Day 2, Part 2: From Avatar’s Peaks to 72 Strange Buildings
September 30, 2025
Descent from Avatar Mountain, a cautious dinner adventure, and a dream fulfilled among lantern-lit architecture and night shows.
As much as I wanted to put everything about Day 2 of my Zhangjiajie trip in one blog post, I felt like the places we went that day deserved their own individual spotlights. To continue… If you missed Part 1, you can read it here: Day 2, Part 1.
- Jump to: Descent from Avatar’s Peaks • Dinner Adventure • 72 Strange Buildings • Shows & Nightlife • Two Bucket-List Moments
Descent from Avatar’s Peaks (and a Fear of Heights)
After spending three incredible hours on Avatar Mountain, we finally left. The process mirrored our ascent: a walk to the bus stop for the ride down, then another walk to the famous outdoor elevator. I’d forgotten to mention that I’m actually afraid of heights—and the thought of seeing everything through the glass elevator scared me at first. Surprisingly, it didn’t. The view was so breathtaking that my fear was overshadowed by pure amazement.
A Taste of Local Cuisine (With a Twist!)
After leaving Avatar Mountain, we headed to a local restaurant for dinner. It was memorable, to say the least! They served salamander fish, which I just couldn’t bring myself to try. I consider myself an adventurous traveler, but my appetite isn’t quite as daring. I stick to safer choices when I’m on the road, though I always make a point to try the popular local dishes as long as the ingredients are within my comfort zone. Having dealt with amoebas in the past has made me extra cautious.
A Dream Come True at 72 Strange Buildings
After dinner, we were off to one of the places I’d been dreaming of visiting in China: the 72 Strange Buildings. This was a definite bucket-list item. We were buzzing with excitement on the bus, and as we got closer, the vibrant lights began to illuminate the unique architecture.
I didn’t expect my reaction. As soon as I stepped off the bus, I was overwhelmed with emotion. I started to cry and hugged my husband. I couldn’t believe I was finally there, standing in front of a place I had only ever seen in photos and videos. It was surreal.
Lanterns, Music, and Night Shows
Entering the complex, I was completely captivated. The intricate designs and glowing lanterns felt straight out of a fantasy film. The atmosphere was electric. We stayed late to soak it all in and watch the spectacular shows. Musical performances, traditional dances, even a short play. Music drifted through the air; every corner revealed something new.
Snacks, Souvenirs, and Late-Night Vibes
We sampled a few local snacks and picked up small souvenirs to remember the experience. By the time we headed back, it was late. We were tired, happy, and a little amazed that the day had held so much wonder.
Two Bucket-List Moments in One Day
Who would’ve thought I could tick off two major bucket-list items in one day? From the awe of Avatar Mountain to the dreamlike night among the 72 Strange Buildings, the day was unforgettable—full of emotion, beauty, and that feeling of a dream becoming real.
