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Changsha to Zhangjiajie Train (High Speed): Best Way from Changsha to Zhangjiajie

Written by Senior Expert Celine Schneider|Updated: 2025-01-20

How to go Changsha to Zhangjiajie or How do you get to Zhangjiajie National Forest Parkfrom Changsha? Look no further than the high-speed train from Changsha.

Why Changsha to Zhangjiajie High Speed train is the best way from Changsha to Zhangjiajie? It's simple: it's the fastest, most comfortable, and often the most scenic way to travel between these two cities. Covering the 317 kilometers will whisk you away to the heart of Zhangjiajie in just 2-4 hours. With up to 40 daily departures, you have plenty of options to choose from throughout the day.

Zhangjiajie, this breathtaking destination, famous for its towering sandstone pillars that inspired the landscapes in the movie "Avatar", offers a surreal escape into a world of natural beauty and tranquility.

Check this ultimate Changsha to Zhangjiajie train guide. It's got everything you need - maps, schedules, ticket prices, how to book, and even a breakdown between first class and second class. Plus, you'll find detailed info about the train stations and a step-by-step guide from Changsha to Zhangjiajie. It also throws in some travel tips to make sure your journey from Changsha to Zhangjiajie is a breeze.

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  • triangleChangsha to Zhangjiajie Train Distance & Train Route Map
  • triangleChangsha to Zhangjiajie High Speed Train Facts (Frequency, Operating Hours, and Duration)
  • triangleChangsha to Zhangjiajie High-Speed Train Schedule - Live Updates
  • triangleChangsha to Zhangjiajie High Speed Train: Tickets Price & Seats
  • triangleHow to Book a Changsha to Zhangjiajie High Speed Train Tickets
  • triangleChangsha to Zhangjiajie High Speed Train Stations
  • triangleHow to Get from Zhangjiajie West Railway Station to Wulingyuan?
  • triangleBeyond High Speed Train: Changsha to Zhangjiajie Bus
  • triangleHow to Plan a Changsha Zhangjiajie Tour By Train?
  • triangleChina High Speed Train Ride Made Easy with AOT

Changsha to Zhangjiajie Train Distance & Train Route Map

Changsha to Zhangjiajie High Speed Train Map
Changsha to Zhangjiajie High Speed Train Map
Jump on China's high-speed rail
Jump on China's high-speed rail

Changsha to Zhangjiajie High Speed Train is a distance of 317 kilometers (197-mile), this route offers not just swift travel but also scenic views as you briefly stop at cities like Yiyang and Changde. You can easily find this on our Changsha to Zhangjiajie High Speed train map.

Changsha to Zhangjiajie High Speed Train Facts (Frequency, Operating Hours, and Duration)

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Contact Us to Book the Train Schedules

The high-speed train between Changsha and Zhangjiajie is your ticket to adventure. With up to 40 trains daily from 6 AM to 9:20 PM, you can hop on a bullet train whenever suits your wanderlust. And the best part? The fastest journey takes just 2 hours at speeds of up to 350 km/h!

Changsha to Zhangjiajie High-Speed Train Schedule - Live Updates

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Changsha to Zhangjiajie High Speed Train: Tickets Price & Seats

Changsha to Zhangjiajie High Speed Train Tickets Prices

Type Second Class First Class Business Class
Prices 149-288.5 RMB 239-473.5 RMB 283-956.5 RMB
Advisory Most Recommended Best For Family For Business Travelers

Second Class vs. First Class vs. Business Class: What's the Difference?

Without a doubt, as you move from Second Class to Business Class, the level of comfort escalates. However, for an average train journey of just 2.5 hours, the comfort provided by Second Class is more than sufficient. Plus, it comes with a price advantage.

China High Speed Train: Second Class
China High Speed Train: Second Class
Quiet atmosphere on China's high-speed trains
Quiet atmosphere on China's high-speed trains

  • Second Class (Most Recommended): On the high-speed train from Changsha to Zhangjiajie in Second Class, you'll find a 3+2 seating arrangement that smartly balances comfort and affordability. There's enough legroom to stretch out a bit and relax during the journey. It's perfect if you're traveling solo or with a buddy and want to keep your journey simple and budget-friendly.
  • First Class (Best For Family): First Class on the Changsha to Zhangjiajie route offers a 2+2 seating configuration, giving you and your companions ample legroom to stretch out and relax. This setup is particularly handy if you're traveling with kids or elderly family members, providing a comfortable space for everyone.
  • Business Class (Most Comfort): The Business Class from Changsha to Zhangjiajie offers an exceptional experience. With a 1+2 seating layout featuring reclinable leather seats, you can literally lie back and enjoy the ride in style. This class is all about maximizing comfort and enjoying a touch of luxury.

First Class Seats
First Class Seats
First Class
First Class

How to Book a Changsha to Zhangjiajie High Speed Train Tickets

Booking a high-speed train from Changsha to Zhangjiajie can be an exciting start to your adventure, but it's vital to get the details right for a hassle-free journey. First up, always double-check that your booking name matches your passport exactly to avoid any check-in headaches. While it's tempting to dive into direct bookings, the Chinese train reservation system (12306) can be a bit tricky with language nuances and city names.

Private Changsha to Zhangjiajie Bullet Train Transfer Service by Asia Odyssey Travel

For a smooth booking experience, consider enlisting the help of a trusted travel agency like Asia Odyssey Travel. They specialize in navigating the complexities of train bookings in China, ensuring you won't accidentally book a ticket to the wrong destination! Using an agency not only simplifies the process but also secures your spot, especially during peak travel seasons when tickets to popular destinations like Zhangjiajie can sell out quickly.

Changsha to Zhangjiajie High Speed Train Stations

Changsha has three train stations and Zhangjiajie has two, which might sound like a recipe for travel anxiety. But there's no need to worry! Nearly all high-speed trains from Changsha to Zhangjiajie depart from just two stations: Changsha Railway Station and Changsha South Railway Station.

Changsha South Railway Station
Changsha South Railway Station
长沙南站
Huahou Road, Yuhua District, Changsha, Hunan
Changsha South Railway Station is connected by Changsha Metro Line 2 & 4, Changsha Maglev Express, shuttles, taxis, and private vehicles, offering convenient access to Changsha city center, about 1 hour by metro. It locates 330 km from Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, taking 2.5-3 hours by high speed trains.
Zhangjiajie West Railway Station
Zhangjiajie West Railway Station
张家界西站
Wulingshan Avenue, Yongding District, Zhangjiajie
Zhangjiajie West Station is where most high-speed trains stop, and it’s super close to Avatar Mountain—just 18 kilometers! The easiest way to get there is by taxi or car, taking about 30 minutes.

And even better, there's only one arrival station to remember: Zhangjiajie West Station. Just keep this in mind and you can rest easy.

  • Departure Station: Changsha Railway Station & Changsha South Railway Station
  • Arrival Station: Zhangjiajie West Railway Station

How to Board the High Speed Train in Changsha

Hopping on a high-speed train in Changsha is super easy if you stick to a few simple steps. Arrive at the station a little early—aim for 30 minutes ahead to keep things chill. Once there, just follow the clear signs to the entrance where you'll show your ID or passport, along with your ticket. After breezing through security, check the electronic screens to find your ticket gate; there are plenty of signs around to guide you.

The train usually starts boarding 15 minutes before departure, so follow the signs to your platform. Before you board, double-check your train and seat number to ensure you're on the right track—literally! And just like that, you're all set for your journey.

How to Get from Zhangjiajie West Railway Station to Wulingyuan?

Floating Avatar Mountains in Yuanjiajie, Zhangjiajie
Floating Avatar Mountains in Yuanjiajie, Zhangjiajie
Zhangjiaije Grand Canyon Glass Bridge
Zhangjiaije Grand Canyon Glass Bridge

So, when you hop off at Zhangjiajie West Station, remember it's not the end of the line! You've got some serious bucket list spots waiting for you. Picture this: Avatar Mountains, the world's highest elevator, Tianmen Cave, and the glass bridge at Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon – all there for your exploring pleasure.

Here's the lowdown on how far these places are from Zhangjiajie West Station:

  • Zhangjiajie West Station to Wulingyuan (26 km): Avatar Mountains, Yuanjiajie, Bailong Elevator, Tianzi Mountain, Huangshizhai, Golden Whip Stream, and Baofeng Lake.
  • Zhangjiajie West Station to Tianmen Mountain (14 km): Tianmen Cave, Tianmen Mountain Cliff Glass Walkway.
  • Zhangjiajie West Station to Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon (53 km): Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge.

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park (Wulingyuan)

Boating on Baofeng Lake, Zhangjiajie
Boating on Baofeng Lake, Zhangjiajie
Sky Farmland in Yuanjiajie, Zhangjiajie
Sky Farmland in Yuanjiajie, Zhangjiajie

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, part of Wulingyuan Scenic Area, is like stepping into a UNESCO World Heritage site fairy tale with over 3,000 quartz sandstone pillars, peaks, and mystical mist swirling around. It's where "Avatar" got its floating peak inspo! And that Guinness World Record outdoor elevator? Yep, it's here for a dramatic cliff climb.

Just 26 km from Zhangjiajie West Station, it's a 35-55 min drive or a bus ride on Bus 17, then swap at Zhangjiajie Central Bus Station for a bus to Wulingyuan. If you're heading to Huangshizhai, your bus stop is Forest Park Bus Station. Taxis are quick too, about 30 mins.

Tianmen Mountain

Glass Skywalk in Tianmen Mountain, Zhangjiajie
Glass Skywalk in Tianmen Mountain, Zhangjiajie
Incredible Tianmen Cave of Tianmen Mountain, Zhangjiajie
Incredible Tianmen Cave of Tianmen Mountain, Zhangjiajie

Tianmen Mountain offers heart-pounding cliffside walkways and the epic Tianmen Mountain Cableway, one of the world's longest. From the city center, take the cable car or the 99 Bends Road to the mountaintop. Tianmen Cave, aka "Heaven's Gate," is a major highlight.

Just 14 km from Zhangjiajie West Station, it's a 30-min ride to this jaw-dropping spot. While you can bus it (Bus 17 to Bus 5), it's not direct and involves a 4 km walk, so a taxi might be your best bet.

Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon

Zhangjiaije Grand Canyon Glass Bridge
Zhangjiaije Grand Canyon Glass Bridge
Thriling Zhangjiaije Grand Canyon Glass Bridge
Thriling Zhangjiaije Grand Canyon Glass Bridge

And the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon? Brace yourself for one of the world's longest, highest glass bridges – not for the faint-hearted! Around 53 km from Zhangjiajie West Station, a taxi ride of about an hour will get you there. Unfortunately, there's currently no direct public transport from Zhangjiajie West Station to Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon.

Beyond High Speed Train: Changsha to Zhangjiajie Bus

Apart from the high-speed train, the long-distance bus from Changsha to Zhangjiajie is like the perfect sidekick for your journey. There's roughly one direct bus per day cruising from Changsha West Bus Station straight to Zhangjiajie Central Bus Station. It clocks in at around 4 hours, with tickets costing about 100 RMB.

  • Departure Point: Changsha West Bus Station (No.53 Fenglin 3rd Road, Yuelu District, Changsha)
  • Destination: Zhangjiajie Central Bus Station (Guanli Road, Yongding District, Zhangjiajie)
  • Ticket Prices: Around 100 RMB (15 USD)
  • Duration: Approximately 4 hours

How to Plan a Changsha Zhangjiajie Tour By Train?

Yuanjiajie Mountains, Zhangjiajie
Yuanjiajie Mountains, Zhangjiajie
Jinbianxi Stream, Zhangjiajie
Jinbianxi Stream, Zhangjiajie

Planning a train tour from Changsha to Zhangjiajie offers a delightful opportunity to explore some of China's stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Ideally, you should allocate about a week to fully enjoy both cities.

  • Changsha Top Attractions: Orange Isle, Yuelu Mountain, Aiwan Pavilion
  • Zhangajiajie's Highlights: Avatar Mountains (Wulingyuan Scenic Area), Tianmen Mountain, Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge

Changsha (2-3 Days): Start your adventure in Changsha, where you can spend a couple of days soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Dedicate a day to visiting the Hunan Provincial Museum and the historically significant Yuelu Academy. Don't miss out on trying some local Hunan cuisine, known for its spicy flavors. If you have an extra day, explore Mount Yuelu for some nature and tranquility.

Zhangjiajie (3-5 Days): After experiencing Changsha, catch a high-speed train to Zhangjiajie, which takes about 2 to 4 hours. In Zhangjiajie, spend your first day marveling at the famous Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, home to the breathtaking Avatar Hallelujah Mountain. The next day, challenge yourself with a walk on the thrilling Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge in the Grand Canyon. Use your additional day to explore Tianmen Mountain, known for its heavenly gate and the exhilarating cable car ride up the mountain.

Stay 2-3 Days in Zhangjiajie (Hit the Highlights)

Visit Zhangjiajie with Asia Odyssey Travel
Visit Zhangjiajie with Asia Odyssey Travel
Visit Zhangjiajie in Spring with AOT
Visit Zhangjiajie in Spring with AOT

Even with just a couple of days in Zhangjiajie, you can still soak up the major sights. Start your adventure with a transfer to Wulingyuan Town upon arrival.

Day 1: Dive into the heart of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, home to the iconic Avatar Hallelujah Mountain.

Day 2: Take the Bailong Elevator up to explore the stunning vistas of Yuanjiajie and Tianzi Mountain, where the scenery feels straight out of a fantasy movie.

Day 3: Experience the awe-inspiring Tianmen Mountain via the world's longest cable car ride, explore the mountain paths, and step through the impressive Heaven's Gate.

Stay 4-5 Days in Zhangjiajie (A Deeper Dive)

Huangshizhai Observation Deck in Zhangjiajie
Huangshizhai Observation Deck in Zhangjiajie
Yellow Dragon Cave in Zhangjiajie
Yellow Dragon Cave in Zhangjiajie

With a little more time, you can explore Zhangjiajie's landscapes more thoroughly and even venture into its vibrant local culture.

Day 1: Arrive and head straight to Wulingyuan to settle in for a night of rest.

Day 2: Start your morning early at Yuanjiajie and Tianzi Mountain, enjoying the incredible elevations and lush scenery.

Day 3: Wander through Huangshizhai Village and stroll along the serene paths of Jinbianxi Stream for a touch of tranquility and culture.

Day 4: Get your heart racing with a walk across the glass bridge in the canyon, try out sky-sliding or maybe even bungee jumping for the thrill-seekers. Don't miss the serene Baofeng Lake or the mysterious Yellow Dragon Cave.

Day 5: Cap off your visit with another trip up Tianmen Mountain, taking in the grandeur of the landscapes and the panoramic views from above.

China High Speed Train Ride Made Easy with AOT

Let Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT) handle your high-speed rail adventures in China! We'll book your tickets, guide you through stations, and provide 24/7 support. Skip the confusion and travel stress-free with us.

Tour Packeges: China High Speed Train Tour Packages, Zhangjiajie Tours

China High Speed Train Cities: Beijing, Xi’an, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Chongqing, Shenzhen, Guilin, Zhangjiajie, Hong Kong

Useful Travel Tips: China High Speed Train Guide

About Destinations: Things to Do in Zhangjiajie, Best Time to Visit Zhangjiajie, Wulingyuan National Park, Tianmen Mountain, Map

Contact us today to start planning your adventure, and let us show you the dynamic beauty and enduring traditions of this extraordinary region.

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