Shanghai and Zhangjiajie are approximately 1,200 kilometers apart. Depending on your schedule, budget, and travel preferences, you have three main transportation options: direct flight, flight + train combo, or direct high-speed train.
So most are asking: how can I get to Zhangjiajie from Shanghai efficiently?
The quick answer is: for most travelers, we recommend the direct flight to save time and trouble. If you have 7+ days and are looking for the best flexibility, choose the flight + train combo for time efficiency.
Read on for detailed transportation comparisons, a well-planned itinerary, and extension options to make the most of your Shanghai–Zhangjiajie journey.
| Route | Total Time | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Direct Flight | 2 hours 25 minutes | CNY 430–1400 | Time-sensitive travelers, families with elders |
| Flight to Changsha + Train | 7–8 hours | CNY 500–1600 | Flexible schedule seekers |
| Direct Train | High-Speed Train (G469/G1369): 7–9 hours | High-Speed Train: CNY 1260–1311 (first-class) | Travelers with aerophobia, cultural experience seekers |
| Overnight Train (K1373): 19–20 hours | Overnight Train: CNY 489 (softer sleeper) | Backpackers, budget travelers |
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- 1. Transportation Options Breakdown
- - Option 1: Direct Flight
- - Option 2: Flight to Changsha + Train
- - Option 3: Direct Train
- 2. How Long to Spend
- 3. Best Time to Visit
- 4. How Much Does It Cost
1. How Should I Travel from Shanghai to Zhangjiajie?
Option 1: Direct Flight (Fastest with Limited Choices, Recommended)
- Route: Shanghai Pudong Airport(PVG) → Zhangjiajie Hehua Airport (DYG)
- Duration: 2 hours 25 minutes / 2 hours 35 minutes
- Cost: CNY 430–1400 (one-way)
- Best For: Time-sensitive travelers, families with kids/seniors, tight schedules (5–6 days).
Currently, there are only one or two direct flights from Shanghai to Zhangjiajie per day.
- Guaranteed: FM9343 (17:20–19:45 / 19:10–21:40) / FM9341 (20:25–22:40, Operate from April 2026)
- Randomly: HO2199 (08:35–11:10 / 09:20–11:55 / 18:40–21:15)
* Flight schedules may vary; please confirm again before booking.
This is undoubtedly the fastest option, saving approximately 7 hours compared to the high-speed train.
However, limited daily flights make scheduling less flexible, so you will need to plan your itinerary carefully. Ticket prices vary significantly by season, and it will never hurt to book 1-2 months in advance for better deals (lowest fares around CNY 430 appear in late February to early March).
Option 2: Flight to Changsha + Train Combo (Most Flexible)
- Route: Shanghai → Changsha (flight, 2 hours) → Zhangjiajie (high-speed train, 1.5–3 hours)
- Total Duration: 5.5–7 hours (including transfer)
- Cost: CNY 500–1600 (one-way)
- Best For: Flexible schedule seekers, peak season travelers (when direct flights are sold out).
For travelers who value flexibility, this combo is our top recommendation, especially during peak season.
There are 15+ flights between Shanghai and Changsha throughout the day from both airports, and Changsha to Zhangjiajie runs more than 30 trains daily (every 20–30 minutes). Please allow 2–3 hours between the flight's arrival and the train's departure.
If your flight is delayed or needs schedule adjustments, alternatives are readily available and stress-free. Extend a Changsha trip for its spicy Hunan cuisine before fully exploring Zhangjiajie is also a popular option.
Option 3: Direct Train (Most Economical, 7-20 Hours)
- Route: Shanghai Hongqiao (上海虹桥站) / Shanghai Songjiang (上海松江站) → Zhangjiajie West (张家界西站)
- Total Duration: 7-9 hours (high-speed train); 19-20 hours (overnight train)
- Cost: CNY 1260-1311 (first-class); CNY 489 (softer sleeper)
- Best For: Backpackers, travelers with aerophobia, cultural experience seekers.
Train fares remain stable year-round, and luggage restrictions are more relaxed than on flights. For backpackers or travelers who are very strict about budget control, taking an overnight train from Shanghai to Zhangjiajie may be your best choice.
And for a journey of this length, we highly recommend investing in a first-class seat or a softer sleeper berth. The significant upgrade in comfort for the 7+ hour trip is well worth the extra 60% cost.
How Many Days to Spend in Shanghai and Zhangjiajie
For a first-time visit that captures the essence of both destinations, we recommend a balanced 7-day itinerary.
- Shanghai: At least 2 days to visit top attractions like the Bund, Yu Garden, Zhujiajiao Water Town, the Shanghai Tower, or Shanghai Disneyland.
- Zhangjiajie: At least 3-5 days to fully experience its highlights. We advise adding 1-2 flexible days if traveling between May and August to account for peak-season crowds and rainy weather.
This plan is based on our extensive experience guiding international travelers, and offers the ideal mix of Shanghai's urban charm with Zhangjiajie's natural wonders.
7-Day Shanghai and Zhangjiajie Classic Tour
- Day 1: Shanghai arrival
- Day 2: Zhujiajiao Water Town or Shanghai Disneyland
- Day 3: Explore the Bund, Yu Garden, and Shanghai Tower; take an evening flight to Zhangjiajie
- Days 4-5: Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
- Day 6: Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon with its glass bridge
- Day 7: Tianmen Mountain and departure
We suggest taking a direct evening flight from Shanghai to Zhangjiajie after a full day of sightseeing, as this maximizes your time and provides a smooth transition.
During your Shanghai trip, the Bund is easily visited at any time (no entrance fee) and is particularly spectacular after nightfall. Shanghai Disneyland is a full-day commitment, hence its placement as a dedicated option on Day 2.
If you are more into a cultural trip, Zhujiajiao Water Town requires at least half a day. You can pair it with other city highlights in the afternoon or enjoy a relaxing time.
In Zhangjiajie, while you could see the famed Yuanjiajie (Avatar Mountains) and Tianzi Mountain in one day, we highly recommend a second day in the National Forest Park to hike the tranquil Golden Whip Stream and explore Huangshi Village for a more complete and serene experience.
Tianmen Mountain is ideally scheduled for your final day. It is well-connected, located just one hour from both the airport and railway station, making your departure to Shanghai or your next destination very convenient.
If You Have More Days to Spare...
If you have more than 7 days and want to explore more of Hunan Province, consider extending your trip after checking the comparison to decide which fits your interests and schedule.
| Destination | Extra Days | Core Experience | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Furong Town | 1 day | Historical waterfall town | Time-pressed travelers |
| Fenghuang Ancient Town | 1–2 days | Miao ethnic culture, riverside night scenery | Culture enthusiasts, photographers |
| Changsha | 1–2 days | Hunan cuisine, modern city life | Foodies, urban explorers |
Best Times to Visit Shanghai and Zhangjiajie
The best times to visit Shanghai and Zhangjiajie are between September and November, when it offers clear skies, pleasant weather, ideal for outdoor activities and photography.
- November–March (Low Season): With the fewest tourists and lowest prices, perfect for budget travelers and snow lovers, but Zhangjiajie can be chilly (0-10°C / 32-50°F).
- June–August & Chinese Holidays (Peak Season): Overwhelmingly crowded with high-rising prices, consider avoiding as much as possible.
It should be noted that Zhangjiajie experiences fog and rain year-round, especially from March to May. Always check the weather forecast and build flexibility into your itinerary.
For more detailed information, see Best Times to Visit Zhangjiajie or Best Times to Visit Shanghai.
How Much Does It Cost for a Visit to Shanghai and Zhangjiajie?
Typically, a private tour of Shanghai and Zhangjiajie would cost 250 USD per person per day. These prices include English-speaking guided touring, stays in 4-star hotels, entrance tickets to attractions, domestic airfares, and private transfers, guaranteeing you a hassle-free travel experience.
Travel With China Highlights to Explore Shanghai and Zhangjiajie
Many travelers find it overwhelming when it comes to planning a multi-city trip as it involves coordinating flights, trains, hotels, and weather-dependent schedules.
Based on decades of experience, our local Zhangjiajie guides know the optimal times to visit each attraction, secret viewpoints, and how to avoid crowds. Our well-planned itineraries ensure you won't miss transportation or struggle with language barriers.
Contact us now to craft your personalized Shanghai-Zhangjiajie adventure. Whether you want to follow our 7-day classic route or customize it with extensions, we'll create a journey tailored to your pace, interests, and budget.
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