Shennong Stream

Shennong Stream

Shennong Stream is located on the border between Wu Gorge and Xiling Gorge, and as a tributary of the Yangtze River, it joins the Yangtze at Xirankou in Badong County, Hubei Province. Originationg at Shennongjia in Hubei Province, the first peak in Central China, it enters the Yangtze River at the eastern mounth of the Wu Gorge.

The 60-kilometer tributary of the Yangtze River rises in the southern part of Shennongjia Natural Reserve, and runs out of the deep valley through the forest at a height of 3000m above sea level, rushing southward between rocky cliffs.

A section about 20 kilometers between Yinwu Gorge and Longchuan Gorge is for drifting.

The landscape on both banks of the river is unique and tranquil and the water is clear. By taking a small hand-rowing boat, you will begin to drift quickly and you will find it to be a thrilling and an exciting experience.

Shennong Stream cruise excursion will give you the opportunity to see cascading waterfalls, steep cliffs, karst caves, three-colored springs, and an amazing array of fish, birds, and monkeys as they play near the water's edge.

A Shennong Stream excursion will take you through several gorges.

One is the Mian Zhu Gorge, which translates to "bamboo". If you look at the cliffs, you will be treated to a view of stalactites in every shape and size imaginable. This gorge is so narrow that the walls above almost touch, a place known as Yixiantian, which means a "Rift in the Sky".

Another gorge included in your trip down the Shennong Stream is called Yingwu, which means "parrot". This too is simply a gorgeous area that boasts sweet smelling flowers and dense green vegetation. From this vantage point, the three-colored springs spray the air. You will also discover the Swallow Cave, a unique place where virtually thousands of short-beaked golden swallows live.

The third gorge along your trip on the Shennong Stream is Longchuan. With a reputation for its magical beauty, this gorge is stunning with rocky cliffs, one in particular known as the Peak Baota, translating to "tower". This cliff reaches upwards, an incredible site where archaeologists have discovered a number of ancient battle tools. Each stop along the sampan tour of the Shennong Stream offers something special, making this a perfect experience.