Experiencing China's Off-the-Beaten-Path: Zhangjiajie

Finding Zhangjiajie - Good Luck!

China is vast - like the size of Alpha Centauri if it were made of noodles - and in its vastness lies the lesser-known, but no less awe-inspiring destination of Zhangjiajie. You may not have heard of it, but it's a place so stunning that even the eternally unimpressed James Cameron was inspired to create the floating mountains of Pandora in his movie, Avatar. So, if you fancy a trip to a fantastical land without the need for hallucinogenic substances, then look no further than Zhangjiajie.

Getting There - The Ultimate Endurance Test

Getting to Zhangjiajie (assuming you can pronounce it without biting your tongue) is an adventure in itself. You'll need to take a train, bus, or flight to Zhangjiajie's Hehua International Airport (which has suspiciously few international flights) or take a train to Zhangjiajie Railway Station. Should you find yourself on an overnight train for 15 hours - a personal favorite of mine - you'll bond with your fellow passengers over a shared lack of sleep and the sudden realization that you forgot your earplugs.

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park - Nature's Jungle Gym

Slap on your hiking boots, because Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is where the real action begins. Be prepared to immerse yourself in a landscape filled with towering sandstone pillars draped in greenery. You'll find yourself effortlessly partaking in stair-climbing marathons, as you ascend the seemingly endless steps to witness panoramic views that make even the most jaded traveler weep with joy. Or maybe that's just sweat stinging your eyes - I can never tell.

Not a fan of stairs? Fear not, as the park thoughtfully provides cable cars and elevators to assist you in your quest for the perfect view. You might even spot a wild macaque or two, so be sure to secure your belongings - unless you want a monkey selfie on your stolen camera as a parting gift.

Avatar Hallelujah Mountain - No Blue Aliens Here

This is where you get to pretend you're in the movie, minus the blue skin and tail (unless that's your thing, no judgment here). The Avatar Hallelujah Mountain (formerly known as the Southern Sky Column) is a must-see, as the 1,080-meter-high pillar of stone offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. As you stand there, basking in the glory of nature, you might find yourself humming the Avatar theme song. Or maybe that's just me.

Tianmen Mountain - Stairway to Heaven

If you thought your stair-climbing days were over, think again. Tianmen Mountain, accessible via the world's longest cable car ride, boasts a walkway with 999 steps leading to a natural archway known as Heaven's Gate. Climbing the steps is said to bring good fortune, but I suspect the good fortune is just reaching the top without collapsing from exhaustion.

For thrill-seekers, don't miss the cliffside glass walkway - a vertigo-inducing stroll along the edge of the mountain with nothing but a few inches of glass between you and a 4,700-foot drop. It's a walk you'll never forget, especially as you frantically sign the waiver and wonder if your life insurance covers "death by glass walkway."

Food - Because You've Earned It

After all that walking, climbing, and general adventuring, you'll likely be ravenous. Fortunately, Zhangjiajie offers a range of local dishes that are as unique as the landscape. Some must-try delicacies include crispy fried bee larvae, steamed frog with chili sauce and, if you're feeling particularly adventurous, the infamous stinky tofu. Just be warned, your taste buds may never forgive you.

Practical Tips for Your Adventure

• Bring cash - While China is increasingly becoming a cashless society, don't expect your Visa card to be welcomed with open arms in Zhangjiajie. Embrace the Yuan, and you'll be able to savor the delights of street food, tacky souvenirs, and pretty much everything else.


• Pack a rain poncho - Zhangjiajie's weather is as unpredictable as a game of Russian roulette, so be prepared for sudden downpours. Don't worry, you'll dry off eventually.


• Learn basic Chinese - It's always a good idea to know a few phrases, such as "nǐ hǎo" (hello) and "wǒ bù huì shuō zhōngwén" (I don't speak Chinese). It will help you in your interactions with locals, and might even score you a discount on that bottle of Baijiu you've been eyeing.

In conclusion, a visit to Zhangjiajie is the perfect opportunity to escape the beaten path and embrace the wonders of China's natural beauty. Just remember to bring a sense of adventure, a healthy respect for stairs, and a willingness to eat strange foods. Happy travels!

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