Live Your Best Lives
The Nine Women Ponds are the central attraction of the Jiunvtan Scenic Area. They include the Jiunvtan, Dayutan, Qingtan, Xiutan, Lingtan, Longtan, Yuetan, Jingtan, and Tongxintan. Each pond ranges in size from 200 to 400 square meters and is 4 to 8 meters deep. The nine ponds are connected from top to bottom, with a small waterfall between each two ponds, known as the Jiulian Waterfall.
No matter from which angle you look at the water, mountains, rocks and flowers in Jiunvtan Scenic Area, they are both exquisitely crafted and in perfect harmony. It can truly be said to be a natural landscape that combines nature and magic, culture and objects, and water, mountains, trees, rocks and relics.
Tianyimen
Tianyi Gate is located midway up a mountainside densely covered with weeds. With only a foot of space to move around, one must hold their breath and sidle past. Once past Tianyi Gate, the scenery beyond is truly a world away. Mountains high and low are arranged in a staggered pattern; slender and slender peaks are evenly proportioned and defined. The mountains are dotted with exotic trees and fragrant flowers, accompanied by the chirping of cicadas and birds. Even the shrubs and trees that cover the mountain are crowded and add interest: trees of the same color grow in rows and patches, from top to bottom, high to low, in their own rows and patches.
"Dingshan King" Stone
Located slightly above Tianmen Gate, this large stone weighs approximately 80 tons. Sitting on it offers a panoramic view of Jiunvtan. On the stone, one can clearly see the ancient inscriptions "Dingshan Dawang" and an image of a dragonfly. The origins of these inscriptions and images remain a mystery.
Heavenly Bowl
The Heavenly Bowl is a natural wonder of Jiunutan. It lies on the edge of a giant rock above Big Woman Pond, tilted southwest, with its mouth facing the sky. It has a diameter of 1.5 meters and a depth of 1 meter. Its most unique feature is the pattern, which progresses from the outside inward, gradually becoming lighter and heavier, ultimately forming a white bowl bottom. It seems as if it is about to be filled with rice, ready to entertain tourists.
Jiunvtan is a natural scenic area in Dawu County, Xiaogan, known for its tranquil water features, lush greenery, and opportunities for eco-tourism. It represents the rural and ecological charm of Hubei province.
Located in Dawu County, Xiaogan. Visitors can reach Jiunvtan by taxi or private car. Public buses may drop visitors at nearby points, with a short walk required to access the main area.
Open year-round, typically from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Spring and autumn are ideal for comfortable weather and vibrant scenery.
Entry is generally free. Special events or guided tours may have a small fee at the entrance.
No advance booking is required for regular visits. For special events or group tours, booking 1–2 weeks ahead is recommended.
1–2 hours for a casual walk; 3–4 hours if including nearby trails and nature observation.
Guided tours are occasionally offered in Chinese. English or other language tours require prior arrangement.
Begin at the main entrance, follow the water trails, explore the forested paths, and return via scenic lookout points for photos.
Night visits are generally not available. Special guided tours may be arranged during festivals or group events.
Weekends and holidays can be busier. Weekdays are quieter and more peaceful.
Basic facilities include public toilets, picnic areas, and small local food vendors near the entrance.
Paths are mostly natural; elderly and children should be cautious. Wheelchair accessibility is limited.
Cash is recommended for small vendors; some areas may accept mobile payments.
Small local eateries and food stalls are available near the entrance or in nearby villages.
Vegetarian options may be found in local eateries; halal options are limited and require prior planning.
Guesthouses and small hotels are available in Dawu County town, about 10–20 minutes by car from Jiunvtan.
Souvenirs include local handicrafts, snacks, and small traditional items.
Return to Dawu County town by taxi or bus, then connect to Xiaogan city or regional train stations for onward travel.
