Shibatan: The Wizard of Oz in Hubei, a journey of purification of body and mind

#September2024 The Eighteen Ponds Scenic Area is located in Sanlicheng Town, Dawu County, Xiaogan City, Hubei Province. It is adjacent to Jigong Mountain in Xinyang City, Henan Province to the west and Wushengguan in Guangshui City to the south. This place is famous for its "beautiful peaks, long valleys, and numerous waterfalls and pools". The scenic area is rich in natural landscapes, with deep mountain canyons over 10 kilometers long, as well as numerous pools and waterfalls. ### Reasons for travel recommendation 1. **Natural beauty**: Eighteen Ponds attracts tourists with its clear water, cascading waterfalls and rich natural ecology. 2. **Cultural legend**: Each pool has its own unique legend, such as Baima Pool, Black Dragon Pool, etc., which adds to the mystery. 3. **Suitable for all seasons**: Enjoy the flowers in spring, escape the heat in summer, see the red leaves in autumn, and enjoy the snow in winter. The scenery is different in each season. 4. **Leisure and Entertainment**: There are also entertainment facilities such as Wildlife World, Glass Bridge, Glass Slide, etc. in the scenic area. ### Famous Attractions - **White Horse Pond**: According to legend, this is where the Jade Emperor washes his horses, and the water in the pond is crystal clear. - **Xiangshuitan**: It is named because of the sound of the waterfall that is like thunder. - **Golden Hook Hanging Gourd**: A vivid name, the waterfall has a unique landscape. - **Chuanshigou**: There are lifelike stone boats and strange stone landscapes. ### Play Route Guide **Recommended one-day tour route**: 1. Entrance -> Shibatan Grand Canyon -> Baimatan -> Xiangshuitan -> Jingou Diaohulu -> Chuanshigou -> Exit **Recommended two-day tour route**: - Day 1: Same as above - Day 2: Ebei Wildlife World -> Galaxy Town -> 9D Sound Effect Glass Bridge -> Glass Slide ### Food Guide Xiaogan is famous for its rich Hubei cuisine, and restaurants near Shibatan offer authentic Hubei specialties such as: - **Xiaogan rice wine**: local specialty, sweet but not greasy. - **Three Fresh Bean Curd**: A Wuhan specialty snack with a strong bean flavor. - **Hot dry noodles**: Hubei classic breakfast with unique taste. ### Accommodation Guide There are a variety of accommodation options in Shibatan Scenic Area, including: - **Budget Hotel**: moderately priced, clean and tidy. - **Resort**: Provide a more comfortable accommodation experience. - **B&B**: Experience local life and feel the local flavor. ### Places worth visiting nearby - **Xinyang Jigong Mountain**: a summer resort with beautiful scenery. - **Wushengguan, Guangshui City**: A famous historical and cultural city with rich cultural heritage. ### Summarize Shibatan Scenic Area is a tourist destination that combines natural scenery, cultural legends and modern entertainment. Whether you are seeking a tranquil natural journey or an exciting entertainment experience, Shibatan can satisfy your needs.