May marks a warm, wet, and bustling early summer in Zhangjiajie.
The average temperatures range from a comfortable 18°C (64°F) to a warm 27°C (81°F). However, it also kicks off the rainy season with heavy but short showers, leading to frequent foggy and misty conditions.
How Frequent Are Fog and Rain in Zhangjiajie in May?
We recommend traveling in early May, and please check the weather forecast.
Zhangjiajie experiences an average of 13 rainy/foggy days in May, concentrated in the middle and late May due to the late-spring monsoon.
This means you won't get clear skies every day like you might in autumn. While there is some fog in the mornings and evenings, it becomes denser and can even obscure everything when it rains.
Will I See the Avatar Mountains Clearly?
If it doesn't rain, you still have a chance to see the Hallelujah Mountains clearly.
Since the weather conditions are changeable, all we can do is suggest some windows when you can take your best bet, but with no guarantee.
Night fog often lies low before daytime heating stirs it up, so arrive just after sunrise (6-8 AM) for relatively clear views with soft, beautiful light.
As temperatures peak between 2-4 PM, rising heat is most likely to dissipate the fog. This is usually the busiest time, so head to popular viewpoints just before this peak to get a spot.
However, if you eventually encounter fog, don't see it as a setback.
These conditions are responsible for the magical "floating mountain" effect that makes Zhangjiajie so iconic, especially at the Hallelujah Mountains, which offer incredibly atmospheric and photogenic moments.
What's more, mountain weather is famously fickle.
If you arrive at a viewpoint shrouded in cloud, be patient. Conditions can change remarkably fast. A thick blanket of fog can part in minutes to reveal a stunning vista, making the wait truly rewarding.
Are Glass Bridges and Cable Cars Often Closed?
No, generally speaking, all parks and facilities operate year-round except for maintenance periods (usually in December). Of course, scenic spots may close during extreme weather, but these are very rare and nothing to worry about.
So… Do I Recommend Visiting Zhangjiajie in May?
The Misty Tianmen Cave in ZhangjiajieYes, May is a great time if you enjoy warm weather, lush landscapes, and don't mind sudden showers.
If your priority is crystal-clear skies, consider October or November instead. But if you want floating mountains scenery, May is a beautiful choice.
Travel Tips for Zhangjiajie in May
1. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
For clearer panoramic views, we suggest heading to Golden Whip Stream first for its morning soft views, then visit Yuanjiajie for clear Avatar Mountain views by noon.
It may be foggy at the Golden Whip Stream, but it is also cool and cozy for a refreshing hike in the morning. Keep your distance and do not feed the local monkeys, as they are known to be opportunistic snatchers.
The morning fog may burn off around noon, when it may offer a clear view of the Avatar peaks. But if you are looking for the film's iconic "floating mountains" effect, arriving at the viewing platform before 9:00 AM should suit you more.
2. Tianmen Mountain
For the clearest view of Tianmen Cave, we suggest taking the city cable car for 30 minutes directly to the top of Tianmen Mountain, visiting most of the attractions on the mountain, and then taking the escalator through the mountain to Tianmen Cave, which will arrive around noon.
This is when the morning mist has most likely burned off, revealing the majestic arch. You can then decide to admire it from the plaza or climb the 999 steps for a closer look.
However, midday is also the peak time for crowds and queues.
Be prepared for the escalator. You can consider bringing a compact foldable stool for comfort during any inevitable queues, and wear comfortable shoes.
To avoid the peak period, we strongly recommend an early morning start. You'll face shorter lines for the cable car and elevators and enjoy a smoother visit.
3. Prepare Alternative Plans
May's weather can be unpredictable, and having a flexible Plan B ensures your trip is never derailed.
- Always pack essential rain gear: A reliable raincoat and waterproof shoes with good grip are non-negotiable for sudden showers and slippery paths.
- Embrace indoor cultural activities: If heavy rain persists, see it as a chance to dive deeper into local culture, such as learning sand painting and visiting the local Tujia ethnic museum.
4. Avoid Labor Day Golden Week (May 1-5, 2026)
Labor Day Golden Week is one of China's busiest travel periods.
The combination of overwhelming crowds, long queues at every major attraction, scarce hotel rooms with inflated prices, and intense competition for transportation tickets can significantly impact your trip.
While the weather in May is already unpredictable, experiencing rain while navigating these dense crowds can make the situation feel far more challenging.
What if your travel dates are fixed?
- Book Extremely Early: Finalize your itinerary and reserve hotels at least three months in advance to secure availability and better rates.
- Secure Transportation Strategically: High-speed train tickets are released only 15 days ahead and sell out within minutes. Consider seeking help from a professional agency to obtain these crucial tickets.
Or you can leave all the logistics behind and simply travel with us.
Let us handle the stress of the holiday rush, so you can focus on enjoying the stunning scenery. Our professional guide will actively monitor the crowds and have pre-planned alternative indoor activities ready to go, ensuring your day is never wasted.
What to Pack and Wear in Zhangjiajie in May
May in Zhangjiajie is warm and humid, marking the start of the rainy season.
Your packing should focus on lightweight layers, rain protection, and adaptability to handle sudden showers and cooler evenings.
For example, T-shirts and long-sleeved shirts of quick-dry, breathable fabrics are preferable. Waterproof hiking shoes with excellent grip are non-negotiable for wet, slippery trails and stone steps.
As for sudden showers, always take a packable raincoat with you. An umbrella may be less practical for windy mountain paths and crowded queues.
The weather in the mountainous area can be various, and the sun can be strong between showers. Sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunscreen are must-haves.
Most importantly, always store food securely inside your bag to avoid attracting the park's clever and active monkeys.
Touring Zhangjiajie in May with China Highlights
May marks the vibrant start of Zhangjiajie's peak travel season.
Planning a trip during this period, especially over the Labor Day holiday (May 1-5, 2026), requires a smart strategy, as crowds surge and prices for hotels and flights rise significantly.
This is where our expertise transforms a potentially stressful trip into a stress-free adventure.
Every journey we create is fully customized. Share your interests and budget with us, and we'll craft a unique tour that lets you focus on the stunning landscapes instead of the logistics.
(10,000+ reviews)