Shennong Stream
神农溪
A canyon stream rising in the Shennong Forest and flowing into the Yangtze at Badong. Riding a 'pea pod' flat-bottomed boat, hauled through rapids by Tujia trackers, is one of the most distinctive experiences in the Three Gorges.
The Shennong Stream is about 60 km long. It rises on the southern slope of the Shennong Forest and flows into the Yangtze on the west side of Badong County. Along the way it passes through gorges including Mianzhu Gorge, Parrot Gorge, and Longchang Gorge, with towering cliffs on both sides and ancient hanging coffins visible on the rock faces. The area is a national 5A tourist attraction (Shennong Stream Trackers' Culture Tourism Area). Typically you take a sightseeing boat into the gorge, then switch to a local 'pea pod' wooden boat to float downstream. At shallow rapids, Tujia trackers wade in to haul the boat while singing trackers' work songs. At the end, you can watch Tujia song and dance performances at the dock. The whole trip takes about 4 to 5 hours. Ticket prices and schedules follow the scenic area's announcements. You can board at the Badong County dock, and Yangtze cruises often include it as a shore excursion. Wear a life jacket on the boat, and protect yourself from the sun in summer.
Opening hours
Approx. 08:00–17:00 (flight times set by the park)
Nearby sights
- Badong Yangtze River Bridge
- Qiufeng Pavilion
- Barenhe Scenic Area
- Lianzixi Gorge
- Wuyuan Cave
- Gezihe Stone Forest
- Lvcongpo Ski Resort
- Yesanguan Town