72 Qilou Entry Ticket & Show

If you’re visiting Zhangjiajie and craving a contrast to the region’s breathtaking natural scenery, the 72 Qilou complex offers a fascinating peek into Tujia culture paired with spectacular visuals. This experience combines architecture, performances, and local flavors into one vibrant evening, making it a popular choice for those interested in authentic cultural sights.

While it’s mostly celebrated for its stunning nighttime illumination and lively performances, it’s also an opportunity to explore a cultural tourism town packed with shops, museums, and workshops. The experience lasts about six hours, and from the glowing lantern-lit streets to the traditional folk shows, there’s plenty to keep you engaged.

A possible consideration? The tour might be less suitable for travelers with mobility issues or those who prefer daytime sightseeing, as it’s primarily a night-time experience with walking and standing involved. But for anyone eager for a colorful, lively, and visually striking evening, this is an experience you won’t want to miss. It’s especially great for first-time visitors wanting a taste of local culture beyond the natural wonders.

This tour is perfect for travelers who love vibrant scenes, unique architecture, cultural performances, and trying local snacks all in one place. It offers an authentic taste of Tujia life in a visually enchanting setting—ideal for those seeking a memorable, immersive city experience after exploring Zhangjiajie’s famed landscapes.

Good To Know

• Vibrant Nighttime Atmosphere: The lantern-lit complex transforms after sunset into a magical scene perfect for photos.
• Architectural Wonder: The tallest Tujia-style stilted building complex in the world offers a striking visual contrast to natural attractions.
• Cultural Performances: Expect folk song and dance shows that bring Tujia stories and traditions vividly to life.
• Local Cuisine: From handmade rice noodles to spicy tofu, the food stalls serve authentic, affordable local flavors.
• Shop and Explore: Small museums, craft workshops, and souvenir shops make the complex a lively cultural hub.
• Easy Access: Located conveniently from downtown Zhangjiajie, with skip-the-line tickets for smooth entry.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Complete Guide to the 72 Qilou Experience

The Architectural Marvel

The 72 Qilou complex is recognized by the Hunan Provincial Government as the world’s tallest Tujia-style stilted building. When you step into this sprawling, multi-level setting, you feel as though you’ve entered an ancient Tujia village, but on a grand, modern scale. The intricate designs and traditional motifs showcase the craftsmanship and aesthetic values of the Tujia people.

The architecture is not only visually impressive but also steeped in legend. The design embodies the mysterious “Nine Bows, Eighteen Stockades, and Seventy-Two Strange Towers” of Western Hunan, adding an air of mystique. Many visitors mention how the lights at night enhance the complex’s enchanting atmosphere, making it a prime spot for photos.

Nighttime Illumination and Atmosphere

Once the sun sets, the entire complex is bathed in thousands of twinkling lights. The lanterns and intricate lighting create a magical, fairy-tale-like setting that draws visitors into a different world. According to reviews, the night scene is truly stunning, with one guest from Italy calling it “top!!” in their praise.

The lighting isn’t just for aesthetics; it accentuates the traditional architecture and makes wandering through the streets feel like stepping into a living folk story. The lights also highlight the craftsmanship of shops and workshops, making each corner photogenic and inviting.

Cultural Performances and Live Entertainment

The highlight for many visitors is the folk performances. These shows—often held in courtyards or on small stages—feature lively song and dance routines that showcase Tujia traditions. The entertainment is both colorful and authentic, with performers dressed in traditional costumes and sharing legends through music.

According to a reviewer, “the various Tujia ethnic performances are truly magical,” adding that the shows bring the local culture vividly to life. The performances generally run regularly and add an energetic atmosphere to the complex, making it more than just a sightseeing spot.

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Tasting Local Flavors

Food stalls and small eateries line the streets, offering affordable, authentic Tujia and Hunan specialties. You can try handmade rice noodles, grilled skewers, and spicy tofu, among other favorites. The variety of snacks is perfect for a casual dinner or a quick bite while exploring.

Many reviews note that the food is both delicious and budget-friendly, adding a culinary dimension to the visit. Sampling local dishes enhances the culture, giving you a taste of regional flavors you might not easily find elsewhere.

Shopping, Museums, and Crafts

Beyond food and performances, shops and workshops offer a chance to explore traditional crafts like silverwork. Small museums display artifacts and tell stories of Tujia history, adding educational value to your visit. It’s an excellent place to pick up handcrafted souvenirs or learn about local traditions firsthand.

Convenience and Practicalities

Getting to the complex is straightforward, with easy transportation from downtown Zhangjiajie. The tickets include skip-the-line access, meaning you can avoid long queues, especially during peak hours or busy seasons. The ticket grants access to everything in the complex, including shows, shops, and food stalls.

Visitors are advised to bring passport for ticket activation, wear comfortable shoes for walking, and be prepared for a lively, outdoor environment. Since it’s primarily geared toward night exploration, plan for an evening visit to experience the full atmospheric effect.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is best suited for those interested in culture, architecture, and vibrant nightlife. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a relaxed, leisurely evening rather than rigorous physical activity. It’s also a great option for families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate photogenic scenes and live performances.

However, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those over 95 years old, due to the walking involved and limited accessibility for non-folding wheelchairs.

Overall Value and Recommendations

The 72 Qilou complex offers a truly visual and cultural feast for a reasonable price. You’re paying for a multi-sensory experience—stunning lights, lively performances, delicious local snacks, and traditional architecture—all in one evening.

The tour’s focus on nighttime beauty makes it stand out, especially for photographers or anyone who loves capturing magical scenes. The performances, often described as “truly magical,” add an engaging cultural layer that elevates the visit beyond just sightseeing.

For travelers who want to see a different side of Zhangjiajie—beyond its famous mountains—this tour provides a colorful, authentic, and memorable experience. It’s particularly well-suited for those keen to explore local traditions, enjoy festive scenes, and partake in a lively night out.

If you’re short on time but want a meaningful cultural highlight, the 72 Qilou entry & show balances entertainment, tradition, and stunning visuals well. It’s a worthwhile addition to your Zhangjiajie itinerary—especially if you love lighting displays and cultural storytelling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the ticket valid for the entire complex?
Yes, a single ticket includes access to the entire cultural tourism town, shows, shops, and food stalls.

Can I buy the tickets in advance?
Absolutely. The tickets can be reserved with the option to cancel up to 24 hours before, making planning flexible.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport for ticket verification, and wear comfortable shoes since you’ll be walking outdoors.

Is the experience suitable for children?
Yes, children who enjoy vibrant performances, lights, and exploring new sights will find it enjoyable. However, very young children or babies might find the walking tiring.

How long does the experience last?
The tour lasts about 6 hours, covering evening activities, performances, and exploring the complex.

Are the performances frequent?
Yes, folk song and dance shows are commonly held, often in courtyards or small stages, providing lively entertainment throughout the evening.

Is there food available on-site?
Yes, numerous stalls serve local snacks, including handmade noodles, skewers, and spicy tofu—all affordable and authentic.

What makes the architecture special?
The complex is the tallest Tujia-style stilted building structure in the world, with intricate designs reflecting local legends and craftsmanship.

Are there any accessibility issues?
The experience involves walking and standing, which might not be suitable for those with mobility or wheelchair limitations. Non-folding wheelchairs are not allowed.

Would you recommend this experience?
Definitely for anyone interested in cultural traditions, lively scenery, and stunning night views. It offers a distinct contrast to Zhangjiajie’s natural attractions and provides a memorable, immersive cultural outing.

To sum it up, the 72 Qilou Entry Ticket & Show is a captivating way to enjoy Zhangjiajie’s cultural side after a day of exploring its famous peaks and valleys. Expect vibrant lights, traditional performances, and tasty local snacks all set in an architecturally impressive complex. It’s a lively, colorful experience that offers incredible photo opportunities and a genuine taste of Tujia life—perfect for those looking to add a cultural highlight to their trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby