Nestled in northwestern Hubei, Shennongjia derives its name from Shennong (the legendary "Divine Farmer"), who is said to have built ladders out of wood to climb these mountains and taste hundreds of herbs in his search for medicine. Today, it remains one of China's best-preserved primeval ecological zones, boasting exceptionally high forest coverage. Its unique vertical climate has given rise to the local saying: "Four seasons on one mountain, different weather every ten miles."

While most cities swelter in midsummer heat, Shennongjia stays naturally cool at a steady 22°C—a refreshing sanctuary of lush green peaks, gentle breezes, rolling seas of clouds and babbling streams. It is, in every sense, a natural oxygen bar and a perfect summer retreat.

Aerial view of Dajiu Lake National Wetland Park

Image courtesy of Tuchong Creative

Recommended Attractions

1. Shennong Peak Scenic Area

As the highest peak in Central China, Shennong Peak is reverently known as the "Roof of Central China." Visitors can hike along gentle boardwalks through pristine forests, breathing in air rich with negative oxygen ions. From the summit, you'll be rewarded with a sweeping panorama of rolling cloud seas and dramatic stone-forest canyons.

The Shennong Peak Stone Monument

Image courtesy of Tuchong Creative

2. Dajiu Lake National Wetland Park

Dajiu Lake wetland is a rare alpine wetland where nine lakes are scattered like pearls among the mountains. In the early morning, a thin veil of mist often drifts over the water, turning the landscape into a living ink-wash painting. Visitors can explore by sightseeing train or boardwalk trail. Along the lakeside meadows, you may spot sika deer grazing at leisure. With its flat terrain, the park is ideal for a relaxing stroll.

Dajiu Lake National Wetland Park

Image courtesy of Tuchong Creative

3. Tianshengqiao (Natural Bridge) Scenic Area

The centerpiece here is a magnificent natural stone arch bridge, carved by flowing water over millions of years. Mountain springs rush through the bridge opening, cascading into waterfalls. Wooden walkways trace the water's edge, bringing you up close to the interplay of caves, the stone bridge and plunging falls—a natural spectacle that cools both body and mind.

Tianshengqiao (Natural Bridge) Scenic Area

Image courtesy of Tuchong Creative

4. Shennong Altar Scenic Area

Built to honor Emperor Yandi (Shennong), the legendary ancestor of Chinese civilization, this cultural-ecological park features a striking 21-meter-tall statue of Shennong with an ox head and human body. Other highlights include ancient Chinese hemlock trees and an epiphytic plant garden.

Shennong Altar Scenic Area

Image courtesy of Tuchong Creative

5. Guanmen Mountain Scenic Area

Guanmen Mountain is home to a natural history museum, a geology gallery and several animal enclosures, including a giant panda house and a bee garden. Indoor exhibits introduce visitors to Shennongjia's incredible species gene pool, where you can observe rare wildlife such as the giant salamander and sika deer up close.

Guanmen Mountain Scenic Area

Image courtesy of Tuchong Creative

Guanmen Mountain Scenic Area

Image courtesy of Tuchong Creative

Recommended Flavors

Shennongjia's cuisine captures the essence of its mountains and the culinary wisdom of its people. Smoked Pork Trotter Hotpot is slow-simmered with highland radish and potatoes. The trotters are smoked over cypress branches, giving the broth a deep, woody aroma and fall-off-the-bone tenderness. Stir-fried Smoked Pork with Bamboo Shoots tastes savory, crisp and full of character.  Scrambled Eggs with Wild Mushroom is silky and fragrant. When mushrooms like termite mushrooms or boletes are simmered into soup, the umami is simply off the charts. Five-Black Chicken Soup is a local specialty made with the region's unique five-black chicken, bamboo shoots and Gastrodia elata, yielding a rich, nourishing broth. Lazy Tofu (Lan Doufu) is a rustic, healthy dish with a fresh, clean aroma—simple, green and wholesome.