An Exhilarating Journey through Hunan, China

Our ecstatic group at the ZJJ Grand Canyon Glass Bridge 

From conquering the world's longest glass bridge to wandering through lantern-lit ancient towns and dressing in colourful Miao costumes, a nine-day family journey through Hunan revealed breathtaking scenery, rich culture and unforgettable moments.

• A Thrilling Start in Zhangjiajie

Floating sandstone pillars made famous by Avatar, heart-pounding adventures, enchanting ancient towns, colourful ethnic costumes and fiery Hunan cuisine—these are the unforgettable memories that come flooding back whenever I think of my journey through Hunan, China.

In May 2026, my family of six joined a tour group of 19 for a memorable nine-day journey through Hunan Province. Our group of 19 English-speaking travellers was made up of young adults, senior citizens and two school-going kids. It was a multiracial group of Chinese, Indian and an Iraqi. Everyone was friendly and accommodating and we got on well throughout the trip.

Led by our cheerful tour leader, Sam, we flew from Kuala Lumpur to Changsha (capital of Hunan) before taking a high-speed train to Zhangjiajie, our first destination. Over the following days, we explored Furong, Fenghuang and Changde before returning to Changsha for our flight home. 

Map of Hunan Province showing the places we visited

Our group with Sam (in red shirt) in KLIA, Malaysia, before departure. 

After a restful first night in Changsha, our local guide, Paul, took us by high-speed train to Zhangjiajie. The train was clean and comfortable and within three hours, we arrived in Zhangjiajie. Our adventure began at the spectacular Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Scenic Area, renowned for its towering sandstone cliffs, crystal-clear streams and the world's longest glass-bottom bridge, the 430-metre Glass Bridge.

Our group inside the speed train, enroute to Zhangjiajie

A briefing on the history of the ZJJ Grand Canyon Glass Bridge

Wearing protective shoe covers, I stepped cautiously onto the bridge. Looking through the transparent glass at the deep canyon below made my heart race. Gradually, my fear gave way to excitement, and before long I was strolling across confidently, admiring the towering sandstone pillars rising from the lush green valley below.

We wore special shoe covers

The magnificent Glass Bridge from afar

I conquered my fear
at the Glass Bridge

My family of 6 in front of the Glass Bridge

The adventure continued with a variety of exciting attractions: VR experience, ziplining, One-Line Sky ride and boating.

We experienced a virtual reality (VR) flight that simulated soaring over Zhangjiajie's breathtaking landscape. With four to a cabin, we got on to a "hot air balloon-style" cabin, put on a protective eye mask for personal hygiene, followed by VR headsets. Then the magic started. We felt as though we were gliding above mountains, skimming crystal-clear lakes and brushing past the famous sandstone peaks. It was an exhilarating experience that left us wanting more. 

VR experience - on a "hot air-balloon"

While most members of our group chose the thrilling zipline, three of us opted for the gentler One-Line Sky Slide. As we glided down the winding track, we laughed like children, reliving carefree playground days.

         

  

A boat ride 

          Ziplining adventure

Our adventure continued the next day at the Wulingyuan Scenic Area. We took the world’s largest outdoor sightseeing elevator - Bailong Elevator - and arrived at the filming location of the Hollywood blockbuster “Avatar” (Yuanjiaie). We spent some time admiring the panorama of real mountains and vegetation that we had seen on the movie.

 

The Bailong Elevator

    

I was at Yuenjiajie

Amazing sandstone pillars

 

The "Avatar" sandstone mountains
were par excellence 

  

                                            Panoramic view of Avatar sandstone mountains
                                             

For a better view,  we took a cable car ride through the Tianzi Mountain Scenic Area. Towering peaks, dramatic cliffs and dense forests stretched endlessly before us. At times, the sandstone formations were so close that if I were to stretch out my hands, I could touch them. 

On a cable-car ride

Later, a leisurely ride on a sight-seeing train allowed us to admire the magnificent mountain scenery in air-conditioned comfort, equipped with a running commentary of the sandstone pillars. It was a welcome break after an action-packed morning.

                    We got on to a mini-train

A leisurely sight-seeing tour on a mini-train

After the stunning sandstone mountains, we moved on to sandstone paintings in Junsheng Sandstone Painting Institute. Founded in 2001 by local artist Li Junsheng, it features 3D-perspective landscape works that resemble traditional Chinese ink paintings from a distance. I was mesmerized by the unique eco-friendly art made from natural materials like sand, stone and plant bark. The sandstone paintings hold artistic and cultural value because of their unique medium.

 Enchanting paintings of the 4 seasons    

Mesmerising mountains scenery

Houses artistically portrayed

Our first few days in Zhangjiajie had already exceeded all expectations. Between breathtaking scenery and thrilling attractions, Hunan had given us an unforgettable start to our adventure.

• Mountain Legends and Heaven's Gate  

That afternoon, we headed to Qixing Mountain, whose highest peak rises 1,520 metres above sea level. The more adventurous members of our group stepped onto the famous 1520 Sky Eye, a glass observation platform offering breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains and deep valleys. Although I preferred to admire the scenery from firmer ground, I was told that the spectacular panorama alone made the visit worthwhile.

The group on the 1520 Sky Eye

Some members had a fun time, getting on the toboggan slide in Qixing Mountain, another adrenalin-pumping experience. It is a 1000-metre-long alpine track featuring an 80-metre vertical drop and a 3-minute ride time.

                                                                 

   The toboggan slide

Our next destination the next day, was the legendary Tianmen Mountain, or "Heaven's Gate Mountain". Rising 1,518.6 metres above sea level, it is one of Hunan's most iconic landmarks. The mountain was originally known as Songliang Mountain until a massive section of cliff collapsed naturally in AD 263 during the Three Kingdoms period, creating the enormous arch now known as Tianmen Cave. Ever since, locals have regarded it as a gateway to heaven.

Reaching the cave usually involves climbing the famous 999 Sky Steps. Having conquered them during my previous visit 19 years ago, I happily chose a more comfortable option this time—the Tianmen Mountain Tunnel Escalators. Opened in 2015, the 897-metre-long system of 16 escalators carried us effortlessly through the mountain, saving us a strenuous climb.

Unfortunately, the weather had other plans. By the time we reached Tianmen Cave, thick mist had enveloped the mountain, hiding the magnificent arch from view. We could barely make out its outline. Still, none of us felt disappointed. Simply standing at the legendary Heaven's Gate was an achievement in itself.

Our group at Tianmenshan

The 999 Sky Steps

     

  

At Heaven's Gate - the
hole was shrouded in mist

     

The Tianmen Cave: Energetic climbers
taking a rest after the arduous climb

Our evening was just as exciting. After an early dinner, we made a brief stop at the magnificent 72 Qilou Buildings. Inspired by Tujia ethnic architecture, this impressive complex of stilted buildings is beautifully illuminated at night and holds a Guinness World Record as the world's tallest stilted building. Although cultural performances were taking place, we had little time to linger as another highlight awaited us.

In front of 72 Qilou Buildings

72 Qilou Buildings illuminating
in the night sky

The Buildings were inspired by Tujia ethnic architecture

The Tianmen Fox Fairy Show was undoubtedly one of the most memorable experiences of our trip. Set against the dramatic natural backdrop of Tianmen Mountain, the open-air musical combined music, dance, dazzling lighting and state-of-the-art stage effects to tell a touching local love story. More than 500 performers, including members of the local Tujia ethnic community, brought the production to life with remarkable energy and precision.

Photos below show various scenes of the Tianmen Fox Fairy Show:

  

The backdrop of the show - after the performance ended

           

As the final scene drew to a close and the audience erupted in applause, I realised that Hunan had offered us far more than breathtaking scenery. Its rich culture, fascinating legends and world-class performances had added a magical dimension to our journey, making every day more memorable than the last.                                               

   

• The Charm of Ancient Towns

After the spectacular Tianmen Fox Fairy Show, we travelled to Furong Town - "the Town Hanging on the Waterfall". Arriving after dark, we were captivated by its magical nightscape. Ancient stilt houses clung to the cliffside above a cascading waterfall, while glowing lanterns reflected on the river below. The illuminated town looked like a scene from a fairy tale and was truly a photographer's dream.

Furong Town was originally known as Wang Village. It was renamed Furong Town after the movie Furong Town, a 1986 Chinese drama film, directed by Xie Jin, starring Jiang Wen and Liu Xiaoqing, was filmed there. 

Our group in front of Furong Town

At the entrance of Furong Town 

A charming and artistic
mural of a young ethnic girl 

Furong Town at night:Traditional-style buildings, restaurants,
 and shops lining the cliff above and the blue-lit waterfalls 
cascading below (Wangcun Waterfall)

The following morning, heavy rain forced us to change our plans. Instead of exploring the thousand-year-old Furong town on foot, we visited the Xiangxi UNESCO Global Geopark Museum. Its eight exhibition halls traced the fascinating geological history of the region and showcased its unique rock formations and natural heritage. Although the visit had been unplanned, it proved both educational and enlightening.

 

Our journey then continued to Fenghuang Ancient City, often called the Phoenix Ancient Town. Nestled along the banks of the tranquil Tuojiang River (a 131-kilometre long waterway), it is regarded as one of China's most beautiful ancient towns. After several days of walking, climbing and sightseeing in Zhangjiajie, the leisurely boat ride along the clear turquoise river was especially relaxing. As we drifted past centuries-old stilt houses, graceful stone bridges and bustling riverbanks, I could easily understand why Fenghuang has captivated visitors for generations.

At the picturesque Fenghuang Ancient City

My jubilant family on a little bridge above
the Tuojiang river

Our group rafting on Tuojiang River

 Video: Rafting on the Tuojiang River - Group 1

    

Video: Rafting on the Tuojiang River - Group 2

One of the cultural highlights was a visit to the Huang Yongyu Art Museum. Huang Yongyu (1924–2023), a native of Fenghuang, was one of China's most celebrated artists, renowned for his paintings, woodcuts, calligraphy, sculptures and literary works. His bold, imaginative creations reflected both his artistic brilliance and his deep affection for his hometown. I found the visit inspiring and came away with an even greater appreciation of his remarkable talent.

Our group in front of Huang Yongyu Art Museum

Some of Huang Yongyu's works are shown below:

       

That evening became one of the most enjoyable moments of our holiday. My family and I rented traditional Miao costumes and were transformed with colourful attire, elaborate silver headdresses and professional make-up. Feeling like models for the evening, we followed our photographer through the ancient streets and along the riverside as he patiently guided us into different poses. Amid laughter and good humour, we created photographs that will remain treasured souvenirs of our journey.  

In Miao costume, in an enchanting environment

As dusk deepened, Fenghuang became even more enchanting. Lanterns glowed softly along the river, music drifted through the ancient streets, and the reflections of the stilt houses shimmered on the water. It was the perfect ending to a day filled with culture, history and unforgettable memories.

• A Journey to Remember

Our journey continued to Changde, a charming city that offered a slower pace after the excitement of the mountains and ancient towns. We strolled along Da Xiao He Street, a lively commercial street lined with traditional-style buildings, where we enjoyed browsing for local snacks, souvenirs and handicrafts.

With some members of our group
 on Da Xiao He Street in Changde,

A visit to the Changde Poem Wall was equally memorable. Stretching for several kilometres along the Yuan River, it is recognised as the longest wall in the world engraved with Chinese poetry. Combining elegant calligraphy, stone carvings and beautiful murals, it celebrates China's rich literary heritage and provided a peaceful setting for an afternoon walk.   

                    The Changde Poem Wall    

 

  

 
       

Our final destination was Changsha, the vibrant capital of Hunan Province. At Youth Square, overlooking Orange Isle, we stopped to admire the famous sculpture of the young Mao Zedong standing majestically across the Xiang River. Although viewed from a distance, it was an impressive landmark and a popular spot for photographs.

The famous sculpture of the young Mao Zedong statue

No visit to Changsha would be complete without exploring its bustling shopping streets. We joined the crowds at Huangxing Road Walking Street and nearby Pozi Street, browsing shops and sampling local delicacies while picking up a few last-minute souvenirs. The lively atmosphere was the perfect finale to our holiday.

Changsha's bustling street

Changsha: in front of Mixue with
Snow King, the company's mascot 

Our Hunan holiday would be incomplete without mentioning the food. We had scrumptious Hunan cuisine daily - 10 appetising dishes with flavours that were fiery hot, sour, and salty. Once, while strolling along the street in  Fenghuang, some members courageously sampled exotic food like insects, worms and scorpions!

Some photos of our group enjoying food together are shown below:

    

  

 

      

  

Some exotic food sold along 
stalls in Fenghuang

Throughout our journey, I was impressed by Hunan's remarkable development. The tourist attractions were clean, well maintained and equipped with excellent facilities, including spotless public toilets. Cashless payments were accepted almost everywhere, making shopping quick and convenient. Our hotels were equally impressive, with modern amenities such as voice-controlled lighting and curtains that reflected China's rapid technological progress.

Yet, beyond the spectacular scenery and modern conveniences, what made this journey truly special was the time we spent together as a family. Travelling allowed us to share new experiences, encourage one another, laugh together and create memories that will remain with us for years to come.

As our plane soared above the clouds on the journey home, I reflected on the remarkable experiences we had shared. From conquering my fear on the Glass Bridge and marvelling at Zhangjiajie's towering sandstone pillars to wandering through the lantern-lit streets of Fenghuang and dressing in colourful Miao costumes, every destination had left its own special impression.

Hunan had delighted us with its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, warm hospitality and modern conveniences. More than just a holiday, it had been a journey of adventure, discovery, precious family bonding and new friendships. We returned to Kuala Lumpur not only with hundreds of photographs, but with treasured memories of an exhilarating journey that will remain in our hearts for years to come.

Changsha Airport: Goodbye Paul

Changsha Airport: Goodbye Hunan, we will be back! 

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