Tianmen Mountain - Heavens Gate

Shannon
May 20
4 min read

Updated: Jul 31

The Natural Wonder That Defines Hunan’s Skyline

Often hailed as the “Gateway to Heaven,” Tianmen Mountain stands as one of China’s most breathtaking natural marvels. Perched above the city of Zhangjiajie in Hunan Province, this majestic peak rises to 4980 feet above sea level. From its lofty heights, visitors are rewarded with sweeping panoramic views of rolling valleys, jagged cliffs and pristine forests that have remained untouched for centuries.

Mountain landscape with lush green valleys and a traditional temple in the foreground. Staircase and lampposts lead to the temple.

The mountain’s most iconic feature is Tianmen Cave, a colossal natural archway measuring 30 metres wide and 131 metres high. According to legend, this massive hole in the rock was once a solid wall until a divine force miraculously opened it in 263AD, creating a gateway to heaven itself. This striking geological formation continues to inspire awe and reverence among visitors and locals alike.

Cable cars ascend a lush, mountainous landscape with towering cliffs and greenery, creating a serene and adventurous atmosphere.

The Tiamenshan Mountain Cableway was once the longest of its type in the world, spanning a distance of 7.5 km's with a 1279 metre vertical rise.

Around the 7th century, Tianmen Mountain became a spiritual beacon when a Taoist sage and immortal named Zhang, famed for creating Tai Chi, is said to have attained enlightenment by meditating at the summit. His connection to the mountain deepened its sacred status, weaving Taoist philosophy into the fabric of the mountain’s mystique and cultural heritage.

There are 999 steps up Tianmen Mountain to Heavens Gate

Another legendary tale tells of nine celestial dragons sent from the heavens to guard the mountain. These mythical dragons were believed to control the weather, summon storms and bring rain, ensuring the prosperity of the people living in the fertile valleys below. Beyond their elemental powers, the dragons were thought to guide pilgrims safely along their journey to the peak, helping them overcome both physical challenges and spiritual trials.

Winding mountain road with switchbacks weaving through lush green hills, overlooking a distant city under a cloudy sky.

Accessing the summit is a journey in itself, made possible by the famous Mountain Road, also called Tongtian Avenue. This serpentine road climbs 1200 metres through 99 hairpin bends, an engineering marvel designed to navigate the steep terrain while providing a thrilling and scenic drive. At the mountain’s peak stands the historic Tianmenshan Temple, originally built in 870AD during the Tang Dynasty. Though destroyed during World War II, the temple was rebuilt in 1949 and now houses one of the five relics of the Sakyamuni Buddha alongside precious Taoist scriptures and ancient artefacts.

Foggy mountain path with a wooden railing, fading into fog. Overcast mood, gray tones dominate the setting.

Adding a modern twist to this ancient landscape is the Tianmen Mountain Skywalk, a glass walkway that clings to the cliffside some 1430 metres above the ground. Known as the Coiling Dragon Path, it offers visitors heart stopping views down sheer drops. While the walkway is a marvel of design and adrenaline, the mountain’s “Gateway to Heaven” reputation has taken a darker turn. In April 2023, three men tragically ended their lives by jumping from the Westline Glass Walkway, a sombre reminder of the mountain’s powerful symbolism.

At the summit of Tianmen Mountain, visitors find the historic Tianmenshan Temple, a lasting symbol of the mountain’s deep spiritual significance. Originally constructed in 870 AD during the Tang Dynasty, the temple was destroyed during World War II but was thoughtfully rebuilt in 1949. Today, it enshrines one of the five relics of the Sakyamuni Buddha and safeguards precious scriptures along with ancient Taoist artefacts, continuing to serve as a sacred site where history, faith and the breathtaking natural beauty of Tianmen Mountain converge.

🗺️ Location

Tianmen Mountain Ticket Lower Station, Yonddong District, Zhangjiajie, Hunan Proviince, China

🚆 How to get there

Getting to the Tianmen Mountain cable car station from Zhangjiajie City is convenient and well connected. The lower cable car station is located in downtown Zhangjiajie, just 1 km from the main railway and bus stations, making it easily reachable on foot in about 10 minutes. Alternatively, multiple city buses offer direct access for around ¥2. Taxis from the railway or bus station take 5 - 10 minutes and cost between ¥20 - ¥30, while a taxi from Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport (about 5km's away) also takes roughly 10 minutes. From Zhangjiajie West Railway Station, the cable car station is about 30 - 50 minutes away by bus or 15 minutes by taxi. Once at the lower station, the cableway itself offers a stunning 28 minute ride to the summit, gliding over forests, cliffs and winding roads.

⭐ Attraction Info

During peak season (March 1st to November 30th), Tianmen Mountain is open daily between 7am - 6pm, while in the off-peak season (December 1st to February 28th), hours shift slightly to 7:30 am - 6pm, with last admission typically around 4pm. A standard ticket that includes entrance, a round trip cable car ride, shuttle bus access and insurance costs ¥278 during peak season and ¥243 during off peak season. One way cable car plus entrance options are available for slightly less, usually between ¥232 - ¥258. Children under 120 cm can enter for free, while discounted rates apply to minors aged 14 - 17, full-time students and seniors over 60. Due to the site’s popularity, daily admissions are capped at 37,000 people, so it’s strongly recommended to book tickets in advance.