This week we continue our Americans in China series as we travel to Zhangjiajie, China. This Hunan location is like stepping straight into a fantasy movie—probably because it literally inspired the floating mountains in the movie Avatar. Picture dramatic sandstone pillars poking through the mist like nature’s skyscrapers, glass bridges that test your bravery (and your balance), and cable cars that soar so high you’ll swear you’ve left Earth. It’s equal parts jaw-dropping and slightly terrifying—in the best way possible. We came for the views, stayed for the adrenaline, and left with our camera rolls full and our knees slightly wobbly. Zhangjiajie is wild, whimsical, and 100% worth the vertigo. It quickly became one of our favorite places on earth!
We are in week 3 of our most epic adventure yet—a 10-video travelogue series through China that spans 3,350 miles, 9 cities, and approximately a million dumplings (give or take). We started this unforgettable journey in the vibrant streets of Hong Kong and zipped across the country on some of the fastest, smoothest, and downright fanciest trains we’ve ever experienced. From futuristic skylines to ancient temples, panda sightings to people-watching, this series is packed with unforgettable moments and plenty of surprises.
Retirement Travelers' Zhangjiajie adventure: breathtaking Avatar Mountains, thrilling glass bridge, and a challenging climb to Tianmen Mountain's Heaven's Gate. An unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Travel Guides & Tips in this video
Retirement Travelers embarked on an unforgettable journey to Zhangjiajie National Park, a place that seems to defy reality. From the moment they arrived, they were captivated by the otherworldly landscapes, including the iconic Avatar Hallelujah Mountains and the thrilling glass bridge. Their adventure included a ride on the world's tallest outdoor elevator, breathtaking cable car journeys, and a challenging hike up the 999 steps to Tianmen Mountain's Heaven's Gate. This trip was filled with adrenaline-pumping moments and stunning views, solidifying Zhangjiajie as one of their top travel destinations.
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11 min
2025
Zhangjiajie National Park: Avatar Mountains & Glass Bridge
This week we continue our Americans in China series as we travel to Zhangjiajie, China. This Hunan location is like stepping straight into a fantasy movie—probably because it literally inspired the floating mountains in the movie Avatar. Picture dramatic sandstone pillars poking through the mist like...
Zhangjiajie National Park: Avatar Mountains & Glass Bridge
Experience the breathtaking Zhangjiajie National Park in China, where towering sandstone pillars resemble the floating mountains of Avatar. This Hunan province destination offers thrilling adventures like traversing glass bridges and soaring on cable cars, creating unforgettable memories. The journey includes exploring other Chinese cities, showcasing diverse landscapes and cultural experiences. It's a whirlwind tour filled with awe-inspiring sights and thrilling activities, leaving a lasting impact.
Attractions in this video: Avatar Mountains, Glass Bridge, Tianmen Mountain, Bailong Elevator, Heaven's Gate
More about the current video:(Published on 2025-05-17)
This week's episode of "Americans in China" takes Retirement Travelers to Zhangjiajie National Park in Hunan province, a place that inspired the floating mountains in the movie Avatar. John and Beth, the Retirement Travelers, describe their journey starting with a high-speed train ride from Chongqing, followed by a taxi to Wulingyuan. They highlight the lack of detailed planning, opting for flexibility instead. Their hotel, while not luxurious, provided friendly and helpful service. The travelers wisely hired a local guide, Rachel, who proved invaluable in navigating the park's many attractions. Their first day focused on the Avatar Mountains, accessed via the world's tallest outdoor elevator, the Bailong Elevator. They explored scenic trails, enjoyed local snacks, and took multiple cable car rides, culminating in an authentic Hunan dinner.
Day two began with a visit to the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge, the world's longest and tallest glass-bottom bridge. They describe the experience as both thrilling and terrifying, emphasizing the bridge's sturdiness. Alec and Beth even took the zipline across the canyon. The day continued with a visit to Tianmen Mountain, a place John had dreamed of seeing for seven years due to a Range Rover commercial. They ascended via a cable car, followed by a challenging climb of 999 steps to Heaven's Gate, a massive natural archway. The climb, while strenuous, was ultimately rewarding, leading to a glass walkway offering stunning views. Their descent involved the world's longest cable car, providing one last breathtaking panorama. The Retirement Travelers concluded their Zhangjiajie adventure with plans to visit Chongqing in the next episode, leaving viewers eager for more of their Chinese exploration. The video includes contact information for their guide, Rachel, in the description.
FAQs (From the traveler's perspective)
Q: What was it like taking the Bailong Elevator?
A: It was thrilling and nerve-wracking! One second we were on the ground, and the next we were floating in the clouds. It's the tallest outdoor elevator in the world!
Q: How would you describe the glass bridge experience?
A: It was amazing! It's the tallest and longest glass bottom bridge in the world, and even though it was a little scary at first, it was totally worth it. It was incredibly sturdy.
Q: What was the most challenging part of your trip?
A: Probably the 999 steps to Heaven's Gate on Tianmen Mountain! It was a tough climb, but the view from the top was incredible. It was worth it!
