Hongping Painting

Introducing Hongping Painting

Hongping Gallery, also known as the Shennong Ladder, is located in central Shennongjia. It comprises Eighteen Peaks, Seven Ridges, Four Villages, Eight Rocks, Nine Stones, Six Caves, Three Waterfalls, Seven Rivers, Five Pools, and Seven Bridges. Strange, bizarre, dangerous, and beautiful, it offers a myriad of unique features. This grand canyon nestled within the primeval forest, stretching approximately 15 kilometers from Changshanba to the majestic Hongqi Rock, is a natural forest oxygen bar, boasting clear streams and lush trees.

In the 1970s, the famous painter Zhang Bu sketched here. In the 1980s, the famous painter painted a 150-meter-long large-scale painting group "Wonders of Shennongjia" here. The works of the two painters were exhibited in Japan, the United States, Canada and other places, and once again aroused strong response. Hongping Gallery has since gained its name and become famous all over the world.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon climate;

Autumn is the best time

Tickets

Adult ticket: 40 yuan (Ticket prices vary greatly, please refer to the announcement of the scenic spot on the day)

Children under 1.2 meters in height and senior citizens over 70 years old are free of charge; senior citizens between 60 and 69 years old can get half-price ticket with their receipt.

Attraction opening hours

7:00-18:00 (subject to seasonal changes, subject to the scenic spot announcement on the day)

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Most Popular FAQs for Hongping Painting

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Hongping Painting is known for its historical significance in preserving the traditional art of the region. The paintings reflect local cultural beliefs, customs, and natural beauty, showcasing the rich heritage of the Shennongjia area in Hubei Province.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Hongping Painting is located in Shennongjia, Hubei. It can be reached by taxi from the nearby town center, or visitors can take a local bus to the nearest stop and walk the remaining distance to the site. There are no metro services in the area.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The site is typically open from 9 AM to 5 PM. The best times to visit are during spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant and the surrounding nature adds to the picturesque scenery, enhancing the art experience.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee for Hongping Painting is usually around ¥30-50. Tickets can be purchased on-site, and it is recommended to buy them in person as the option for online booking may not be widely available.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is not required, except for special events or peak tourist seasons. If you visit during holidays or weekends, it's a good idea to buy tickets a day or two in advance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to Hongping Painting generally takes 1-2 hours. This allows enough time to fully appreciate the artwork, take photographs, and learn about the techniques and history behind the paintings.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The main highlight is the extensive collection of traditional Chinese paintings. The exhibition showcases both historic and contemporary works that highlight the area’s natural landscapes and local culture. Don’t miss the area dedicated to landscape art, which offers stunning depictions of the region’s mountainous terrain.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and they provide in-depth insights into the paintings and the cultural history behind them. English-language audio guides may be available upon request, but they are limited.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

For photography, the best spots are near the traditional paintings and the exhibits showcasing the local landscapes. The natural light during the afternoon provides ideal lighting for photos of the artworks.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by viewing the historical paintings that tell the story of the region’s development. Then, explore the modern exhibits to contrast the evolution of the local artistic style. Conclude with a walk around the outdoor garden area, where some artwork is displayed in natural settings.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Currently, there are no night visits or light shows available at Hongping Painting. Special tours may be arranged during peak seasons or for large groups by prior request.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

It tends to be less crowded during weekdays and outside of Chinese national holidays. The least crowded times are in the early morning or late afternoon, particularly in the spring and fall months.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

The site offers basic facilities such as toilets, rest areas, and small food stalls offering local snacks and refreshments. There are also souvenir shops selling local handicrafts and small art pieces.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The site is accessible to elderly and children, although there may be some areas with uneven ground. For disabled visitors, access may be limited due to the lack of paved pathways in certain sections.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is commonly accepted at Hongping Painting, but mobile payment options like Alipay and WeChat Pay are also widely used. Credit card payments are not typically accepted.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Inside the site, there are small stalls selling local food, but for a wider variety, visitors can head to nearby Shennongjia town where several restaurants and cafes offer more dining options.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian food options are available, especially dishes made with local vegetables. Halal and vegan options are limited but can be found in Shennongjia town.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several guesthouses and hotels in Shennongjia town, offering a range of options from budget to mid-range accommodations. The closest hotels are within 30 minutes of the painting site.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Shennongjia Nature Reserve, known for its biodiversity and scenic hiking trails, as well as the Tianmen Mountain and the famous Golden Monkey Research Base.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops selling local art pieces, traditional handicrafts like embroidery and bamboo crafts, as well as prints of the paintings on display at Hongping Painting.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

The best transportation options are to take a taxi or private car back to Shennongjia town, or use local buses to continue the journey to nearby attractions like the Shennongjia Nature Reserve.