Tianmen Mountain

A unique site in Zhangjiajie, China

Zhangjiajie is a prefecture-level city in the northwestern part of Hunan Province (China). This region is a paradise for those who love outdoor adventures as it has some of the most impressive scenic viewpoints in China.

 

Famous for its foggy peaks and lush greenery, Zhangjiajie has become indicative of the Chinese aesthetic nature across many forms of art. It has inspired generations of painters and visionaries from all around the world to make the most beautiful artworks. There are plenty of waterfalls, pools, caves, and towering peaks to explore, while many viewing decks allow visitors to capture the beauty from different perspectives.

Among all the exciting sites located in Zhangjiajie, “Heaven’s Gate” certainly stands out!

@rkrkrk_Tianmen Mountain region Gate
"This is the gateway to heaven, created by the ancient natural power. People climbed a hundred stairs, just to get closer to their faith."

This natural formation is located in Tianmen, which is the highest mountain in Zhangjiajie. With an altitude of 4980 feet (1518 meters), Tianmen has been a site of wonder for the Chinese for thousands of years. It’s mystical vibe and unique conditions have contributed largely in this regard.

Due to the high altitude of Tianmen, the sunrise on the mountain occurs 30 minutes earlier in comparison with the surrounding cities. Because also the sunset happens later, up to 45 minutes, “Tianmen is known as an endless sky without darkness.”

The unique natural arch of the mountain is another reason why this spot is well known. Originally it was a cave until the back side collapsed in AD 263 and the gate was formed. Over the years, Tianmen has become a popular site to pray for a safe and healthy life, and many visitors are drawn to the holy temple on the mountain.

@joethommas_Tianmen Mountain region
@joethommas_Tianmen Mountain
"One of the craziest roads I’ve ever seen, there seems to be a never ending list of interesting places to visit in China."

In addition, Tianmen is also a place for adrenaline seekers.

Interestingly, Jeb Corliss transcended the human limits in 2011, as he flew through the Tianmen Cave in a wingsuit. Although previously, in 1999, several pilots performed an extremely thrilling mid-air acrobatic show. They flew three airplanes through the cave!

If you are visiting Zhangjiajie, making a stop here is a must!

TIANMEN MOUNTAIN

ON THE MAP
THE LATEST STORIES

WRITEN WITH PASSION TO INSPIRE YOU
Nomadict+Yhabril@yhabril 00011

Yhabril (@yhabril): Best of the Week 33 at #nomadict

Spanish photographer Yhabril captures the profound connection between humans and the mountains that shaped him. Growing up in the Pyrenees, his work bridges outdoor sports, landscapes, and celestial scenes — often blending athletes, moonlight, and wilderness into striking visual stories.

04 Nomadict_Ariane Totzke

Ariane Totzke (@besondersschwierig): Photographer based in Switzerland

In this article, Ariane shares how photography helped her navigate personal challenges, connect authentically with people and animals, and develop a philosophy rooted in empathy and artistic freedom. Readers will also discover her ethical approach to wildlife photography and her trusted equipment for both camouflage techniques and cameras.

@dmnk.visuals - Nomadict cover

Cinematic city photography: An essential 6-step workflow

In this article, you’ll learn how to read and use light in your home city, choose the right technical settings for low-light scenes, and refine your editing workflow to shape color and atmosphere step by step. In addition, Dominik shares how to find fresh perspectives on familiar locations, five lessons that transformed his photography, and insights on the future of street photography.

Kyle van Bavel 8

Kyle van Bavel (@kylevanbavel): Photographer based in the Netherlands

Kyle van Bavel is a macro photographer with a distinctive, dreamy style that transforms the unseen details of nature into magical worlds. In this article, he shares how his unique vision, shaped by a journey of self-learning and overcoming dyslexia, has become his greatest creative strength.