Dajiuhu National Wetland Park (大九湖国家湿地公园), also known as Jiuhu Ping (九湖坪), is nestled amidst a picturesque landscape surrounded by a range of mountains, with the highest peak reaching 2800 meters, forming a natural barrier. With a total area of 9320 hectares and an average elevation of 1730 meters, it represents a typical subalpine marsh wetland climate. The park boasts nine major mountain ridges running east to west, adorned with dense forests, creating a majestic ambiance. Nine meandering streams flow down from the mountain ridges like ethereal ribbons in the midst of clouds and mist, forming nine sparkling lakes, giving Dajiuhu its name (nine big lakes).
Renowned for its beauty as a “high mountain basin” and a “natural grassland,” Dajiuhu features breathtaking natural scenery and a pleasant climate. The wetland is adorned with abundant alpine meadows and wetland fern species, including 14 nationally protected plants. The park is also home to rare animals such as storks, cranes, and sika deer. Dajiuhu National Wetland Park captivates visitors with its diverse ecosystems, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and a sanctuary for the conservation of unique flora and fauna.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Dajiuhu National Wetland Park
- Vlog about Dajiuhu National Wetland Park
- Other Attractions in Shennongjia
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | Half a day |
| Ticket Price | 100 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 7.00 – 17.00 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-400-994-2333 |
Location and Transportation
Dajiuhu National Wetland Park is situated on the southwestern frontier of Shennongjia, Hubei Province, positioned atop the watershed between the Yangtze River and the Han River.
To get to Dajiuhu National Wetland Park, begin your journey by taking a high-speed train to Xingshan Station (兴山站). From Xingshan, a 1.5-hour car ride will transport you to Muyu Town (木鱼镇) in Shennongjia, where you can find many cars and coaches to the park.
Highlights of Dajiuhu National Wetland Park
Deer Sanctuary
Nestled within the scenic expanse of Dajiuhu, the Deer Sanctuary stands as a haven for a thriving population of sika deer. Surrounded by towering mountains with a flat and lush landscape, the area provides an ideal habitat for these majestic creatures. Visitors can embark on a delightful journey through the park on a small train, which conveniently connects the Second Lake to the Sixth Lake, with the Deer Sanctuary located near the Fifth Lake. The picturesque scene of deer leisurely strolling beneath the blue sky, amid green grass and rolling hills, creates a captivating and serene ambiance. Beyond observation, visitors can enter the sanctuary, engage in feeding sessions, and experience intimate encounters with these graceful animals.
Hongping Gallery (Shennong Sky ladder)
Positioned northwest of the Shennongjia Forest District and in proximity to Hongping Town, the Hongping Gallery, also known as Shennong Sky Ladder, is a breathtaking canyon nestled within the pristine wilderness. Stretching approximately 15 kilometers from Changshanba to the magnificent Hongqiyan, the gallery features crystal-clear streams and lush vegetation, forming a natural forest oxygen bar. With a considerable depth, visitors can tailor their exploration based on personal preferences, determining the duration and distance of their journey through this enchanting landscape.
Local Folk Customs
The inhabitants of Shennongjia, predominantly farmers, have a common habit of smoking, especially with their homegrown tobacco known as “dry tobacco.” Nearly every local farmer possesses a roughly one-meter-long tobacco pipe, and each household has a “fire pit.” Sitting by the fire pit, smoking becomes exceptionally convenient. When leaving the pit, they extinguish the matchstick on the tobacco pot. Some tobacco pots even have a protruding sharp angle, serving as a makeshift cane when venturing outdoors. This cultural practice offers a glimpse into the daily lives and traditions of the locals, providing a unique and immersive experience for visitors to Shennongjia.
The snow has melted a bit, but it’s still lovely! There are few people, and the thick layer of snow is perfect for some fun!
The winter snow scenery at Dajiu Lake is almost deserted, offering a unique charm.
Here, far from the hustle and bustle of the city, a thin layer of mist often blankets the area in the early morning, making it feel like a fairyland. Walking along the lakeside path is a perfect way to enjoy the stunning scenery of Dajiu Lake. In late autumn, the light rain adds a touch of chill to the air, and with few tourists around, a leisurely stroll along the lakeside boardwalk allows one to embrace the rain and listen… Read more »
I initially didn’t have high expectations for Dajiu Lake, but as we strolled along the lakeside boardwalk, looking at the blue waters and the colorful trees, it suddenly felt beautiful, like a painting. If you have ample time, I highly recommend walking along the boardwalk from Lake Four to Lake Five; the autumn scenery along the way is stunning, with plenty of great photo spots. Unfortunately, we were a bit rushed, so we didn’t get a chance to hike the… Read more »
The feeling of watching the morning mist is just like that of watching the sunrise! I was really looking forward to it, and it turned out to be a delightful surprise!
Yesterday, I visited Dajiuhu. I got up at 5 AM and took the first bus in at 6 AM, heading straight to Lake 5. The morning weather was quite chilly, so I was glad I brought extra clothes! It was definitely worth it and absolutely spectacular!
Dajiu Lake is perfect for enjoying the morning mist and evening glow; the daytime scenery depends on luck. To catch the morning fog, it’s best to stay in Pingqian Town.
Today is overcast. Without the blue sky and white clouds at DaJiuhu, it lacks the fairy-tale feeling. However, it’s still nice to take a walk. Recently, the weather at Shennongjia Scenic Area has been unpredictable, you can’t rely on the weather forecast.
The deer at Luyuan (鹿苑) are really not afraid of people. They even nod at you after feeding them, super gentle and well-behaved.
Da Jiu Hu Wetland’s main features include wetland landscapes, meteorological landscapes, and geological funnel landscapes. The wetland landscapes consist of vast areas of native flowers formed by various rare plants never seen before, peat moss, waterfowl, black and white swans, herds of native sika deer, and a variety of bird species. The meteorological landscapes include morning mist between 5:30 and 8:00 in the morning, and evening glow between 19:00 and 20:00, attracting most people with the scenery of morning mist,… Read more »
The morning mist at Da Jiu Hu wetland is so beautiful! You must take the first bus in the morning, which departs at 6 am.
Lake 1: It is a man-made lake and not open to the public. Lake 2: Swan Park, very beautiful to watch the sunset! (Picture 2,3) Highly recommended! Get off at Lake 2 and walk directly inside the trail to Lake 6! Walking, stopping, taking photos, all in less than 1 hour, without getting tired! Slowing down to feel and breathe in the fresh air, enjoying the cool breeze at Dajiuhu is a relaxing experience! Walking around leisurely in the high… Read more »