Tianmen Cave in Zhangjiajie: Location, Itinerary & Visiting Tips

Discover What Makes Tianmen Cave Extraordinary

Tianmen Cave is a massive natural archway standing at over 130 meters tall and 50 meters wide, carved out of Tianmen Mountain by natural forces over time. This grand formation is unique for its sheer size and vertical opening, making it one of the world’s highest naturally formed caves. Visitors can climb the 999 steps leading to the cave, symbolizing good fortune, or take a ride on the world’s longest cable car for a breathtaking ascent. The cave is also the site of daring aerial stunts and offers panoramic views of Zhangjiajie’s dramatic landscape.

Tianmen Radiant Glow 天门霞光

Tianmen Radiant Glow refers to the breathtaking display of colors that appear around Tianmen Cave during both sunrise and sunset. Whether it’s the soft glow of the morning’s first light or the rich, fiery hues of dusk, the sky comes alive with shades of red, orange, and pink. The vibrant colors reflect off the cave and the surrounding cliffs, creating an awe-inspiring view that feels almost magical. Whether at dawn or dusk, this radiant phenomenon offers a tranquil and unforgettable moment for all who visit.

Another captivating sight is Tianmen Mist Rising, where clouds and mist swirl around the cave and the mountain, creating a mysterious and dreamlike scene. As the fog slowly drifts upward, it often shrouds the cave’s opening, giving the illusion that the mountain is breathing. The dynamic interplay between the mountain, the cave, and the shifting fog creates an ever-changing vista, captivating visitors and offering incredible photo opportunities. Tianmen Mist Rising is most impressive in the early morning or after rain, when the moist air is perfect for fog formation.

▶ To Tianmen Mountain: Traveling from Zhangjiajie City to Tianmen Mountain is convenient and straightforward. Both Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport and Zhangjiajiexi/Zhangjiajie West Railway Station offer buses to Zhangjiajie Railway Station, which is located in downtown and just a 10-minute walk from Tianmen Mountain Cableway Station. Taxis and ride-hailing services are readily available as well, which generally cost less than ¥20, providing a comfortable and efficient way to reach the Lower Cableway Station.

⋙ How to Get Around Zhangjiajie | Zhangjiajie Cable Car

Take the 7455-meter cableway to get up Tianmen Mountain; Arrive at Tianmen Mountain cable station (Upper) and choose west route to travel through Mixian Qijing Scenic Area and experience Guigu Cliffside Path and Glass Skywalk, visit Tianmen Temple; Take Tianmen Mountain Peak Forest Sightseeing Cable Car (extra fee of CNY 25/run) from Cherry Bay to Yunmeng Xianding; reach Upper Station of Transmountain Escalator to get down Tianmen Cave and visit the Stairway to Heaven; get down from Tianmen Cave to the parking lot and take a Tianmen Cave Express Cableway to overlook the 99 turns of Tongtian Avenue. After get off the cableway, walk to the Mountain Gate of Tianmen Mountain, and take a sightseeing bus there to return to the tourist center of Tianmen Mountain (where your Tianmen Mountain Adventure Starts)

Route Two (in-depth hiking route)

Take the 7455-meter cableway to get up Tianmen Mountain; arrive at the upper cable station and choose the west route to visit Mixian Qijing Scenic Area and experience Guigu Cliffside Path and Glass Skywalk; visit Tianjie Foguo Scenic Area to Tianmen Temple; hike on the east route to travel through the primitive forest in Biye Yaotai Scenic Area and visit many sights along the way; get down from Upper Station of Transmountain Escalator to Tianmen Cave; visit Tianmen Cave and walk 999 steps to The Square in front of the Tianmen Cave. After sightseeing, walk to take the Tianmen Cave Express Cableway down the mountain to the Mountain Gate. Take a sightseeing bus there to return to the tourist center of Tianmen Mountain.

Visiting Tips for Tianmen Cave

▶ Best Time to Visit: The ideal months are from April to October, when the weather is pleasant, and the views are clear. For fewer crowds, visit early in the morning or during weekdays.

▶ Wear Comfortable Shoes: Be prepared for a lot of walking, especially if you plan to climb the 999 steps to Tianmen Cave. Comfortable, sturdy shoes are essential.

▶ Weather Precautions: The mountain’s weather can be unpredictable. Bring layers, sunscreen, and a raincoat. Fog can form quickly, so check the forecast for the best visibility.

▶ Stay Hydrated: Bring water and snacks, as prices can be higher at the mountain shops.

▶ Camera Ready: Don’t forget a camera or smartphone for photos, as the views are stunning throughout the journey.

⋙ Where to Stay in Zhangjiajie | Best Hotels & Hostels in Wulingyuan

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park & Avatar Mountains

Beyond Tianmen Mountain, Zhangjiajie National Forest Park offers additional wonders to explore. Famous for its towering quartz sandstone pillars, the park is home to the iconic Avatar Mountains—specifically Yuanjiajie, the inspiration for the floating mountains in the movie "Avatar." Visitors can also trek to Tianzi Mountain, known for its panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, deep valleys, and lush greenery. This area provides a surreal landscape, perfect for photography, hiking, and appreciating nature's grandeur.

Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge & Grand Canyon

Another must-see is the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon, where adventure meets breathtaking beauty. The highlight here is the world-famous Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge, suspended 300 meters above the canyon floor. Spanning over 400 meters, it’s the longest and highest glass bridge in the world, offering heart-pounding views of the vast canyon below. For those who love a mix of thrill and nature, this experience is unforgettable, combining stunning scenery with an exhilarating walk across the transparent walkway.