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Wulingyuan District, Zhangjiajie, Hunnan Province, China
Mainly noted for original natural scenery and popular with backpackers and visitors who like adventure
Yangjiajie Scenic Area is one of the must-see attractions in Zhangjiajie. Yangjiajie is located in the southwest Zhangjiajie, next to the Tianzi Mountain. Few people knew Yuanjiajie ten years ago. But world knows Yuanjiajie at present. Thanks to its splendid natural scenery. It is a sacred scene that enjoyed the same fames of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Suoxi Valley and Tianzi Mountain.
Yangjiajie consists of three parts: Xiangzhi stream, Longquan valley and Baihou valley, in which there are altogether over 200 scenic spots. At Xiangzhi stream, one sees undulating peaks extending into the distance and limpid brooks winding along the deep gullies, and hears birds and cicadas singing in the dusk along the ancient roads, it is a land of peace indeed!
Yangjiajie has much to do with the aristocratic Yang Family in Song Dynasty (960-1279), whose three generations of members, both the men and women, were faithful patriotic generals or soldiers on the battlefield. It is said the in the northern song dynasty the generals from the yang family camped in the Tianzi mountain when they were encircling and suppressing Xian.Their stories often appear in Chinese TV series or films, such as the film Yang ka cheung. In Yangjiajie many scenic spots are related to the stories of the family.
The scenic area is divided into three main zones:
These sites are spread out along a 16-kilometer network of trails. Seeing all the attractions requires a full-day hike of 7–8 hours. Most travelers focus on the northern section, which can be explored in 3–4 hours and includes the most iconic views.
【Five-color Flower in Liucui Stream】
Have you ever seen a five-color flower? You can find this kind of plant in Yangjiajie Scenic Area. According to some researches, the five-color flower can be seen in the upper reach of Liucui Strem.
【King of Vine in Old Vine Bay】
There is a spot called "old vine bay" in Yangjiajie. It is a kingdom of old vines. And there is a king of vine here which is called "the largest vine in China"!
【Cliff Pine Tree】
It is a strange scene that three pine trees are living in a cliff without soil and water. People would like called this scene as "pine trees bit cliff".
【Dragon Spring Waterfall】
Dragon Spring Waterfall looks like a hanging waterfall falling down from the heaven. No matter how hot you are, you will immediately feel cooler when you are standing in front of the waterfall. When you feel a little cold, you can walk into the pool of this waterfall. Since that, you will feel a warm breeze.
【White Crane Lawn】
White Crane Lawn is a rest place for white cranes, thus it gets the name. If you have a chance to appreciate white cranes here, you will find a life of Shangri-la. The best time to enjoy scene in White Crane Lawn are morning times and evening times. In the morning, white cranes will spread their wings and begin to fly with dulcet tweets. And in the evening, white cranes come back with the dusk scene as the background. They will play with each other for a period, and then, become quiet gradually in the night.
Start with the Cable Car
The easiest way to reach Yangjiajie is by taking the Yangjiajie Cable Car, which departs from the Yangjiajie Gate (West Gate of the park). The ride takes about 10 minutes and costs CNY 72 one way. The cable car features panoramic windows, offering aerial views of misty peaks, deep ravines, and even playful monkeys if you're lucky. The ride is relatively steep and thrilling, so it’s not for the faint-hearted.
From the cable car’s upper station, you can either head north to Wulong Zhai or south to the Air Corridor, but covering both directions means walking back and forth.
Suggested Hiking Route
For most visitors, the best route is to hike north from the cable car station and explore:
More adventurous hikers can trek south to the Air Corridor, a 30-square-meter stone platform perched on a cliff. It offers fantastic views of the valleys and plains below but requires 1–2 hours of strenuous trekking each way. Fewer tourists make it here, so it’s perfect for those seeking solitude and epic photography.
Yangjiajie Scenic Area is located in the western section of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. Though it’s slightly less visited than Yuanjiajie or Tianzi Mountain, it is easily accessible by several transportation methods both outside and inside the park.
🔸 From Zhangjiajie City Center to Yangjiajie Entrance (West Gate)
🔸 From Other Scenic Areas Inside the Park
Yangjiajie is well-connected by the park's internal eco-shuttle bus system:
Shuttle buses operate regularly throughout the day and are free for ticket holders. They stop at key junctions like Yangjiajie, Yuanjiajie, Tianzi Mountain, and the Ten-Mile Gallery. Signs are clear in both Chinese and English.
🔸 Taking the Yangjiajie Cable Car
Once you arrive at the Yangjiajie Cable Car Station (near the West Gate), you can take the cable car up to the central part of the scenic area.
Highlights: The cable car offers stunning bird’s-eye views of jagged cliffs, deep valleys, crystal-clear streams, and even wild monkeys darting through the forest. Compared to other cable cars in the park, this one is slightly more steep and thrilling, which makes it exciting but potentially uncomfortable for those afraid of heights.
🔸 Getting Around Inside Yangjiajie
Once you’re at the top via cable car, most areas can only be explored on foot. Yangjiajie’s scenic spots are scattered across a 16-kilometer trail network, so be prepared for a decent amount of hiking.
Suitable for physically fit travelers: Many of the trails, especially those leading to Wulong Village, Tianbo Mansion, and the Air Corridor, involve steep climbs, narrow paths, and long distances. It is best suited for young and physically fit visitors. Elderly travelers, children, or those with limited mobility are advised to avoid the more strenuous routes.
Avoid hiking on rainy or foggy days: During wet weather, mountain paths can become extremely slippery, and dense fog may reduce visibility significantly. It’s best to check the weather forecast and avoid climbing on rainy or stormy days.
Peak seasons require extra planning: National holidays (like Golden Week) and the summer vacation season attract large crowds. Be prepared for long lines, possible delays, and higher accommodation prices. Booking in advance and starting early can help you avoid the rush.
Travel in groups for safety and support: Hiking with companions not only makes the trip safer—especially on steep trails—but also allows you to share transportation costs and help each other when needed.
Keep a safe distance from monkeys: Monkeys are common in Yangjiajie and may snatch bags or food. Do not provoke them or display food openly.
Use legal transport and recognize guides: Only take officially licensed shuttle buses or join recognized tour groups. If you hire a porter or guide, ensure they carry valid ID badges.
No open flames or cooking in the scenic area: Campfires and outdoor cooking are strictly forbidden to prevent forest fires and environmental damage.
Stay calm in unusual situations: If you encounter an argument or an unusual crowd, avoid gathering or watching—it’s a common distraction used in petty thefts.
Respect warning signs: Areas marked with “No Entry” or “Danger” are restricted for safety reasons. Never cross safety barriers or venture off marked trails.
Bring light snacks and enough drinking water: Hiking here can be energy-consuming. Having some portable food and water will help you stay energized.
Wear comfortable walking shoes: Since most of the sightseeing involves long walks or climbs, sturdy hiking shoes with good grip are essential.
Luggage storage available: If you’re coming with large bags, you can leave your luggage at the ticket office where storage services are usually available and safe.
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