Zhangjiajie

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, a UNESCO Global Geopark, is home to over 3,000 towering sandstone pillars that rise dramatically from lush subtropical forest. These otherworldly formations inspired the floating Hallelujah Mountains in James Cameron's film Avatar, and seeing them shrouded in morning mist is an unforgettable experience.

The park offers some of China's most thrilling adventures. The Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge — the world's highest and longest glass-bottomed bridge — spans 430 metres across a deep canyon. The Bailong Elevator, built into the side of a massive cliff face, is the world's tallest outdoor lift, carrying visitors 326 metres to a stunning viewpoint above the pillar forests.

Beyond the national park, the wider Zhangjiajie region is home to the Tujia and Miao ethnic minorities, whose colourful traditions, architecture, and festivals add cultural depth to the natural splendour. Tianmen Mountain, accessible by the world's longest cable car ride, features a natural arch known as Heaven's Gate and a glass skywalk along sheer cliff faces.