Yuanjiajie, Zhangjiajie

Introduction

Yuanjiajie is a mesa located in the north of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. It backs onto towering peaks and faces deep valleys and numerous mountains. Stretching from east to west, Yuanjiajie boasts several scenic spots such as the Back Garden, Enchanting Platform, and the world-renowned First Bridge Under Heaven.

There are two ways to reach Yuanjiajie from the foot of the mountain. The first option is to hike through the middle section of the Golden Whip Stream, ascend the Luancuan Slope, and finally arrive at the Back Garden. Alternatively, visitors can take the Bailong Elevator, also known as the Hundred Dragon Elevator, from the bottom of the mountain to the lower platform. This marvel of engineering takes a mere 66 seconds to transport visitors to their destination. Not only is the elevator ride itself an unforgettable experience, but the view that greets visitors as they step out of the elevator is equally breathtaking. A magical panorama unfolds before their eyes, dominated by the "Assembly of Heavenly Soldiers," one of the ten most spectacular sights in Zhangjiajie. These towering rock formations resemble a grand, well-disciplined honor guard, awaiting your inspection.

Upon reaching the top of the mountain, a short walk from the elevator station leads to a breathtaking vista. A picturesque landscape of idyllic countryside emerges, seemingly floating in mid-air like a mirage. This is the highly sought-after "空中田园" (Aerial Pastoral Land).

Geographically, Yuanjiajie is part of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, China's first national forest park. However, its central location within the Wulingyuan Scenic and Historic Interest Area of Zhangjiajie elevates its status. Bordering the breathtaking Golden Whip Stream, Yuanjiajie is surrounded by other scenic areas: Suoxi Valley to the east, Yaozi Village to the south, Huangshi Village to the west, and Tianzi Mountain to the north. Covering an area of approximately 1,200 hectares, Yuanjiajie sits at an average elevation of 1,074 meters above sea level.

Standing on the viewing platform in Yuanjiajie, visitors are treated to a panoramic vista of over 3,000 unique peaks. Each peak possesses its own distinct charm, ranging from imposing and perilous to graceful and untamed. In the depths of the canyons below, countless stone peaks and pillars rise abruptly, their sheer cliffs resembling valiant generals and towering summits evoking images of courageous warriors. The vibrant landscape comes alive with movement and sound, captivating the senses and transporting visitors into a world of wonder.

Scenic Area Introduction

The First Bridge Under Heaven

The First Bridge Under Heaven, one of the ten most celebrated scenic spots in Zhangjiajie, stands majestically, connecting two mountains. Looking down from the bridge, visitors are greeted by a mesmerizing sight of white clouds drifting by and countless peaks standing tall. As you gaze out into the distance, a sea of independent stone peaks, layered upon one another, fills your vision. The bridge itself is 2 meters wide, 5 meters thick, and spans a distance of 25 meters, with a vertical drop of 357 meters, making it the highest natural stone arch bridge discovered in the world. A local Tujia folk song vividly captures the awe-inspiring presence of the First Bridge Under Heaven: "The bridge soars high above, enveloped in clouds day and night. A petal tossed from its height, would linger fifteen days in flight."

Interestingly, the two mountains connected by the bridge were once a single entity. Over time, the weaker rock in the middle section eroded due to weathering, wind, rain, flowing water, and raging floods. This gradual process, spanning countless years, has resulted in the extraordinary natural wonder that exists today.

A stone-paved walkway, stretching over 2,000 meters, winds its way from the First Bridge Under Heaven to the Enchanting Platform, clinging to the edge of the towering cliffs. When viewed from above, the path resembles a delicate Tujia ribbon, woven with intricate patterns, connecting these two iconic landmarks. As you stroll along this ribbon-like path, breathtaking views of various scenic spots unfold before you, including the Marquis Wu Temple, the Eight Trigrams Array, the Ape Gazing at the Moon, the Divine Turtle Surveying the Heavens, the Small Cave Heaven, Lovers' Valley, Five Maidens Paying Homage to the General, the Heaven and Earth Pillar, and the Yin Yang Boundary. For those seeking a moment of tranquility amidst the stunning scenery, the sweet melodies of authentic Tujia mountain songs provide a soothing soundtrack to your journey.

Main Attractions

The First Bridge Under Heaven

A meandering path, stretching over 2,000 meters, connects the Back Garden to the First Bridge Under Heaven. Paved with white stones, the path resembles a white ribbon tied with two knots when viewed from afar, connecting the Enchanting Platform and the First Bridge Under Heaven. As you leisurely wander along the path, you'll encounter various intriguing attractions, including the Worship Platform, the Hundred-Zhang Precipice, the Small Cave Heaven, and Lovers' Valley. Situated at a relatively low altitude, this area remains largely unaffected by changing weather conditions, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in its beauty.

Considered one of the ten most remarkable sights in Zhangjiajie and an iconic landmark of Yuanjiajie, the First Bridge Under Heaven is a natural stone bridge nestled between two mountains. Originally a single entity, the bridge's structure represents the point where the two mountains were once connected. However, the weaker rock in the middle section gradually eroded due to various natural forces such as weathering, wind, rain, flowing water, and floods, eventually leading to the formation of this unique natural wonder.

The bridge's surface measures 2 meters wide and 4 meters thick, spanning a distance of over 20 meters. With a height of over 300 meters, it holds the record for the highest natural stone arch bridge discovered worldwide. The First Bridge Under Heaven and the nearby Couple's Rock are collectively known as the "Two Wonders of Zhangjiajie."

Shadao Groove

A long canyon, home to a small stream, separates Huangshi Village and Yuanjiajie. This stream, known as Shadao Groove, flows gently beneath the First Bridge Under Heaven.

The name "Shadao Groove" has a rather tragic backstory. Legend has it that a long time ago, a family consisting of a grandfather, grandmother, and their seven or eight-year-old granddaughter resided in Yuanjiajie. The young girl, orphaned at a young age, carried the weight of heavy chores and responsibilities. One day, upon returning from gathering firewood, she was met with harsh scolding from her grandparents for forgetting to bring back the knife. The terrified girl, fearing her grandparents' wrath, ventured back into the mountains in search of the missing tool. As darkness descended and the sounds of wild animals filled the air, she stumbled and fell into the abyss from the First Bridge Under Heaven. The valley echoed with sorrow, the wind whispered her name, and the only witness to her tragic fate was a small bird that flew out from the valley, chirping sadly, "Grandpa scolds, Grandma scolds, dropped the curved knife." It is believed that this bird, known as the "Daodao Bird," embodies the spirit of the young girl, and locals claim to still hear her cries late at night. In memory of the girl who fell from the cliff, the locals named this canyon Shadao Groove, with "Shadao" meaning "dropped knife."

Hallelujah Mountains (Avatar Mountains)

On January 25, 2010, the "Southern Sky Column" in Zhangjiajie, also known as the Qiankun Column, was officially renamed "Hallelujah Mountains" after the floating mountains in the movie Avatar. Hundreds of locals and tourists from all over the world witnessed this momentous occasion.

The Southern Sky Column, one of the 3,000 unique peaks in Zhangjiajie, is situated at the southern end of Yuanjiajie within the Wulingyuan Scenic and Historic Interest Area. Standing tall at an elevation of 1,074 meters, with a vertical height of approximately 150 meters, this magnificent peak features lush vegetation at its summit. Its unique shape, characterized by distinct vertical joints, gives it the appearance of being carved by a giant axe. It stands tall and proud against the backdrop of the Zhangjiajie landscape, hence its alternative name, the Qiankun Column, symbolizing heaven and earth.

In December 2008, Hollywood photographer Hanson spent four days capturing the beauty of Zhangjiajie. His photographs later served as inspiration for various elements of the fictional planet Pandora in the blockbuster science fiction film Avatar. Among these captivating images, the Southern Sky Column became the model for the awe-inspiring floating mountains of Pandora, the Hallelujah Mountains.

Heaven-Hanging White Stream

At the end of Shadao Groove, a spring cascades down from the top of a 200-meter cliff, resembling a long white ribbon descending from the heavens. The waterfall plunges into a deep pool below, creating a mesmerizing spectacle of emerald green water and misty spray. On days when sunshine and rain intertwine, rainbows often grace the sky above the waterfall. During periods of heavy rainfall, the waterfall transforms into a roaring dragon, its thunderous roar echoing through the valley.

Enchanting Platform

An 800-meter walk east from Yuanjiajie leads to a small path that meanders south towards the top of a solitary rock, culminating in a platform. Standing on this platform, visitors are treated to a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. Countless rock peaks and pillars, shaped like tables, chairs, towers, and pavilions, dot the scene, their bizarre formations defying description. After a refreshing rain shower, light clouds and mist often drift among the peaks, creating an ethereal atmosphere. The mountains appear to shift and dance, resembling a celestial palace emerging from the clouds. Overwhelmed by the beauty and mystery of this place, visitors often find themselves disoriented, hence the name "Enchanting Platform."

Back Garden

Nestled between the middle and lower platforms of Yuanjiajie lies a hidden gem known as the Back Garden. As visitors descend through a bamboo forest, a seemingly impassable stone wall suddenly blocks their path. Just when all seems lost, a moon-shaped opening in the cliff reveals itself. Stepping through this hidden portal, visitors are greeted by a sight that takes their breath away. Dozens of unique peaks rise majestically from a deep, verdant gorge.

Two Turtles Climbing to Heaven

A short detour from the First Bridge Under Heaven, approximately 200 meters east and then 150 meters south, brings visitors to the Two Turtles Climbing to Heaven viewing platform, nestled within a rock shelter at the edge of a cliff. From this vantage point, one can marvel at a massive peak situated in the valley below, level with the viewing platform. Atop this peak, amidst a carpet of grass, lies a rock resembling a turtle, its head raised towards the north as if slowly crawling forward. In the distance, roughly 500 meters to the east, another turtle-shaped rock rests atop a towering cliff connected to a high, broken rock face. Its neck is outstretched, and its head is held high. Between the two turtles stand several stone pillars, surrounded by a vast, deep valley. When mist and fog envelop the scene, the two turtles appear to float upwards, slowly ascending the stone pillars.

Cliffside Immortal's Palace

Walking 400 meters east from the First Bridge Under Heaven, visitors will encounter a sheer cliff face adorned with intricate layers of rock formations, resembling a grand "Cliffside Immortal's Palace." This majestic palace, seemingly carved into the mountainside, appears hazy and indistinct, resembling a traditional Chinese courtyard residence with three courtyards and two halls. Its eaves and upturned corners, grand and deep, are teeming with the presence of 30 to 50 celestial beings. The main hall features four large open doorways, exuding an aura of magnificence and grandeur. Beyond the main hall, nestled amidst lush trees, lie several smaller rooms, each exuding an air of elegance and tranquility.

Black Dragon Spring

At the intersection of the middle and lower platforms of Yuanjiajie, a series of clear springs flow from within a limestone cave. The cave entrance, measuring approximately 1 meter high and 2 meters wide, gradually widens, reaching a maximum width of 90 square meters. The cave, with a total length of 310 meters, features numerous branches and interconnected chambers. Its walls are adorned with captivating formations of stone flowers, stone peaks, and intricate water-eroded patterns resembling towering structures. The cave floor is covered with a fascinating array of stalagmites shaped like fish, turtles, dragons, and horses. Additionally, terraced stone pools and dripping water, creating a symphony of delicate sounds, further enhance the cave's enchanting atmosphere. The swift current of the spring resembles a mythical black dragon, and the cave's dark, mysterious depths inspired its name.

Squeezing People Cave

Approximately 1,500 meters east of Black Dragon Spring, a 4-meter-deep, 3-meter-high, and 40-meter-long alcove adorns a stone wall. Within this alcove lies a small opening, about 80 centimeters in diameter, through which spring water flows. Venturing inside, visitors encounter a narrow, open-air stone trough, 10 meters high, 2,000 meters long, and a mere 0.4 meters wide. The passage is so narrow that visitors can only navigate it sideways. This challenging squeeze leads to another cave, an expansive chamber measuring 30 meters high, 20 meters wide, and 200 meters long. The walls and ceiling of this cave are adorned with a dazzling display of stalactites and stalagmites of various sizes and colors, ranging from light red and pale yellow to grayish-white and iron gray. Over 400 larger stalagmites, each producing unique musical notes when struck, add to the cave's mesmerizing beauty.

Goat Village

Situated opposite the Back Garden viewing platform in Yuanjiajie, Goat Village sits at an elevation of 949 meters, boasting a relative height of over 400 meters. The summit of this peak, covering an area of 3 hectares, earned its name from the abundance of wild goats that once roamed its slopes. Sheer cliffs encircle Goat Village on its eastern, western, and southern sides, leaving only a single path on its northern face as the sole means of access. Atop the peak lies a narrow, flat stone ridge, approximately 500 meters long and 20 to 30 meters wide, extending east to west. This ridge, covered in dense, pristine forest, features three small protruding stone beams, each measuring 10 to 20 meters long and 2 to 3 meters wide. These beams serve as perilous yet awe-inspiring viewing platforms, offering breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscape. Standing on these platforms, visitors feel like they're floating amidst the clouds, with the Golden Whip Stream and Shadao Groove appearing as winding ribbons below. As you gaze out at the vast expanse, hundreds of stone peaks surround you, resembling a formidable army of swords, a strategic formation of soldiers, or a forest of ancient pagodas vying for attention. On the western side, seven pairs of stone peaks stand tall, resembling seven couples locked in an eternal embrace, the men leaning forward, the women gazing up adoringly. During the Republic of China era, Goat Village served as a hideout for bandits, and remnants of their presence, such as gatehouses, dilapidated forts, trenches, dwellings, wells, broken mortars, and millstones, can still be found scattered throughout the area.

Origin of the Name "Yuanjiajie"

The name "Yuanjiajie" is believed to have originated during the Later Tang dynasty. Following the defeat of Huang Chao's rebellion, the imperial court launched a relentless pursuit of the remaining rebels, posting wanted notices far and wide. One of Huang Chao's generals, surnamed Yuan, sought refuge in the remote and isolated mountains of Qingyan Mountain. There, he built a simple dwelling, cultivated the land, and named the area "Yuanjiajie" after his own surname.

Best Time to Visit

Yuanjiajie, located in the Zhangjiajie region, enjoys a subtropical monsoon climate characterized by ample sunshine, abundant rainfall, a long frost-free period, mild winters, and distinct seasons. The annual frost-free period typically lasts between 216 and 269 days, with an average annual temperature of around 16.6°C. Zhangjiajie experiences pleasant weather throughout the year, making it suitable for travel in all seasons. However, the best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months, from April to October.

Transportation

Visitors can explore the scenic area on foot. From the Golden Whip Stream Grand Canyon, there are two ways to reach Yuanjiajie: either by hiking all the way up the mountain or by taking a scenic walk through the Golden Whip Stream Canyon and then riding the Bailong Elevator.

FAQ

1. What is the best time of year to visit Yuanjiajie?

The best time to visit Yuanjiajie is during the spring and autumn months (April to October), when the weather is mild and pleasant.

2. How long does it take to walk across the First Bridge Under Heaven?

Crossing the First Bridge Under Heaven is a relatively quick experience, taking only a few minutes. However, it's worth taking your time to admire the stunning views from the bridge.

3. Are there any restaurants or food stalls in Yuanjiajie?

Yes, there are several restaurants and food stalls within the Yuanjiajie scenic area offering a variety of local dishes and snacks.