Shennongjia Ecological Tourism Area is located in Shennongjia Forestry District, Hubei Province. It is a national 5A-level tourist attraction, a World Natural Heritage Site, a World Geopark, and an International Man and Biosphere Reserve. The scenic area covers a total area of 3,253 square kilometers, with an average elevation of 1,700 meters. Its highest peak, Shennong Peak, stands at 3,106.2 meters above sea level and is known as the "Roof of Central China." Shennongjia is renowned for its primitive forest ecosystem, rich biodiversity, and mysterious Shennong culture. It is the only primitive forest area along the 31st parallel north.
History and Culture
Shennongjia is named after the legendary ancestor of the Chinese nation, Emperor Yan (Shennong), who built scaffolding here to gather medicinal herbs. It has a history of more than 5,000 years. This place is not only where Shennong tasted hundreds of herbs but also one of the birthplaces of Chu culture. The scenic area preserves a large number of legends and relics related to Shennong, such as the Shennong Altar and Shennong Valley.
Since the 20th century, Shennongjia has become famous worldwide for the legend of the "Wild Man," making it a hotspot for Chinese and foreign scientists exploring unknown creatures. In 2016, Shennongjia was inscribed on the World Heritage List, becoming China's first region to receive three prestigious honors from UNESCO: World Natural Heritage, World Geopark, and International Man and Biosphere Reserve.
Major Attractions
Shennong Peak
The highest peak in Shennongjia, with an elevation of 3,106.2 meters, known as the "First Peak in Central China." From the summit, visitors can overlook magnificent views such as seas of clouds and sunrises. Along the way, rare plants such as alpine rhododendrons and fir trees can be seen.
Dajiu Lake
A group of alpine wetlands consisting of nine lakes, at an elevation of 1,700 meters. It is the largest subalpine wetland in Central China. The lake water is clear, surrounded by mountains. In autumn, the forests are ablaze with color, creating a picturesque scene.
Shennong Altar
A site for worshipping Emperor Yan (Shennong). Its main structure is a giant 21-meter-tall statue of Shennong with a bull's head and human body. A grand memorial ceremony is held here every year on the 26th day of the fourth lunar month.
Guanmen Mountain
A science education base integrating a natural history museum, geological museum, and biology museum, showcasing Shennongjia's unique geological landforms and rich animal and plant resources.
Tiansheng Bridge
A natural stone arch bridge formed by karst landforms. The bridge is 138 meters high and has a span of 58 meters. It is magnificent and can be called a geological wonder.
Golden Monkey Ridge
The main habitat of Shennongjia's golden snub-nosed monkeys. Visitors can observe the living habits of these national first-class protected animals up close in their natural state.
Special Experiences
Primitive Forest Hiking
Multiple hiking routes pass through primitive forests, allowing visitors to experience the natural charm of the mysterious 31st parallel north and search for traces of wild animals and plants.
Birdwatching and Photography
Shennongjia is home to more than 400 bird species and is a paradise for birdwatching enthusiasts, especially famous for rare birds such as the white-crowned long-tailed pheasant and Temminck's tragopan.
Stargazing
Thanks to its excellent ecological environment and low light pollution, Shennongjia is one of the best stargazing locations in Central China.
Ice and Snow Sports
In winter, Shennongjia is covered in silver and white snow. It offers skiing, snowmobiles, and other ice and snow entertainment projects.
Recommended Tour Routes：
Recommended three-day tour route:
Day 1: Muyu Town → Guanmen Mountain → Shennong Altar → Tiansheng Bridge
Day 2: Shennong Peak → Dajiu Lake
Day 3: Golden Monkey Ridge → Hiking in the Primitive Forest
Visitors with limited time can choose the two-day essence tour.
Notes：
The mountain climate is changeable. Please bring warm clothing and rain gear.
Protect the ecological environment. Do not pick plants or disturb wild animals.
Signal is weak in some areas. It is recommended to download offline maps in advance.
Follow the scenic area regulations and do not enter unopened areas.
Those sensitive to high altitude should pay attention to their physical condition.
Transportation：
Self-driving: Depart from Yichang, take the Shanghai-Chengdu Expressway to the Xingshan exit, then drive about 120 kilometers along Provincial Highway 209.
Airplane: The nearest airport is Shennongjia Hongping Airport, about 50 kilometers from the scenic area.
Long-distance bus: There are direct buses to Shennongjia from Wuhan, Yichang, Shiyan, and other places.
Opening Hours：
The scenic area is open all year round. Daily opening hours are 7:00-16:30 (peak season) and 8:00-16:00 (off-season). Ticket sales stop one hour before each attraction closes.
Tickets：
Combined ticket: 299 yuan per person (including major attractions such as Shennong Peak, Dajiu Lake, Guanmen Mountain, Tiansheng Bridge, and Shennong Altar).