How to Get to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is one of China's most renowned natural wonders, famous for its towering sandstone pillars, lush forests, and awe-inspiring landscapes. Getting to this park, located in the Hunan Province, requires some planning, but the journey is worth the effort. This guide will help you navigate your way to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park with ease, whether you're traveling from within China or abroad.

1. Understanding the Location

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is located in the Wulingyuan Scenic Area, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park itself is situated about 30 kilometers from Zhangjiajie City. The closest major city is Changsha, the capital of Hunan Province, which is approximately 330 kilometers away. Knowing these details will help you plan your route effectively.

2. Traveling by Air

The most convenient way to reach Zhangjiajie is by air. Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport (DYG) is the closest airport to the park. It offers domestic flights from major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen. There are also a few international flights from countries like South Korea, Thailand, and Malaysia.

Steps to Follow:

• Book a flight: Search for flights to Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport (DYG). Booking in advance can help you secure better prices, especially during peak tourist seasons.
• Arrival at the airport: Once you arrive at Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle bus to your accommodation in the city or directly to the Wulingyuan Scenic Area.

3. Traveling by Train

If you prefer traveling by train, you can reach Zhangjiajie by taking a high-speed train or a regular train. Although Zhangjiajie doesn’t have a high-speed train station, you can take a train to Changsha, and then transfer to a regular train or a bus to Zhangjiajie.

Steps to Follow:

• High-Speed Train: Take a high-speed train to Changsha South Railway Station from cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, or Shenzhen. The journey from Beijing to Changsha takes about 6 hours, while from Shanghai, it takes around 5 hours.
• Regular Train: From Changsha, you can take a regular train to Zhangjiajie Railway Station. The journey takes approximately 4-6 hours, depending on the train you choose.
• Bus Option: Alternatively, you can take a bus from Changsha West Bus Station to Zhangjiajie. The bus ride takes around 4 hours.

4. Traveling by Bus

For travelers who are already in Hunan Province or neighboring regions, buses are a cost-effective and convenient option. Buses are available from Changsha, Fenghuang, and other nearby cities.

Steps to Follow:

• From Changsha: Take a bus from Changsha West Bus Station to Zhangjiajie. The trip takes approximately 4 hours.
• From Fenghuang: If you're visiting the ancient town of Fenghuang, you can take a direct bus to Zhangjiajie, which takes about 3-4 hours.

5. Driving to Zhangjiajie

If you prefer the flexibility of driving, renting a car is an option. This is particularly useful if you're planning to explore other attractions in Hunan Province.

Steps to Follow:

• Car Rental: Rent a car from major cities like Changsha or directly at Zhangjiajie Airport. Ensure you have a valid driver's license recognized in China.
• Driving Route: From Changsha, take the G5513 expressway to Zhangjiajie. The drive is approximately 4-5 hours. From Zhangjiajie City, follow signs to the Wulingyuan Scenic Area, which is about a 30-minute drive.

6. Local Transportation in Zhangjiajie

Once you arrive in Zhangjiajie City or Wulingyuan, getting around is relatively easy. You can use taxis, buses, or even rent a bike or scooter.

Local Options:

• Taxis: Widely available and convenient for short trips within the city and to the park entrance.
• Public Buses: Regular buses operate between Zhangjiajie City and the Wulingyuan Scenic Area. These are budget-friendly but may take longer.
• Private Car Services: Available for hire if you prefer a more comfortable and private mode of transport.

7. Entrance to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

The park has multiple entrances, with the Wulingyuan Entrance being the most popular among tourists. Other entrances include the Tianzi Mountain Entrance and the Yangjiajie Entrance. It's recommended to choose the entrance closest to your accommodation.

8. Best Time to Visit

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is a year-round destination, but the best times to visit are during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild, and the scenery is at its most breathtaking.

9. Suggested Itineraries

Depending on your time and interests, here are a few itinerary options:

• 1-Day Tour: Focus on the most famous sites such as the Avatar Hallelujah Mountain and the Tianzi Mountain.
• 2-Day Tour: Explore more of the park, including the Golden Whip Stream and the Yuanjiajie Scenic Area.
• 3-Day Tour: Include a visit to the nearby Tianmen Mountain and the famous Glass Bridge in the itinerary.

10. Tips for a Smooth Journey

• Book in Advance: Whether it’s flights, trains, or accommodation, booking ahead can save you time and money.
• Prepare for Weather: The weather in Zhangjiajie can be unpredictable, so pack accordingly. Comfortable walking shoes are a must.
• Cash and Payment: While many places accept mobile payments, having some cash on hand is advisable, especially in rural areas.

In conclusion, getting to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is relatively straightforward with proper planning. Whether you choose to fly, take a train, or drive, the journey will be an adventure in itself, leading you to one of China’s most iconic natural landscapes. Enjoy your trip!