China: Organizing Your Photo Days in the Mountains of Zhangjiajie (Part 3)
Updated: Dec 17, 2024
The Zhangjiajie National Park, located in Wulingyuan (Hunan province), is a geological wonder of China. Recognized as a cultural and scenic area of interest, it is characterized by its unique rock formations, consisting of sandstone columns adorned with ancient trees. These sandstone pillars served as the inspiration for James Cameron's film, Avatar.
Although classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Zhangjiajie National Park is a geological marvel still relatively unknown outside of China. Like its counterpart Huangshan, this park is also an ideal embodiment of what traditional Chinese painting has depicted over the centuries. Let's see what this geological wonder is made of.
Enveloped in an almost perpetual mist, gigantic rocky peaks rise from nowhere. Results of a fascinating geological history, these remnants continually spark curiosity among the scientific community as well as artists.
Made famous by the movie Avatar, which drew heavy inspiration from these rock formations, Zhangjiajie National Park is now inevitably swarmed by a staggering number of tourists, mainly Chinese.
This mountain range comprises several thousand of these natural pillars, reaching hundreds of meters in height. These natural settings are undoubtedly an endless source of inspiration for landscape photography. Let's go for a journey into the heart of one of the most significant inspirations for traditional Chinese painting for centuries.
Whether you are a fan of black and white or color photography, in Zhangjiajie you will find all the ingredients for endless photo sessions and exciting hikes. One of my favorite locations in China, where our reference points for distance and scale disappear, where the humidity makes walking particularly tough, but where the stunning landscapes leave us speechless.
What are the Zhangjiajie mountains? How to get there and where to stay to make the most of the best conditions? How to organize your visits in the national park? Here are my tips to optimize your trip through a series of 3 articles that I invite you to discover and read in chronological order.
1. History, characteristics of the national park, and how to get to Zhangjiajie
2. How to get to the mountains from Wulingyuan and where to stay
3. What to do on-site and how to organize your photo days (this article)
Contents:
Descending the Peaks on Foot
As you already know if you have read my Lifestyle articles, I place great importance on physical preparation. Having good physical condition is essential to ensure active, productive, and quality photography. Here's another reason that confirms what I deeply believe.
After a day of photography at the summit of the national park, you may want to discover other viewpoints of the mountains beyond the tourist spots and marked trails. To this end, I highly recommend to descend on foot using one of the trails composed of thousands of steps carved directly into the rock. Below, my experience of these incredible trails, getting down to the valley from the peaks.
Each time I visit the Chinese mountains, whether it be Zhangjiajie or Huangshan, I can't help but think of the workers who shaped these stairs over decades, carrying the materials on their backs. It's a feat that defies imagination, but one that we have come to expect from the Chinese as they have pushed the boundaries of the impossible in terms of construction.
This trail down from Zhangjiajie mountains is an opportunity to thank them once again for their work. These technical feats offer us the possibility to visit places or landscapes inaccessible without their intervention.
The most interesting trail to take for the descent starts from the observation site called "Helong Park", where the "Emperor's Pavilion" is located, a bit before the "Tianzi Mountain Office". This site is one of the most popular. You will find shops selling all kinds of souvenirs, cafes, restaurants, and even a McDonald's!
Plan several hours for the descent. In addition to being exhausting, it will make you want to stop 50 times to set up your tripod and capture these timeless scenes over and over again. After a few minutes of descent, the path splits into two. You can choose one of these trails based on your preference, or rather based on the destination, as they don’t really lead to the same place, even though they aren’t too far apart.
I recommend taking the right trail on your descent. The panoramas are breathtaking, and there's no shortage of photo spots. Several platforms have been set up away from the stairs, allowing you to admire the most beautiful landscapes of this national park.
Unlike the platforms on the summits, here you can comfortably set up your tripod and take all the time you need for your framing. Great moments of inspiration and connection with a surreal landscape await.
Mandatory Protections
Insects
In spring and summer, while the air's humidity is stifling and conducive to photography due to the magical clouds it creates, it is also a paradise for insects. During your descent through the forest, mosquito repellent is absolutely necessary, especially when you remain still for long minutes to photograph. And when I say mosquitoes, I use a well-known reference, but I would be unable to describe all the other insects buzzing around...
Unless you are immune to these bites, long sleeves shirt and long trousers are appropriate, even indispensable, despite the heat. Unfortunately, the quality of photo work comes at this price. Without protection, you won't stay long to admire the show and will descend hastily, which would obviously be a waste.
Regardless of the season in which you visit Zhangjiajie, sturdy and waterproof protection against rain and moisture is also highly recommended. The fine, continuous rain that seems insignificant at first quickly becomes a constraint during your hikes in Zhangjiajie Park.
It goes without saying that changing lenses in extreme humidity is not the best idea. The same applies to filters, as changing them can cause condensation between the front lens element and the filter glass. Plan to use filters with water-repellent glass that reduces condensation and allows for easy cleaning. My recommendation:
Continuous Rains
More so than in any other region of China (like Huangshan, for example), I have really experienced these weather conditions. However, these are the ones I like and seek for my photography. After trying many solutions such as so-called waterproof clothing and jackets, backpack protection covers, and others, they all turned out to be impractical.
For this reason, and for a few years now, I have been equipped with rain capes that also cover the backpack and are worn like a jacket with a waterproof front closure. Nothing more detestable (for me) than having to pull rain protection over the head on top of a thick jacket.
I have chosen the FERRINO Trekker Rain Cape. Completely waterproof, impeccably finished, and so practical, these capes have a designated place for the backpack. As for the colors, it's a matter of taste. There are few choices, but elegance is not really the priority in these weather conditions.
A Pleasant Break
Once you reach the bottom of these endless stairs and are delighted with your collection of images, you will arrive in another very touristy area where, once again, you will find a variety of kiosks offering local food and drinks of all kinds. They are worth trying, and delicious.
After such exertion, everything tastes different, especially when you think about the luxury of consuming food and hot drinks amidst these mountains.
Then, once you've had your fill of these specialties, you can take the long narrow trail (4 km) that runs alongside the small train (monorail) to the first bus stop or take this monorail (for a fee) if your level of fatigue demands it. It is possible to continue on foot, but the scenery is unremarkable and the traffic (buses) quite heavy. From my perspective, at this stage, it is a waste of time to want to walk, and it's better to take the shuttle to another location.
Bailong Elevator © O. Robert
Descending by the World's Largest Elevator
If you dread the foot descent I just described or think you might not be able to make it, don't attempt it! You won't be able to turn back and won't find assistance along the way. In fact, there are quite a few tourists who descend on foot.
Although you will miss the best of the national park (from my point of view), you can then opt for the descent via the Bailong Elevator, or "Hundred Dragons" Elevator.
At 326 meters high, it was built from 1999 to 2002 and remains the largest outdoor elevator in the world today. Its construction was controversial due to the potential impact on the national park's landscape. But efforts were made in the design to best integrate the elevator into its natural environment. And, as a landscape architect, I would say that the result is quite good.
The elevator can transport up to 4000 people per hour, giving an idea of the site's tourist importance. Due to its height and location in a World Heritage Site, the Bailong Elevator was recorded in the Guinness Book of Records.
The Bailong Elevator is a technical challenge and an impressive architectural work in itself. The view from the glass cabins is equally impressive but it doesn't last long as this elevator breaks all records in terms of speed.
The "Hundred Dragons" then propel you in just a few tens of seconds to the top of the cliffs, scrolling vertically and offering spectacular views. It is, however, quite difficult to photograph given the number of people around you and the impressive speed of the ascent. But the videos are always impressive and perfect for social networks, what Chinese have understood!
The elevator is located in the Yuanjiajie area, not far from the "Avatar Hallelujah Mountain" Peak. You will probably need to take a free shuttle to get to the Yuanjiajie area if you are not already there (read my first article about the organization of the Zhangjiajie National Park).
You will then easily find the elevator by following the signs. However, a short walk is necessary to reach it from the bus stop.
When to Visit Zhangjiajie National Park
Whether you decide to visit Zhangjiajie in winter to enjoy the rare snowy landscapes or in June to photograph the mountains in the mist and clouds (the best time), you will never be disappointed by your visit. These unique landscapes in the world are worth the detour, regardless of the period, whether through your lens or not. With a humid subtropical climate, there are on average more than 200 rainy days per year.
However, in June, although the season is ideal for mists and clouds, it is also more challenging to endure. Temperatures around this time can approach 30°C, and the air humidity level is very high.
Regarding Photo Equipment
Be careful with your equipment! As mentioned above, it is essential to avoid changing lenses, as humidity will quickly invade your camera body and ruin your day of photography, not to mention the potential damage.
Everyone will naturally do as they wish and carry the equipment suitable for their photographic pursuit. I only have experience in black and white landscape photography and speak accordingly.
Planning to carry 2 camera bodies equipped with complementary lenses is an excellent initiative. Traveling with a waterproof backpack is also essential. The fine rain and constant humidity quickly invade bags, whether opened or not. So, it's better to already have the waterproof quality of the fabric and closures.
After 30 years of photography in these challenging conditions, as you may already know if you are a regular reader of my blog, I personally use GITZO equipment (see my articles on this topic). I am an unconditional fan of this brand for its impeccable manufacturing quality, the durability of their products, and their history.
As for the backpack, the best compromise I have tested over time is the GITZO Adventury. This is the bag I travel with for all my winter or tropical photo hikes. I've never had a problem with humidity or frost, despite intense use and often having the bag soaked by rain or left on the ground in the snow for a long time. Here are some details:
Climate Information
Here are some details about the climatic conditions you will encounter in this national park, depending on the season of your visit:
Average temperatures range from 4°C to 9°C in January, the coldest month, and from 22°C to 30°C in July and August, the hottest months.
Extremes can drop below 0°C in winter and rise above 35°C in summer.
The park receives an average of about 1400 mm to 1600 mm of precipitation annually.
The period from June to August is the rainy season, where precipitation is most abundant.
The average relative humidity is around 80%, contributing to the characteristic mist that envelops the park's rock formations.
The park is known for its 200 days of mist and fog per year, particularly in the higher mountainous areas.
The park occasionally experiences episodes of frost in winter and thunderstorms in summer, continually influencing the erosion of the rock formations.
The City of Wulingyuan
In the evening, a stroll through the city of Wulingyuan is a must. Numerous traditional restaurants offer high-quality local food that is a must-try. The ambiance of the small alleys is very pleasant.
History
The region has been inhabited since ancient times, with evidence of human activity dating back to the Neolithic Age. The area was part of the Chu State during the Warring States period (475-221 BCE). The area was relatively isolated due to its challenging mountainous terrain.
Wulingyuan is home to several ethnic minorities, including the Tujia, Miao and Bai people, who have lived in the region for centuries. These groups have contributed significantly to the area's rich cultural heritage. The modern development of Wulingyuan began in the late 20th century, with the establishment of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in 1982. The park gained international recognition when it was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1992.
A Delicious Local Cuisine
Wulingyuan's local cuisine is a delightful blend of flavors and traditions, reflecting the region's ethnic diversity. The Tujia and Miao people, along with the Han Chinese, have contributed to a rich culinary heritage that is both unique and delicious.
One of the standout dishes is the Tujia Hotpot, a communal dining experience featuring a variety of meats, vegetables, and a spicy broth. This dish is perfect for sharing and is often enjoyed with friends and family. Another local specialty is Miao Glutinous Rice, a sweet treat made from glutinous rice, often served during festivals and celebrations.
The region is also known for its smoked meats, particularly pork and beef, which are cured and smoked to perfection. Pickled vegetables are another staple, adding a tangy and crunchy element to many dishes. Wild mushrooms, foraged from the surrounding forests, are a seasonal delicacy that adds a unique flavor to various dishes.
The Final Word
Zhangjiajie National Park, with its majestic sandstone pillars and poetic mists, embodies the fusion of the permanent and the ephemeral. Silent witnesses of past eras, these ancient structures rise towards the sky, defying time while constantly undergoing the whims of erosion. Their changing shapes, influenced by weather peculiarities, invite us to reflect on the mutability of our existence and the impermanence of everything around us.
Zhangjiajie symbolizes the resilience of nature, offering a lesson in humility in the face of Nature's vastness. It reminds us that in the unalterable flow of time, harmony with our environment is essential for the preservation not only of natural wonders but also of our own species.
