Chasing Autumn in Shennongjia for Five Days: My True Feelings and Suggestions

I will always cherish the autumn in Shennongjia — chasing autumn in Shennongjia, Hubei for five days, here are my true feelings and travel tips~

1. The most beautiful season in Shennongjia is from mid-October to mid-November. The autumn colors change over time. In late October, Shennongding, Dajiuhu, and Tianyan Scenic Areas are the most beautiful, while in early to mid-November, Guanmenshan, Shennongtan, and Tianshengqiao are even more stunning;

2. Shennongjia is a forest area directly administered by Hubei Province. You can fly to Shennongjia Hongping Airport (flights are not daily) or take the high-speed train to Xingshan Station;

3. We took the high-speed train to Xingshan Station, then rented a city SUV in Shenzhou. The pick-up and drop-off locations are both at the high-speed train station, which is very convenient. Insurance for five days cost over 1,000 yuan;

4. If flying, it’s recommended to stay the first night in Hongping Town, which is close to the airport. Nearby attractions include Tianyan Scenic Area and Hongping Gallery. If visiting Guanmenshan, Shennongtan, Tianshengqiao, or Shennongding, stay in Muyutown. For Dajiuhu, stay in Pingqian Ancient Town;

5. If you only visit one attraction, Shennongding is a must. If you have two days, it’s recommended to visit Shennongding and Dajiuhu, with breathtaking scenery along the way;

6. If you have time, stay one night in Pingqian Ancient Town (or inside Dajiuhu Scenic Area). You can watch the morning mist the next day. After rain and clear skies, be sure to arrive at Shennong Valley or Tianjiling before 8 a.m. to see the spectacular sea of clouds over Shennongding;

7. Shennongjia has six major scenic areas. You can buy a combined ticket or individual tickets for each area. It takes at least three to four days to visit all. If time allows, buying a combined ticket is recommended;

8. Don’t miss the internet-famous tree at Shennongding, the Rainbow Bridge at Tianyan Scenic Area, Lake No. 5 at Dajiuhu, the Panda Pavilion at Guanmenshan, the caves at Tianshengqiao Scenic Area for spelunking, and the Shennong Altar to learn about the story of Shennong;

9. The roads in Shennongjia are in good condition but are all mountain roads with many curves and narrow lanes. Drive carefully if self-driving. There are also shuttle buses between the six scenic areas, so it’s convenient even without a car;

10. It’s a bit cold in Shennongjia this season, with temperatures below 10°C in the early morning and evening. It’s especially cold when it rains. Remember to bring a down jacket or windbreaker, as well as thermal pants or tights;

11. If self-driving, it’s recommended to stay the first night in Muyutown, visit Shennongding the next morning, then go to Dajiuhu in the afternoon to mainly explore Lake No. 4 and Lake No. 5. Stay overnight at Dajiuhu, watch the morning mist the next day, then return or visit Tianyan Scenic Area. On the third day, visit Guanmenshan, Shennongtan, and Tianshengqiao;

If you missed the autumn in Altay and Arxan, why not chase autumn in Shennongjia~