shennong stream

shennong stream, a tributary of the yangtze river, rises in the southern part of shennongjia natural reserve. it joins the yangtze at xirangkou in hubei's badongcounty. with crystal clear steam flows swiftly from north to south through deep gorges, a sampan tour will allow you to experience a speedy adventure along this newly opened unspoiled river. an arrow-like sampan glides past the four-kilometer-long mianzhu gorge and then enters the main stream of the shennong. the boat glides over the cobble-strewn riverbed with its bottom often banging against the stones. it is not without risk yet exhilarating. it is thrilling to battle with the nature.

another striking scene is "tracking through the rapids". trackers begin their heavy work of making many tons of cypress go uphill on a fiercely resisting roadway of water. the irresistible force of their cooperation and the bronze-colored skins represent the masculine and bravery.

besides the rafting and sampan, you may also be dazzled by riverside scenery. like the neighboring three little gorges in wushancounty, the ancient plank path runs along the river, mysterious ancient coffins hanging high on the cliff, wild monkeys running under the primitive trees and bushes. dark green clear water, dark green trees, dark green mountains along the stream stretch and disappear into faraway.