The Shennongjia Ecological Tourism Area is located in Shennongjia Forestry District, Hubei Province. As a national 5A-level tourist attraction, UNESCO World Natural Heritage site, Global Geopark, and UNESCO Man and Biosphere Reserve, it covers 3,253 square kilometers with an average elevation of 1,700 meters. Its highest peak, Shennongding, reaches 3,106.2 meters, known as the "Roof of Central China". Renowned for pristine forest ecosystems, rich biodiversity, and mysterious Shennong culture, it's the only primeval forest area along the 31°N latitude.
History and Culture
Named after Emperor Yan Shennong who gathered herbs here 5,000 years ago, Shennongjia is not only where Shennong tasted hundreds of herbs but also a cradle of Chu culture. The area preserves numerous legends and relics about Shennong, like Shennong Altar and Shennong Valley.
Since the 20th century, Shennongjia gained global fame for "Wild Man" legends, becoming a hotspot for scientists exploring unknown species. In 2016, it was inscribed on the World Heritage List, becoming China's first site to receive UNESCO's triple honors of World Natural Heritage, Global Geopark, and Biosphere Reserve.
Main Attractions
Shennongding Peak
At 3,106.2 meters, this "Number One Peak in Central China" offers breathtaking sea of clouds and sunrise views, with rare plants like alpine rhododendrons and firs along the trail.
Dajiuhu Wetlands
A 1,700-meter-high wetland complex of nine lakes - the largest subalpine wetland in central China. Crystal-clear waters surrounded by mountains create picturesque autumn foliage.
Shennong Altar
A worship site for Emperor Yan Shennong, featuring a 21-meter-tall ox-headed human statue. Grand ceremonies are held annually on the 26th day of the fourth lunar month.
Guanmenshan
An educational base integrating natural history, geology, and biology museums, showcasing Shennongjia's unique landforms and biodiversity.
Tianqiao (Natural Bridge)
A karst-formed natural stone arch bridge spanning 58 meters at 138 meters high - a magnificent geological wonder.
Golden Monkey Ridge
Primary habitat of Shennongjia's golden snub-nosed monkeys (first-class protected species), where visitors observe their natural behaviors.
Featured Experiences
Primeval Forest Trekking
Multiple trails through virgin forests reveal the 31°N latitude's mysteries and wildlife traces.
Birdwatching Photography
With over 400 bird species including rare Reeves's pheasants and Temminck's tragopans, it's a birdwatcher's paradise.
Stargazing
Excellent air quality and minimal light pollution make Shennongjia one of central China's best stargazing spots.
Winter Sports
Snow-covered Shennongjia offers skiing, snowmobiling, and other winter activities.
Cuisine
Wild Vegetables
Foraged from pristine forests - ferns, bamboo shoots, and wood ears offer delicious, nutritious flavors.
Rock Fungus Stewed Free-range Chicken
Local specialty combining Shennongjia's unique rock fungus with free-range chicken for flavorful soup.
Cured Pork Trotter
Traditional delicacy - pork trotters cured and smoked for firm texture and distinctive taste.
Wild Honey
Pure, pollution-free honey from forest blossoms boasts unique floral aromas and medicinal value.
Ticket Information
The combined ticket costs 269 yuan (peak season: March 26-November 25) or 130 yuan (off-season: November 26-March 25), covering main attractions like Shennongding, Dajiuhu, Guanmenshan, Tianqiao, and Shennong Altar. Seniors over 60 and students enjoy half-price discounts; children under 1.2m enter free.
Opening Hours
Open year-round from 7:00-16:30 (peak season) or 8:00-16:00 (off-season), with ticket sales ending one hour before closing.
Recommended Itinerary
Three-day ideal route:
Day 1: Muyu Town → Guanmenshan → Shennong Altar → Tianqiao
Day 2: Shennongding Peak → Dajiuhu Wetlands
Day 3: Golden Monkey Ridge → Primeval Forest Trekking
Time-limited visitors can opt for a two-day highlights tour.
Transportation
- By car: From Yichang via Hurong Expressway to Xingshan exit, then 120km on Provincial Highway 209
- By air: Nearest airport is Shennongjia Hongping Airport (~50km away)
- By bus: Direct coaches from Wuhan, Yichang, Shiyan, etc.
Precautions
- Pack warm clothes and rain gear for changeable mountain weather
- Protect ecosystems - no picking plants or disturbing wildlife
- Download offline maps as some areas have weak signals
- Stay within permitted areas and follow park regulations
- Altitude-sensitive visitors should monitor physical conditions