Laodaowan Scenic Area

Laodaowan lies to the south of downtown Zhangjiajie, nestled in the valley north of Tianmen Mountain and Qixing Mountain, seven kilometers from the city center, covering a total area of over 9,000 mu. It got its name from a legend that Guiguzi, the master of political strategism during the Spring and Autumn and Warring States Periods, once practiced cultivation, trained disciples and preached his doctrines here. Lush green trees layer the valley, where mountains and streams intertwine amid narrow gorges. The forest coverage rate hits 99%. Rare Taxus chinensis communities, together with exotic birds and wild animals, can be spotted along the sightseeing trails.

The first-phase pilot cozy themed tree houses of Laodaowan include more than 30 unique rooms of varying sizes with no identical designs. There are independent single-unit houses, compact attic suites, and deluxe duplex villa suites for larger groups. The scenic area caters well to solo travelers, young couples, married pairs, families and other tour groups of all sizes.

The scenic zone is divided into three sightseeing routes: The West Route covers Fairy Maiden Gorge featuring seven pools and seven waterfalls. The Middle Route follows a bustling thousand-year-old ancient path with thirty-six winding bends, showcasing red revolutionary culture. The East Route boasts Guigu Gorge, where eighteen pools have been developed for visitors to immerse themselves in Guiguzi culture.

Cable glides, alpine slides and the water park are must-try attractions here. If you fancy soaring through the air and viewing Zhangjiajie’s landscapes from a brand-new aerial perspective, don’t miss the country’s longest unpowered mountain cable glide. Stretching 800 meters in total, it hovers more than 100 meters above the ground with a top speed exceeding 15 meters per second.

No public bus routes run directly to the scenic spot. Visitors may take the direct shuttle bus to Laodaowan across the exit of Zhangjiajie Central Bus Station for a fare of 5 yuan. A taxi ride from downtown to Laodaowan normally costs 30 to 50 yuan one way.

The cable glide is highly thrilling. Children must be accompanied by adults, and the ride is not recommended for elderly visitors.