Tracking a mountain of history

If you go

Getting there: You can fly to Zhangjiajie or take a high-speed train from most major cities in the country. From the airport or train station to the city center, a taxi costs about 30 yuan ($4).

Transportation: The city center of Zhangjiajie is close to Tianmen Mountain, about a 10-minute taxi ride. It takes about 50 minutes to travel from the city center to Wulingyuan scenic area, with options including buses and ride-hailing services.

Accommodation: If you plan to visit Tianmen Mountain, you can stay near the lower station of the Tianmen Mountain Cableway. You might also consider staying near the bus station for a cost-effective option.

Wulingyuan is also suitable for staying during your visit. Xibu Street has many unique inns where you can experience the bustling night market and taste local delicacies, with room rates ranging from 150 to 300 yuan per night.

Cuisine:

? Tujia sanxia guo, a signature dish of Zhangjiajie, features a spicy and savory stew of cured meat, tofu, and wild vegetables, costing around 50 yuan per person.

? Suan tang yu (sour soup fish) is worth trying, seasoned with chilies, with tender fish meat, costing about 60 yuan per person.

? Haozi baba is fragrant and soft steamed cake made from glutinous rice, available at roadside stalls for 5 yuan each.