Zhangjiajie & Fenghuang: Stairway to Heaven & Ancient Town

Zhangjiajie Itinerary: Stairway to Heaven and Fenghuang Ancient Town

Destination:ChinaProvince:HunanCity:Fenghuang
Zhangjiajie Itinerary: Stairway to Heaven and Fenghuang Ancient Town
Vanessa Huang2024-11-2316 min

You might think of the Avatar Mountains when you hear the word Zhangjiajie! Yes, this city is home to those iconic mountains, but Zhangjiajie offers much more. There are countless places to explore, including the two destinations Linardo and I visited in this vlog: the Stairway to Heaven at Tianmenshan and the incredible Fenghuang Ancient Town, also known as Phoenix Ancient Town. We started at Tianmenshan, riding one of the longest cable cars in the world to reach the famous Stairway to Heaven. The views were beyond words and made our visit truly unforgettable. Next, we wandered through the charming Fenghuang Ancient Town, often regarded as China's most beautiful ancient town. Strolling through its historic streets and trying the delicious local food was an experience we’ll never forget. If you’re planning a trip or curious about what makes these places a must-visit in China, this vlog is for you. Hope you enjoy watching!

--- Vanessa Huang
November 23, 2024, Autumn in China

Video Chapters

  1. 0:00Stairway to Heaven introduction
  2. 0:44Tianmen Mountain ticket
  3. 1:12Tianmen Mountain cable car
  4. 3:08Stairway to Heaven climb
  5. 6:08Reaching the top
  6. 7:19Tianmen Mountain top views
  7. 8:43Tianmen Mountain cableway down
  8. 9:36Arrival at Fenghuang
  9. 10:36Fenghuang Ancient Town
  10. 14:03Fenghuang local food
  11. 14:46Fenghuang Ancient Town at night

Vanessa Huang's Zhangjiajie vlog showcases the awe-inspiring Tianmen Mountain and the captivating Fenghuang Ancient Town. Breathtaking views and cultural immersion create an unforgettable Chinese adventure.

Travel Guides & Tips in this video

  1. Tip 1When lining up in China, be firm as people may try to steal your spot, unlike in Taiwan where queuing is more respectful. (1:16)
  2. Tip 2Bring a jacket and dress warmly when visiting Tianmen Mountain, even in September, as it can be cold and windy. (3:49)
  3. Tip 3From Fenghuang HSR station, take the maglev train to the ancient town for a faster and smoother ride. (9:47)
  4. Tip 4Be cautious when crossing the bridges in Fenghuang Ancient Town, as there's no safety railing and the current is strong. (12:20)
  5. Tip 5Visit Fenghuang Ancient Town at night for a more magical experience with lights and cultural performances. (13:23)

Vanessa Huang's Zhangjiajie adventure begins with the breathtaking Tianmen Mountain, ascending the iconic 'Stairway to Heaven'. She shares insightful tips on navigating Chinese crowds and the unique experience of traversing 999 steps, culminating in stunning panoramic views. The journey continues to the enchanting Fenghuang Ancient Town, a captivating blend of history and charm. Vanessa's vivid descriptions bring the town's beauty to life, from its flowing river and traditional architecture to the vibrant nightlife and cultural performances. This vlog offers a unique perspective on two must-see destinations in China.

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Zhangjiajie Itinerary: Stairway to Heaven and Fenghuang Ancient Town

This vlog follows Vanessa Huang's journey through two stunning locations in Zhangjiajie, China: Tianmen Mountain and Fenghuang Ancient Town. The Tianmen Mountain segment captures the ascent of the famous "Stairway to Heaven," a challenging yet rewarding climb with 999 steps offering breathtaking views. Vanessa shares personal insights into the unique experience, including tips on navigating crowds and the importance of dressing warmly. The journey is not just physical; it's a testament to the spiritual significance of the mountain, considered a doorway to heaven by the locals.

The vlog then shifts to Fenghuang Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Vanessa's exploration of this charming town showcases its rich history and cultural heritage, evident in its traditional architecture and bustling streets. The video highlights the town's beauty, particularly at night, when the lights illuminate the river and buildings, creating a magical atmosphere. Vanessa's experiences, from purchasing a flower crown from a local vendor to navigating a crowded bridge, add a personal touch, making the viewer feel like they are experiencing the town alongside her. The inclusion of local food and cultural performances further enriches the narrative, showcasing the authenticity of the experience.

Overall, the vlog offers a well-rounded perspective of Zhangjiajie, moving beyond the typical tourist snapshots to highlight unique details, personal insights, and emotional moments. It's a captivating blend of adventure, cultural immersion, and personal reflection, making it a compelling watch for anyone planning a trip to China or simply seeking an engaging travel story. Vanessa's descriptions of the physical challenges and emotional impact of her journey add depth and authenticity to the narrative, inviting the viewer to share in her experience.

FAQs (From the traveler's perspective)

Q: What's the best time to visit Fenghuang Ancient Town?
A: I think it's better to come to Fenghuang at night; it will be even more lively and prettier at night.
Q: How long does it take to climb the 999 steps to the top of Tianmen Mountain?
A: It took me 27 minutes, and it's very tiring because the steps are super steep!
Q: What's the most interesting mode of transportation I can experience in Fenghuang?
A: They have a maglev train that uses magnetic levitation to drive the train, so it's faster and smoother than the usual train!

Zhangjiajie & Fenghuang: Stairway to Heaven & Ancient Town

You might think of the Avatar Mountains when you hear the word Zhangjiajie! Yes, this city is home to those iconic mountains, but Zhangjiajie offers much more. There are countless places to explore, including the two destinations Linardo and I visited in this vlog: the Stairway to...

Zhangjiajie Travel Guide: Tianmen Mountain & Fenghuang Ancient Town

Vanessa Huang's China adventure begins in Zhangjiajie, a city famed for its Avatar-like mountains. Her journey focuses on two key destinations: Tianmenshan's Stairway to Heaven, accessed via one of the world's longest cable cars, and the captivating Fenghuang Ancient Town, lauded as China's most beautiful ancient town. The breathtaking views from Tianmenshan created an unforgettable experience, while exploring the historic streets and savoring local cuisine in Fenghuang added another layer of charm to her trip. This vlog offers a glimpse into these must-visit Chinese locations.

Attractions in this video: Tianmen Mountain Stairway To Heaven, Fenghuang Ancient Town