Bailihuang Grassland Scenic Area (百里荒草原风景区) is nestled in Yichang City, Hubei Province, with a total area of 40 square kilometers and an average elevation of 1100 meters, reaching a peak elevation of 1297 meters. Its name, translating to “Hundred-Mile Desolation,” originates from ancient times when the area was known for its vast, uninhabited expanses extending a hundred miles in all directions. The historical roots of Bailihuang can be traced back to the Song Dynasty when it was identified as one of the nine natural landscapes of Yiling County by Ouyang Xiu, a literary giant.
The scenic beauty of Bailihuang has not only been appreciated by nature enthusiasts but also captured the attention of filmmakers. In April and August 2010, scenes from the film and TV series “Under the Hawthorn Tree,” directed by Zhang Yimou and Li Lü, were shot in Bailihuang Grassland. This cinematic exposure has turned Bailihuang into a pilgrimage site for tourists seeking the picturesque landscapes portrayed in the film and the romantic ambiance associated with “Under the Hawthorn Tree.”
Bailihuang Grassland encompasses six core scenic areas that captivate visitors: the Comprehensive Reception Service Area, Hawthorn Tree Cultural Leisure Area, Forest Snow Resort Area, Cloudy Horse Riding Amusement Area, Outdoor Sports Adventure Zone, and Tent Camping Barbecue Area.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Bailihuang Grassland
- Vlog about Bailihuang Grassland
- Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
- Other Attractions in Yichang Suburbs
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | Half a day |
| Ticket Price | Admission: 52 RMB Skiing: 240 RMB Shuttle Bus: 30 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 8.00 – 20.00 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0717-7971111 0086-400-0717-856 |
Location and Transportation
Bailihuang Grassland is located in the Fenxiang Township of Yiling District, Yichang City, Hubei Province, China. It is situated approximately 55 kilometers from the central urban area of Yichang and about 78 kilometers from the Three Gorges Dam.
To reach Bailihuang Grassland, visitors have the option to take the dedicated shuttle buses from either Yichang East Railway Station or Yiling Passenger Transport Station.
Yiling Passenger Transport Station to Bailihuang Grassland:
- Departure Times: 9:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 5:00 PM (Northern Gate)
Yichang East Railway Station to Bailihuang Grassland:
- Departure Time: 9:00 AM
Highlights of Bailihuang Grassland
Seasonal Beauty
Each season at Bailihuang offers a unique charm. In spring, the meadows are adorned with wildflowers, emitting fragrant aromas. Summer brings a cool respite amid lush greenery and blooming flowers. Autumn blankets the land with grazing cattle and sheep, painting a pastoral scene. Even winter transforms the landscape into a natural ice and snow paradise.
Unlike the vast grasslands of the north, Bailihuang Grassland features rounded hillocks resembling breasts, one after another, interspersed by valleys. Clusters of emerald clover and fescue grass adorn these hillocks and valleys, resembling rolling waves of green under the white clouds, evoking a sense of wonder and imagination.
Dwarf Stone Forest
One of the most astonishing features of Bailihuang is its peculiar “Dwarf Stone Forest.” These bizarre rock formations, tinged with gray and white, mimic skeletal remains or twisted roots. They take on shapes resembling various animals, presenting an otherworldly spectacle against the lush green landscape. Standing independently, these stones are slender and relatively short, the tallest reaching barely 4 meters, with most being around 1 meter tall. The most concentrated area, the “Plum Blossom Pool Dwarf Stone Forest,” spans 5 acres, where white stone formations resemble a flock of sheep climbing from the base to the summit of the mountain, covering the entire hilltop.
Vlog about Bailihuang Grassland
Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
Expansive Area: Bailihuang Grassland is vast, so even if there are many visitors, they are spread out, and it doesn’t feel crowded. There are numerous activities to enjoy, such as slides and glass bridges, all of which are worthwhile.
Recommended Route: It’s advisable to start at the southern parking lot, purchase tickets, and then take the scenic shuttle bus to the northernmost point. From there, you can explore your way back, typically getting off at the Children’s Square. This location is close to attractions like the Glass Skywalk, Deer Park, and the high-speed grass slide. Along the way, you’ll encounter rice fields and a small grove of apricot trees, making it especially picturesque in autumn.
Camping Option: If you decide on a spontaneous camping trip, the scenic area offers tents for rent. Be sure to bring warm clothing, especially for the chilly nights.
Clothing: The temperature difference between day and night on the mountain is significant. While you can wear short sleeves and skirts during the day, be prepared for cold spots where the sun doesn’t reach, and bring warm clothing for the windy nights. Additionally, don’t forget sunscreen as the UV radiation can be intense.
Food: There are few dining options within the scenic area, and they can be pricey and challenging to find. It’s recommended to bring your own food to ensure you have enough to eat.
