Dayong City Park Zhangjiajie - Image 1
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Dayong City Park Zhangjiajie

3.9
·38 reviews·Zhang Jia Jie Shi, China

Experience the breathtaking, 'Avatar'-inspired landscapes of Zhangjiajie's towering sandstone pillars and misty valleys. A truly otherworldly natural ...

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring (April-May)

Mild weather, lush greenery

CrowdMedium
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Dayong City Park Zhangjiajie - Image 1

Dayong City Park Zhangjiajie

Best Time

Spring (April-May)

Mild weather, lush greenery

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience the breathtaking, 'Avatar'-inspired landscapes of Zhangjiajie's towering sandstone pillars and misty valleys. A truly otherworldly natural wonder.

3.9
(38 reviews)

"Feels like another planet. Truly unreal views that will stay with you forever."

Vertical photo
TIP

Book Tickets in Advance

Save time and guarantee entry by booking your park tickets and transport passes online beforehand. :admission_tickets:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing. Sturdy, broken-in shoes are a must for exploring the park. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Avatar Hallelujah Mountains

Avatar Hallelujah Mountains

Yuanjiajie Scenic Area

Towering sandstone pillars shrouded in mist, creating an ethereal, 'floating mountains' effect. Truly a sight to behold!

Tianmen Mountain Skywalk

Tianmen Mountain Skywalk

Tianmen Mountain

Walk on a glass-bottomed walkway clinging to the side of a cliff, offering dizzying, panoramic views. Not for the faint of heart!

Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge

Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge

Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon

One of the world's longest and highest glass bridges, providing a thrilling, transparent walk over a deep canyon.

Bailong Elevator

Bailong Elevator

Yuanjiajie Scenic Area

Ride the world's tallest outdoor elevator up the side of a cliff for unparalleled views and quick access to the Yuanjiajie area.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Avatar World

Zhangjiajie's dramatic sandstone pillars are famously the inspiration for Pandora in Avatar. Prepare for breathtaking, otherworldly landscapes that feel straight out of a movie. Book tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid long queues.

Navigating the Park

The park is vast and can be overwhelming. Consider a multi-day pass if you want to explore thoroughly. Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing. Many visitors recommend using the park's shuttle buses and cable cars to cover distances efficiently.

Best Times

When
Spring (April-May)
Why
Mild weather, lush greenery
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn (September-October)
Why
Clear skies, vibrant foliage
Crowd
Medium
When
Winter (December-February)
Why
Snowy 'Avatar' landscapes
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

American traveler is left stunned after trying Robotic legs in China 🇨🇳 This occurred in Zhangjiajie National Park and is the follow up to a previous video of the robotic legs. Here you can see me getting set up with the robotic suite, and explaination on how it is used, running, and even the price These robotic legs are rented out to people in the national park to help with hiking. For rent it i...
@christian.grossi
3.1M likes • 38.9M views

Book Tickets in Advance

Save time and guarantee entry by booking your park tickets and transport passes online beforehand. :admission_tickets:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing. Sturdy, broken-in shoes are a must for exploring the park. :athletic_shoe:

#ChinaTravel #Zhangjiajie #fyp #avatar
@vsfervbhn9n
181.2K likes • 3.5M views
In a different dimension ⛰️ #zhangjiajie #avatarmountains #pandora #sky #cloud #pillars #floatingmountains #scenictrails #halleluyamountain #miautribe #grandcanyon #glassbridge #cave #skywalk #tianmenshan #heavensgate #72qilou #flyingfox #cableway #elevator #hongyadong #phoenixancientcity #nationalforestpark #chongqing #lizibastation #yangtzeriver #tujiatribe #hunan #china 🇨🇳
lolcebalce
2.6K likes • 0 views

Embrace the Mist

Don't let fog or mist deter you; it adds to the mystical 'Avatar' atmosphere and can create stunning photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:

Consider Robotic Legs

Rent robotic leg exoskeletons for an easier hike on steep trails. A unique experience! :walking:

Feels like another planet. 🏞️🪐 #Zhangjiajie #AvatarMountains #ShotOniPhone #ChinaTravel #OtherWorldly #SurrealViews #DreamDestinations #NatureWonder #EpicViews #Wanderlust #BucketListTravel #ExploreTheWorld #HiddenGem #NatureLovers #IncrediblePlaces #TravelVibes #UnrealViews #TravelAddict #EarthMagic #ExploreMore #china
sarettaturrini
303 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Book Tickets in Advance

Save time and guarantee entry by booking your park tickets and transport passes online beforehand. :admission_tickets:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing. Sturdy, broken-in shoes are a must for exploring the park. :athletic_shoe:

Embrace the Mist

Don't let fog or mist deter you; it adds to the mystical 'Avatar' atmosphere and can create stunning photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:

Consider Robotic Legs

Rent robotic leg exoskeletons for an easier hike on steep trails. A unique experience! :walking:

Utilize Park Transport

The park is huge! Use the shuttle buses, cable cars, and the Bailong Elevator to save energy and time. :bus:

What Travellers Say

3.9
(38 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are consistently awestruck by Zhangjiajie's surreal, 'Avatar'-like landscapes, with the sandstone pillars and misty vistas being major highlights. The park's unique attractions like the glass bridge and Bailong Elevator offer thrilling experiences. However, some find the park's organization chaotic and the sheer scale can be overwhelming for short visits.

"Dayong Town offers a tranquil escape with its scenic riverside setting, making it an ideal destination for a leisurely stroll. The charming town exudes a laid-back atmosphere, inviting visitors to unwind as they meander along the picturesque riverbanks. Lined with lush greenery and dotted with quaint bridges, the river promenade offers captivating views at every turn. Whether enjoying a peaceful morning walk or a relaxing evening stroll, Dayong Town provides a serene setting to connect with nature and soak in the beauty of its surroundings. It's a delightful retreat for those seeking a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life."

B Przystawski

"You see a lot of recommendations for this place when you Google activities in the city, we visited in late October 2023 and the place is a literal ghost town, very few places are open, most look abandoned. We expected some kind of old town but this is clearly a leisure district built in the old style that probably died during corona."

Mattias Aspegren

"I mean, I can’t really review this place because it was closed, but it looks completely empty nonetheless and a bit of a dilapidated state.

I would only You have nothing to do and lots of free time. Also check it’s open because it seems to be closed for renovations-if anything is happening at all."

Tim Armstrong

What People Like

Otherworldly landscapes
Avatar inspiration
Glass bridge thrill

What People Dislike

Crowded popular spots
Park organization
Can be overwhelming

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Most visitors fly into Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport (DYG), which has domestic flights from major Chinese cities. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle bus to the park entrance. Alternatively, you can take a high-speed train to Zhangjiajie West Station and then a bus or taxi to the park. Reddit

The park offers an efficient network of shuttle buses that connect major scenic spots. For vertical ascents and descents, consider the Bailong Elevator or various cable cars. These are essential for covering the vast distances and steep inclines. Reddit

Yes, there are regular shuttle buses from Zhangjiajie city center and bus stations directly to the park entrances. Taxis are also readily available, though they will be more expensive. TikTok

Private vehicles are generally not allowed inside the main scenic areas of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park to manage traffic and environmental impact. You'll need to park outside and use the park's internal shuttle system. Reddit

For a single day, focus on either the Yuanjiajie area (Avatar Mountains, Bailong Elevator) or Tianmen Mountain (Glass Skywalk, Heaven's Gate). Trying to do both in one day is very rushed. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entrance fees typically range from 225-250 CNY for a 4-day pass. Additional costs apply for attractions like the Bailong Elevator (around 72 CNY one-way) and Tianmen Mountain cable car (around 278 CNY round trip). It's advisable to check the official website for the most current pricing. TikTok

Tickets can be purchased at the park's entrance gates, but booking online in advance through platforms like Trip.com or the official park website is highly recommended to avoid long queues, especially during peak travel seasons. TikTok

The standard entrance fee usually covers access to the main scenic areas like Yuanjiajie and Huangshizhai. However, it does not include internal transportation like shuttle buses, cable cars, or the Bailong Elevator, which require separate tickets. Reddit

Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and children, but these often require valid identification and may only apply to the entrance fee, not internal transport. It's best to inquire at the ticket counter or check the official booking sites. Reddit

The park generally opens early in the morning, around 7:00 AM, and closes in the late afternoon or early evening, around 6:00 PM. However, specific operating hours for attractions like the Bailong Elevator or cable cars may vary. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The 'Avatar Hallelujah Mountains' in Yuanjiajie, the glass skywalk on Tianmen Mountain, and the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge are top highlights. The Bailong Elevator offers incredible views and access. Instagram+2

Absolutely! The park is a hiker's paradise with numerous trails ranging from easy paved paths to challenging mountain climbs. The unique terrain offers incredible views at every turn. Reddit

Walking on the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge is a thrilling experience, offering transparent views of the canyon below. It can be crowded, and some visitors report feeling a bit nervous but awestruck. TikTok

Yes, you can rent robotic leg exoskeletons to assist with hiking steep inclines, which can make the experience more accessible and less strenuous. TikTok+1

The park can get very crowded, especially during national holidays and summer months. Visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) or on weekdays can offer a less crowded experience. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography Tips

The 'Avatar Hallelujah Mountains' offer iconic shots, especially when shrouded in mist. The glass skywalk on Tianmen Mountain and viewpoints along the various trails provide stunning panoramic vistas. Instagram+1

Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a more atmospheric glow. Sunrise and sunset can be particularly magical if you can access viewpoints. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is highly recommended to capture the immense scale and dramatic landscapes of Zhangjiajie's pillars and canyons. Instagram

Experiment with different angles, capture the mist and fog for an ethereal feel, and try to include elements like the unique flora or the park's transport systems in your shots for a sense of scale. TikTok

Popular spots can be very crowded, making it challenging to get unobstructed shots. Be patient, wait for moments when people move, or try to find less-visited viewpoints. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Zhangjiajie offers a magical experience for families, with its 'Avatar'-like landscapes sparking children's imaginations. The Bailong Elevator and cable cars are exciting rides that kids will love, offering stunning views without strenuous climbing. TikTokInstagram Consider focusing on areas with more accessible paths and shorter walking loops. While the glass bridge and skywalks can be thrilling, assess your children's comfort levels with heights beforehand. Pack plenty of snacks and water, as food options within the park can be limited and pricey. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Adventure Seekers & Hikers

For those who love to hike, Zhangjiajie is a dream destination. The park boasts numerous trails, from moderate walks to challenging climbs. Explore the Yuanjiajie Scenic Area for iconic pillar views and consider tackling some of the less-trodden paths for a more secluded experience. TikTok The Tianmen Mountain area also offers hiking opportunities alongside its famous skywalk. Don't shy away from the suspended sky ladder if you're seeking an extra thrill. TikTok Remember to check trail conditions, especially during different seasons, and carry sufficient water and energy snacks. Reddit

📸 Photographers

Zhangjiajie is a photographer's paradise, offering unparalleled opportunities to capture dramatic landscapes. The 'Avatar Hallelujah Mountains' are a must-shoot, especially during misty mornings for that ethereal, otherworldly feel. Instagram+2 Utilize a wide-angle lens to encompass the vastness of the pillars and canyons. Experiment with different times of day to catch the best light; early mornings and late afternoons often yield the most atmospheric shots. Instagram Be prepared for crowds at popular viewpoints and consider visiting during the off-season or weekdays for more unobstructed shots. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The 'Avatar' Connection

Zhangjiajie's otherworldly sandstone pillars are famously the inspiration for the floating mountains of Pandora in James Cameron's 'Avatar.' The park's unique geological formations, sculpted over millions of years by erosion, create a landscape that truly feels like another planet. Instagram+3 This connection has drawn countless visitors eager to experience the real-life magic that inspired the blockbuster film. The sheer scale and unusual shapes of the pillars, often shrouded in mist, contribute to this surreal atmosphere, making it a photographer's and nature lover's dream. Instagram

Several specific areas within Zhangjiajie are directly linked to the 'Avatar' inspiration. The Yuanjiajie Scenic Area, home to the Hallelujah Mountains, is perhaps the most iconic. These towering, slender pillars are what most people envision when thinking of Pandora. Another key area is Tianzi Mountain, offering panoramic views of similar formations. The park's natural beauty is so profound that it's easy to see how it sparked such a vivid cinematic imagination. Instagram+1

Navigating Zhangjiajie's Terrain

Exploring Zhangjiajie National Forest Park involves navigating a vast and often steep terrain. The park is divided into several key scenic areas, and getting between them requires strategic planning. Shuttle buses are the primary mode of transport within the park, connecting major points like the entrances, Bailong Elevator, and various trailheads. Reddit

For vertical travel, the Bailong Elevator is a marvel of engineering, offering a swift ascent up a sheer cliff face with spectacular views. TikTokInstagram Cable cars are also available in different sections, such as on Tianmen Mountain, providing breathtaking aerial perspectives. For those seeking a more adventurous experience, numerous hiking trails wind through the park, ranging from accessible paved paths to challenging climbs with stairs. Renting robotic leg exoskeletons is a unique option for tackling particularly strenuous ascents, making the experience more manageable for some visitors. TikTok+1

It's crucial to wear comfortable and sturdy footwear, as you'll be doing a significant amount of walking and climbing. Many visitors recommend allocating at least two to three days to fully appreciate the park's diverse landscapes without feeling rushed. Reddit Planning your route using the park map and understanding the shuttle bus routes in advance will greatly enhance your visit. Reddit

The Thrill of the Glass Attractions

Zhangjiajie is renowned for its daring glass-bottomed attractions, offering visitors a unique perspective and a serious adrenaline rush. The most famous is the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge, one of the longest and highest glass bridges in the world. Walking across this transparent structure, suspended hundreds of meters above the canyon floor, provides unparalleled, albeit dizzying, views. TikTok

Another must-experience is the Tianmen Mountain Skywalk, a series of glass-bottomed walkways that cling to the sheer cliffs of Tianmen Mountain. Stepping onto these transparent paths, with the vast expanse of the valley below, is an unforgettable experience that tests your nerve while rewarding you with incredible vistas. Instagram+1 These attractions are not for the faint of heart but are a testament to human engineering and offer a thrilling way to appreciate the dramatic natural beauty of the region. TikTok