Yuanjiajie is the part of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park that most people picture when they think of the place. A cluster of slender sandstone columns rises from the valley floor, and in 2010 the tallest, once known as the Southern Sky Column, was renamed Avatar Hallelujah Mountain after the film whose floating mountains borrowed from this scenery. The plateau has short loop walks between viewpoints, among them the Back Garden and the stone span known as the First Bridge Under Heaven, so you can see a great deal in a half day. The ticket linked here is for Avatar Hallelujah Mountain itself, a single-site admission for the Yuanjiajie zone, which fits travellers who want this one headline view first and plan to add other parts of the park later.
Getting there
Most visitors reach the plateau by the Bailong Elevator, a glass-fronted lift climbing the cliff, or by shuttle bus and a short walk. Expect queues at the elevator at peak hours, which is why an early start matters more here than anywhere else in the park. Once on top the paths are paved and well signed, with stairs and railings at the main lookouts.
Making the most of it
Walk the viewpoints in one loop, pause at the points where the pillars line up in rows, and return to the best ones when the cloud shifts. In mist the columns look like islands, in clear weather they look like a forest of stone, and both are worth seeing. Photographers do well at the first light of day and in the hour before closing, when crowds thin.
Good to know
The plateau is exposed, so bring a rain layer and layers for wind. Macaques live here and will steal food, so keep snacks hidden. The area is busiest in holiday periods, particularly around Chinese national holidays, when it is worth booking well ahead or choosing a weekday. Combine it with Tianzi Mountain and the Bailong Elevator for a full day.
What to expect
The experience
Short paved loop walks between viewpoints on the Yuanjiajie plateau, reached by the Bailong Elevator or a shuttle bus.
Best time
First thing in the morning or the last hour before closing, and on weekdays outside national holidays.
How long
Three to five hours on the plateau, longer if you wait for clouds to clear.
Tips
Start early to beat elevator queues, pack a rain layer, and keep food out of sight because of the macaques.
Quick picks
- Best for
- First-timers who want the famous Avatar view without a long hike.
- Families
- Easy loops and railings suit most children, though the crowds at lookouts need patience.
- Couples
- Go at opening, then linger over the second viewpoints as the mist rolls through.
- Pair with
- The Bailong Elevator and Tianzi Mountain.
- Time needed
- Half a day.
Good questions
Why is it called Avatar Hallelujah Mountain?+
The peak, formerly the Southern Sky Column, was renamed in 2010 after the film Avatar drew on the Zhangjiajie scenery. The name stuck and is now used on signs and maps.
Do I have to take the Bailong Elevator?+
No. You can reach Yuanjiajie by shuttle bus and a short walk, and the elevator is one option for the climb. Queues at the elevator can be long at busy times.
Is the area suitable for children?+
Yes, the viewpoint loops are short and paved with railings. Keep a close eye on young children near edges.
When is the best time of day?+
Early morning and late afternoon give softer light and fewer people. Fog can arrive at any time and often clears within an hour.
Can I see it in half a day?+
Yes, the main loops take a few hours, so it fits a half day. Add Tianzi Mountain if you want a full one.
