How to Get from Zhangjiajie City to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, home to the iconic "Avatar Mountains," is a must-visit destination in China. While the city of Zhangjiajie serves as a gateway, the park itself is located about 32 kilometers (20 miles) north. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to navigate between the two:
1. By Bus
The bus is the most convenient and economical way to reach the park.
- Route: Direct buses operate between Zhangjiajie Bus Terminal (张家界中心汽车站) and Zhangjiajie National Forest Park.
- Frequency: Buses depart approximately every 10 minutes, ensuring flexibility for travelers.
- Operating Hours: The service runs daily, starting early morning and ending in the late evening.
- Travel Time: The journey takes approximately 45 minutes.
- Cost: Expect to pay around 12 CNY (~$1.70 USD).
- Where to Buy Tickets: You can purchase tickets directly from the bus terminal's ticket counters or kiosks.
Tips:
- Look for buses marked with "武陵源" (Wulingyuan), the district where the park is located.
- During peak season (July-August, national holidays), buses can get crowded. Arrive early to secure a seat.
2. By Taxi
Taking a taxi offers a faster but more expensive option, especially if you have heavy luggage or prefer door-to-door service.
- Travel Time: A taxi ride takes around 30-40 minutes depending on traffic.
- Cost: Expect to pay approximately 100-150 CNY (~$14-21 USD).
- Important: Always confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. Most drivers don't speak English, so have your destination written down in Chinese to avoid confusion.
Tip:
- Consider using ride-hailing apps like Didi Chuxing (Chinese equivalent of Uber) for potentially better prices and cashless payment options. Download and set up the app before arriving in China.
3. By Private Car
If you have a Chinese driver's license or plan to hire a driver, a private car offers the most flexibility for exploring the area at your own pace.
- Travel Time: Similar to a taxi, expect a 30-40 minute drive.
- Parking: Parking lots are available at the park entrance, but they can fill up quickly during peak season.
4. Entrance Gates to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
It's important to note that Zhangjiajie National Forest Park has multiple entrance gates. The bus and most taxis will drop you off at the main entrance gate, but depending on your itinerary and accommodation plans, other gates might be more convenient:
| Entrance Gate | Location | Notes | |--------------------|-----------------|--------| | Zhangjiajie National Forest Park Gate (Main Gate) | Wulingyuan District | Closest to Wulingyuan Scenic Area; often the busiest entrance | | Tianzi Mountain Gate | Wulingyuan District | Offers access to Tianzi Mountain; less crowded than the main gate | | Yangjiajie Gate | Wulingyuan District | Less crowded; provides access to the western side of the park |
Important Tips:
- Purchase Entrance Tickets in Advance: You can buy park entrance tickets online or at the gate. Pre-booking online can save you time, especially during peak season.
- Multi-Day Tickets Available: Zhangjiajie National Forest Park offers 2-day and 4-day entrance tickets. If you plan to explore multiple areas, a multi-day ticket is more cost-effective.
- Bring Cash: While some vendors within the park might accept mobile payment methods like Alipay or WeChat Pay, it's always best to carry some cash for smaller purchases.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: You'll be doing a lot of walking and hiking within the park, so make sure to wear appropriate footwear.
FAQs
How much does it cost to enter Zhangjiajie National Forest Park?
The entrance fee varies depending on the duration of your visit. A standard 2-day ticket costs 248 CNY (~$35 USD) for adults.
Is there luggage storage at Zhangjiajie National Forest Park?
Yes, luggage storage facilities are available at the park's entrance gates for a fee.
Can I use the cable cars within the park for free?
No, the cable cars and the Bailong Elevator require separate tickets which can be purchased at their respective stations.