Zhangjiajie

China's Ethereal Forest of Stone

Zhangjiajie's otherworldly landscape of towering quartzite sandstone pillars, lush forests, and misty valleys creates a scene so fantastical it served as inspiration for the floating mountains of Pandora in James Cameron's Avatar.

As China's first national forest park and part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Wulingyuan Scenic Area, Zhangjiajie offers some of the most spectacular natural scenery on earth. Over 3,000 quartzite sandstone pillars rise dramatically from the forest floor, some reaching heights of over 200 meters. Winding streams, karst caves, natural bridges, and dense forests add to the mystical atmosphere of this extraordinary landscape.

With Joleefly's premium services, you'll experience Zhangjiajie beyond the typical tourist path. Our local experts provide exclusive access to viewpoints away from crowds, arrange private hiking experiences on less-traveled trails, and introduce you to the authentic culture of the Tujia and Miao ethnic minorities who have inhabited these mountains for centuries.

Whether you're seeking photography opportunities, outdoor adventures, cultural immersion, or simply awe-inspiring natural beauty, Zhangjiajie offers extraordinary experiences for every interest. Our luxury transportation, professional translation services, and 24/7 concierge ensure that your exploration of this magical region is as comfortable and seamless as it is memorable.

Zhangjiajie at a Glance

Location: Central China, Hunan Province
Population: 1.5 million
Best Time to Visit: April-October
Major Airport: Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport (DYG)
Language: Mandarin Chinese, local dialects
Time Zone: China Standard Time (GMT+8)
Electricity: 220V, 50Hz
Currency: Chinese Yuan (CNY)

Seasonal Weather

Spring (Mar-May) 10-20°C (50-68°F) Mild, frequent rain, misty

Summer (Jun-Aug) 22-32°C (72-90°F) Hot, humid, occasional rain

Autumn (Sep-Nov) 10-25°C (50-77°F) Pleasant, clearest views

Winter (Dec-Feb) 0-10°C (32-50°F) Cold, occasional snow, foggy

Authentic Local Experiences in Zhangjiajie

Discover the real Zhangjiajie with exclusive access and insider connections

Private Sunrise Photography Expedition

Capture the magical beauty of Zhangjiajie at its most ethereal with an exclusive sunrise photography expedition. Depart your hotel well before dawn with a professional nature photographer and local guide who will lead you to a secluded viewpoint away from tourist crowds. As the sun rises, witness the stone pillars emerging from the sea of clouds, creating the perfect conditions for extraordinary photographs. Your photography guide will provide expert tips on composition and lighting for this unique landscape. The experience includes premium photography equipment rental if needed.

5-6 hours Private experience Equipment available

Secret Trails Hiking Adventure

Explore the hidden side of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park on a private hiking expedition along trails rarely visited by tourists. Your expert local guide, born and raised in the mountains, will lead you through pristine forests, past hidden waterfalls, and to spectacular viewpoints known only to locals. Along the way, learn about the unique ecosystem and geology that created this extraordinary landscape. The hike is customized to your fitness level and interests, with a gourmet picnic lunch served at a scenic overlook. This experience offers a peaceful alternative to the park's more crowded areas.

6-8 hours Private experience Lunch included

Tujia Cultural Immersion

Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the Tujia people, one of the ethnic minorities who have called the Zhangjiajie mountains home for centuries. Visit a traditional Tujia village where you'll be welcomed into a local family's home. Learn about their unique customs, architecture, and way of life while helping prepare a traditional meal using ingredients from their garden. Participate in a hands-on workshop to learn the ancient art of Tujia brocade weaving, a national intangible cultural heritage. The experience concludes with a private performance of the Maogusi dance, a traditional ritual dance rarely seen by outsiders.

4-5 hours Private experience Meal included

What Our Clients Say

Hear from travelers who have experienced Zhangjiajie with Joleefly

"Our guide Kevin was exceptional - knowledgeable, attentive, and went above and beyond to make our Zhangjiajie experience unforgettable. He knew exactly when to visit each site to avoid crowds and get the best photos. The glass bridge was terrifying but amazing, and the views from Tianmen Mountain were absolutely breathtaking. Worth every penny!"

Sarah Anderson

Australia

"We spent 3 days in Zhangjiajie with Joleefly and it was the highlight of our China trip. Our guide arranged early morning access to Avatar Mountain before the crowds arrived, and the sunrise view with the pillars emerging from the mist was like something from another planet. The private car made getting around so much easier than trying to navigate the park buses."

Marco Rossi

Italy

"As photographers, we wanted to capture Zhangjiajie in the best light. Our guide was also a photographer and knew exactly where to take us for the perfect shots. He arranged special access to areas not usually open to tourists and timed our visits perfectly to avoid crowds. The visit to the Tujia village was an unexpected highlight - so authentic and far from the tourist trail."

The Nakamura Family

Japan

Must-See Attractions in Zhangjiajie

Essential experiences for your Zhangjiajie journey

Yuanjiajie Scenic Area

Home to the famous "Avatar Hallelujah Mountain" (officially named the Southern Sky Column), which inspired the floating mountains in the film Avatar. This area offers some of the most iconic views in the park, with massive stone pillars rising from the mist.

Tianmen Mountain

Reached by one of the world's longest cable cars, this mountain features the spectacular "Heaven's Gate" natural arch, a 999-step staircase, glass walkways along cliff edges, and breathtaking views. The winding road with 99 hairpin turns is an engineering marvel.

Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge

The world's highest and longest glass-bottomed bridge, suspended 300 meters above the Grand Canyon of Zhangjiajie. This engineering marvel spans 430 meters and offers heart-stopping views through the transparent floor to the canyon below.

Golden Whip Stream

A peaceful 7.5km hiking trail along a crystal-clear stream, surrounded by towering peaks and lush forests. This relatively flat path offers a more relaxed way to experience the park's beauty and is home to numerous monkeys and other wildlife.

Baofeng Lake

A stunning alpine lake surrounded by peaks and forests, often described as a "fairyland on earth." Visitors can enjoy a peaceful boat ride while listening to traditional songs performed by local Tujia boatwomen, creating a magical atmosphere.

Yellow Dragon Cave

One of Asia's largest karst caves, featuring spectacular stalactites, stalagmites, underground rivers, and waterfalls. The colorfully illuminated chambers create an otherworldly atmosphere as you explore this vast underground wonderland.