Weather: The weather is dry and cold. January is the coldest month in Zhangjiajie, with an average low temperature of 2 °C (36 °F) and an average high temperature of 9 °C (48 °F). It snows or rains about 10 days of the month, but usually not heavily. There is about 60 mm of precipitation.
Clothing: Generally, a coat, gloves, and a hat or scarf are needed to stay warm. If you are planning to hike or stair climb, then make sure you are well dressed for freezing weather. Wear shoes with good traction (crampons may be needed).
Things to Do in Zhangjiajie in January
Visit Tianmen Mountain
In January, a coating of white snow adds another layer of beauty to the already beautiful scenery of Tianmen Mountain. You can go up to the top of the mountain by a spectacular long cable ride.
The ride is a thrill, or you can go up on the stairs. If the stairs are not slippery, it would make for a great hike. But make sure your shoes have good traction.
See the Frozen Scenery in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
In January, Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is likely to become a fairyland of snow. You'll likely see frozen ponds, snow crusted rock spires, snow covered forests, and ice at the bottom of the deep canyons.
If you don't want to walk on slippery steps, you can take a cable car up to Tianzi Mountain, and take a free bus to visit Yuanjiajie, and then take a glass elevator to ascend/descend.
Visit Yellow Dragon Cave
Yellow Dragon CaveYellow Dragon Cave is one of the largest caverns in China. It is a karst cave, full of stalagmites, stalactites, underground streams, and large caverns. It is a good place to visit in cold weather as it is warm in the cave.
Experience Chinese New Year
Sometimes, Chinese New Year falls in January. The Tujia people, a minority group native to the Zhangjiajie area, have a special celebration on Chinese New Year's eve.
If you go to the region during the holiday, you might enjoy the customs of the traditional festival. Check Chinese New Year Dates>>
Touring Zhangjiajie in January
Low Travel Season
January is generally a low travel month unless Chinese New Year falls in the month. You can usually enjoy beautiful snow scenery and lower hotel rates.
During the days of the Spring Festival vacation, expect high prices for hotel rooms and greater difficulty reserving flight and train tickets. Book in advance.
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