Zhangjiajie Ultimate Travel Guide

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park 🌈Attraction Highlights: Located in Wulingyuan District, Zhangjiajie City, it is China's first national forest park, covering an area of 130 square kilometers. Famous for its unique quartz sandstone peak forest landscape, the park features towering trees and majestic scenery. 🕐️Opening Hours: Peak season: 7:00-18:00; Off-season: 8:00-17:00. 🏝️Recommended Itinerary: The park ticket is valid for 4 days, with 5 entrances/exits. A 2-day visit is suggested. Day 1: Start from Wulingyuan → East Gate (Wujiayu Ticket Station, aka "Flag Gate") → Bailong Elevator → Yuanjiajie → Tianzi Mountain → Shili Gallery → Exit via East Gate. Day 2: Start from South Gate (Forest Park Ticket Station) → Yangjiajie → Huangshi Village → Golden Whip Stream → Exit via South Gate. 💗Other Tips: The national forest park is vast with many stairs. For families with elderly or children, consider booking the "Three Cable Cars + One Elevator" pass (unlimited rides) to save time and energy. On Day 1‼️ During peak season, prioritize riding the Bailong Elevator uphill (and go EARLY‼️‼️), as queues can be extremely long and frustrating😫. Save Shili Gallery for last if time permits (about 1-hour walk; 20-minute train ride). Wild monkeys🐒 are abundant and bold—do not provoke or feed them. Safety Note: The park is large with complex trails. Stay on marked paths and avoid undeveloped areas. Plan your route in advance. Fire Safety: Do not discard cigarette butts, matches, or other flammable items. Weather Tips: Check the forecast, bring rain gear, warm clothing, and wear comfortable, non-slip shoes. Don’t forget sunscreen and mosquito repellent. Accommodation Recommendations: Wulingyuan offers many standalone villas🏡 with excellent environments at affordable off-season prices (psst🤫, even peak-season bookings are reasonable if reserved early). Recently stayed at the Four Famous Residences Aesthetic Inn (Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park Branch)—the owner recommended her friend’s standalone cottage, which was also a great experience.