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Where is Tianmen Mountain in Zhangjiajie? Location & Facts
Tianmen Mountain, with an elevation of 1,518 meters, is approximately 8 kilometers (5 miles) south of downtown Zhangjiajie, central province of China, making it easily accessible from the city center. You can reach Tianmen Mountain from Zhangjiajie downtown by various means of transportation, including cable cars, shuttle buses, private vehicles, and even hiking trails for the more adventurous travelers.
Tianmen Mountain was formerly known as Yunmeng Mountain and also called Yuping Mountain. 1780 years ago, a rock collapse created a natural arch through the mountain, forming the rare world wonder of Tianmen Cave, which connects north and south. The cave is incredibly huge, resembling a gateway to the heavens. This is how Tianmen Mountain got its name.
Tianmen Mountain in Zhangjiajie is a captivating destination that showcases the beauty of China's natural landscapes and offers visitors a unique blend of adventure, culture, and breathtaking views that make it a popular choice for travelers exploring the region.
Tianmen Mountain Map
8 Highlights of Tianmen Mountain Zhangjiajie: Cable Car, Skywalk
Tianmen Mountain offers numerous attractions, providing a unique experience from the base to the summit. Halfway up is Tianmen Cave, while the top features a circular walkway, various glass walkways, and cliffside paths that are thrilling and breathtaking.
1. Tianmen Cave - Nature Wonder
Tianmen Cave is located in the mid-upper part of Tianmen Mountain, at an altitude of 1300 meters, and pierces through the mountain from north to south. Shaped like a giant archway, the cave is 131.5 meters high, 57 meters wide, and 60 meters deep, making it the world's highest natural cave.
Tianmen Cave is the iconic landmark of Tianmen Mountain. You can experience its grandeur from the platform inside the cave, overlooking the 999 steps, the winding mountain road, and the lush forests below. Alternatively, you can admire the panoramic view of Tianmen Cave from the Tianmen Cave Square (the square in front of the Tianmen Cave), which is the best place to view Tianmen Cave. On clear days, Tianmen Cave against the backdrop of blue sky and white clouds looks like a fairyland.
There are several ways to reach the area where Tianmen Cave is located:
From the mountaintop to Tianmen Cave: Take the Transmountain Escalator.
From the Tianmen Cave Square to Tianmen Cave: You can choose to take the Escalator to Tianmen Cave. Or you can hike up the 999 steps.
2. Tianmen Mountain Cable Cars
There are two cable car routes to the top of Tianmen Mountain, with the more famous being the Tianmen Mountain Cableway. The Tianmen Mountain Cableway starts at the City Garden in downtown Zhangjiajie and reaches the pristine sky garden at the mountain summit, resembling a rainbow or a giant dragon from "earth" to "heaven." It is one of the "Four Wonders" of the Tianmen Mountain scenic area.
This route is 7.5 kilometers long, making it the longest cable car line in the world, taking about 30 minutes to reach the summit. Starting at an elevation of 200 meters in downtown Zhangjiajie, the cable car ascends over the city and countryside, directly reaching the summit at 1,200 meters, with an elevation gain of 1,000 meters. Each cabin holds up to 6 people, offering views of the 99 bends of the mountain road and the remarkable Tianmen Cave along the way. This is a breathtaking cable car journey that you shouldn't miss when visiting Tianmen Mountain.
The other route is the Tianmen Mountain Express Cableway, which is 1,200 meters long and takes 7 minutes. Each cabin can accommodate 26 people. The starting point is located 6 kilometers from the city center at the foot of Tianmen Mountain, near the Tianmen Fox Fairy Theatre, and ends near the square in front of Tianmen Cave halfway up the mountain. This cableway is one of the world's steepest 3S cableways.
Additionally, visitors can experience the Forest Sightseeing Cable Car at the summit, running from Yunmeng Fairy Peak to Tianmen Mountain Temple Square. It is 800 meters long, with a one-way trip taking about 10 minutes. This open, double-seat chairlift offers an excellent aerial viewing corridor at the top of Tianmen Mountain.
3. Tianmen Mountain Skywalk on Top Area
The Skywalk circling the summit of Tianmen Mountain is one of the main highlights. This circular walkway is divided into the east and west lines, bordered by the Tianmen Mountain cable car upper station, Tianmen Mountain Temple, and Yunmeng Fairy Peak at the summit.
The East Line is approximately 4 kilometers long and takes around 2 hours to complete. The main highlights include:
Coiling Dragon Cliff Glass Skywalk (盘龙崖玻璃栈道): This is the third glass skywalk on Tianmen Mountain, spanning 100 meters (328 feet) long and 1.5 meters (5 feet) wide. Located near the upper station of the Tianmen Mountain cable car, the skywalk offers stunning views of the 99 bends of the winding mountain road (see below). For those afraid of heights, there is a regular walkway available.
Eastern Glass Cliffside Path (东线玻璃栈道): This is the second glass skywalk on Tianmen Mountain, slightly less famous and less crowded. It stretches for 150 meters (590 feet) and is also 1.5 meters (5 feet) wide. The transparent glass floor reveals a thousand-meter drop and a sheer cliff. A regular walkway is available for the faint-hearted.
Fairy Land Corridor (高空云廊): Situated on the route from the upper station of the Tianmen Mountain cable car to the escalator, this skywalk is built in mid-air, making visitors feel like they are floating above the clouds. It is one of the best spots to view Tianmen Cave and the 99 bends of Tongtian Avenue and is also an excellent location to watch BASE jumping in Zhangjiajie.
Yu Hu Peak (玉壶峰): Yu Hu Peak is surrounded by steep, vertical cliffs on three sides (west, north, and east), with only the south side connected to a large platform. The summit offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and cityscape. Yu Hu Peak is also the starting point for BASE jumping in Zhangjiajie, with the takeoff platform located on the western side of the peak.
The West Line is approximately 3.5 kilometers long and takes around 1.5 hours to complete. The main highlights include:
Guigu Cliffside Path (鬼谷栈道): This stone slab path is 1600 meters long and has an average altitude of 1400 meters. It's named after the Guigu Cave located above the mountain. The path is suspended above a sheer cliff, offering breathtaking views of the precipitous cliffs. It's a mandatory part of the West Line and there's no alternative route.
Western Glass Cliffside Path (西线玻璃栈道): This is the first glass skywalk on Tianmen Mountain, spanning 60 meters (197 feet) long and 1.6 meters (5 feet) wide. A regular walkway is available for those afraid of heights.
Tianmen Mountain Suspension Bridge (天门山悬索桥): This wooden suspension bridge is 160 meters long and 2 meters wide. From here, visitors can get a distant view of Yunmeng Fairy Peak (云梦仙顶), the highest peak of Tianmen Mountain.
4. Tianmen Mountain Stairs - The Ladders to Heaven
The Tianmen Mountain Stairs, also famously known as the "Ladders to Heaven," consist of exactly 999 steps. Before the construction of the escalator, these stairs were the sole pathway to reach the Tianmen Cave. Legend has it that only by ascending these 999 steps could one successfully ascend to heaven, making this place a sacred spot for modern people to make wishes and seek blessings.
In Chinese tradition, the number 9 is considered the greatest number, symbolizing supreme status and eternity. The 999 steps have varying degrees of steepness, mirroring the ups and downs of life's journey. Along the stairs, there are five prayer platforms, each representing one of the traditional Chinese "Five Blessings": wealth, joy, longevity, official rank, and good fortune.
Climbing the steps on foot takes about 30 minutes. If you have children or elderly people in your group, or if you prefer to conserve energy, you can choose the nearby escalator.
5. Escalator - Convenient for Elder and Children
Tianmen Mountain Scenic Area has two sections of escalators, providing a convenient option for visitors with limited mobility.
- Section 1: Escalator to Tianmen Cave: This section provides an Escalator up and down from Tianmen Mountain Summit to Tianmen Cave, and it consists of 7 escalators, taking about 15 minutes for a one-way ride.
- Section 2: Transmountain Escalator: This section provides an Escalator up and down from Tianmen Cave Square to Tianmen Cave, and it consists of 5 escalators, taking about 10 minutes for a one-way ride.
The entire escalator system runs through a mountain tunnel, spanning nearly 900 meters and elevating passengers by 340 meters. The escalators are double-sided and single-person, meaning each step can only accommodate one standing person. Wheelchairs and strollers are not permitted. Additionally, due to the steep incline and long length of each escalator section, passengers are advised to hold onto the handrails to avoid falls.
6. Tianmen Mountain Winding Road: Cake Road, 99 Bends
The Tianmen Mountain winding road is the only way to reach Tianmen Cave Square by car. It is often referred to as the "Tongtian Avenue" (Heavenly Road). This 10.8-kilometer road dramatically ascends from an altitude of 200 meters to 1,300 meters, with sheer cliffs and deep valleys on both sides. The road has a total of 99 bends, hence its nickname "99 Bends Road." Resembling a jade belt winding around the mountain, the road's numerous tight turns make it one of the most beautiful mountain roads in China. The section near the Tianmen Cave Square features a series of 180-degree sharp turns, resembling layers of a cake, thus earning it the nickname "Cake Road."
Due to its narrowness, the Tianmen Mountain winding road can only accommodate two vehicles at its widest point and only one vehicle at its narrowest. Therefore, only the scenic area's shuttle buses are permitted to use this road. Given the numerous bends, travelers prone to motion sickness should exercise caution when riding on this road.
7. Tianmenshan Temple - Buddhist Temple
Tianmenshan Temple is a Buddhist temple complex. Initially constructed during the Tang Dynasty, it gradually fell into disrepair over the centuries. The current temple was rebuilt on the original site and opened to the public in June 2009. The main structures include the Mahavira Hall, Guanyin Pavilion, and the Sutra Repository. Tianmenshan Temple is a major attraction within the Tianmenshan tourist area and serves as a dividing point between the east and west sections of the mountaintop loop trail.
Key attractions within the temple include:
- A relic of the Buddha: Donated by the abbot of the Chinese Temple in Lumbini, Nepal (the birthplace of the Buddha), a relic of Shakyamuni Buddha is housed on the second floor of the Sutra Repository.
- The Guanyin Pavilion: This intricately designed red pavilion is another architectural highlight of the temple. While it appears to be three stories tall from the outside, it actually has five floors, giving it an elegant and grand appearance.
To visit Tianmenshan Temple:
- Hiking: You can choose to hike along the circular trail.
- Cable Car: From the upper station of the cable car, take the lift to Yunmeng Fairy Peak, the highest point. Then, take the Sightseeing Cable Car (25 yuan) to reach the temple.
8. Yunmeng Fairy Peak - Highest Peak of Tianmen Mountain
Yunmeng Fairy Peak is the highest point of Tianmen Mountain. A pavilion is built here for visitors to enjoy panoramic views. From this vantage point, you can have a broad view of the Tianmen Mountain range.
Yunmeng Fairy Peak offers different scenic views in each season: In spring, the plants sprout and flowers bloom; in summer, the greenery is lush and the clouds roll; in autumn, the maple leaves turn red and the sky is high and the clouds are light; and in winter, the world is covered in silver, presenting a breathtaking sight.
There are several ways to reach Yunmeng Fairy Peak:
- Hiking: Starting from the upper station of the Tianmen Mountain cable car, you can hike to Yunmeng Fairy Peak for about 1 hour.
- High-speed Elevator: From the upper station of the Tianmen Mountain cable car, you can walk through a tunnel to reach the high-speed elevator station and take the elevator directly to the Yunmeng Fairy Peak viewing platform.
- Sightseeing Cable Car: You can also take the sightseeing cable car from Tianmenshan Temple to Yunmeng Fairy Peak.
Tianmen Mountain Tickets & Opening Hours
Single Project Fee
| Project | Fee | Opening Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Entrance Fee | RMB 62 | 6:30 - 16:00 |
| Tianmen Mountain Cableway | RMB 108 (One-Way) | 7:00 - 17:00 |
| Express Cableway | RMB 76 (One-Way) | 7:30 - 20:00 |
| Sightseeing Cableway | RMB 25 (One-Way) | 8:00 - 18:00 |
| Transmountain Escalator | RMB 42 (One-Way) | 8:00 - 20:00 |
| Escalator to Tianmen Cave | RMB 32 (One-Way) | 8:00 - 20:00 |
| Mountain Road Bus | RMB 33 (One-Way) | 8:00 - 18:00 |
| Shoe Covers for Glass Path | RMB 5 (Once) | 7:00 - 18:00 |
Package Fee
Detailed routes for each line will be introduced in the following parts.
| Types | Price | Routes | Package Include | Package not Include |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Round-Trip Cableway Package | RMB 275 | Line A | Entrance Fee + Tianmen Mountain Cableway up + Transmountain Escalator down + Express Cableway down | 1. Escalator to Tianmen Cave; 2. Shoe Covers for Glass Path; 3. Sightseeing Cableway |
| Line B | Entrance Fee + Express Cableway up + Transmountain Escalator up + Tianmen Mountain Cableway down | |||
| Line C | Entrance Fee + Express Cableway up + Transmountain Escalator up and down + Express Cableway down |
Tips:
- Fixed Descent Route: Please follow the specified route for ascending and descending the mountain as indicated on your chosen itinerary. Unauthorized changes are not permitted.
- One-Way Rides: The escalator and cable car rides included in your package are one-way trips. Additional fees will apply for multiple rides.
- Operating Hours: Opening hours may vary depending on the season, but the park generally opens after sunrise for cable car rides. Please contact us for the most current opening times.
- Nighttime Light Show: A nighttime light show has been introduced in the Tianmen Cave area during the summer months. The show typically operates until 8:30 PM.
3 Package Routes for Tianmen Mountain Day Trip
Tianmen Mountain's summit area does not offer accommodations, making it suitable only for day trips. Visitors must ascend and descend the mountain on the same day. To facilitate staggered visits and reduce crowds, the scenic area offers three tour routes: Line A, Line B, and Line C.
Line A: Most Popular Way
Route: It starts with a thrilling Tianmen Mountain cable car ride up to the mountaintop, followed by a scenic loop trail and the Tianmen Mountain Skywalk. Then, descend to the Tianmen Cave area by Transmountain Escalator to enjoy its breathtaking views. Choose between climbing the 999 Steps or taking the escalator down to the Square. Finally, take the Express cable car and shuttle bus back to the starting point.
Why Choose Line A:
- Stunning Cable Car Ascent: Ascending the mountain first provides a more visually striking experience, as it's the initial introduction to the mountain's grandeur.
- Optimal Timing: Choosing Line A allows visitors to explore the mountaintop loop trail during the cooler morning hours, making it a more comfortable experience.
- Conserve Energy: Line A's descent route via the 99 Steps helps visitors conserve energy compared to ascending the same route.
Line B: Opposite Line A
Route: It takes the opposite route from line A - up by express cableway and down by Tianmen Mountain Cableway.
Reason to Choose Line B:
- Prioritize the Tianmen Cave: Experience the awe-inspiring Tianmen Cave first-hand. Then, embark on the spiritual journey of climbing the 999 Steps for blessings and wishes.
- Thrilling Descent: Conclude your adventure with a heart-pounding descent on the Tianmen Mountain cable car. Simulating a weightless sensation (without actual weightlessness), this descent adds an exhilarating finale to your day trip.
- Convenient Return: Disembarking at the city center provides easy access to hotels and other amenities, making your return journey hassle-free.
Line C: Not Recommend for No Ride of the Longest Cable Car
Route: This route uses the Express cableway for both ascent and descent, bypassing the longest Tianmen Mountain Cableway. However, there is some overlap in the hiking route, requiring backtracking.
How to Get to Tianmen Mountain
To get to Tianmen Mountain, you should first reach Zhangjiajie City. Zhangjiajie city is well-connected to major cities in China by air and high-speed train.
Zhangjiajie Hehua Airport is the only airport in Zhangjiajie. It has direct flights to major cities in China, including Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, Xian, and Guangzhou.
Zhangjiajiexi Railway Station is the main high-speed train station. Several high-speed trains connect Zhangjiajie to major cities in China, such as Changsha (2 hours), Guilin (7.5 hours), Guangzhou (6 hours), Shanghai (9 hours), and Hangzhou (8 hours).
To get to Tianmen Mountain from Zhangjiajie City, you can choose the Tianmen Mountain Cableway, Express Cableway, or the Mountain Road Bus. The Bus may be subject to closure due to road maintenance or adverse weather conditions.
Tianmen Mountain Weather & Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Tianmen Mountain in Zhangjiajie is during spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October).
The weather in spring is generally mild and pleasant, making it an ideal time to explore the mountain's trails and enjoy the picturesque landscapes. The crisp air and gentle sunshine create a refreshing atmosphere that enhances the overall experience of visiting this natural wonder.
Autumn paints Tianmen Mountain in a palette of rich hues as the foliage transitions to shades of red, orange, and gold. The weather in autumn is typically crisp and cool, creating a picturesque backdrop for leisurely walks and scenic viewpoints. The clear skies and mild temperatures make this season particularly popular among travelers seeking to capture the mountain's beauty at its peak.
Summer is peak season as large crowds come to Tianmen Mountain to escape the heat. Winter transforms Tianmen Mountain into a serene landscape dusted with snow, especially at higher elevations. Throughout the year, Tianmen Mountain offers a captivating journey through nature's diverse and enchanting landscapes.
Nearby Attractions
In the vicinity of Zhangjiajie, several captivating attractions complement a visit to this scenic region. Here are details about some of the nearby attractions:
1. Wulingyuan National Park:
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Location: Situated close to Zhangjiajie, Wulingyuan National Park is renowned for its towering sandstone pillars, lush forests, and scenic beauty.
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Highlights: The park is home to the mesmerizing Avatar Hallelujah Mountain, the Bailong Elevator, and scenic spots like Tianzi Mountain and Yuanjiajie.
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Activities: Visitors can explore numerous hiking trails, enjoy panoramic views from observation points, and immerse themselves in the natural splendor of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
2. Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon:
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Location: Located near Zhangjiajie, the Grand Canyon features dramatic cliffs, a glass bridge, and the enchanting waters of the Zhangjiajie Golden Whip Stream.
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Highlights: The glass-bottomed bridge offers a thrilling experience, allowing visitors to walk high above the canyon floor and admire the stunning views below.
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Activities: You can hike along scenic trails, marvel at waterfalls and rock formations, and appreciate the rugged beauty of this natural wonder.
3. Fenghuang Ancient Town:
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Location: Fenghuang Ancient Town is a picturesque historic town located in western Hunan Province, not far from Zhangjiajie.
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Highlights: Known for its traditional architecture, cobblestone streets, and rich cultural heritage, Fenghuang offers a glimpse into China's ancient past.
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Activities: You can wander through ancient alleyways, visit temples and traditional houses, and experience the vibrant customs and traditions of the Miao and Tujia ethnic minorities that call the town home.
Exploring these nearby attractions in addition to Zhangjiajie can provide a well-rounded travel experience, offering a mix of natural wonders, cultural insights, and memorable adventures that showcase the diverse beauty and heritage of this enchanting region in Hunan, China.
How to Plan a Trip to Tianmen Mountain
- Day 1: Arrive in Zhangjiajie, then transfer to Wulingyuan Town.
- Day 2: Explore Yuanjiajie (Avatar Hallelujah Mountain) and Tianzi Mountain, taking the Bailong Elevator and Tianzishan Cable Car.
- Day 3: Spend a day exploring the canyon, walking on the glass bridge, and enjoying thrilling activities like sky sliding or bungee jumping. You can also visit Baofeng Lake or Yellow Dragon Cave.
- Day 4: Take the longest cable car to the summit of Tianmen Mountain. Hike around the area, visit Heaven's Gate, and enjoy the panoramic views. Then down to Zhangjiajie City, and head to Fenghuang Ancient Town for the wonderful nightlife.
- Day 5: Wake up early to experience the relatively peaceful riverside town. Spend some time wandering through the cobblestone alleys of the ancient city, admiring centuries-old architecture. After visiting Phoenix Ancient Town, return to Zhangjiajie City, bringing your journey to a perfect end.
Travel to Zhangjiajie with Asia Odyssey Travel
Zhangjiajie is one of the most worthwhile destinations to visit in China. With over ten years of experience in creating personalized travel experiences, Asia Odyssey Travel will be your trusted partner for your Zhangjiajie tour. Whether traveling with parents or children, our professional local guide team in Zhangjiajie will ensure you and your family have unforgettable memories of your trip.
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