Yanziya

　　Yanziya is a mountain pass at an altitude of 2,200 meters, with National Highway 209 running straight through the cliff. The cliffs are covered with verdant pines and firs, and flaming red birches in their full splendor. From a distance, the two ridges flanking the mountain cliffs resemble the outstretched wings of a flying swallow, hence the name “Yanziya” (Swallow Pass), due to its proximity to the famous Yanzi Cave.

　　Yanziya faces Tianmenya Pass to the north and south, overlooks the Zizhu River Valley below, and guards the throat of transportation between western Hubei and the Jianghan region. On the western side of the pass, there are structures such as Huixian Bridge, the Viewing Platform, and Yanwu Pavilion built on the mountainside, specifically for visitors to enjoy the scenery. It is said that Huixian Bridge was where the Yan Emperor Shennong met the Supreme Old Lord, persuading him to switch from alchemy to metallurgy. The fragrant cypress at the bridgehead stands proudly against the wind, graceful and elegant, while the primeval forest beneath the bridge is ancient yet vibrant. By following the path up to Yanwu Pavilion, you can experience the unique charm of the primeval forest, and by looking down at Taping Village from the stone railing, you can feast your eyes on the magnificent spectacle of sea of clouds and Buddha’s light.

　　Yanziya is often shrouded in drifting clouds and mist, with the Buddha’s light appearing and disappearing. Being in this otherworldly, ethereal paradise allows one to appreciate the greatness of Shennong, the leader of the ancient tribal society and the ancestor of the Chinese nation — who built ladders from wood to pick herbs, constructed shelters from wood to shelter from wind and cold, and built altars from wood to ascend to heaven on a crane.

　　The green walking trail in Yanziya connects major attractions such as the Wild Man Cave, Yanzi Cave, Niubizi Cave, and Tian Cave. Along the way, ancient trees tower above, vines sprawl everywhere, breezes seem to emerge from nowhere, and birds sing while animals call — an environment resembling humanity’s primitive living conditions brings a sense of returning home.

　　The mountain winds at Yanziya are very cold, so remember to dress warmly when you visit.

　　Rated as a Hubei Provincial Tourism Demonstration Site in 1997

　　Included in the National Tourism Special Fund Project in 1999

　　Passed the ISO9001 International Quality System Certification in April 2002

　　Passed the ISO14000 Environmental Management System Certification in June 2002

　　Listed as a National 4A-level Scenic Area in September 2002

　　Address: National Highway 209, Shennongjia Forest District

　　Type: Mountain

　　Recommended visiting time: 1 hour

　　Opening hours:

　　9:00–17:00

　　Ticket information:

　　Gate price: 60.0 RMB

　　Yanziya, Xiniu Cave, Tianmenya, and Yanzi Cave are sold together as a combo ticket for 60 RMB per person; students receive a 50% discount with a valid student ID.