Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon (张家界大峡谷) is located in Cili County, Zhangjiajie City. The canyon was originally known by two names. One was “Lanchuan Gorge,” derived from Shenquan Creek, which feeds the entire canyon and the southern Hongqi Canal. Legend has it that many rotten boat planks once emerged from the spring here, and as the locals were unable to determine where these planks came from, they named the area “Lanchuan Gorge” (Rotten Boat Gorge). The other name, “Luanquan Gorge,” refers to the two steep stone walls within the canyon, which are adorned with numerous springs, creating a breathtaking spectacle of cascading waterfalls throughout the gorge.
Beyond its natural beauty, one of the main attractions of the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon is the Glass Bridge, known as the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge. This bridge holds the title of the world’s highest and longest glass bridge. It spans the canyon, connecting the peaks on either side. The bridge’s arch soars about 400 meters above the canyon floor and stretches approximately 370 meters in length. The entire bridge deck is made of transparent glass, allowing visitors to see the canyon floor 400 meters below their feet. The bridge also features the world’s highest bungee jump from its center. Standing on the bridge, visitors can enjoy a full panoramic view of the canyon below, making it an exhilarating experience for those seeking both natural beauty and thrilling adventure.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon
- Vlog about Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 2 – 3 hours |
| Ticket Price | Route A: 53 RMB including the gorge and insurance Route B: 178 RMB including the gorge, insurance and the glass bridge |
| Opening Hours | 7.30 – 16.30 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0744-3353888 |
Location and Transportation
Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon is located in Sanguansi Town, Cili County, Zhangjiajie City, Hunan Province. To get there, you can take a direct bus from either Zhangjiajie city center or the Wulingyuan Scenic Area. The journey typically takes about 20 to 30 minutes.
Highlights of Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon
Wu Wang Po
Wu Wang Po offers a striking view of the opposite cliff, where the landscape dramatically descends from the mountain peak to the bottom of the valley. Behind this imposing cliff lies the historic Wu Wang Po Village. According to legend, after Li Zicheng‘s defeat in Beijing, he fled to the Qinling Mountains, crossed the Yellow River and Yangtze River, and made his way south to Western Hunan. Despite his efforts, he ultimately failed to turn the tide and was forced into retreat. Wu Wang Po Village across the cliff is one of the ancient battlefields where Wu Sangui pursued Li Zicheng’s rebel army, leading to a decisive and deadly confrontation. Legend has it that Wu Sangui achieved a significant victory over Li Zicheng’s forces here, killing thousands of rebel soldiers. The local Tujia people, descendants of the original inhabitants, named the village “Wu Wang Po” in honor of this historical event.
Crack in the Stone Wall
On the left side of the road, a massive stone wall stands tall and imposing. A large crack runs through the middle of the wall, splitting it into two and creating a spectacular sight. This geological feature dates back to the Devonian period, about 380 million years ago, when the Zhangjiajie area experienced a significant drop in the earth’s crust. Sea levels rose, submerging the region under a vast ocean. Sediments from nearby land, along with silicates from the seawater, were carried by continuous water flow, settling and forming layers of quartz sandstone. Later, during the Permian period, around 285 million years ago, these sandstone layers were covered by mudstone and coal-bearing limestone. Then, about 200 million years ago, at the end of the Triassic period, intense tectonic activity, known as orogeny, occurred in the Wulingyuan Scenic Area and its surroundings. This caused the entire geological formation to fold and fracture, creating mountains that gradually rose above the surface. Over millions of years, the relentless force of water erosion, cutting, and the development of joints led to the formation of the breathtaking landscape of towering peaks and rugged rocks. The stone wall and its massive crack are direct results of these ancient geological processes.
Chuangwang Pavilion
Legend has it that after the fierce battle between Li Zicheng’s rebel army and Wu Sangui’s forces at Wu Wang Po, the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon became rich with stories and legends. To honor these tales, the local people built numerous pavilions and structures in and around the scenic area, including Chuangwang Temple, Chuangwang Pavilion, Chuangwang Village, and Chuangwang Monastery. These structures serve not only as shelters for travelers but also as tributes to Li Zicheng, the leader of the peasant uprising. The Chuangwang Pavilion is one of these commemorative sites, celebrating the heroism and legacy of Li Zicheng in the region.
