Today, you will spend a half-day tour of Tianmen Mountain in Tianmenshan National Forest Park, known as as the "Soul of Zhangjiajie" and the "No.1 Sacred Mountain of Western Hunan Province". Located only 8 kilometers away from Zhangjiajie city center, the Tianmen Mountain Scenic Area is unique in that it is suitable for people of all ages, and climbing is not necessary. There is the world's longest cable car, spanning 7,455 meters, which takes you directly to the mountaintop. Additionally, there is a small cableway available on the mountaintop. The only section that requires walking is the Tianmen Cave staircase, but don't worry, there is also an elevator available. Then, head to Fenghuang Ancient Town in the afternoon.
First, take the 30-minute cable car (7,455 meters) ride from Zhangjiajie City to the top of Tianmen Mountain. As you ascend, you'll be treated to a panoramic view of the winding mountain road with 99 bends (the Road to Heaven) and the breathtaking beauty of the bonsai gardens. Now, brace yourself for a thrilling challenge. Take a deep breath and step on the cliff path hanging on the mountainside. Walk along the Glass Walkway, a transparent glass path that stretches for 60 meters and hovers 1,430 meters above the bottomless valley, giving you a thrilling sensation of walking in the sky. Additionally, experience the 1.6-kilometer-long Cliff-Hanging Walkway, which is built along the edges of the mountain's summits. It's truly an amazing adventure! Next, you have the option to visit Tianmen Temple, a Buddhist structure that embodies the architectural style of the Qing Dynasty (1616-1912). It is surrounded by lush green forests, providing a serene atmosphere. And, you can also visit Yunmenxianding (云梦仙顶; 1,518m), the highest point in Tianmenshan National Forest Park, to enjoy a bird's eye view of the surroundings.
Afterward, go down by escalator from the mountaintop to Tianmen Cave, the world's highest natural mountain through the cave which spans 131.5 meters. Tianmen Cave, also known as Heaven's Gate Hole (天门洞), is frequently enveloped in swirling clouds and mist, and at other times, it is illuminated by ethereal rays of sunlight, resulting in a mesmerizing and ever-changing display of light and shadows. Take your time there to capture some beautiful photographs. Following that, you have the option to either walk down the 999 steps or take the elevator. Then, welcome back to another cable car station. Take the cable car down the mountain.
After the Tianmen Mountain Tour, it is time to move to Fenghuang Ancient Town, located about 3.5 hours (237km) away by car (There is a high-speed train between Zhangjiajie and Fenghuang, it takes only 1 hour single way).
As one of the most beautiful towns in China, Fenghuang Ancient Town is home to various ethnic groups, primarily the Miao and Tujia peoples. It is renowned for its picturesque setting along the tranquil Tuo River, where traditional stilt houses (Diaojiaolou;吊脚楼) are tightly packed. Along the riverbanks, women can be seen washing clothes and cleaning rice and vegetables, while men fish using their nets. The preparation of food on the riverbank remains much the same as it has been for centuries. Taking a short 10-minute boat ride along the Tuo Jiang River is a delightful way to relax and immerse oneself in the surroundings.
The night view of Fenghuang Ancient Town is truly enchanting. As you stroll through the old courtyards and well-preserved wooden houses along the riverside, you will witness the vibrant atmosphere of the night market and bars. The dazzling lights create a magical ambiance, making it a truly wonderful experience.