Sumadang Scenic Area (苏马荡景区), located in Moudao Town, Lichuan City, Hubei Province, boasts an elevation of over 1,500 meters and covers an area of 29 square kilometers. One side of this area features the enchanting Cidonggou Canyon with its crisscrossing wonders, while on the other side stretches an endless expanse of vast and misty forest, accompanied by the largest grassland in south China, Mount Qiyue.
In the Tujia ethnic language, Sumadang translates to “the place where tigers drink water.” The area is characterized by dense forests, pleasant coolness, tranquility, and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for leisure, vacations, and relaxation. Every May, the scenic area comes to life with the vibrant blooms of silver azaleas, red, purple, and white rhododendrons, creating a picturesque “rhododendron corridor” that spans for miles. Additionally, the region is blessed with high-quality mineral springs, unique to the quartz sand landscape.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Sumadang Scenic Area
- Other Attractions in Lichuan
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | Half a day |
| Ticket Price | 80 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 9.00 – 17.00 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-023-88159880 |
Location and Transportation
Sumadang Scenic Area is located in Moudao Town, Lichuan City, within the jurisdiction of Enshi, on the southern bank of the Yangtze River, and shares its western border with Wanzhou District in Chongqing.
To reach Sumadang, take a high-speed train to Lichuan Railway Station. Upon arrival, transfer to the shuttle bus heading to Moudao Town. The journey to Moudao takes about an hour. Upon arrival, walk along the street for approximately 200 meters and transfer to a vehicle bound for Sumadang to complete the journey.
Highlights of Sumadang Scenic Area
Kingdom of Flora
Sumadang is hailed as a botanical kingdom, where researchers from institutions such as the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the University of Chicago, the University of Tokyo, and the Irish Plant Exploration Team have discovered over 60 rare and endangered plant species. Notable finds include the silver azalea, heterophyllous liangwang tea, wo zhang qiu, red bean pine, gongtong, water red tree, mi hua tree, acacia tree, and yellow fir. The region is rich in diverse wildlife, medicinal herbs, fungi, and wild vegetables.
Summer Retreat
Situated at an elevation of 1500 meters, Sumadang becomes a cool haven during the summer months. The pleasant climate, with temperatures typically ranging from 22-24°C, has earned it the nickname “heavenly forest sea, underground cool haven, and summer paradise” by the locals from Wanzhou, Chongqing. The refreshing atmosphere makes it an ideal escape from the heat.
Scenic Paradise
Sumadang is a natural observatory offering breathtaking panoramic views. From vantage points, visitors can marvel at the beauty of Qi Yue Mountain, Du Ting Mountain, Cidonggou Canyon, Yang’er Mountain, Chuantou Fortress, as well as smaller landmarks like Shitong Fortress, Hongfeng Mountain, Rentou Fortress, and Luming Pass. The beauty of Sumadang’s rhododendrons, sea of clouds, sunsets, snow scenes, red leaves, and sunrise has made it a favorite among photographers. The Sumadang Photography Association has designated it as a creative base, attracting photographers and artists from all over the country, earning it the title of “China’s Most Beautiful Small Place.”
Mountain Village Culture
Surrounding Sumadang are seven mountain villages, including Rentou Fortress, Shitong Fortress, Matou Dazhai, Matou Xiaozhai, Yumu Village, Chuantou Fortress, and Nü’er Fortress. The local culture, encompassing traditional dwellings, cuisine, clothing, and customs, has been preserved in its pristine state. Annual events such as the Rhododendron Cultural Tourism Festival and weekly Tujia song and dance performances during the summer provide an immersive experience into the authentic Tujia way of life.
