Golden monkeys
Snub-nosed and rare.
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A vast mountain forest region in north-western Hubei covering 3,253 square kilometres, the only area in China governed as a «forestry district»; UNESCO inscribed it as World Heritage in 2016 for the richness of its plants and animals, and it is also a biosphere reserve and a global geopark. Shennongjia protects the largest primary forests left in central China and the highest summit of the region, Shennong Peak at 3,106 metres. It is home to the rare golden snub-nosed monkey with its golden fur, the Chinese giant salamander, the clouded leopard and the Asian black bear. Visitors move between its areas: Shennongding with its peaks, misty forests and winter snow, Dajiuhu with its meadows and lakes, and Guanmenshan with its valleys. A five-day ticket for the six areas costs CNY 299, Shennongding alone 130, Dajiuhu 100 and Guanmenshan 95; the areas open from about 7.30 am to 5.30 pm, with shorter hours in winter, per visitor guides.
Snub-nosed and rare.
In the mist.
And lakes.
Shennongding area, north-western Hubei
At least two or three, as the areas are far apart on mountain roads; Muyu town, with its hotels, is a common base.
Choices are very few in the mountains, so bring food, and order vegetable dishes and fish while asking about ingredients.