Compared to Changsha, this small town recommended by National Geographic stole my heart

||When it comes to Hunan, most people think of Changsha first. But in my heart, this National Geographic-endorsed town is far more captivating. Here, waterfalls cascade through canyons, bizarre peaks and rocks tower everywhere, forests and streams encircle the landscape, and mysterious natural caves await exploration... This is Zhangjiajie, a treasure destination you must visit in your lifetime. If you're planning a trip to Zhangjiajie, don't forget to save this 4-day, 3-night travel guide! **Day 1:** Tianmen Mountain **Day 2:** Zhangjiajie National Forest Park (East Gate → Bailong Elevator → Yuanjiajie → Yangjiajie → Tianzi Mountain) **Day 3:** Zhangjiajie National Forest Park (East Gate → Golden Whip Stream → Yellow Stone Village → South Gate) **Day 4:** Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon → Huanglong Cave ⛰️ **Must-Visit Attractions in Zhangjiajie** ✅ **Zhangjiajie National Forest Park** 1️⃣ **Yuanjiajie** Known as "the most beautiful scar on Earth," Yuanjiajie served as the filming location for the floating Hallelujah Mountains in *Avatar*. Its surreal peaks and bizarre rock formations are awe-inspiring, and when shrouded in mist after rain, it transforms into a dreamlike fairyland so beautiful it moves you to tears. 2️⃣ **Golden Whip Stream** One of Zhangjiajie's most famous hiking trails, Golden Whip Stream winds through lush forests, alongside babbling brooks, and past stunning karst peaks—like a natural oxygen bar so breathtaking it leaves you speechless. Thanks to its dense vegetation and canyon location, it stays refreshingly cool even in summer. Walking along the verdant path, surrounded by the sounds of flowing water, chirping birds, and buzzing insects, is incredibly soothing. Best of all, the stream runs alongside the stone-paved trail the entire way, allowing you to dip into the crystal-clear, icy water anytime—so enchanting you won’t want to leave. Fun fact: Golden Whip Stream was also a filming site for *Journey to the West*—don’t miss the chance to snap a re-creation! 3️⃣ **Tianzi Mountain** Tianzi Mountain is utterly mesmerizing after rain clears. The Xihai Peak Forest emerges and vanishes amid rolling clouds, and from the viewing deck at Helong Park, every shot looks like an ink-wash masterpiece. ✅ **Tianmen Mountain** Take the cable car from downtown, watching the scenery shift from bustling cityscapes to majestic mountains, until the awe-inspiring Tianmen Cave comes into full view. ✅ **Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon** This underrated gem deserves at least half a day. Along the way, you’ll encounter streams, lakes, peculiar rock caves, and serene valleys. Even in scorching summer, it remains cool and pleasant, with scenery rivaling Jiuzhaigou and Xiaoqikong—guaranteed to leave you spellbound at first glance. ✅ **Huanglong Cave** Unlike other Zhangjiajie attractions, Huanglong Cave is a natural limestone cavern shaped over hundreds of millions of years. Geological forces sculpted an underground wonderland of colossal stalactites and stalagmites, now enhanced by dazzling light shows, creating an unforgettable spectacle. **Travel Tips:** ✔️ Zhangjiajie’s attractions are spread out—consider renting a car or driving. ✔️ The Forest Park ticket is valid for four days, allowing multiple entries.