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Located in Muyu Town, Shennongjia Forest District, Hubei Province, the Shennong Altar serves as the southern gateway and central tourist destination for Shennongjia. The renowned Xiangxi River flows gently southward from this site, and the scenic area, nestled among verdant mountains, offers a tranquil and beautiful setting. This attracts countless visitors from Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, and overseas Chinese who seek to trace their roots and pay homage to the Yan Emperor Shennong, the ancestor of the Chinese people.
The main structure is a massive statue of Shennong, a human figure with the head of an ox, 21 meters tall and 35 meters wide. Standing amidst lush green mountains, the statue, with the earth as its body, eyes slightly closed, appears to contemplate the mysteries of the universe. Within the sacrificial area, underfoot are circular and square patterns representing heaven and earth. Within the square representing earth, five colored stones represent the Five Elements: gold, wood, water, fire, and earth.
Subtropical monsoon climate;
Suitable for all seasons, with more comfortable temperatures in summer and autumn
60 yuan
9:00-18:00
The Shennong Altar is an ancient site in Shennongjia, Hubei, believed to be dedicated to Shennong, the legendary Emperor of the Five Grains, who is also known as the Father of Chinese Agriculture. It holds deep cultural and spiritual significance for the local people, marking a place where ancient rituals and offerings were made to honor the god of agriculture.
The Shennong Altar is located within the Shennongjia Nature Reserve in Hubei. The best way to get there is by taxi or private car from the nearest town, as public transportation options are limited. Walking and hiking are required to reach the altar from the nearest access point.
The Shennong Altar is open year-round, with the best time to visit being in spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant. Morning visits are recommended to enjoy the serene atmosphere before the crowds arrive.
The entrance fee is typically around 50-70 CNY, but it may vary depending on the season. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online via the official website or other platforms offering entry to the Shennongjia reserve.
Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory, but it’s advisable during the peak season or holidays to avoid long waits. It’s best to book 1-2 days in advance if possible.
To fully explore the Shennong Altar and its surroundings, plan to spend around 1.5 to 2 hours. This allows time for hiking to the site, exploring the altar, and enjoying the surrounding views.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Some tours may offer basic English language support. Audio guides are available in Mandarin and can be rented at the site.
The best photography spots are around the altar, offering panoramic views of the Shennongjia mountains and surrounding forests. Early morning or late afternoon light creates the most dramatic photography opportunities.
Start by hiking to the altar, taking time to enjoy the views along the way. Spend time exploring the altar itself and then follow the surrounding trails to experience the natural beauty of the area. End your visit by relaxing in the nearby rest areas.
Night visits and light shows are not available at the Shennong Altar. The site is best visited during daylight hours to fully appreciate the natural surroundings and historical significance.
The Shennong Altar can be crowded during holidays and weekends. The least crowded times are during weekdays and off-peak seasons, particularly in winter and late autumn.
Basic facilities, including toilets, water stations, and rest areas, are available near the altar. Small shops selling snacks and souvenirs are also present near the entrance. More extensive amenities can be found in Shennongjia town.
The hike to the Shennong Altar involves moderate to strenuous walking, making it less accessible for elderly or disabled visitors. Children can enjoy the site but may need assistance with the hike.
Mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are accepted, but it is advisable to carry some cash, especially for small purchases or in areas where electronic payment options are limited.
There are small local restaurants and cafes near the base of the reserve, offering traditional Chinese meals. For more dining options, head to Shennongjia town, where a wider selection of restaurants is available.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in some local eateries, mainly consisting of vegetable stir-fries and tofu-based dishes. Halal food options are limited but may be available in larger towns nearby.
There are guesthouses and mid-range hotels in Shennongjia town, around 30-40 minutes away by car. For more luxurious stays, accommodations in nearby cities like Yichang can be explored.
Souvenir shops near the altar offer handmade jewelry, local teas, herbal products, and wooden crafts. Common souvenirs include carved figurines, traditional tea sets, and local honey.
After visiting, taxis or private cars are the most convenient options for continuing your journey. For long-distance travel, buses and trains are available from nearby Shennongjia town or larger cities like Yichang and Shiyan.
