, and the cost can be a consideration.

What People Like

Breathtaking Heaven's Gate
Thrilling glass skywalk
Challenging 999 steps

What People Dislike

Large crowds
Can be expensive

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

From Zhangjiajie Station, you can take a taxi or a local bus to the Tianmen Mountain cable car lower station. The journey is relatively short, usually around 20-30 minutes. Reddit

It's a very tight schedule. Arriving at 2:45 pm means you'd need to be efficient. Prioritize the 999 steps and then head to the tower. Check operating hours for both. Reddit

While difficult to guarantee, starting earlier in the day or visiting on weekdays generally means fewer crowds. The 999 steps are a popular route, so be prepared for company. Reddit

Private vehicles are generally not allowed to drive up Tianmen Mountain. The primary access is via the cable car or shuttle bus from the base station. TikTok

Besides the cable car and the 999 steps, there's a scenic road with shuttle buses, and a glass skywalk. You can also take an escalator through the mountain. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices can vary, but typically include the cable car, shuttle bus, and access to the main attractions. It's best to check the official website or booking platforms for current pricing. TikTok

Yes, booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to avoid long queues and ensure entry. TikTok

A standard ticket usually covers the round-trip cable car ride, the shuttle bus along the Tianmen Mountain Road, and access to the Heaven's Gate area and the glass skywalk. TikTok

Opening hours can vary seasonally. The cable car typically starts operating in the morning and continues until late afternoon. The evening light show has specific timings. TikTok

There might be different packages or options available, potentially including access to specific attractions or different routes. It's advisable to check when booking. TikTok

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

It's a strenuous but exhilarating climb. The steps are well-maintained, and there are resting spots. The views as you ascend are incredible. TikTok

Absolutely! Walking on the glass skywalk offers thrilling, unobstructed views of the surrounding cliffs and valleys. It's a unique perspective. Instagram

The evening light show is a spectacular display of lights and projections that illuminate the natural rock formations and the archway, creating a magical atmosphere. TikTok

Allow at least 3-4 hours to fully experience Tianmen Mountain, including the cable car ride, the 999 steps, the skywalk, and exploring the summit area. Reddit

Yes, there are restrooms and some food and drink vendors available at various points on the mountain, particularly near the cable car stations and the Heaven's Gate area. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Tianmen Mountain can be an adventure for families, but it requires careful planning. The 999 steps are a significant challenge for young children, so consider using the mountain escalators for a more accessible journey to Heaven's Gate. TikTok The cable car ride offers stunning views that kids will likely enjoy. Pack plenty of snacks and water, as options on the mountain can be limited and pricier. Ensure children are supervised closely, especially on the glass skywalk and near cliff edges.

For a less strenuous experience, focus on the cable car and the areas accessible by shuttle bus. The evening light show might be captivating for older children, but consider their attention spans and the late hour. TikTok It's a good idea to check the weather forecast and dress children in layers, as mountain temperatures can fluctuate. While the climb is iconic, families might find more enjoyment by utilizing the various transport options available to navigate the mountain's attractions. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Adventure Seekers

For those craving an adrenaline rush, Tianmen Mountain delivers. The 999 Steps are a formidable challenge, testing your stamina and resolve. TikTok The Glass Skywalk offers a heart-pounding experience, walking on transparent pathways high above the ground with sheer drops below. Instagram If you're looking for a physical and visual thrill, this is the place.

Consider visiting during off-peak hours to maximize your sense of adventure without the crowds. The scenic road with its hairpin turns, accessible by shuttle bus, also provides a thrilling ride. Reddit For the ultimate experience, combine the physical exertion of the steps with the dizzying heights of the skywalk. The dramatic landscapes and the sheer scale of the natural formations will undoubtedly satisfy your adventurous spirit. Don't forget to capture your daring moments with photos and videos!

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Iconic 999 Steps

The ascent of the 999 Steps is perhaps the most iconic experience at Tianmen Mountain. This challenging climb leads directly to the magnificent Heaven's Gate archway. Travelers often share their journey on social media, documenting the effort and the eventual triumph. It's a physical test, with many videos showing the progression of fatigue as they climb higher. TikTok Remember to wear comfortable athletic shoes and bring plenty of water, as the climb can be demanding, especially in warmer weather. The steps are well-maintained, offering a clear path, but the sheer number can be daunting.

The reward for conquering the steps is unparalleled. As you reach the top, the colossal natural archway of Heaven's Gate opens up before you, a breathtaking sight that has captivated visitors for centuries. This natural wonder is a testament to the power of erosion and time. Many visitors describe the feeling of awe and accomplishment upon reaching this point. Reddit It's a prime spot for photos, so be ready to capture the moment.

Beyond the physical climb, the journey up the steps offers increasingly spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding karst landscape. Each step higher reveals a new vista, making the ascent itself a scenic experience. For those who find the 999 steps too strenuous, there are alternative ways to reach the top, including escalators that run through the mountain, offering a more relaxed but equally impressive journey. TikTok

Experiencing Heaven's Gate and the Skywalk

Heaven's Gate, the massive natural arch, is the crown jewel of Tianmen Mountain. This geological marvel is not just a sight to behold but also a spiritual symbol for many. The sheer scale of the arch is awe-inspiring, and its presence against the backdrop of the lush green mountains is a photographer's dream. Instagram Many visitors express their wonder at how such a formation came to be.

Adjacent to Heaven's Gate is the famous Glass Skywalk, a transparent walkway that clings to the cliff face. Walking on this suspended bridge offers a thrilling, bird's-eye view of the dizzying drop below. The experience is often described as both terrifying and exhilarating, providing a unique perspective of the mountain's dramatic topography. Instagram It's a must-do for thrill-seekers and those who want to experience the mountain from a different angle.

The area around Heaven's Gate is also a hub for exploration. You can find various viewpoints, small temples, and pathways that lead to different vantage points. The evening light show transforms the entire area into a magical spectacle, with lights illuminating the arch and the surrounding cliffs, creating a truly unforgettable ambiance. TikTok This is a perfect time to visit if you're looking for a more dramatic and visually stunning experience. Remember to check the schedule for the light show to make the most of your visit.

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