Tianmu Mountain
Ascend to Heaven's Gate via the legendary 999 steps or a thrilling glass skywalk. Experience a natural wonder and a dazzling light show.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light show awaits
Tianmu Mountain
Best Time
Magical light show awaits

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ascend to Heaven's Gate via the legendary 999 steps or a thrilling glass skywalk. Experience a natural wonder and a dazzling light show.
"Conquer the 999 steps and walk on air at the glass skywalk for unforgettable views!"
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be climbing 999 steps! Comfortable footwear is essential for the ascent.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring water, especially for the climb. You can also buy it there, but it's pricier.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The 999 Steps
Tianmen Mountain
Conquer the legendary 999 steps leading to the Heaven's Gate archway. A true test of endurance with breathtaking rewards.

Heaven's Gate Archway
Tianmen Mountain
Marvel at the colossal natural archway, a natural wonder carved into the mountainside. An iconic symbol of Zhangjiajie.

Evening Light Show
Tianmen Mountain
Experience a magical light show illuminating the mountain and its natural wonders. A dazzling spectacle not to be missed.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Prepare for the 999 Steps
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be climbing 999 steps! Comfortable footwear is essential for the ascent.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring water, especially for the climb. You can also buy it there, but it's pricier.
tianmen mountain peak guide
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save time and guarantee entry by booking your tickets in advance.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Don't rush! The 999 steps and exploring the mountain take several hours.
Tianmen Mountain
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be climbing 999 steps! Comfortable footwear is essential for the ascent.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring water, especially for the climb. You can also buy it there, but it's pricier.
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save time and guarantee entry by booking your tickets in advance.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Don't rush! The 999 steps and exploring the mountain take several hours.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently awestruck by the natural beauty of Tianmen Mountain, particularly the iconic Heaven's Gate archway and the thrilling glass skywalk. The challenging 999 steps are a highlight for many, offering a sense of accomplishment. However, some find the crowds overwhelming, and the cost can be a consideration.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Zhangjiajie Station, you can take a taxi or a local bus to the Tianmen Mountain cable car lower station. The journey is relatively short, usually around 20-30 minutes.
It's a very tight schedule. Arriving at 2:45 pm means you'd need to be efficient. Prioritize the 999 steps and then head to the tower. Check operating hours for both.
While difficult to guarantee, starting earlier in the day or visiting on weekdays generally means fewer crowds. The 999 steps are a popular route, so be prepared for company.
Private vehicles are generally not allowed to drive up Tianmen Mountain. The primary access is via the cable car or shuttle bus from the base station.
Besides the cable car and the 999 steps, there's a scenic road with shuttle buses, and a glass skywalk. You can also take an escalator through the mountain.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but typically include the cable car, shuttle bus, and access to the main attractions. It's best to check the official website or booking platforms for current pricing.
Yes, booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to avoid long queues and ensure entry.
A standard ticket usually covers the round-trip cable car ride, the shuttle bus along the Tianmen Mountain Road, and access to the Heaven's Gate area and the glass skywalk.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. The cable car typically starts operating in the morning and continues until late afternoon. The evening light show has specific timings.
There might be different packages or options available, potentially including access to specific attractions or different routes. It's advisable to check when booking.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
It's a strenuous but exhilarating climb. The steps are well-maintained, and there are resting spots. The views as you ascend are incredible.
Absolutely! Walking on the glass skywalk offers thrilling, unobstructed views of the surrounding cliffs and valleys. It's a unique perspective.
The evening light show is a spectacular display of lights and projections that illuminate the natural rock formations and the archway, creating a magical atmosphere.
Allow at least 3-4 hours to fully experience Tianmen Mountain, including the cable car ride, the 999 steps, the skywalk, and exploring the summit area.
Yes, there are restrooms and some food and drink vendors available at various points on the mountain, particularly near the cable car stations and the Heaven's Gate area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a less strenuous experience, focus on the cable car and the areas accessible by shuttle bus. The evening light show might be captivating for older children, but consider their attention spans and the late hour. It's a good idea to check the weather forecast and dress children in layers, as mountain temperatures can fluctuate. While the climb is iconic, families might find more enjoyment by utilizing the various transport options available to navigate the mountain's attractions.
🚶♀️ Adventure Seekers
Consider visiting during off-peak hours to maximize your sense of adventure without the crowds. The scenic road with its hairpin turns, accessible by shuttle bus, also provides a thrilling ride. For the ultimate experience, combine the physical exertion of the steps with the dizzying heights of the skywalk. The dramatic landscapes and the sheer scale of the natural formations will undoubtedly satisfy your adventurous spirit. Don't forget to capture your daring moments with photos and videos!
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic 999 Steps
The reward for conquering the steps is unparalleled. As you reach the top, the colossal natural archway of Heaven's Gate opens up before you, a breathtaking sight that has captivated visitors for centuries. This natural wonder is a testament to the power of erosion and time. Many visitors describe the feeling of awe and accomplishment upon reaching this point. It's a prime spot for photos, so be ready to capture the moment.
Beyond the physical climb, the journey up the steps offers increasingly spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding karst landscape. Each step higher reveals a new vista, making the ascent itself a scenic experience. For those who find the 999 steps too strenuous, there are alternative ways to reach the top, including escalators that run through the mountain, offering a more relaxed but equally impressive journey.
Experiencing Heaven's Gate and the Skywalk
Adjacent to Heaven's Gate is the famous Glass Skywalk, a transparent walkway that clings to the cliff face. Walking on this suspended bridge offers a thrilling, bird's-eye view of the dizzying drop below. The experience is often described as both terrifying and exhilarating, providing a unique perspective of the mountain's dramatic topography. It's a must-do for thrill-seekers and those who want to experience the mountain from a different angle.
The area around Heaven's Gate is also a hub for exploration. You can find various viewpoints, small temples, and pathways that lead to different vantage points. The evening light show transforms the entire area into a magical spectacle, with lights illuminating the arch and the surrounding cliffs, creating a truly unforgettable ambiance. This is a perfect time to visit if you're looking for a more dramatic and visually stunning experience. Remember to check the schedule for the light show to make the most of your visit.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit