China: Zhangjiajie, a Journey into the Mountains of Avatar (Part 1)
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.
My library: Transmedial Landscapes and Modern Chinese Painting | Chinese ink painters of the Republican period (1911-1949) creatively engaged with a range of art forms in addition to ink, such as oil painting, drawing, photography, and woodblock prints. They transformed their medium of choice in innovative ways, reinterpreting both its history and its theoretical foundations. This reference book offers a new understanding of these compelling experiments in Chinese painting by studying them as transmedial practice.
Whether you specialize in color photography or black and white photography, in Zhangjiajie you will find all the ingredients for endless photo sessions and exciting hikes. It is definitely 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 (this article)
2. How to get to the mountains from Wulingyuan City and where to stay
3. What to do on-site and how to organize your photo days
Contents:
History and Characteristics
Zhangjiajie National Park (or Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, if we refer to its official name) was established in 1982 as China's first National Park. In 1992, it was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List as part of the "Wulingyuan Scenic and Historic Interest Area" due to its unique geological formations and biodiversity.
This Scenic and Historic Interest Area includes 4 main parts. Here is the official structure and classification of these parts:
1. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
Yuanjiajie
Tianzi Mountain
Yangjiajie
Golden Whip Stream
Yellow Stone Village (Huangshi Village)
2. Tianmen Mountain National Park
3. Suxi Valley Nature Reserve
4. Yangjiajie Scenic Area
For these 3 articles, I will focus on Zhangjiajie National Park and its 3 first sectors (mentioned above). These are the only 3 sectors I recommend for landscape photography, as depicted in these articles and my portfolio. While the other sectors of the Wulingyuan Scenic Area are of great geological and tourist interest, they are less representative of the traditional Chinese paintings that have always inspired my work.
Zhangjiajie National Park covers an area of about 4.810 hectares and its altitude varies significantly, ranging from 183 meters to over 1.000 meters above sea level.
The rock formations of Zhangjiajie were formed about 380 million years ago during the Paleozoic era by physical erosion caused by the expansion and contraction of freezing and thawing over thousands of years. Water erosion has also played a major role in sculpting these structures.
The Zhangjiajie National Park has a humid subtropical climate, with frequent mists and abundant rainfall, which contributes to the erosion and the characteristic aesthetics of its rock formations. It is crucial to consider this factor during your visit, particularly if you intend to spend multiple hours hiking in the national park.
I have not experienced such intense and demanding humidity conditions for photography gear anywhere else as in Zhangjiajie.
The geological richness and varied topography of Zhangjiajie National Park not only offer spectacular views but also provide a diverse habitat for numerous plant and animal species, some of which are endemic. This contributes to the unique biodiversity of the region. Conserving the park's exceptional natural features remains an ongoing challenge, balancing environmental preservation with the economic benefits of tourism.
A Matter of Name
The national park was named after the largest city in the area: Zhangjiajie. Although this city is located more than 1.5 hours away by road. Served by an airport and a major train station, this city was chosen by the Chinese government to name the natural site. However, it is in the city of Wulingyuan that you should go to begin your journey into the national park. Indeed, this lovely city is located at the foot of this mountain range. It's puzzling why this national park wasn't named "Wulingyuan National Park".
A Cinematic Reference
Among the numerous peaks that make the National Park, the "Southern Sky" peak, over 1.000 meters high, particularly captured the imagination of the directors of photography of the film Avatar, released in cinemas in 2009. It served as the model for the portrayal of floating mountains in the sky. Consequently, this peak was renamed by Chinese as the "Avatar Hallelujah Mountain".
Since then, the Chinese have embraced this cinematic reference to talk about this park, advertise it internationally, and bring in floods of tourists every year.
Tourism Growth
This international cinematic reference has had the direct consequence of the massive development of the small town of Wulingyuan and its surroundings. And when the Chinese develop, they spare no expense. Thus, gigantic infrastructures have been built in the national park to manage tourists, prevent mismanagement, and especially to avoid accidents. When one becomes aware of the park's terrain, the need to secure the area becomes apparent.
Contrary to what one might think, these infrastructures are perfectly integrated into the landscapes. They do not disrupt our perception during our photo hikes in any way. The materials used are also of high quality. Moreover, the logistics are top-notch.
A cableway allows visitors to quickly reach the top of these mountains, passing through, if you're lucky, a sea of clouds that transports you into a dream. Traditional and calm music is played in the cabines, wonderfully accompanying the ascent and adding a significant contribution to this waking dream (photo below).
© O. Robert
Once at the summit, a system of free shuttles runs throughout the national park all day long. You can hop on and off at your leisure as you visit. A very convenient system if you want to cover all the points of interest within the National Park. Distances can be long, and weather conditions can change rapidly.
Despite spending hours walking, I realized that the only opportunities to photograph the peaks of Zhangjiajie from the summits are from the designated observation spots. So, don't waste your time exploring the plateau on foot. Unfortunately, you won't find any other unique viewpoints along the way. It's better to save your energy for hiking down into the valley.
Structure of Zhangjiajie National Park
Zhangjiajie National Park is a photographer's dream, offering a blend of natural beauty and cultural significance. With careful planning and a sense of adventure, your visit will be unforgettable.
The National Park can be divided into 5 distinct and interconnected parts. However, as mentioned earlier, it is clearly the first 3 sectors to which you should devote most of your time for landscape photography.
1. Yuanjiajie Scenic Area
Yuanjiajie is one of the most iconic and breathtaking sections of Zhangjiajie. From this part of the National Park, you will be able to photograph:
Avatar Hallelujah Mountain: The most famous landmark in Yuanjiajie, renamed after inspiring the floating mountains in the movie "Avatar." The pillar stands at over 1.000 meters tall, offering a stunning view.
Bailong Elevator: Known as the "Hundred Dragons Elevator", this glass elevator is built into the side of a cliff and provides a thrilling ride up to the top of the mountain (photo below). It's one of the tallest outdoor elevators in the world, rising 326 meters (read my 3rd article for more information about it).
© O. Robert
First Bridge Under Heaven: A natural stone bridge that stretches between two peaks, offering a unique vantage point and a sense of walking among the clouds.
Enchanting Terrace: A scenic spot with a large viewing platform, perfect for capturing panoramic shots of the surrounding pillars and valleys.
2. Tianzi Mountain Nature Reserve
Tianzi Mountain Nature Reserve is the must-visit area within Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, offering some of the most spectacular views and unique landscapes in the region. If you don't have much time to spend in Zhangjiajie, this is the place you should visit before anything else. You will be able to photograph:
Panoramic Views: Tianzi Mountain is famous for its panoramic views of the park's iconic sandstone pillars. The vantage points here offer a bird's-eye view of the surrounding landscape.
Tianzi Mountain Cableway: One of the longest in the world, stretching over 7 kilometers (discussed above). It provides a scenic ride up to the summit, saving you a strenuous climb.
Shentangwan: A natural platform offering breathtaking views of the "Sea of Clouds" on misty days. It's a popular spot for capturing the ethereal beauty of the park.
Yubi Peak: Known as the "Imperial Brush Peak", this iconic pillar resembles a giant brush, adding a touch of mystique to the landscape.
Helong Park: A scenic area within Tianzi Mountain, featuring lush forests and tranquil paths. It's perfect for a peaceful stroll.
3. Yangjiajie Scenic Area
While it may be less crowded than other parts of the park, it offers equally stunning landscapes and unique experiences. Here are the interesting spots to photograph in Yangjiajie:
Natural Great Wall: A long, narrow ridge that resembles the Great Wall of China. The views from here are breathtaking, with steep cliffs and dense forests below.
Tianbo Mansion: A scenic spot known for its towering peaks and lush greenery.
One Step to Heaven: A thrilling pathway with a narrow gap between two cliffs.
Oolong Village: A picturesque village nestled among the peaks, offering a glimpse into local life and traditional architecture.
4. Golden Whip Stream
A picturesque valley with a 7.5 kilometer long crystal-clear stream flowing through it. The path alongside the stream is well-maintained, with wooden walkways and bridges that allow you to enjoy the scenery without disturbing the natural environment. Here are some key features of this valley:
Scenic Beauty: The stream is flanked by lush forests and towering sandstone pillars, creating a magical atmosphere. The water is incredibly clear, reflecting the surrounding landscape and creating beautiful mirror-like images.
Wildlife: The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds and small mammals, for those of you interested in wildlife photography.
Cultural Significance: The stream is named after a legendary golden whip used by a local hero. Along the path, you'll find signs and plaques that tell the story of this legend.
5. Yellow Stone Village (Huangshi Village)
Renowned for its high vantage points, offering some of the most spectacular views of the park's unique rock formations and lush forests. It is often referred to as the "best spot for viewing the entire Zhangjiajie National Forest Park". Here are the main spots you may want to visit:
Star Picking Platform: A popular spot for watching sunrises and sunsets. The platform provides a panoramic view of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
Six Wonders Pavilion: A pavilion offering a breathtaking view of six unique rock formations, each with its own legend and story.
Five Finger Peak: A distinctive rock formation that resembles five outstretched fingers.
Lovers Locking Yangjia Stream: A scenic stream where you can enjoy a leisurely walk and take in the serene beauty of the park.
The entrance ticket allows access to each of these areas without any restriction for 4 consecutive days. Plan your visits and shootings accordingly to make the most of your ticket!
Also noteworthy is that the Wulingyuan region also offers other sites of interest, such as the Yellow Dragon Cave, the Grand Canyon and its glass bridge, Baofeng Lake, and Tianmen Mountain (Another geological wonder you won't want to miss).
Getting to Zhangjiajie by Air
Getting to Zhangjiajie is not necessarily complicated, but it's not straightforward either if you don't speak Mandarin. Here are some tips to help you navigate if you wish to visit the splendid mountains of Avatar.
The Wulingyuan National Park is accessible only by road from the city of Zhangjiajie. It takes about 1.5 hours by minibus from the Zhangjiajie bus station. I strongly recommend getting to Zhangjiajie by air, taking a flight from Shanghai Pudong Airport or less frequently from Shanghai Hongqiao, depending on flight availability.
If you are arriving by an international flight, chances are you will land at Shanghai Pudong Airport. So, you are probably already in the right place. If your flight to Zhangjiajie is scheduled from Shanghai Hongqiao, you will need to plan for the transit between these two airports by bus. Be aware, you are in China. Everything takes time due to the long distances.
Plan accordingly in your schedule and book your flight to Zhangjiajie several hours after your arrival at Shanghai Pudong. Paid shuttle buses (approx. 14 RMB/person) provide transit between the two Shanghai airports throughout the day and several times per hour.
The organization of transport between the two airports is perfect, but regular traffic jams make the duration of transport unpredictable. Read my article "Traveling to the Mountains of Huangshan (Part 2)" for more information on the transit between these two airports.
If everything goes smoothly, the journey between the two Shanghai airports takes about 1 hour. The flight to the city of Zhangjiajie from Shanghai lasts about 2 hours and 20 minutes.
Getting to Wulingyuan from Zhangjiajie City
It is essential to transit through the city of Zhangjiajie to reach Wulingyuan, located at the foot of the mountains and the real starting point for visits.
Once you arrive at Zhangjiajie Dayong Airport, you will need to take a taxi to the bus station. Unfortunately, you have no other choice. Be mindful of the rates. Chinese taxi drivers are friendly, but they do not speak English, and negotiating is common. It's something to get used to.
Upon arriving at Zhangjiajie bus station, you will need to navigate through a multitude of information and ticket counters. Do not waste your time queuing at a counter in the main hall. Tickets for the local minibuses are taken directly on board. It's important to know this... or be able to read it in Chinese if you can.
To find your minibus among the dozens of vehicles lined up, once again, you will need to ask a driver directly. There's no need for full sentences, as no one will understand you. Just announce your destination "Wulingyuan" and they will direct you to the right bus.
The ticket is purchased on board (about 20 RMB/person). If you're lucky or arrive first, you'll be able to put your luggage in the compartment provided for this purpose. Otherwise, your suitcases and bags will be placed in the central aisle between the seats, preventing other passengers from getting out of their seats. But no problem, the Chinese are not complainers and adapt to all situations. This is one of the numerous reasons why I love them so much!
At worst, you might end up making the entire journey with your legs squeezed between suitcases. So, it's advisable to travel light. Although long, the journey in these minibuses is interesting. The spectacle of life in the Chinese countryside that you will pass through is striking.
Now that you have finally reached your destination, all that remains is to head to your hotel and enjoy some moments of rest before setting out to explore the city of Wulingyuan.
Continue reading:
In the following article (Part 2), you will find the necessary information about accommodation and how to get to the National Park from the center of Wulingyuan.
