Bailong Elevator Zhangjiajie Guide: Tickets, Routes & Tips
A complete guide to Bailong Elevator in Zhangjiajie, including routes, ticket prices, safety, and travel tips to help you enjoy the world’s tallest outdoor glass elevator.
Bailong Elevator is located inside Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. It has been recorded in the Guinness World Records as the “world’s tallest outdoor elevator,” and is also one of the most stunning glass elevator China experiences. It has become a core landmark of Bailong Elevator Zhangjiajie, representing a perfect combination of modern engineering and natural wonders.
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Why build an elevator on a cliff?
The Bailong Elevator started construction in 1999 and was officially put into operation in 2002. Before it was completed, tourists who wanted to reach the Yuanjiajie Scenic Area had to spend 2–3 hours climbing high-intensity mountain trails.
Its construction solved the pressure of “living on the mountain, sightseeing at the foot,” and transformed it into a win-win situation of “sightseeing on the mountain, staying at the foot.” The elevator adopts a parallel operation design of three double-deck fully exposed sightseeing elevators, which not only improves transportation efficiency, but also provides an open and unobstructed view during the ascent, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the unique sandstone pillar landscape of Zhangjiajie and experience the visual impact of technology colliding with nature.
Where is Bailong Elevator located in Zhangjiajie?
The Bailong Elevator is located near the Shuiraosimen area within Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in Wulingyuan District, Zhangjiajie City, Hunan Province. This is the core area of the World Natural Heritage site and one of the best locations to experience the Zhangjiajie glass elevator.
How to visit Bailong Elevator? (East Gate vs South Gate)
You can reach the Bailong Elevator through two main entrances: Wulingyuan Sign Gate and Forest Park Ticket Station.
Route A: Wulingyuan East Gate (Sign Gate) — [Most Recommended, easy and fast]
Process: Enter from the East Gate and take the eco-friendly shuttle bus directly to the lower station of the elevator.
Advantages: No hiking required, suitable for visitors who want to save energy to explore the highlights on the mountain top.
Route B: Forest Park South Gate (Ticket Station) — [Scenic but physically demanding]
Process: After entering, walk along Golden Whip Stream to Shuiraosimen, then transfer to the eco-friendly shuttle bus.
Note: This route requires about 7.5 km of walking (takes 2–3 hours), suitable for outdoor enthusiasts.
Transportation Tips
- External transportation: From Zhangjiajie city or railway station, you can take tourist buses directly to Wulingyuan Sign Gate or Forest Park Ticket Station.
- Internal transportation: Eco-friendly buses inside the scenic area are free and must be taken at designated stops.
With the above routes, you can flexibly choose the entrance according to your itinerary and easily reach the Bailong Elevator.
Three must-see wonders
By taking the Bailong Elevator, you can enjoy iconic landscapes such as “Gathering of Soldiers,” “Sky Field,” and the prototype of Hallelujah Mountain from Avatar — the Qiankun Pillar.
Gathering of Soldiers:
Located directly opposite the elevator, composed of dozens of independent stone peaks resembling a formation of soldiers. When viewed from the elevator, it looks like an army being reviewed, creating a magnificent scene.
The glass cabin provides a 360-degree panoramic view. As the elevator rises, the peaks gradually reveal their full form, creating a strong visual impact.
Sky Field:
A high mountain terrace inhabited by the Tujia people for generations, facing the “Gathering of Soldiers” across a valley. The farmland and peaks complement each other. After rain, when clouds and mist surround the area, the fields seem to float in the air like a fairyland.
Avatar Filming Location:
The elevator goes directly to Yuanjiajie Scenic Area. After exiting, you can reach the Qiankun Pillar, about 150 meters high with a unique shape. Nearby attractions include the First Bridge Under Heaven (a natural stone bridge) and Mihun Platform, where you can overlook the entire peak forest.
Featured Experience
- Vertical crossing feeling: With an operating height of 326 meters, it takes only 88 seconds to go from the bottom to the top, quickly replacing 3 hours of hiking.
- Sea of clouds: In spring or after rain, clouds flow among the peaks, and the cabin feels like traveling through a fairyland.
- Panoramic view: The fully transparent glass cabin allows visitors to enjoy cliffs and pine forests from all angles during the ascent.
The Bailong Elevator is not only a transportation facility but also an immersive natural wonder experience, perfectly integrating the peak forest scenery of Zhangjiajie with modern engineering.
Is it safe to ride at a height of 335 meters?
The elevator adopts multiple safety protection measures in its design and operation. Since it was put into operation in 2002, it has maintained a zero-accident record, ensuring high safety.
Core safety design
- Anti-fall and braking system: The shaft is equipped with anti-fall devices. Even if the steel cable breaks, the cabin can be stopped by mechanical locking structures. The system includes speed limiters, forced deceleration switches, and limit switches.
- Equipment and manufacturing standards: Designed and manufactured by Rangger International Elevator Company. It adopts three double-deck exposed sightseeing elevators operating in parallel, with a capacity of 64 passengers per trip.
- Maintenance and supervision: Daily safety inspections are carried out before operation, and regulatory authorities conduct regular inspections.
Actual operation data
- Safety record: As of 2025, it has transported over 35 million visitors without a single accident.
- Emergency capability: Equipped with emergency power and communication systems.
Notes
- Do not lean against the cabin door or jump inside the elevator.
- In emergencies, press the alarm button and wait for rescue.
2026 Latest Ticket Price & Step-by-step Guide
- Ticket price: About 65 RMB one way, 130 RMB round trip (free for children under 1.2 meters).
- Purchase: Recommended to book via the “Zhangjiajie One Machine Tour” mini program or buy tickets on-site with ID.
- Process: Shuttle bus arrival → Ticket check → 88-second ascent → Walk 5 minutes to transfer to mountain-top shuttle.
Notes
- Health conditions: Visitors with heart disease, high blood pressure, or fear of heights should be cautious.
- Safety rules: Do not extend hands or head outside the cabin.
- Personal belongings: Keep valuables safe.
- Time: Usually open 07:30–18:00.
- Weather: May close in bad weather.
- Follow scenic area regulations.
You can take the following routes to visit this place:
Conclusion
The Bailong Elevator is not only an 88-second visual sprint but also a “portal” to Pandora in Avatar.
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park has complex terrain, and during peak seasons, long queues can make independent travel exhausting.
If you want a more relaxed journey, we provide VIP fast-track reservations, professional guides, and customized photography routes. Just bring your camera, and leave the rest to us. Contact us to start your Zhangjiajie cloud journey.
Contact us
Email: info@chinaadventure.org
Whatsapp: +86-18181431009
Wechat: +86-18008011324
FAQs
Q1. Is the queue really long?
A: During peak season (May–October), waiting 1–2 hours is common. Arrive at 07:30 or use VIP access.
Q2. Can people with fear of heights ride it?
A: The ride is very stable. Stand in the middle of the cabin to reduce fear.
Q3. Upward or downward ride is better?
A: Strongly recommend upward. The moment of exiting the mountain is the most impressive.
Q4. How to take good photos?
A: Stand near the window quickly, preferably on the right or center. Record video in advance.
Q5. Is it worth visiting in fog?
A: Visibility may be low, but it can feel like traveling through clouds.
Q6. Is the elevator included in the ticket?
A: No, it requires an additional ticket.
Q7. Is it convenient for strollers or wheelchairs?
A: Yes, very convenient.
Q8. Do monkeys steal things?
A: Yes, keep plastic bags and food secured.
