Shennongjia / Plank Wall Rock

#November Destinations 2025 Banbiyan Scenic Area: A Maze of Strange Rocks and the Habitat of the "Wild Man" Legend Banbiyan is a unique and core scenic spot within the Shennongding Scenic Area, at an altitude of approximately 2590 meters. It is renowned for its densely packed, uniquely shaped stone forests and the rich legend of the "Wild Man," earning it the titles of "Wild Man's Lair" and "Stone Forest Maze." It is not only a paradise for geology enthusiasts but also a magical place that inspires the boundless imagination of all visitors. Key Highlights and Experiences 1. A Natural Stone Carving Art Gallery · Key Highlight: The rocks of Banbiyan belong to Cambrian dolomite. Over millions of years of weathering, dissolution, and glacial erosion, they have formed strangely shaped rocks. They appear as if sculpted by divine hands, full of figurative charm. · Classic Figurative Rocks: · "Golden Rooster Crowing at Dawn": The most famous and iconic landscape, shaped like a rooster crowing with its neck outstretched. * **"Root of Life":** A masculine stone symbolizing strength and vitality. * **"Malachite," "Camel Peak," etc.:** Numerous stone peaks await your imagination, allowing you to name and tell their stories. 2. **The Origin of the "Wild Man" Legend** * **Key Highlights:** The Banbi Rock area is densely forested with numerous caves, making it the most concentrated area of ​​the Shennongjia "Wild Man" legend. Over the years, numerous so-called "Wild Man" sightings and the discovery of suspected footprints and hair have occurred here. * **Experience Value:** Walking along the winding boardwalk through the stone forest and arrow bamboo thickets, you'll unconsciously assume the role of an explorer, experiencing the tension and excitement of searching for unknown creatures, adding a strong sense of mystery to your journey. 3. **A Symphony of Alpine Arrow Bamboo and Fir** * **Key Highlights:** The scenic area is covered with dense alpine arrow bamboo forests, interspersed with vigorous Bashan fir trees. Against the backdrop of verdant bamboo and ancient trees, the Stone Forest appears even more rustic and desolate. * **Experience Value:** This is an excellent location for capturing the unique scenery of Shennongjia, where the ruggedness of the stones contrasts sharply with the softness of the bamboo forest. 📍**Visit Value and Experience** * **Inspire Limitless Imagination:** Every stone here tells a story, making it perfect for families and photography enthusiasts to discover and create their own "Stone Chronicles." * **Immerse Yourself in a Mysterious Atmosphere:** Step into the legendary habitat of the "Yeren" (wild man) and experience a real-life magical adventure. * **Feel the Magic of Geology:** Observe up close the traces of glaciers and wind and rain sculpting the earth, receiving a vivid geology lesson. 📍****Practical Information** * **Address:** Shennongding Scenic Area, Shennongjia Forest District, Hubei Province (Shennongding Scenic Area entrance ticket required). * **Transportation:** Access to the Shennongding Scenic Area requires a car or chartered vehicle. Follow the main road; the designated parking lot is "Banbiyan." • Visiting Time: We recommend allowing 1-1.5 hours. The scenic area features a circular walking trail, taking approximately 1 hour to complete. • Visiting Suggestions: • Trail Conditions: The trail consists of stone steps and wooden boardwalks, with an overall moderate difficulty level. However, some sections have steps, so please wear comfortable walking shoes. • Weather: Due to the high altitude, the weather is changeable and often shrouded in mist. While foggy weather obstructs visibility, it adds to the ethereal and mysterious atmosphere of the Stone Forest; sunny days offer unobstructed views, ideal for photography. • Safety First: Please always stay on the designated trails. Do not climb rocks to find better angles, as this could lead to slips or getting lost. • Combined Tour: This tour can be combined with nearby attractions such as Shennong Valley, the Shennong Peak Watchtower, and Taiziya, making it a convenient and efficient route. Banbi Rock is a fascinating and suspenseful chapter in your Shennongjia journey. Unlike Shennong Peak, which requires conquest, or Shennong Valley, which demands physical exertion, this place is more like an open and interactive natural art exhibition. Whether you believe in the existence of "wild men" or not, this maze of strange rocks will leave a deep and interesting mark on your memory with its unique charm.