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Wulingyuan District, Zhangjiajie, Hunan Province, China
A perfect place to watch spectacular scenery of clouds, sunsets, sunrise, winter snow and various shapes of peaks
Located in the northwestern part of Wulingyuan Scenic Zone, Tianzi Mountain Nature Reserve boasts rocky peaks in grotesque shapes and shrouded in drifting mist. There are many scenic attractions, such as the lofty Imperial Writing Brush Peak, Fairy Maid Scattering Flowers, and the Mid-Air Farmers’ Cottage. The highest peak is 1,260 meters (4,130ft) above sea level and provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Waterfalls, bridges, stone forests and caves are found throughout the mountains. There are not just beautiful landscapes, but also simplicity, peculiar folk custom and local folk food of special flavor awaiting the arrival of visitors.
The landscape here varies in different seasons and also in one day, which makes Tianzi Mountain a very interesting destination. There are four highlights for the breathtaking sceneries: peak forest, cloud sea, sunrise and winter snow. Cloud and mist in Tianzi Mountain enjoys high reputation nationwide, especially just after the rain, which adds much charm to Tianzi Mountain.
Tianzi Mountain has four scenic wonders, namely Cloud Billows, Moon Brightness, Sun Glow and Winter Snow. The cloud billows are ever changing, morning and evening sun glows vast sky, moon shines in the still night, winter snow falls enchanting the scenery, like a lyric, like a landscape painting. Here in the Tianzi Mountain, scene majestic is in all its variety. There are five main scenic zones and over ten scenic spots in the Tianzi Mountain area. They include more than 80 natural platforms to take in the magnificent scenery. Highlights in Tianzishan: Helong Park, West Sea Stone Forests, Divine shrine and Immortal Bridge. 6 tourist areas have been built to accommodate visitors and they include more than 80 natural platforms to take in the magnificent scenery. Visitors can also reach the peaks of the mountain by cable car.
Tianzi Mountain is not only a natural wonder but also a mountain steeped in legend and ethnic heritage. The name “Tianzi” (meaning “Son of Heaven”) honors a Tujia ethnic leader named Xiang Dakun, who led a courageous uprising against the ruling Yuan Dynasty in the 14th century. According to local lore, Xiang Dakun declared himself "Tianzi" and fought valiantly for independence. After being surrounded and outnumbered by imperial troops, he and his followers leapt from the cliffs to preserve their honor. Today, several landmarks in the area, including Xiang King’s Pavilion and Tianzi Tower, are said to commemorate his bravery and undying spirit.
Tianzi Mountain is also a repository of Tujia customs, including singing mountain songs, intricate brocade weaving, and ceremonial dances. While many visitors come for the scenery, those who linger may discover a living culture rooted in centuries-old legends and nature worship—proof that the spirit of the mountain lives on not only in stone, but in story
Situated in the west of Suoxiyu Valley, it is a basin-like landform with a collection of peaks and woods. In this sea, numerous peaks stand with different shapes and poses, covered with lush vegetation. Therefore, it is called sea of trees and sea of peaks. In spring or summer or a clear day immediately after a rain in autumn, the clouds are surging and rolling like waves, covering the whole sky and earth. The view is so magnificent that it is called sea of clouds. The combination of the three seas is the characteristic of West Sea. In it, Gate to Heaven and Sky Terrace are wonderful scenes.
Shentang Valley is also named Shentang Fort. It is a gorge shaped like a huge basin walled by lofty precipices. The bottom of the gorge is veiled in mists and clouds all day, adding to its mysteriousness. As the saying goes, the most beautiful scene is seen from the most perilous peak. There are almost no roads to Shentang Valley, only a quite dangerous flight of stairs that is as wide as a foot being available. Local people say, Every step kills one soul. In the center of the bottom lies a fathomless green pond. Looking down the pond from the mouth of the gorge, one cant help shivering. Whats peculiar is that visitors can hear sounds of gongs and drums, neighs of battle steeds and shouts of men echoing from the bottom. Nobody can give a reasonable answer to this mystery. Therefore, Shentang Valley was a forbidden place in Wulingyuan and a puzzle for hundreds of years.
1. Take the Tianzi Mountain Cable Car
Start your journey with the Tianzi Mountain Cableway, which offers a stunning aerial view of the towering quartz sandstone pillars and mist-draped valleys. The ride provides a smooth ascent to the mountain summit and is especially magical on a foggy morning or during sunrise.
2. Visit Helong Park
At the summit, make a stop at Helong Park, which honors Marshal He Long, a native of the region and one of China’s top military leaders. The park features a grand bronze statue of the marshal, surrounded by scenic platforms perfect for panoramic photography.
3. Marvel at the Sea of Clouds
One of Tianzi Mountain’s most iconic spectacles is the “Sea of Clouds.” Especially after rain or early in the morning, thick clouds roll through the valleys, wrapping the rock spires in a dreamlike haze. Several viewing platforms, such as Emperor’s Writing Brush Peak, offer perfect vantage points.
4. Explore West Sea Stone Forest (Xihai Shilin)
Wander through the West Sea Stone Forest, where countless stone pillars rise like a petrified forest. On misty days, this area transforms into a surreal wonderland where the rocks seem to float in clouds.
5. Discover Shentang Bay (Divine Shrine)
For the adventurous, a visit to Shentang Bay, also known as Divine Shrine, is both eerie and exhilarating. Accessible by a narrow and steep stone path, the valley is famous for its mystery: locals believe one can hear echoes of ancient battles and drumbeats from the depths below.
6. Watch the Sunrise or Sunset
Due to its elevation, Tianzi Mountain is one of the best places in Zhangjiajie to catch a sunrise or sunset. The golden and crimson light filtering through the peaks creates breathtaking colors and silhouettes—an unforgettable moment for photographers and nature lovers.
7. Capture Iconic Photos at Scenic Platforms
There are over 80 natural viewing platforms in the Tianzi Mountain area. Must-visit ones include Yubi Feng (Imperial Brush Peak), Fairy Maiden Scattering Flowers, and Mid-Air Farmer’s Cottage—each with unique angles and legends behind them.
8. Enjoy Local Tujia Snacks and Crafts
Before heading back, take some time to visit local vendors near the entrance or cableway stations. Sample Tujia rice cakes, smoked tofu, or bamboo sticky rice, and browse handwoven Tujia brocade or woodcarvings that reflect the mountain’s folklore and artistic heritage.
By Eco-Shuttle Bus + Cable Car (Recommended):
The most convenient and time-saving way to reach the summit of Tianzi Mountain is by taking the scenic eco-shuttle buses that depart every 5 minutes from various entrances of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. Hop on the shuttle to Tianzi Mountain Cable Car Lower Station, where you can purchase a ticket (CNY 72 per person) and take the cableway to the top.
This is the most efficient way to save time and energy while still enjoying the iconic scenery from above.
By Eco-Shuttle Bus + Short Hike:
Alternatively, you can take the shuttle bus to Ten-Mile Gallery (Shili Hualang) and then hike about 3 kilometers to the base of Tianzi Mountain. From there, a 1-hour uphill hike will bring you to Tianzi Pavilion at the summit. This route allows for a gradual transition from valley to peak, ideal for those wanting a moderate hike combined with sightseeing.
Along the shuttle route, key stops include Helong Park, Marshal Platform (Dianjiangtai), West Sea Stone Forest, and Ten-Mile Gallery, allowing for flexible exploration.
By Hiking (For Experienced Trekkers):
For those who enjoy physical challenge and adventure, a 2 to 3-hour uphill hike from the base to the summit is also an option. The trail consists of stone steps winding through lush forests and offers breathtaking views along the way.
Keep in mind:
Getting Between Scenic Spots:
Tianzi Mountain’s loop trail spans over 40–50 kilometers. While walking is possible, it is highly recommended to take the free eco-shuttle buses inside the scenic area to save time and energy.
Some routes connect directly with other major scenic areas. For example, a direct eco-shuttle from Yuanjiajie to Tianzi Mountain takes about 40 minutes. The ride can be bumpy, so those prone to motion sickness should take precautions.
The best time to visit Tianzi Mountain is from April to October, when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its most spectacular. In spring (March to May), blooming rhododendrons and sea-like clouds create a dreamy landscape; summer (June to August) brings lush greenery and cool, misty peaks ideal for escaping the heat; autumn (September to November) paints the mountains in vibrant red and gold, making it a photographer’s paradise; while winter (December to February) offers peaceful snow-covered views, though visitors should dress warmly and watch for icy paths.
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