Seeing the Bailong Elevator in Zhangjiajie is definitely going to be an experience that first-time foreign visitors to China will never forget. This three-story observation elevator has entered the Guinness Book of World Records as the “Highest Outdoor Elevator.” Its vertical height difference is 335 meters, and its operational height is 326 meters. The surprising experience of breaking through the soil is breathtaking as the elevator speedily transports you to Yuanjiajie in just 66 seconds (excluding waiting time), leaving people awestruck by the miracles of human engineering.
But Wulingyuan isn’t all roses; there’s also the love-hate queue time and the breathtaking Bailong Elevator panorama. It is fairly uncommon to have to wait for one or two hours, especially during busy seasons. Here are some doable pointers to assist you avoid problems when planning your schedule and cut down on waiting:
Enjoy Off-Peak Travel
If you want to avoid lines, it’s best to travel at off-peak hours. Even in the off-season, the sensation of launching yourself from the mountains is quite palpable as you stand near the elevator’s glass panel, unimpeded. No matter how bad the weather gets, if you can shift your perspective to enjoy the magnificence of the mountains, trees, and people, it will all be worthwhile.
2. Get going Early
As the old adage goes, “the early bird catches the worm.” Wulingyuan is no exception. You can begin early to reduce waiting time. Depending on the season, the Wulingyuan Scenic Area is open from 07:30 to 09:30 (see the website for details). To get there, take a cab to the Wulingyuan Symbol Gate (East Gate), enter the area after your ticket is validated, and then take the eco-friendly bus to the Bailong Elevator. If you’re taking the bus to the Bailong Elevator, make sure you get off at the correct stop.
3. Arrange Your Itinerary and Buy Your Tickets Before You Go
Important information to have is the way to get to the Bailong Elevator from the East Gate. Here are the steps: To get there, take a cab to the Wulingyuan Symbol Gate (East Gate), validate your ticket, then get on the environmentally friendly bus. Get off at Bailong Elevator Station, pass through security, buy tickets, and wait in line. Don’t get off at Jinbianxi Station.
You can avoid the long lines by buying your tickets online. Another piece of advice: after you get off the elevator at the Bailong Elevator Station, try not to be a tourist. Just skip the security line and head straight for the ticket booth. It might be wise to find out if insurance is essential before purchasing tickets so that you don’t waste time waiting for refunds.
4. Reduce Energy Use While Appreciating Nature
You will want to spend less time climbing mountains and more time admiring Zhangjiajie’s breathtaking surroundings. The Bailong Elevator is, thus, the prudent option. It will get you to Yuanjiajie quickly, so you can save your energy for the rest of your trip.
5. Remember to Check the Hours of Operation
Finally, remember that the Bailong Elevator and Wulingyuan Scenic Area have different opening hours. Wulingyuan is open from 07:30 to 17:00, and the Bailong Elevator is open from 08:00 to 18:00. Arrange your schedule in accordance with your schedule.
To sum up, a visit to Zhangjiajie’s Bailong Elevator is truly unforgettable. You may minimize waiting time and make the most of your experience at this natural wonder by making a prior plan, going during off-peak hours, starting early, buying tickets in advance, and being mindful of opening hours.
