Zhangjiajie’s Bailong Elevator: A Visitor’s Guide

I’m Michael Zhang, a passionate traveler with a deep love for exploring the intersection of nature and culture. With years of international travel experience, I take pride in sharing insights into history, culture, and immersive travel experiences. Today, I invite you to join me on a journey to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in Hunan, home to the awe-inspiring Bailong Elevator—a true marvel of engineering and a testament to human ingenuity.

Introduction to the Bailong Elevator

Nestled within the world-renowned Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Bailong Elevator is a monumental structure located in the Yuanjiajie Scenic Area. With a vertical drop of 335 meters (1,099 feet) and an operational height of 326 meters (1,070 feet), this glass-enclosed marvel combines nature and technology seamlessly.

Key features of the Bailong Elevator include:

• Location: Inside Zhangjiajie Wulingyuan Scenic Area
• Opening hours:
  • March 1 – November 30: 07:00 – 18:00 (last entry at 17:00)
  • December 1 – February 28: 08:00 – 17:00
• Recommended visiting time: Approximately 30 minutes
• Best seasons to visit: Open year-round, with spring and autumn offering the most stunning views
• Operational since: 2002
• Specifications:
  • Vertical height difference: 335 meters
  • Running height: 326 meters
  • Speed: 5.25 meters per second

As the world’s tallest outdoor elevator, the Bailong Elevator provides unparalleled views of the surrounding scenery, including iconic spots like Yuanjiajie, Golden Whip Stream, First Bridge Under Heaven, and the Enchanting Platform.

Why Visit the Bailong Elevator?

Holder of Three Guinness World Records

The Bailong Elevator’s claim to fame extends beyond its remarkable height. It proudly holds three Guinness World Records:

1. The world’s tallest outdoor elevator
2. The tallest fully-exposed outdoor elevator
3. The elevator with the highest operational height

These accolades solidify its position as a must-visit landmark for travelers seeking unique and thrilling experiences.

The Perfect Blend of Technology and Nature

Standing tall like a dragon scaling the mountains, the Bailong Elevator exemplifies the harmonious fusion of natural beauty and cutting-edge engineering. Built with 154 meters of an internal shaft and 172 meters of an external steel structure, this architectural masterpiece runs at a speed of 5.25 meters per second. In under two minutes, it takes visitors from the valley floor to the mountaintop, offering a breathtaking aerial perspective of Zhangjiajie’s ancient landscapes.

Why Was the Bailong Elevator Built?

The Bailong Elevator was constructed to enhance accessibility to the Yuanjiajie Scenic Area while preserving the pristine environment. In the past, reaching this area required either a perilous three-hour hike through rugged terrain or a five-hour drive along winding mountain roads spanning over 170 kilometers. Since the elevator’s completion, this arduous journey has been condensed to an astonishing 1 minute and 32 seconds.

Additionally, the Bailong Elevator facilitated the relocation of hospitality and residential infrastructure away from the protected natural areas, further safeguarding Zhangjiajie’s unique ecosystem. This blend of convenience and conservation makes the Bailong Elevator a modern miracle in sustainable tourism.

Bailong Elevator Ticket Guide

The Bailong Elevator requires a separate ticket purchase, as it is not included in the general admission to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park.

Bailong Elevator Ticket Prices

• Adults: 65 RMB (one way)
• Youth (14–17 years old): 33 RMB (one way)
• Seniors (60 years and older): 33 RMB (one way)
• Free admission: Children under 13 years old and shorter than 1.2 meters

Opening Hours

• March 1 – November 30: 7:30 AM – 7:00 PM
• December 1 – February 28: 8:30 AM – 5:45 PM

Where to Buy Tickets

• Online: Official WeChat account and popular online travel platforms.
• On-site: Ticket booths at the elevator entrance.

• Tip: During peak seasons, on-site tickets may sell out quickly. To avoid long waits or unavailability, purchasing tickets online in advance is highly recommended.

Tips for Touring the Bailong Elevator

• Is it a must-ride?
  • The Bailong Elevator is not mandatory, but it offers two main benefits: spectacular views and a significant time-saving alternative to hiking. The elevator ride to Yuanjiajie takes just 66 seconds (not including waiting time), compared to a strenuous three-hour hike.
• Long queues during peak season
  • Waiting times can exceed one hour during busy periods. To maximize your experience, consider booking your tickets online and starting your day early.
• Where to stand for the best views
  • For the most breathtaking scenery, try to position yourself in the front rows when entering the elevator.

How to Get from Zhangjiajie City to Bailong Elevator

Tourist Shuttle Bus

Traveling from Zhangjiajie City to the Bailong Elevator via shuttle bus is one of the most cost-effective options. The city has multiple departure points, primarily at the train station, bus station, and city center tourist hubs. Below are the details:

• Frequency: Every 30 minutes
• Travel time: Approximately 1 hour
• Fare: 12 RMB per person (one way)
• Ticket purchase: Tickets can be purchased online or at the bus station/tourist hubs.

The shuttle bus offers a budget-friendly and reliable way to reach the scenic area. It’s a great choice for travelers looking to save money without compromising on convenience.

Taxi or Ride-Hailing Services

Taking a taxi or using a ride-hailing app like Didi to reach the Bailong Elevator is a more flexible and faster option.

• Distance: Approximately 35 kilometers
• Travel time: Around 40 minutes
• Cost:
  • Taxi: 100–150 RMB depending on traffic and season.
  • Ride-hailing services: Prices vary based on the type of vehicle but typically start at 120 RMB.

This option is ideal for those traveling with luggage or seeking a more private and comfortable journey.

How to Get from Zhangjiajie Railway Station to Bailong Elevator

Tourist Shuttle Bus

If you’re traveling from Zhangjiajie Railway Station, the tourist shuttle bus is the most economical way to reach the Bailong Elevator. Buses depart regularly from the station’s designated tourist bus stop.

• Frequency: Every 30 minutes
• Travel time: Approximately 50 minutes
• Fare: 12 RMB per person (one way)

This is a popular option for budget-conscious travelers.

Taxi or Ride-Hailing Services

For a quicker and more convenient option, taxis and ride-hailing services are readily available at Zhangjiajie Railway Station.

• Distance: About 35 kilometers
• Travel time: Around 40 minutes
• Cost:
  • Taxi: 100–150 RMB depending on time and demand.
  • Ride-hailing services: Typically starts at 120 RMB and varies based on the vehicle type.

Taxis and ride-hailing apps provide a hassle-free experience, especially for families or groups with more luggage.

FAQ

Is the Bailong Elevator Suitable for Strollers?

The Bailong Elevator accommodates strollers, but there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Elevator Space: The elevator is spacious enough to fit strollers, but during peak seasons, it can become crowded. Planning your visit during off-peak hours can help avoid long waits.
• Entrance and Exit: The ground at the elevator’s entry and exit points may have slight slopes, so you might need to lift the stroller briefly.
• Pathways in the Scenic Area: After reaching Yuanjiajie via the elevator, some paths are steep and not stroller-friendly. It’s advisable to plan your route in advance.

Overall, the elevator is suitable for families with strollers, but flexibility and preparation will ensure a smoother experience.

Where Can I Store My Luggage?

The Bailong Elevator scenic area provides luggage storage services to make your visit more convenient:

• Storage Location: Dedicated luggage storage points are available near the scenic area entrance. They are clearly marked and easy to find.
• Service Fee: The cost ranges from 10 to 20 RMB per item, depending on size.
• Operating Hours: The luggage storage operates during the same hours as the scenic area.