There are some locations around the globe that are so visually mystical that they look to be straight out of a fantasy world. One such place is The Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, located in China in an area northwest of the Hunan province. This site is known for its unique rock formations and high peaks that you may recognize as the inspiration for the film Avatar. The park itself is a unique experience for tourists who are able to visit its scenic viewpoints, caves, waterfalls, caves, and peaks.

Before the site was ever a tourist attraction, however, it became China’s first National Park in 1982. Zhangjiajie was declared a National Park because of the many species of endangered animals that reside in the area, perhaps the most famous of which is the Chinese Giant Salamander. This rare species of salamander resides in the pools and caves scattered around the forest.

Another well-known species in the area is the macaque monkeys, of which the park is home to hundreds. These animals will typically be scarce during peak hours, but once the crowds start to thin they’ll frequent the forest. They’ve become accustomed to tourists so they often come up to people without coaxing.

The park has also built structures that help tourists view the stunning scenery from tactful points. It is home to the world’s longest and highest glass bridge, which offers breathtaking views of the canyon below. The park also contains the world’s tallest outdoor elevator, also made from glass.

Zhangjiajie also includes the world’s longest cable car ride up the Tiamen Mountain, which contains a unique attraction. The Taimen Cave is a large water-eroded hole between two peaks that resembles a huge doorway in the cliff face. This structure has been called ‘heaven’s door’ and ‘stairway to heaven’ by many tourists.

Learn more about the World of Inspiration, and discover the wonder of the Southwest, Antarctica’s desert, and Ireland’s Cliffs of Moher.