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Zhangjiajie Travel Guide-book
2017-06-21 16:01:38  TOPTOURISM WEBSITE  

ZHANGJIAJIE AVATAR WORLD PREFACE
 
Travel in Zhangjiajie,You will be deeply attracted to its thousands of quartz sandstone mountains.
Travel in Zhangjiajie,You will be immersed in its magnificent sceneries.
Travel in Zhangjiajie,Seems you are traveling in a real Pandora world!
Sunshine comes after rain,Mountains floating upon the sea of clouds, every single mountain gets a life.
When you stand on the top of the floating mountain,looking down all the mountains,you will be deep in thought:is it a real world?
It is not known until the early 1980's, people marvel at such a beautiful and unique place losts for a long time.
Zhangjiajie is the pandora world hiding in our world,it is the huge enlarge of the IMAX movie Avatar,it is the fairyland you awaited. When you're in this fairyland,maybe you can find thousands of floating mountains,colorful rainforest,fantasy creatures,maybe the blue skin Nahavi people are riding their dragons among the mountains.

 
ABOUT SHUIRE TEAM
 
This is DRAGONHOLIDAY DEPARTMENT(shuire team),it is from Hunan-XZL-International Travel Service Co., Ltd.Online booking for Zhangjiajie package tour, One person,also enjoy group's benefits.If you need any helps,pls be free to contact us.we will do all to make you an easy trip in Zhangjiajie,Welcome to our Zhangjiajie!
 
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DRAGONHOLIDAY DEPARTMENT
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ZHANGJIAJIE OVERVIEW
 
Geography and Climate
 
Located in the northwest of Hunan Province,About 400 kilometers away from Changsha,capital of Hunan,covering a total area of 9,563 square kilometers,Zhangjiajie is a tourist city for its unique natural scenery and abundant tourism resources.
 
Zhangjiajie is a prefecture-level city consisting of Yongding and Wulingyuan Districts, Cili and Sangzhi Counties. Within it is located Wulingyuan Scenic Area which is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992. What’s more, Zhangjiajie was awarded the title of “World Geological Park” in 2004.
 
The outstanding landscape features of Zhangjiajie are Quartz Sandstone Peak Forest and Karst Caves constitute, which are rare in the world.Here you'll find hundreds of grotesque peaks,beautiful waters,towering trees,deep valleys,marvelous caves and exuberant forest that have formed a complete primitive ecological environment.The most notable geographic features of the park are the pillar-like formations that are seen throughout the park.They are the result of many years of erosion.The weather is moist year round,and as a result,the foliage is very dense.Much of the erosion which forms these pillars are the result of expanding ice in the winter and the plants which grow on them. Actually,Zhangjiajie,honored as "The most fantastic mountain under heaven" and "A living Chinese landscape painting".It is also widely acclaimed as“An enlarged potted landscaping”,“A miniature fairyland” and “A maze of nature", Attracting a growing number of tourists from home and abroad.
 
Zhangjiajie History
 
In ancient times,Zhangjiajie was regarded as remote and inaccessible.The history of Zhangjiajie can be traced back to the Neolithic Age when it was still named “Dayong”. The first human traces in this area have been registered about 100,000 years ago.Like other places in China,a legend has been developed by ancient people.It said that Zhang Liang-a famed strategist of the Western Han Dynasty (206BC-24AD),lived here after leaving the imperial court.He lived in fear he would be killed by Liu Bang,the first emperor of the Han Dynasty who had ordered some of his subjects executed out of suspicion they might rebel against him.Zhang found Qingyan (Now Zhangjiajie) Mountain is an ideal refuge due to its haunting beauty and tranquility. He became a hermit. It is said he planted seven ginkgo trees here.He was buried below Qingyan (Now Zhangjiajie) Mountain. Zhang's descendants also are believed to have lived here, which is how the name Zhangjiajie originated. Zhang refers to Zhang Liang's surname, while Jia means family and Jie represents homeland or border.
 
Minority in Zhangjiajie
 
Zhangjiajie is rich in water resources despite not being a coastal city. The region covers 91,563 square kilometers and it has a large population of 1.5 million, most of whom belong to the Tujia, Bai and Miao minorities. So the local custom is quite interesting and different from Han people.The Tujia people have a long history.They are simpleminded and warm-hearted. There are three main ethnic minority groups in Zhangjiajie: Tujia, Bai and Miao. These groups make up 77 percent of Zhangjiajie's total population and many visitors count their festivals among the highlights of their visit.
 
Tujia Ethnic
 
Tujia are one of the main minority groups in Zhangjiajie and they live in Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture.Their diet consists mainly of rice and corn. The local flavored products are Ciba,Tuansa and preserved ham. They have their own dress style and their own folk music. It is worthy to mention that Tujia Brocade is one of the five excellent brocades in Zhangjiajie. Main cultural festivals include the Sheba Festival and Gannian Festival.The Sheba Festival is usually held during the 3rd -15th day of the first month,the 3rd day of the third month,and the 6th day of the sixth month of the lunar calendar.It is an age-old celebrated happy event of Tujia minority group.Gannian Festival is the most ceremonious happy event and it is usually held in 28th or 29th of the twelfth month of the lunar calendar.It is to celebrate the coming Chinese New Year.
 
Bai Ethnic
 
The Bai are well-known as a hospitable minority group by the drinking customs of "Three-Course Tea". The first cup called "The tea of light bitter" is infused by using only the material of bitter tea leaf. The second cup is called "The sweet tea" because it adds the material of brown sugar,sesame,Walnut Seed. And the third cup called "Aftertaste tea" because it tastes bitter as well as sweet and spicy by adding the honey and a little Chinese prickly ash. If you come to the village of Bai minority group in Zhangjiajie, you can enjoy the treat. Their most special festival is the Torch Festival which is held on 25th June of the lunar calendar.On that evening every family in the village lights a torch and then all the torches are collected in the center of the village.People pray for the crops' safety in the manner of striding across the fire.In this way the festival aims to aid the destruction of vermin and therefore protect the crops.
 
Miao Ethnic
 
The Miao minority group is a populated and widely distributed group throughout Chinese nation.In the area of Zhangjiajie where the Miao minority group mostly lives you can see many traditional ceremonious activities.Their special festivals include Miao Folk Song Festival and Antiphonal Singing Festival (Also called Miao's Valentine's Day).The former one is celebrated on the 6th day of the sixth month of the lunar calendar in the memory of their folk heroes.And the latter one is celebrated on the 3rd day of the third month of the lunar calendar.

 
ZHANGJIAJIE HIGHLIGHTS
 
Step on the view platform,view the peerless scenery
 
Three thousand strange peaks and eight hundred great water,all the sceneries give travelers a very stunning visual effects,words are poor to describe the beauty of Zhangjiajie,wanna see the real pandora world? All places you are going to visit are the shooting places for the movie AVATAR!
 
Enjoy great sunrises, feel the miraculous nature
 
Tired of those regular itineraries? Come and join the most popular sunrise tour in Zhangjiajie.Watching the sunrise above the clouds at Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is a unique and memorable experience,it is truly an awesome place to watch the clear night sky and stars fade away as the sun lights up the sky and earth.
 
Walk along the Golden Whip Stream, traveling in a pictorial world
 
Golden Whip Stream, famous for its pristine water, verdant mountains, free oxygen, steep cliffs and serene valley, covers a distance of 7.5 km from north to south, it has been called "The Most Beautiful Valley in the World".
 
Explore the pillar-like formations, shooting the floating rocks
 
The most notable geographic features of Zhangjiajie's park are the pillar-like formations that are seen throughout the park.It is known for its exquisite forests,odd-shaped peaks and rocks, the beautiful canyons,the limestone caves,and the breath-taking panoramic views.As the first state-level forest park in China,it has been described differently,such as,majestic,eccentric,tranquil,delicate and wild.
 
Take Tianmen cableway,soar into the sky
 
Tianmen Mountain Cableway the longest passenger cableway in the world with a length of 7,200 meters and a height gap of 1,277 meters.The local gradient from the middle station to the upper station is as high as 37 degrees,which is rare in the world.Tourists marvel at it,which is worth the title of the Top Highway Wonder in the World.
 
Visit Yellow Dragon Cave, discovery the mysterious underground
 
With an area of 100,000 square meters,length of 7.6 kilometers,height of 140 meters,two underground rivers,four waterfalls,13 caverns and 10,000 stalagmites and stalactites,it is a huge limestone cave.Experts from UNESCO said that Yellow Dragon Cave is the most beautiful cave in the world and it is unbelievable that there is so long Underground River in the cave.
 
Walk in Phoenix Ancient Town,experience the romantic and deep culture
 
Hemmed in by rolling mountains and watered by a smoothly flowing river,flagstone streets,rows of traditional wooden houses built on stilts,towers,bridges everywhere,small boats rowed down the river,that's a portrait of Fenghuang. At night the streets in Fenghuang's old town are full of street food vendors,serving grilled meats,dumplings,fried potatoes,flat breads and grilled vegetables.When all neon lamps turn on at night,it's very beautiful,peaceful and romantic.Being endowed with beautiful scenery,Ancient Town of Phoenix is also a famous historic and cultural city.
 
Eat the unique local food,taste Hunan cuisine
 
Zhangjiajie local food belongs to the Hunan cuisine series of eight main dishes departments of China,but it has its unique characteristics:Strong liquor and spicy flavor,some of dishes are very famous and good tasting.For example, "Group new year's dish",pig blood bean curd,Hezha,flesh of acid fish,loaches in bean curd,the black-boned chicken soup with elevated gastrodia,and so on.
 
ZHANGJIAJIE ATTRACTIONS
 
Wulingyuan Core Scenic Spots
 
Zhangjiajie city, located in the northwest of Hunan province,is well-known for the natural landscape.Wulingyuan is one of its county,so people often call the core scenic area as "Wulingyuan Science Spot" for Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is in Wulingyuan Area, Wulingyuan includes Zhangjiajie National Forest Park,Yuanjiajie,Yangjiajie, Tianzishan and Souxi vally.
 
Golden Whip Stream
 
Golden Whip Stream, also called Golden Whip vally, is 7.5 kilometers, with fresh air and crystal water, this valley is the best place for having a nice walking, there are to way to visit Golden Whip Stream, the first entry is Zhangjiajie National Forest Park and the another one is Shuiraosimen.Transportation:It is only 300 meters away from the entrance of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, most people choose this entry to enjoy it.
 
Visiting Duration: 2.5 hours
 
Scenic Spots: Gonden Whip Rock,Splitting Mountain to Save Mother,Long-distance Meet and so on.
 
Tips:
 
1.You'd better to enjoy the valley after rain, with more water in the stream and fresh air,it looks like a natural painting,at the same time,don't forget to bring a raincoat.
 
2.There is a place called "Monkey Garen",please keep your food in your bags when you pass this road in case of being scratched by monkeys.

 
Yellow Stone Village
 
Yellow Stone Village lies to the west of Zhangjiajie Forest Park, with an altitude of 1,200 m and covers an area of 250mu. there is a popular saying "You cannot say that you have visited Zhangjiajie if you don't go to Yellow Stone Village".You also can give up this scenic spot if you are tired for the scenery is almost the same with Yuanjiajie. Transportation: 5 minutes on foot from the entrance of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park,pass Oxygen Square and choose to hike up or take the cablecar.
 
Transportation:5 minutes on foot from the entrance of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park,pass Oxygen Square and choose to hike up or take the cablecar.
 
Visiting Duration: 2.5 hour hiking up and 2.5 hours for sightseeing on the top of mountain.
 
Cablecar Fee:Single way 65RMB, The double way 118RMB
 
Scenic Spots: The Pick-up Star Platform, Six Strange Pagoda, the Front Garden and so on.
 
Bailong Elevator
 
The Bailong Elevator (Chinese:百龙电梯) (Literally Hundred Dragons Elevator) is a glass elevator built onto the side of a huge cliff in Wulingyuan area of Zhangjiajie,China that is 1,070 feet (330 m) high. It is claimed to be the highest and heaviest outdoor elevator in the world.Construction of the elevator began in October 1999, and it was opened to the public by 2002.
 
Transportation:Take the green bus from Shuiraosimen,3 minutes riding.
 
Ticket:Single way 72RMB.

 
Yuanjiajie
 
Yuanjiajie is also called AVATAR Mountain for the movie AVATAR is filmed here.Located in the northwest part of the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Yuanjiajie is a naturally formed platform mountain, surrounded by higher summits which are divided by deep valleys.You will enjoy Hallelujah Mountain, NO.1 Bridge in the world and so on.
 
Transportation:You can choose hiking up to the top from Long-distance Meeting which is in the middle of Golden Whip Stream or take Bailong Elevator.
 
Visiting Duration: 2-2.5 hours.

 
Enamoured Platform
 
This place is the first must see place when you come to Yuanjiajie,which is so beautiful that you think it is not real.with countless peaks and green trees,words are poor to describe how spectacular it is.
 
Hallelujan Mountain
 
The former name is "Qiankun Pillar",gets its new name because the movie AVATAR was filmed here in 2010. This peak owns unique shape,just likes to be splitted by a sharp knife,with vertical height about 150 meters,this mountain is the highest peak in Yuanjiajie.
 
NO.1 Bridge in the World
 
At the end of Shadao Gou,near to the right,there is a natural stone bridge crossing the top of two big peaks,you will get a whole view of the bridge with the distance of 40 meters.but it is no special feeling when you walk on it.
 
Tips:
 
1.Yuanjiajie is a must-see place for the tourism groups,so it will be very crowded and noisy.You'd better not visit this place against the stream of people in the peak season(From east to west).
 
2.Please be careful when you are enjoying the beauty, there are so many steps along the sightseeing road,what's more,it is the deep valley with depth of 300 meters if you fall down.
 
Yangjiajie
 
Do you want to get away from big tourism groups,just come to Yangjiajie.Yangjiajie is situated in the northwest of Zhangjiajie,covering an area of about 34 sq km.Yangjiajie is an area that is comprised of peaks,cliffs,waterfalls, streams, gullies and other natural landscapes.There are 110 scenic spots in total that can be viewed in the area. (8.4 thousand acres).
 
Transportation: Take green bus from Yuanjiajie to Wullong Village, 15 minutes bus riding,visit Wulong Village-Tianbofu (Return the same way)- One Step to the Heaven.
 
Visiting Duration:5 hours.
 
Main Spots:
 
One Step to Heaven: "Who can say heaven posseses the best scenery? Natural scenery of this area is even more fancinating".Between Yangjiajie and Tianzishan,lies a wide canyon.A multitude of strangely shaped sandstone peaks form a veritable sea.When the gentle breezes blow,we can even taste the taste the flavor of the majestic mountains. Within this sea of peaks,six massive columns stand in a line,rising about 200 meters high from the base of the canyon.The two in the middle are a little higher than their comrades,and when the sun bathes the landscape after a rain,occasionally a brilliant rainbow will span the sky connecting the peaks like a celestial bridge.Such a "Heavenly bridge" doesn't appear often, but the six peaks can always be viewed,so this spot is called "One Step to Heaven".
 
Wulong Village:The former name is Heilong Village, is a place where the Bandit inhabited long time ago.There are a lof of deep cliffs around the platform.Now you even can see the old houses bulit 300 years ago.

 
The Grand Sightseeing Platform
 
There are 4 natural spectacles - The clouds of mist that circle the peaks of the mountain,the amazing views of the rising sun,the moonlit nights and snowcapped winter peaks. The Grand Sightseeing Platform is the only place where you can see the sunrise.Gazing into the distance,you will have a panoramic view of numerous peaks.
 
Transportation:Take green bus to The Grand Platform
 
Visiting Duration:2-3 hours.
 
Scenic Spots:The Grand Sightseeing Platform,Emperor Pagoda
 
Tips:
 
You need to stay in Dingxiang Rong downtown if you want to see the sunrise in The Grand Sightseeing Platform. The sunrising time is different according to the seasons, basically speaking, 5 o'clock in the morning in summer and 7 o'clock in winter.Zhangjiajie Tour Club has a good cooperation with a lot of hotels in Dingxiang Rong downtown,all hotels are clean and economic.
 
Tianzi Mountain
 
Tianzi Mountain Nature Reserve boasts rocky peaks in grotesque shapes and shrouded in drifting mist.There are many scenic attractions,such as the lofty Imperial Writing Brush Peak,Fairy Maid Scattering Flowers,and the Mid-Air Farmers’Cottage.The highest peak is 1,260 meters (4,130ft) above sea level and provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Waterfalls, bridges, stone forests and caves are found throughout the mountains. There are not just beautiful landscapes,but also simplicity,peculiar folk custom and local folk food of special flavor awaiting the arrival of visitors.
 
Transportation:Starting from Zhangjiajie bus station to the entrance of Tianzi Moutain, bus ticket is 13RMB,then take the green bus in the park to the top of Tianzi Mountain,2 hours.
 
Wulingyuan Scenic Spot:You can take green bus to Tianzi cablecar station and take the cablecar up to the mountain.
 
Scenic Spots: Helong Park,The Fairlady Presenting Flowers,The West Sea.
 
Visiting Duration:3 hours.
 
Cablecar Fare:67RMB for the single way.
 
Surrounding Scenic Spots

 
Tianmenshan National Forest Park
 
Many people get Tianmen Mountain mixed up with Tianzi Mountain,They are two different scenic areas.Tianmen Mountain,is approved to be National Forest Park in 1992,has an elevation of 1518.6 meters.It is only 8 kilometers far from the downtown and is one of the most representative natural sceneries of Zhangjiajie.For a long time, Tianmen Mountain not only attracts the attention of the people by its miraculous and unique geographic landform and unparalleled natural landscape,but also well known for its profound cultural connotations and famous colorful humanistic sites.It is revered as the soul of culture and spirit of Zhangjiajie,China.
 
Visiting Duration:5 hours
 
Ticket Fare:258RMB
 
Main Attractions in Tianmen Mountain:
 
Tianmen Cave
 
Tianmen cave the natural mountain-penetrating karst cave with the highest elevation in the world, hangs on the towering cliff.It is a natural water-eroded cave with the highest elevation in the world.It is actually a big hole in the mountain but people call it a cave and it has become a major attraction.In 1999,in an acrobatic show,three airplanes flew through it.The live telecast drew an estimated audience of 800 million people worldwide.The cave become the unique sight under heaven and breeds the profound and grand heaven culture of Fairy Mountain in the local area.
 
Tianmenshan Glass Plank Road 
 
Tianmenshan Glass Plank Road lies in the west of Tianmen Moutain. Its overall length is 60 meters. The highest point of this bridge arrives about 1,430 meters. Glass Plank Road is seen as another masterpiece after Ghost Path, Glass deck and wooden bridge over the gorge.
 
Tianmenshan Glass Plank Road can compare favorably with world-known glass corridor in American Grand Canyon. In fine days, the shadow of blue sky and white cloud overspread the whole Glass Plank Road, which can bring visitors a feeling of walking in the edge of cloud. In mist days, Glass Plank Roa is partly hidden and partly visible.
 
In order to insure the transparency and cleanness, all visitors are required to wear shoe covers when walking on Glass Plank Road.
 
Tianmen Mountain Cableway
 
Tianmen Mountain Cableway the longest passenger cableway in the world with a length of 7,200 meters and a height gap of 1,277 meters.It will give you an unforgettable memory in all your life.It is one of the few cable cars within China with a height gap over 1,000 meters.The local gradient from the middle station to the upper station is as high as 37 degrees, which is rare in the world.It is the cableway with the largest local gradient as well as one with most brackets in China.
 
Tongtian Avenue (Avenue toward Heaven)
 
Tongtian Avenue has 99 turns symbolizing that the Heaven has nine palaces.It is worth the title - wonder of highway in the world.Through Tongtian Avenue,one reaches directly the Tianti - celestial ladder. The grand celestial-like scene came into view.
 
Tianmen Mountain Temple
 
Tianmen Mountain Temple was first built in the Tang Dynasty as a center of Buddhism in the area of western Hunan.The present Tian Men Mountain Temple is rebuilt on the basis of the original site with a plot area of more than 10,000 sqm.It adopts an official style of the Qing Dynasty and the buildings in the Temple compare well with the famous classical houses at home.The Temple is located in the mountain hollow with a broad vision.If one gazes into the southeast,all the hills seem to be so small that the Temple is really like an overlord.
 
Yellow Dragon Cave
 
Yellow Dragon Cave is a typical Karst cave,consisting of an area of irregular limestone in which erosion has produced fissures,underground streams,and caverns.So far,the discovered cave area is about 15 kilometers long and 140 meters high,and covers 48 hectares.The Cavern can be divided into two parts.One is the dry cave and the other is the water cave.In the Yellow Dragon Cavern are caves inside caves, and one cave may lead to many others. Sometimes there are also underground caves. Stalactites, stalagmites, stone blossoms, stone curtains, stone branches, stone canals, stone pearls, and stone macrospores can be seen in various places in the cavern, constituting a fantastic yet natural scene.
 
Ticket Fare:100RMB
 
Visiting Duration: 2 hours
 
Opening Time:Peak season 07:30-17:30,Low season 08:00-17:00
 
Tips:The temperature is low in the cavern. Not recommended to visit in cold season.

 
Baofeng Lake
 
The Baofeng Lake Scenic Area is part of the larger Wulingyuan Scenic Area,one of the world's natural heritages. It is situated at the back of Mount Baofeng, with an area of 274 hectares.The area comprises Baofeng Lake and Yingwo Stockaded Village.The natural beauty of the lake and the mountain complement the human culture and landscape.
 
Baofeng Lake features beautiful natural scenery. It is located in the mountains, where there is abundant water and fresh air. Green trees and stone peaks of various shapes surround the lake. There are also marvelous running waterfalls pouring out like troops from heaven descending to the world. Yixiantian Valley, less than an average of four meters wide, is another wonderful scenic spot. Only a line of the sky can be seen from the bottom of the valley, which resembles a seemingly long and thin silk thread. The length, narrowness, and depth here are rare for national scenic spots.
 
Ticket Fare:96RMB
 
Visiting Duration:2 hours
 
Opening Time:08:00-17:00

 
Phoenix Ancient Town
 
Phoenix Ancient Town,Chinese name is Fenghuang,is situated on the western boundary of Hunan Province in an area of outstanding natural beauty where mountains, water and blue skies prevail.Upon arrival visitor will be impressed by its air of mystery,elegance and primitive simplicity. This is a world that is dominated by the colour green.The mountain slopes are covered with green foliage, the fields are green and even the Tuo Jiang River reflects the greenery.The bridges over the water and unique houses built on stilts display a harmony that is so often portrayed in traditional Chinese paintings.This is particularly true when mist pervades the scene in the early morning or after rain.It soon becomes apparent that the claim to being one of the two most beautiful towns in the whole of China is more than justified.
 
Attractions in Phoenix Ancient Town:
 
Tuojiang River
 
It is the mother river of the Phoenix Ancient Town. It runs slowly along the city walls, nurturing the people of the city for generations. You may feel unique lingering charm when you get on board a black covered boat, listen to the songs of the boatman and enjoy the suspension buildings of Tu Minority with a history of over 100 years. As you go downstream through the Rainbow Bridge, a picture of water town south of the lower reaches of the Yangtze River will spread in front of you: the Wanshou Palace, the Wanming Tower, the Duocui Building, and so on and so forth. The water is clear, watercourse shallow and the stream flows slow in the Tuojiang River, that you could even see the float grasses flaunting in the gentle ripples.
 
Sightseeing from the window of stilt house
 
The most distinctive feature of Fenghuang Town are the Diaojiao houses of Tu minority which project over the river, and also the special cultural styles you will feel within the town.The stilt house (Diaojiao House),a kind of folk residence built on the stilts of different heights,is usually built beside the river or in steep mountain areas.When exploring the city,you will also see women washing clothes beside the river and the local people carrying bamboo baskets on their backs.You may also have a short cruise tour on the river.The culture sites you can visit are old residence of Shen Chongwen,Yang Memorial Temple and East Gate City Tower.The old residence of Shen Chongwen is a typical courtyard of Southern China style house.Yang Memorial Temple,also named Chaoyang Palace, was built in the year of 1836.It has a typical courtyard construction.East Gate City Tower is one of four city gates in the town.It stands at a height of 11 meters looks magnificent and stately.Stay overnight at the town.
 
Bar street
 
The streets facing the river come alive at night with Karaoke Bars,adorned with neon lights and blasting out music until midnight.
 
Put lanterns on the river
 
The surface of Tuojiang River is very smooth and the river is wide enough, suitable for putting lanterns on the river.
 
Campfire Party
 
Fenghuang is a place where you can experience the customs of ethnic minorities.Miao girls' graceful dance and beautiful singing voice are a highlight of the campfire party.

 
ZHANGJIAJIE TOUR ROUTES RECOMMENDATION
 
It will take you 3 days to visit Wulingyuan Core Scenic Area,you also can spend 1 day to Tianmen Mountain and 1 day to Baofeng Lake and Yellow Dragon Cave. What's more, Mengdong River Rafting is also a good choice if you are still not tired. Here I recommend some Zhangjiajie classic tours in the national park for you,to be honest,the most classic tour is to see the sunrise in the morning on the top of mountain.
 
3-Day Economic Sunrise Tour in Zhangjiajie
 
Day 1 Arrive in Zhangjiajie by train or flight.
Accommodation: Zhangjiajie city
 
Day 2 Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, visit Golden Whip Stream,located in eastern part of the park,Golden Whip Stream was named after Golden Whip Rock,With dense forest,clean water, beautiful flower and grotesque peaks,Golden Whip Stream is a quiet and mysterious gorge.It was praised as the most beautiful gorge in the world.
In the afternoon,Climb to Yuanjiajie, also called AVATAR Mountain for the movie AVATAR filmed here 3 years ago,enjoy Hallelujah Mountain,NO,1 Bridge in the world and so on.
Accommodation: Dingxiangrong family style hotel (In the park)
 
Day 3 You need to get up early,A full day sightseeing starts with Grand Sightseeing Platform - A famous place for seeing the sunrise,it only takes 10 minutes from your stay hotel to it.Sunrise in Grand Sightseeing Platform is one of the 4 natural wonders in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park.Visit Tianzi Mountain,Tianzi Mountain is a mesa in the northwest of Wulingyuan.Up on the mesa,the field of vision is widely opened up and it is a perfect location to have a panoramic view of the nature reserve,visit Helong Park,The West Sea and so on.Then go to the airport and say Good bye to Zhangjiajie.
 
3-Day AVATAR Experience Tour in Zhangjiajie
 
Day 1 Yellow Stone Village: After breakfast in the hotel,visit Yellow Stone Village,It lies to the west of Zhangjiajie Forest Park with an altitude of 1200 m and covers an area of 250 mu.You can enjoy the Six Stranges Pagoda, Picking Star Platform, Five Finger Peak, Lover peaks and so on when you are on the top of mountain
Golden Whip Stream: Located in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Yellow Stone Village covers a distance of 7.5 km from north to south, winding across mountains and valleys.The brook is limpid through the year, with many scenic spots along the way.It is famous for Jinbian Cave-which has a height of 382km and looks like a huge flying eagle. Wear good walking shoes and protection from the weather.
 
Day 2 Yuanjiajie: This mountain is also called AVATAR Mountain for the movie AVATAR is shot here.Enjoy Hallelujah Mountain, NO.1 Bridge in the world and so on.
Tianzi Mountain:It is known for 4 natural spectacles - The clouds of mist that circle the peaks of the mountain,the amazing views of the rising sun,the moonlit nights and snowcapped winter peaks.They include more than 80 natural platforms to take in the magnificent scenery.
 
Day 3 Baofeng Lake: Baofeng Lake is the masterpiece of nature and human beings’wisdom.It is 85 meters above the ground and attains an altitude of 585 meters.With an average depth of 72 meters.All the water is from rainfall and spring without any pollutant.It is pure just like a big crystal among Bao feng mountain Range.When you cruise, you can hear authentic song from Tujia minority people.You can fully understand the harmony and peace between human beings and nature.
Zhangjiajie Great Canyon: Situated in Cili County of Zhangjiajie city,10 km east to Wulingyuan world natural heritage site, Zhangjiajie Great Canyon is a new discovery of scenic spot. This valley is well-known for the fresh air and crystal water,2.5 hours to finish it.
Xibu Street: Xibu Street is located in Wulingyuan. It consists of water bar street, the Chinese snack street, xiangxi folk shopping street, leisure inn and creative mate. Thus becoming a complex tourism commercial pedestrian street.
 
5-Day Rafting Tour in Zhangjiajie
 
Day 1 Arrive in Zhangjiajie.
 
Day 2 Yellow Stone Village: After breakfast in the hotel,visit Yellow Stone Village,It lies to the west of Zhangjiajie Forest Park with an altitude of 1200m and covers an area of 250mu. You can enjoy the Six Stranges Pagoda, Picking Star Platform, Five Finger Peak, Lover peaks and so on when you are on the top of mountain.
Golden Whip Stream: Located in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park,it covers a distance of 7.5 km from north to south, winding across mountains and valleys. The brook is limpid through the year,with many scenic spots along the way.It is famous for Jinbian Cave-which has a height of 382km and looks like a huge flying eagle.Wear good walking shoes and protection from the weather.
 
Day 3 Yuanjiajie:This mountain is also called AVATAR Mountain for the movie AVATAR filmed here. Enjoy Hallelujah Mountain, NO.1 Bridge in the world and so on.
Tianzi Mountain: It is known for 4 natural spectacles - The clouds of mist that circle the peaks of the mountain,the amazing views of the rising sun,the moonlit nights and snowcapped winter peaks.They include more than 80 natural platforms to take in the magnificent scenery.
 
Day 4 Tianmen Mountain: Tianmen mountain is the highest mountain in Zhangjiajie, with with the sea level of 1518M, it is praised to be the soul of Zhangjiajie. Your guide will take you to explore the best scenic spots such as Heavenly bus road, The Glass Plank road, Tianmen Cave and so on.
Furong Ancient Town: Furong Ancient Town is originally named Wangcun. It is an ancient town where Tujiazu people live together. Until now, in the town, pavement laid with black flagstones and ancient domestic house (Mainly Diaojiaolou) are well preserved. The famous movie Furong Town directed by Xiejin is shot here. And the distinctive local product is “Rice Tofo”, you cann't miss when you pay a visit to this town.
 
Day 5 Mengdong River Rafting: Mengdong River scenic spot is famous largely as an ideal place for rafting. Here visitors can raft on it in rubber boats, and because of the fantastic scenery and unforgettable experience, it gains the praise as the "Number one rafting in the world". It will take you 3 hours in the boat to finish the rafting tour.Be transferred to Zhangjiajie and see you off in the Airport or Train Station.
 
ZHANGJIAJIE ACTIVITIES
 
The fairy fox lady show
 
This is a love story between a fox lady and a poor man,It is known as the world's first real-scene musical drama with the high mountains and deep valleys as the stage background.The director of the show is MeishuaiYuan, who is the founder of Real-Scene performance in China.
 
With the whole Tianmen Mountain as a stage, you can listen to sweet singings, admire colorful lighting scene,and experience the strong folk custom of Tujia and Miao minorities when you are enjoying the show. Since this open-air drama is only performed at night, when the weather gets cold you had better bring a coat to enjoy it.
 
Performance time: 20:30-22:00 PM
 
Address: Tianmen Mountain Valley Theater.
 
Transportation: Take NO.5 or 9 bus from the Tianmen Cablecar Station to the theater,10 minutes riding.
 
Ticket Price:238RMB/PAX, VIP is 588RMB/PAX and SUPER VIP is 888RMB/PAX.
 
The Charming of Xiangxi Dance Show
 
The Charming of Xiangxi Dance Show is a must see show when you come to Zhangjiajie, it is about the colorful local culture.
 
There are two performances together,one is inside the theater and another is a bonfire part outside.The shows are varied and deeply explore the mystery and unique minority life.
 
Performance time: 20:00 o'clock in the evening, sometimes 2 performances in the peak seasons.
 
Address: Huanjuan Road, Wulingyuan Area, near to Pullman Hotel.
 
Ticket Price: 238RMB/PAX, VIP ticket is 398RMB/PAX.

 
Torch festival of Bai People
 
This torch festival hold by Bai People in Zhangjiajie area is related to the elimination of destructive insects and protection of crops. As evening came, the Bai people light many torches at home and take them to a same outdoor space. They make a big bonfire with the torches there and step over the fire againand again, earnestly hoping that The God of fire will help them drive out the evil spirits and avoid disaster.
 
Enjoy the Local Songs in the Scenic Areas
 
There are a lot of singing performance platform in national park,7 to 8 Tujia girls with nationality clothes sing songs for travellers, one song charges for 10 RMB. The best place to listen to the local songs is Yangjiajie, A couple of lover,born in Zhangjiajie, sing all kinds of Tujia Nationality songs for you. you also can see the singing performance platform in Yellow Dragon Cave, Baofeng Lake and Tianzi Mountain.
 
Lunar June 6 of Tujia
 
Tujia call June six "Tan Robe". Women like to ted all of the cloth out, just like moving their house. And some of them wish they can remove the tile to ted the whole house.They think that the cloth tedded on that day will not go mould and remain new at all seasons.There is a legend. QingGou, a Hunan MaoGang officer, was confronted by danger on that day. He would be put to death by dismembering his body. On the execution ground, Qing Gou was angered with glaring wide open eyes. And when the executioner was getting to work, nine gold dragons flying out of his body, then the sun was dimmed and it was dark all round immediately. Zhu Yuanzhang, the emperor, was scared to faint on the ground from the golden chair, and then hurrily climbed up to pray to god. At the same time, he ordered to dry up the body and plunge into Qing Gou's appearance, putting him on the throne for seven days every year. Tujia people grabbed the arm robe sanguined by Qing' blood, then washed and dried it for shrine, calling it "Tan Robe".
 
Mengdong River Drifting
 
Located in upper Li River, the river with cliffs around is 50 kilometers long. It got fame of 50 kilometers Pictures Corridor.It is stimulated experience of drifting along the river.You can enjoy the beautiful scenery and interest of drifting.
 
Ticket Price: CNY165+3
 
Opening Time: 08:00-17:00
 
Rafting Duration: 3 hours
 
Tips:
 
1.The drifting period is from April to October every year.
 
2.When we begins to drift, we had better carry a set of clean clothes, in order to arrange an replacement, at the same time had better carry a pair of plastic slippers, for wear on board.
 
3.When going into the boat, the first thing you should do is reading information, and obeying the arrangement of the staff. At the same time, you can wear life jacket and find a safety rope.
 
4.Do not carry cash and valuables.If you have capsized or met with other accidents, drifting company and the insurance company will not compensate tourist.If you feel it is a rare opportunity to take camera, you had better carry low price camera.You can wrap it in plastic bags and prepare for the idea of falling into the water.
 
5.In the case of the weather temperature is not high,you can buy raincoat.
 
6.When the rafting boat goes through the rapids, you must listen to the command of staff, grasp the safety rope, tighten the feet, and the body leans to the central of hull.
 
7.You can not casually get out to swim.

 
PREPARE TO GO
 
Certificate
 
1.ID card or passport
 
2.Bank card
 
3.Driving licence
 
4.Student card(If you have one)
 
Package
 
1.Hiking bag(The fewer,the better,you can stay most of your packages in the city)
 
2.Shoulders bag
 
Clothing
 
1.T-shirt
 
2.Coat
 
3.Underwear
 
4.Socks
 
5.Sports Shoes(Thick and skid resistance)
 
6.Hat
 
7.Sunglasses
 
8.Gloves
 
Lighting
 
1.Flashing Light(Used for sunrise tour)
 
Photographic equipment
 
1.Camera and Camera lens
 
2.Camera bag and water shield
 
3.Emergency battery and Battery charger
 
Medikit
 
Hygienic Products
 
1.The washing tools(The hotels of Zhangjiajie don't offer disposable washing tools)
 
2.Toilet articles
 
Others
 
1.Raincoat
 
2.Umbrella
 
3.Florida water
 
TRANSPORTTATION
 
Zhangjiajie Lotus(Hehua) Airport
 
Located at Hehua Village,Yongding District of Zhangjiajie,has flights that fly between Zhangjiajie and twenty-odd major cities in China.Since Changsha,the capital city of Hunan province are better equipped in terms of means of transportation, tourists in other cities can fly to Changsha Airport first and then to Zhangjiajie.Transportation between Changsha and Zhangjiajie is convenient.

 
Airport Code: DYG
 
Airport Inquiries: 0744-8238294/8238417
 
Airport Ticket Office: 0744-8238293
 
Airport Flight Consulting: 0744-8220128/8227493
 
Transportation to Downtown Area:
 
1.By City-Bus
 
Bus No.: No.4
 
Ticket fare: CNY2
 
Operating hours: 08:00-18:00
 
2.By taxi
 
Taxi fare to downtown:
 
In the daytime: CNY15-20
 
In the evening: CNY30
 
Taxi fare to scenic area: CNY150-180
 
Zhangjiajie Train Station
 
Tourist trains between Zhangjiajie and about a dozen cities in China have been put in use. At the station there are buses 24 hours that goes to the downtown areas.
 
However,it should be noted that in Zhangjiajie booking train tickets to other cities can be very challenging work since so many people come here for sightseeing,but you can ask your guide for help,there are many service centers booking ticket for travellers,it is just need 5 to 30 yuan service fee.

 
Train Station Inquiry Desk: 0744-8512112
 
Transportation to Downtown Area:
 
1.By City-Bus
 
Bus No.: No.6
 
Ticket fare: CNY2
 
Operating hours: 08:00-18:00
 
2.By taxi
 
Taxi fare to downtown: CNY5-20
 
Taxi fare to scenic area: CNY150-180
 
Tips:
 
At the railway station square, there may be lots of people promote things to you, such as hotels, tour packages and car rental, you should hold on those situations, to avoid troubles, do not following them.
 
Zhangjiajie Central Bus Station
 
Beside the train station,The Zhangjiajie Central Bus Station has buses that go to many large and medium-sized cities of China, such as Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chongqing, Changsha etc. What's more, here you can take buses that head for the surrounding scenic spots, such as Wulingyuan, Suoxi Valley and Phoenix Town etc.

 
Changsha-Zhangjiajie
 
Every half an hour,there is a bus from Changsha West Bus Station(About 100 meters on the left of Changsha Train Station) to Zhangjiajie. It takes about 4 hours to Zhangjiajie, the bus fare is about CNY120.
 
Fenghuang-Zhangjiajie
 
Fenghuang North Bus Station to Zhangjiajie Central Bus Station. It is about 4 hours drive, bus fare is about CNY80.
Fenghuang to Wulingyuan Tickets Station, Zhangjiajie. Bus fare is CNY90.
 
Local Transportation
 
City Bus
 
Bus No.: No.1-10, There are mainly 10 bus lines in the down town.
 
Operating hours: 06:00AM-20:30PM
 
Bus fare: CNY2
 
Taxi
 
Starting fare in the daytime: CNY8
 
Starting fare in the evening(22:00-07:00): CNY10
 
Take a taxi from the downtown to the core landscape area often charges CNY150.
 
Complaints Hotline: 0744-8202020
 
Tourism Shuttle Bus
 
You can take tourism shuttle bus from Zhangjiajie Central Bus Station to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park or Wulingyuan Scenic Area. It takes about 40-50 minutes, bus fare is CNY12.
 
Green Bus in Scenic Area
 
There are many green buses in the scenic area, the bus fare has been included in the entrance ticket you buy.
 
Operating hours: 07:00AM-17:00PM Frequency: Every 20 minutes
 
Sections:
 
LaoMoWan-HuangShi Village cableway down station; 
 
Wulingyuan Ticket Station-Tianzi Mountain cableway down station-Ten Miles Gallery-ShuiRaoSiMen; 
 
ShuiRaoSiMen-Bailong Elevator down station; 
 
Bailong Elevator upper station-Back garden of Yuanjiajie; 
 
Yuanjiajie parking-Tianzi Mountain parking; 
 
Parking of Helong Park-Tianzi Mountain cableway upper station.
 
Note: In winter, The road to the top of mountain will be icing up, the green bus can't get to the top of mountain, so the grand platform and Yangjaijie can not be reached. 
 
Inquiry Hotline: 0744-5555555
 
Get to Zhangjiajie By Self-driving
 
Starting from Changsha, go on Changsha-Changde and Changde-Zhangjiajie highway,about 350km, highway toll is about CNY200, it takes about 3.5-4.0 hours.
 
You can not enter the scenic area by self-driving.You should park your car outside of the tickets station of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park or Wulingyuan,then transfer to the green bus.
 
It is not recommended to go to the scenic area by self-driving. The scenic area is huge, usually people start the trip at one ticket station, and come out at another ticket station. It's not convenient to get your car. Besides, the parking fee(About CNY30-50/car) is really expensive at the gate of the scenic area.
 
ACCOMMODATION
 
The hotels in Zhangjiajie scatters in 3 districts: Suoxi Valley, Zhangjiajie City and National Forest Park, most hotels are in Suoxi Valley and Zhangjiajie City. Suoxi Valley is a little far away from Train Station and Airport, but the location is very convenient to different scenic spots. In Zhangjiajie City, you'd better stay in a hotel near to the center bus station. At the same time, you also can choose to stay in the family style hotels in the park,but the facilities are not as good as you expect and sometimes you cannot book the rooms in peak season.
 
Hunan Pipaxi Hotel
 
This hotel is a joint-venture hotel, operated by Hunan Tourism Bureau and Beijing Tourism Group.Zhangjiajie National Forest Park,a famous tourist attraction of Zhangjiajie,is within walking distance from this hotel.
 
This hotel boasts novel design, elegant architecture, advanced equipment and complete service facilities. It was constructed in the typical building style of Tulia nationality.
 
This hotel has always been and will continue to be a favorite among tourists from Taiwan, Japan, South Korea and Southeast Asia. From June in 1990 to now, we have aslo served many senior officials, national leaders and foreign leaders , such as  Li Peng, Zhu Rongji, Li Changchun, Li Ruihuan, Li Lanqing, Tian Jiyun, Qian Qichen, Li Tieyin, Jiang Chunyun, Qiao Shi and the president of Tanzania.Our high-quality services have been highly praised by these leaders.
 
There are presidential suites, luxurious suites and standard rooms in the hotel,  amounting  to  191 rooms , with nearly 400 beds.
 
Address: Zhangjiajie National Forest Park Entrance
 
Sunshine Hotel & Resort Zhangjiajie
 
If what you're looking for is a conveniently located hotel in Zhangjiajie, look no further than Sunshine Hotel & Resort Zhangjiajie. Only 20 km away, this 5-star hotel can be easily accessed from the airport. With its convenient location, the hotel offers easy access to the city's must-see destinations.
 
The facilities and services provided by Sunshine Hotel & Resort Zhangjiajie ensure a pleasant stay for guests. To name a few of the hotel's facilities, there are coffee shop, shops, safety deposit boxes, meeting facilities, airport transfer.
 
Experience high quality room facilities, including in room safe, desk, coffee/tea maker, internet access–LAN (Complimentary), refrigerator, to help you recharge after a long day.The hotel offers wonderful recreational facilities such as fitness center to make your stay truly unforgettable. When you are looking for comfortable and convenient accommodations in Zhangjiajie, make Sunshine Hotel & Resort Zhangjiajie your home away from home.
 
Address: NO.2 Yongding Dadao East,Zhangjiajie, China.
 
Zhangjiajie Pullman Hotel
 
Conveniently located just 50min from Pullman to Zhangjiajie Airport is this charming and stylish property surrounded by a number of beautiful Wulingyuan Natural Scenic Area. Express your photography skills in the nearby Zhangjiajie Baofeng Lake Scenic Area. Rest back and relax in the hotel's spacious guestrooms set with upper most elegance and warm atmosphere. A number of superior facilities can be found within the premise, which includes a health nourishing spa, a nightclub, bars, diners, and modern conference rooms. Hotel Pullman Zhangjiajie is without doubt an excellent escape from your everyday busy live.
 
Address: Huajuan Road, Wulingyuan District, Zhangjiajie, China.
 
Qinghe Jinjiang International Hotel
 
Designed for both business and leisure travel, Qinghe Jinjiang International Hotel is ideally situated in Zhangjiajie; one of the city's most popular locales. From here, guests can enjoy easy access to all that the lively city has to offer.With its convenient location, the hotel offers easy access to the city's must-see destinations.
 
The facilities and services provided by Qinghe Jinjiang International Hotel ensure a pleasant stay for guests. The hotel provides family room, meeting facilities, business center, coffee shop, concierge to ensure our guests the greatest comfort.
 
Qinghe Jinjiang International Hotel is home to 280 bedrooms, all tastefully furnished to provide comforts such as television, internet access – LAN (Charges apply), internet access – LAN (Complimentary), non smoking rooms, mini bar. The hotel's sauna, tennis courts, massage are ideal places to relax and unwind after a busy day. When you are looking for comfortable and convenient accommodations in Zhangjiajie, make Qinghe Jinjiang International Hotel your home away from home.
 
Address: No.1 Jundi Road, Wulingyuan, Zhangjiajie, China.
 
DINING
 
Dining in beauty spot of Zhangjiajie is expensive than in Zhangjiajie inner city. From restaurants in city area, you can get all kinds of tasty Tu Minority Dishes as well as vegetables. But, in the beauty spot, you can get the food which you hardly have in down town of Zhangjiajie, such as wild Chinese gooseberry and toothsome corns, etc.
 
In Zhangjiajie City of Hunan Province the cuisine of the Tujia ethnic minority group has its own flavor but retains the primary characteristic of Hunan cuisine - a tantalizing sour and spicy flavor. The sautéed and pickled dishes are also very special. The characteristic dishes in Zhangjiajie include Tuannian Dish, Blooded Tofu, Sour Fish, and Gastraodia Tuber with Black-boned Chicken Soup.Local flavored snacks include She Meal,Sangzhi Salted Dried Tofu, Chinese gooseberry juice, and Juhuaxin and Jinxiang Grapefruit.
 
San Xia Guo
 
Talking about this dish-San Xia Guo, people in Zhangjiajie all know it and no people who have been to Zhangjiajie do not know it as well.It is said, San Xia Guo was originally from Ming Dynasty.In Ming Dynasty, the court called up soldiers of this place to go up the line to repel the ancient Japan. It was in winter and in the Chinese New Spring Festival. The leader of the army gave orders to spend the New Year one day ahead avoiding delaying of army. At that day, they cooked a dish with materials of rabbit, bacon and dried bean curd. Nowadays in Zhangjiajie, the San Xia Guo Dish is a bit different from the one in Ming Dynasty. It is usually cooked by the tripe of cow, pig and sheep or pig trotters and pig head.San Xia Guo is a classic local dish and is a must try.
 
Zhangjiajie Tuan Nian Cai (Hodgepodge)
 
Tuan Nian Cai is a sort of hodgepodge.It is a necessary dish during New Year Festival.Every family of Tu Minority will cook the Tuan Nian Cai at that day. Zhangjiajie Tu Minority people stew rabbit, bean curd, cabbage, shallot, pork and chili pepper all together in a pan. This dish is not only tasty but also has profound meanings. It stands for reuniting of the whole family members and good harvest in the next year.
 
Tujia wine
 
The local people of Tujia ethnic group are specialized in making all kinds of wine.Tujia wine can be made from plenty of materials,for example,brewing from sticky rice, corn, wheat and sorghum.
 
Loach Stewed with Tofu
 
The loach stewed with tofu is a funny dish of Zhangjiajie, particularly in Tu Minority. There is a interesting Chinese name- "Niuqiu Zuan Doufu" which literally means the loach dig into the tofu. At first, they put he small loaches into crocks or vats. Then they put some clean water into the crocks or vats and put some salt into them. After one day or two days, the loaches will expel the sand, mud and other impurities from their bellies. After cleaning the loaches, they will put the live loaches into fresh and tender tofu. Then the loaches will dig holes in tofu and dig into them. After a while, people would stew the tofu together with the loaches and add peppercorn, shallot, gourmet power, chopped ginger, sauce and so on other seasonings. Loach stewed with tofu is a kind of regale for entertaining important guests by Tu Minority.
 
Smoking Bacon
 
Smoking Bacon food in Tu Minority is very popular and is easy to make. Not only pork is the maim material of bacon food, but also mutton, pig blood, fish, chicken, duck, beef, pig's trotter, harslet, bean curd and so on. These fresh materials are firstly pickled with salt, chili powders, Sichuan pepper and peppercorn for 3 or 5 days. Then, they are smoked by firewood smoke until them become brown. Nicely cooked bacon can be kept for more than half a year. The bacon made of venison is the special local meat products in Zhangjiajie. The bacon is made be people who live in mountains of Zhangjiajie.Those people marinate the wild boar,rabbit, birds and so on other wild animals for half a month and then process the meat by sootiness.Bacon of the venison is choice dish on tables. When cooking bacon food, we need to wash and boiled them well,and then chop into slices, strips or other required sizes. Mainly cooking methods of bacon are stir-frying, steaming,or making chaffy dish or others.As bacon dishes have unique nice smelling and taste,many tourists like to bring them home.
 
Steamed Sliced Pork
 
Steamed sliced pork is a famous dish for treating guests in Tu Minority. It is cooked by streaky pork. The steamed sliced pork of Tu Minority is fatty but not stodgy.The streaky is often steamed with dried pickles.The streaky pork will under several working procedures such as boiling,deep-frying and steaming.Although it contains fatty meat, it is not stodgy at all.You can order this dish in almost every restaurant.
 
Black Bone Chicken Stewed with Rhizoma Gastrodiae
 
Black Bone Chicken is the meat of a sort of chook. This chook is white all over, dark in skin, bone, eyes, beak, toe, bowel and fat.It is a kind of show chicken and can be used for medicine.This chook was originally bred in China. Rhizoma gastrodiae is the tuber of elevated gastrodia.It is the Chinese healing herb whose root is useful in calming the nerves while balancing stress levels.In Zhangjiajie,black bone chicken stewed with rhizome gastrodiae is a tonics and delicious soup.Rhizoma gastrodiae grown in mountains of Zhangjiajie is golden in color and is lucid which belongs to top grade ones. So the soup of black bone chicken and rhizome gastrodiae is the folk secret recipe.It is good for curing swirling and swimming, hemiplegy and apoplexy too.
 
Sour Fish
 
Sour fish is a wonderful and rarely known dish among Tu and Miao Minorities. This food boasting unique local flavor is cooked by newly caught fish. After cleaning and washing the fresh fish, people would swathe the fish by rice powders. The rich powders are added salt before wrapping fish. Then the fish was kept in pot for 3-5 days. When the fish becomes a bit sour, it can be deep-fried into golden color. Such a kind of dish is vinegary and fragrant. As soon as you see the deep-fried sour fish, you will be full of mouth water. As the fish has been marinated by salt in pots, it is also edible without deep-frying.This food is appetitive and available in all four seasons.
 
Blood Tofu
 
Tujia traditional cuisine.More than in the making.Do tofu,to kill swine,the fresh plasma and tofu (Bean curd residue is also useful with various seasonings and mix),also add diced mixing.The blood coagulation combined with hand group, group, on the heated Kang Kang in the basket, with smoked grilled the Caine, after half a month later, i.e..When eating,the knife cut into slices or silk, put into the pan and fry the bacon together,or separately with fried fried, pepper, garlic and other seasoning into, can be eaten.Its color is red blood,its taste is very delicious,used for hospitality.
 
Zhangjiajie Straw-hat Noodle
 
Straw-hat noodle is sold by the boss who always sells noodles with a straw hat on his head.His noodles are hand-made by himself and ingredients added in noodles are quite appetizing.However,the boss is very strange that he only sells a fixed amount every day.It's more strange before that he only sold noodles at nine o'clock in the evening on every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Moreover,if want to have his noodles, you sometimes have to book in advance and whether he wants to sell depends on his mood. Thus, the boss and his noodles are full of mysteries.
 
Hezha
 
The water soaked soya bean with the ground,mixed with shredded cabbage leaves,and then with a warm fire boil.This kind of food is the practice of simple,but very high nutritional value and delicious in taste,for local people used a dish.
 
She Fan
 
She Fan is a sort of "Festival rice" on "She Ri" of every February.She Ri is the festival for people sacrificing the god of land and the god of grain.She Fan is popular in Tu, Miao and Dong Minorities.So in Zhangjiajie,She Fan is a important food there.Tu Minority thinks a lot of the She Fan too. When ever on "She Ri",all families will cook savoury "She Fan" exultingly.Tu Minority people not only cook this rice for themselves, but also present the rice for friends as nice gifts. The steps of cooking She Fan are:
 
1.Pick fresh and tender southernwood from cropland, brook side, or hillside and clean and chop them, knead the bitter juice of the southernwood.
 
2.Bake or stir fry the southernwood to dry.
 
3.Mix the chopped southernwood with shallot, bacon dried bean curd, and bacon with sticky rice.
 
4.Steaming or braising the hodgepodge.
 
ZHANGJIAJIE SPECIALTY SHOPPING
 
There are lots of special products in Zhangjiajie, such as Kiwi fruit, Qingyan Mingcui green tea, Tortoise Veins Stone Carvings, Tujia Embroidery, Kudzu Root Powder and so on.
 
Tujia Pasting Picture
 
Tujia Pasting Picture is a wonderful and unique work of art made of roots, branches, barks, stones and grass.
 
Junsheng Sandstone Painting Gallery
 
Reputed to be a form of “Green painting”and “Environmental protection painting” in art circles, Junsheng Sandstone Painting is regarded as“The special pride of Hunan”and also of Chinese people in general. It is rated high aesthetically and prized by art collectors. In fact, it is considered the precious gift that the Hunan Provincial Government present to all guests, both at home and abroad.
 
Kudzu Root Powder
 
Zhangjiajie has rich resource of Kudzu,Which is local people's favorite food; it can be easy taken with boiled water. It has medical functions: clear irascibility, clear the heat and toxin; strengthen stomach, balance Ying and Yang.
 
Fern Root Powder
 
Fern grows in the remote area of mountaintop;it has rich elements of iron,calcium, potass and phosphor,and aminophenol.Fern has strong medical function,which can kill fat,clear the heat, and diminish inflammation, and it is especially good for diabetes and blood pressure patients.The fern grows slowly and its production is limited, so it is very dear.
 
Tujia Embroidery
 
The women of Tujia ethnic group are skillful in two very distinct kind of embroidery-one that has large pattern and the other that is small and fine.The former type,embroidered with such subjects as the Eight Immortals crossing the sea,or an official of quick promotion, or lions, tigers or birds, is normally produced for household decoration. The latter category is for much smaller items, ones of a practical nature: wallets, perfumed bags,childrens hats and womens shoes.
 
FAQ
 
What is the best season to visit Zhangjiajie?
 
February,March,April,September,October and November are the best time to visit Zhangjiajie,the natural scenery is the most beautiful and the weather is very comfortable.In July,it rains frequently and slippery,suggest not to climb the mountains in rainy day,what's more,it's so foggy that you could't see the Needle Karst,but the fog will fill the air and mountains are becoming more and more clear after the rain in 1 to 2 hours, just like fairyland, it is the most beautiful scenery in Zhangjiajie.In summer(July and August),it's a little hot,climbing mountains would exhaust your strength,and it is easy to become dizzy,but it is the best season for rafting.In winter(December and January),it usually snows in Zhangjiajie, but the scenic areas open as usual, it is a good experience to explore the Needle Karst of Zhangjiajie in snow. Sometimes, you are lucky to meet with the Rime and Sea of Clouds. The temperature of Zhangjiajie is about 0 degrees centigrade in winter,30 degrees centigrade in Summer,20 degrees centigrade in Spring and Autumn.Generally speaking,the temperature on the top mountain is 3-5 degrees centigrade lower than the normal temperature.
 
How many days can you explore in Zhangjiajie?
 
You need at least 3 days to explore Zhangjiajie National Forest Park(Including Tianzi Mountain and Suoxiyu Valley). And then, one day for Tianmen Mountain, one day for Yellow Dragon Cave and Baofeng Lake. If you like whitewater rafting,the Mengdong River rafting and Maoyan Rafting are your best choice.
 
Is a tour guide necessary?
 
The park is very big and has many routes,if you don't prepare carefully in advance,it's easy to get lost.So hiring a tour guide is you best choice,but you should make sure that the guide has Tour Guide Certificate,some of the guides are illegal,and they are easy to cheat you and unfriendly although the service fee is very cheap.
 
Is it crowded in Zhangjiajie? Should I book the hotel and ticket in advance?
 
The peak season of Zhangjiajie is between May and September, at this time, the number of tourists arrive to 20,000 persons a day, especially at the duration of super high season, such as 1 May-3 May, 1 Oct-7 Oct and Chinese New Spring Festival,it arrives to 50,000 persons a day. So you have to line up for more than 1 hour to take the cablecars up to the mountains in peak season,you'd better book the tickets in advance.SHUIRE TEAM also designed some special tour itineraries so that you can enjoy a quiet,uncrowded and breathtaking tour.
 
What's the price of tickets & how many places are included in a 3-Day Pass?
 
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
 
The ticket price of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is CNY248 (Including insurance expense CNY3, sightseeing ticket 180 yuan and eco-car fee 65 yuan at the park, excluding the cableway, mini train and elevator). A ticket is valid for four days and travelers with valid tickets can pay unlimited visits to the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Suoxiyu Valley and Tianzi Mountain within valid days.
 
Zhangjiajie scenic spots also implement weekly ticket system (That is to say, one can pass in and out Wulingyuan within a week by this ticket): 298 yuan per adult, students under 24 years old, 196 yuan per person, the old above 70 years old, 83 yuan per person. By the way, based on original 248 yuan ticket (4 days), if you want to extend your visit time to a week, then you only need to pay for the difference according to weekly ticket price.

Aiming at various visitors, different free or preferential policies are as follows:
 
1.Children: under 1.2 meters, free charge
 
2.Minors and students:Taller than 1.2-1.5 meters as well as full-time students under 24 years old,saver ticket at 163 yuan in the name of student identity card
 
3.Journalists:Free ticket relying on Press Card issued by at or above provincial level publishing divisions
 
Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park
 
The ticket price of Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park is CNY261 (Including insurance expense, sightseeing ticket,eco-car fee and double cableway ticket,excluding the mini cableway on the top of the mountain).

Aiming at various visitors, different free or preferential policies are as follows:
 
1.Children: Under 1.2 meters, free charge
 
2.Minors and students: Taller than 1.2-1.5 meters as well as full-time students under 24 years old, saver ticket at 188 yuan in the name of student identity card
 
3.Journalists: Free ticket relying on Press Card issued by at or above provincial level publishing divisions.
 
Is it necessary to take cablecars, mini train, or elevator? Tired or not on foot?
 
You will have different feelings when you take the cablecars,Mini train and Bailong Elevator to the top of mountains.Of course,you can also climb these famous mountains on foot,but it asks good physical strength. What's more,there are many places need to walk in the park, for example,the Golden Whip Stream should walk 7.5km on foot, and many beautiful scenic spots have no vehicle to take,such as Yangjiajie,Wulong Village,Yaozi Village,The Grand Platform and so on.
 
Travel Tips
 
Zhangjiajie (Simplified Chinese:张家界;Traditional Chinese:張家界; Pinyin:Zhāngjiājiè) is a prefecture-level city in the northwestern part of Hunan province.It comprises the district of Yongding and Wulingyuan, and counties of Cili and Sangzhi. Within it is located Wulingyuan Scenic Area which was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992 as well as an AAAAA scenic area by the China National Tourism Administration.
 
Wulingyuan Scenic Area consists of several main tourist routes:Zhangjiajie National Forest Park,Yangjiajie, Yuanjiajie,Tianzi mountain,and Suoxiyu Village.Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is known for its exquisite forests, odd-shaped peaks and rocks,the beautiful canyons,the limestone caves,and the breath-taking panoramic views,it is the most famous one.
 
Choosing a tour guide
 
The scenic areas are really huge, the routes in these areas are very complex. It's better to hire a professional tour guide, which will be very helpful.
 
The scenic area entrances
 
There are five tickets station:Zhangjiajie National Forest Park Ticket Station,Wulingyuan Ticket Station,Tianzi Mountain Ticket Station,Shuiraosimen Ticket Station,Yangjiajie Ticket Station.In any ticket station to buy ticket you can enter the scenic area.Usually,Zhangjiajie National Forest Park Ticket Station and Wulingyuan Ticket Station are the most used entrance and exit.
 
About Green Bus
 
It's the best time to take the green bus from Yangjiajie to Yuanjiajie around 13:00-14:00.
 
It's the best time to take the green bus from Yuanjiajie to Tianzi Moutain around 16:00.
 
About the Safety
 
1.Zhangjiajie is a mountain city, it's better to wear sport shoes, mountaineering shoes when traveling.
 
2.Zhangjiajie national forest park as the super fire zone, no fire, no smoking, picnic. If you want to smoke, must go to the designated smoking area.
 
3.There are 999 steep steps to reach the Tianmen Cave in Tianmen Mountain, be very careful when climbing the steps.
 
4.Always pay attention to the various signs in the scenic areas, some areas marked with "No Pass", "Dangerous", do not try to go.
 
USEFUL INFO
 
1.Useful Numbers
 
Area Code: 0744
 
Zip Code: 427000
 
Tourist Complaint: 8380188
 
Fire: 119
 
Ambulance: 120
 
Police: 110
 
Traffic: 122
 
Weather Forecast: 121
 
Telephone Number Inquiry: 114
 
2.Bank of China
 
The Bank of China offers foreign currency exchange.Here are two of the addresses of Bank of China in Zhangjiajie for your convenience:
 
Dongmenqiao Branch: located at No.1 Xin Matou (New dock), Dongmenqiao(East gate bridge)
 
Ziwu Road Branch: located at the opposite of Commission of Education of Yongding District,Ziwu Road
 
3.Post Office
 
Zhangjiajie City Post Office:located at No.2, Daqiao Road
 
Wulingyuan County Post Office:Jundiping, Suoxiyu Town, Wulingyuan County
 
Yongding District Post Office:Xixiping, Yongding District
 
Sangzhi County Post Office:No.13 Heping Road, Liyuan Town, Sangzhi County
 
Cili County Post Office:No.1 Lingyang Bijia Road, Cili County
 
4.Hospital
 
The People's Hospital of Zhangjiajie Tel:0744-8222270
 
Address: No.192 Guyong Road, Yongding District,Zhangjiajie.
 
5.Communication
 
At present,A few public IC card telephones have been installed in the city, and some stores in the city supply public telephones where visitors can make both domestic and international calls without going through an operator. Meanwhile, mobile phones can be used freely within the city.
 
Also welcome to China wechat service(Shuire team wechat No.is zjjonine)

Keyword:Zhangjiajie Travel Guide-book

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