How to Get from Hong Kong to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, home to the breathtaking scenery that inspired the movie Avatar, is a must-visit destination in China. If you're planning a trip from Hong Kong, you'll find that the journey itself is an adventure. Here's a comprehensive guide on the best way to get there:
Traveling by Train: The Scenic Route
The most recommended way to travel from Hong Kong to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is by train via Guitang. This route offers a blend of convenience, cost-effectiveness, and scenic beauty.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Hong Kong to Guangzhou South: Begin your journey by taking a high-speed train from Hong Kong West Kowloon Station (HKW) to Guangzhou South Railway Station (IZQ). These trains operate frequently throughout the day. The journey takes approximately 1 hour, and ticket prices range from $25 to $35 USD.
| Train Type | Duration | Price | |----------------------|----------|----------------| | High-Speed Train | 1 hour | $25 - $35 USD |
- Guangzhou South to Guitang: Upon arrival at Guangzhou South, transfer to another high-speed train bound for Guitang Railway Station (GTQ). This leg of the journey takes around 6 hours, and ticket prices range from $60 to $70 USD.
| Train Type | Duration | Price | |----------------------|----------|----------------| | High-Speed Train | 6 hours | $60 - $70 USD |
-
Guitang to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park: From Guitang Railway Station, you have two convenient options to reach your final destination:
- Taxi: A taxi ride from the station to the park entrance will take about 30 minutes and cost approximately $10-15 USD.
- Bus: Local buses also operate between the station and the park entrance, offering a more budget-friendly option for around $2-3 USD.
Total Travel Time and Cost:
- Total Duration: Approximately 7-8 hours
- Total Cost: Approximately $85-100 USD
Other Transportation Options:
While the train journey is highly recommended, here are a couple of alternative options:
- Direct Flight: Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport (DYG) receives direct flights from Hong Kong. This option is the fastest but can be significantly more expensive, with round-trip flights often costing between $250 and $400 USD or more depending on the season and booking time.
- Bus: Direct buses are available from Shenzhen Bay Port to Zhangjiajie, but the journey takes around 10-12 hours and may not be as comfortable as the train.
Why Choose the Train?
- Scenery: The train route offers stunning views of the Chinese countryside, including rolling hills, picturesque villages, and lush rice paddies.
- Comfort: High-speed trains in China are modern, spacious, and equipped with comfortable seating, making the journey enjoyable.
- Cost-Effective: The train provides excellent value for money, especially when compared to flights.
- Convenient Connections: The train schedules are well-coordinated, ensuring smooth transfers and minimizing waiting times.
Important Tips for Your Journey:
- Book Tickets in Advance: Especially during peak seasons, it's advisable to book train tickets well in advance to secure your preferred dates and times.
- Consider a Travel Agent: If you're unfamiliar with Chinese train booking systems, using a travel agent can be helpful, though they may charge a small fee.
- Pack Light: The train offers limited luggage space, so pack light and only bring essentials.
- Bring Snacks and Drinks: While food and beverages are available for purchase on board, it's a good idea to carry some snacks and drinks.
FAQs:
1. How long does it take to get from Hong Kong to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park by train?
The train journey from Hong Kong to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, via Guitang, typically takes around 7-8 hours.
2. How much does it cost to travel by train from Hong Kong to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park?
The total cost of the train journey, including transfers, is approximately $85-100 USD.
3. Are there direct flights from Hong Kong to Zhangjiajie?
Yes, direct flights are available from Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) to Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport (DYG). However, this option tends to be more expensive than traveling by train.