Yangjiajie Scenic Area, the fourth and the last subsection of Wulingyuan Scenic Area, is located northwest of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park and southwest of Tianzi Mountain Nature Reserve – and borders on both of these subsections of Wulingyuan. Yangjaijie is a fusion of majestic nature and bandits’ legends, which offers visitors an opportunity to experience its unique ethnic culture and customs.
Xiangzhi Stream
Xiangzhi Stream is situated in the east of Yangjiajie Scenic Area. The meandering stream shaded by tall trees, steep trails, and twittering birds make up a land of idyllic beauty. There are 35 named attractions inside the area, among which the major attractions are One Step to Heaven and Oolong Village.
One Step to Heaven
It is actually a mountain peak 1,130 meters (1,230 yards) above sea level. There are 32 iron stairs leading to the mountaintop. The top is flat, with 5 meters (5 yards) long and 4 meters wide, and is enclosed with iron railings.
Oolong Village
Oolong Village is one of the most dangerous attractions of Yangjiajie Scenic Area. It was a fastness of bandits in ancient times. The village is about 300 meters (330 yards) high and surrounded by steep cliffs. Only a 1,000-meter-long (1,094 yards) path leads to the village. Besides, a number of natural barriers stand along the path.
Qingfeng Gorge
Qingfeng Gorge is located in the north of Yangjiajie Scenic Area. There is a waterfall named Longquan Waterfall at the entrance of the gorge, so it is also called Longquan Gorge. The towering stone peaks and clear streams form delightful scenery. The main attractions inside the area are Tianbo Mansion, Longquan Waterfall, and the King of Vines.
Tianbo Mansion
Tianbo Mansion is neighboring to Oolong Village. Tourists can head for Tianbo Mansion from the village through a hanging bridge between two peaks. The mansion is a good viewing platform to overlook the extremely beautiful scenery. There you can also see 10 parallel stone wall peaks standing among the green trees, like city walls.
Longquan Waterfall
Trace about 2 kilometers (1.3 miles) along the river from the gateway of the gorge and you will see a splendid waterfall, of 80 meters (87 yards) high. Standing in front of the waterfall, you will feel cool over the whole body. Looking at the bottom of the waterfall, you can get a glimpse of the swimming fishes. The ripples on the crystal river, the swaying shadows of the trees and the sunlight may give you a sense of quietness.
The King of Vines
In a stone wall with about 100 meters high grows an ancient vine. Due to the largeness and rareness of the vine, it is called the King of Vines. The tendrils in various shapes fasten themselves to cover half of the cliff. It’s surprising to see such a large area of ancient vines.
Hundred Monkey Valley
Hundred Monkey Valley is also called Baihou Valley. The valley is the home to macaques and egrets. The macaques in groups often turn up between the cliffs and valleys. Flocks of egrets live among the green leaves. Also, you can watch groups of white cranes flying across the treetops.
Travel Tips
Because Yangjiajie is not developed completely, you will find it difficult to walk on some roads. Tourists with a relatively weak strength should better end the tour in Oolong Village, as the road forward is rather steep.
Bring enough food with you, as there are no restaurants inside the scenic spot.
A complete tour inside by foot takes about 5 hours.
