Overview
Tianmen Mountain, known as the 'Heaven's Gate Mountain', is famous for its stunning natural beauty, including the Tianmen Cave and the 999 steps leading up to the summit. The mountain is a part of the Wulingyuan Scenic Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Tianmen Mountain is significant for its unique geological features and its role in Chinese mythology and history. It is also a popular destination for hiking and photography.
Location
Address
Yongding District, Hunan
Neighborhood: Wulingyuan Scenic Area
Coordinates
29.173800, 110.495600
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May, October-November
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds and cooler temperatures
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild to warm
- • lush greenery
- • waterfalls
summer
hot and humid
- • cool mountain breezes
- • lush vegetation
autumn
cool and pleasant
- • fall foliage
- • clear skies
winter
cold
- • snow-covered peaks
- • frosty landscapes
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book tickets in advance
- Bring ID
- Check weather conditions
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate to high
- • altitude sickness
- • stairs
- • uneven paths
Medical facilities: first aid available, but limited
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, credit cards
Currency
Chinese Yuan (CNY)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual, comfortable, comfortable hiking shoes, breathable clothing, sturdy hiking shoes, inappropriate clothing, high heels
Booking Tips
- • at least 1 week
- • official website or authorized sellers
- • 24 hours
- • available for online bookings
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Tianmen Mountain Official App
Size: 60 MB
Features: Map, Audio guide, Tickets, Real-time updates
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cable car stations, Restaurants
Charging Stations: Visitor center, Restaurants
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport (Dayong)
Distance: 30 km
Travel Time: 45 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 8 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Unique natural beauty, rich history, and cultural significance
Historical Significance: Mentioned in ancient Chinese texts and legends, believed to be a sacred site
Insider Tips
- Visit the Tianmen Mountain Glass Walkway for thrilling photos
- Try the local Tujia minority snacks at the market
- For the best views, visit the summit at sunset
Local Recommendations
- • Try local snacks at the market
- • Hire a local guide for a more in-depth experience
- • Visit nearby Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: Chinese, English, Japanese
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Tianmen Cave
Best Time: Morning or late afternoon
Tips: Wide shots to capture the cave entrance
Result: Unique and dramatic photos
999 Steps
Best Time: Early morning
Tips: Low angle shots to emphasize the length of the stairs
Result: Impressive and challenging photos
Tianmen Mountain Summit
Best Time: Sunset
Tips: Panoramic shots to capture the surrounding landscape
Result: Breathtaking and expansive photos
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
Distance: 5 km
Walking: Not walkable, requires transportation
Type: National Park
Yuanjiajie Cliff
Distance: 10 km
Walking: Not walkable, requires transportation
Type: Scenic Spot
Tianzi Mountain
Distance: 15 km
Walking: Not walkable, requires transportation
Type: Scenic Spot
Reviews
Based on 15,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book tickets online in advance"
- "Visit early to avoid crowds"
- "Wear comfortable shoes"
- "Don't miss the Tianmen Cave and the Glass Walkway"
Contact Information
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Quick Info
Available Tours
221
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
15,000
Adult Entry
¥248