Zhangjiajie to Fenghuang
China
From the quartzite sandstone pillars that inspired Avatar's Hallelujah Mountains, south through the rice terraces and stilted villages of western Hunan, to Fenghuang, the most beautifully preserved ancient town in China. A great short drive through the interior.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
Three thousand quartzite sandstone pillars draped in mist, the landscape James Cameron photographed for Pandora in Avatar.
- Tianmen Mountain
A 999-stair pilgrim road climbs to Heaven's Gate, a natural 131-m arch in the cliff face with clouds pouring through it most mornings.
- Furong Zhen (Hibiscus Town)
A Tujia town perched above a 60-m waterfall, filmed for the 1986 movie Hibiscus Town. A watermill still grinds rice at the base of the falls.
- Dehang Miao Village
Stilted wooden houses hang over a rushing gorge river below four dramatic waterfalls in this remote Miao village, almost entirely unvisited.
- Fenghuang Ancient Town
Ming-dynasty stilted buildings lean over the Tuo River on stone piles. Arrive at dawn before the crowds to see it at its most photogenic.
Where to Eat
- Dashi RestaurantLocal Cuisine
Renowned for its signature blood duck and seasonal dishes like stir-fried fiddlehead ferns with smoked pork.
- Rice Tofu Street StallStreet Food
Offers the local specialty rice tofu, a must-try snack in Furong Town.
- Tianmen Mountain RestaurantLocal Cuisine
Serves traditional Hunan dishes with panoramic views of Tianmen Mountain.
- Dehang Miao Village EateryMiao Cuisine
Authentic Miao dishes prepared with fresh, local ingredients in a traditional setting.
Things to Do
- Bailong ElevatorLandmark
Ride the world's tallest outdoor lift for breathtaking views of Zhangjiajie's sandstone pillars.
- Tianmen CaveNature
A natural archway at 131.5 meters high, offering a unique hiking experience.
- Furong WaterfallNature
A stunning waterfall cascading through the heart of Furong Town, offering picturesque views.
- Tuojiang River BoatingActivity
Enjoy a serene boat ride along the Tuojiang River, passing under ancient bridges and stilted houses.