Goddess Sky Road (Shennv Tianlu) in Wushan, Chongqing

The Goddess Sky Road (三峡云巅神女天路景区), located in Huangyan Village (黄岩村) in Wushan County (巫山县), Chongqing, is one of the most scenic and mystical destinations along the Yangtze River. A key component of the Wuxia Shennv Scenic Area (巫峡·神女景区) Southern Ring Line, the road stretches for 12 kilometers at an average elevation of 1,200 meters above sea level. The route winds around cliffs, often enveloped in mist, giving visitors the sensation of “walking in the sky.” This unique location, officially opened in 2016 during the Red Leaf Festival, is a perfect spot for photography and exploration, offering breathtaking views of the Yangtze River, Shennv Peak (神女峰), and the surrounding mountains.

Key Features of Goddess Sky Road

Location:

• Huangyan Village, Wushan County, Chongqing

• Situated at the southern edge of Wuxia Gorge (巫峡), part of the Shennv Scenic Area (神女景区), and close to Shennv Stream (神女溪).

Length:

• 12 km of winding mountain road with panoramic views at an average elevation of 1,200 meters (3,937 feet).

Major Attractions:

1. Tianzhan Light (天盏灯)

• This viewing platform offers stunning vistas of the Wuxia Gorge. The name Tianzhan Light is linked to the legend of Dayu (大禹), the flood hero. According to folklore, Yaohime (瑶姬), the daughter of the Queen Mother of the West, lit a lantern here to help Dayu in his efforts to tame the floods. The lantern is said to have shone brightly for miles, guiding Dayu’s efforts.

2. Xianlü Tai (仙履台)

• A panoramic platform from which you can view Shennv Peak and Shennv Temple (神女庙) across the Yangtze River. The site is deeply connected to the mythological figure Yaohime, who, according to legend, descended to this location with her sisters to help Dayu control the floods. The name Xianlü Tai is linked to their celestial descent.

3. Yaotai (瑶台)

• The “Divine Balcony,” Yaotai is the best viewpoint for the northern peaks of Wuxia Gorge. Legend has it that the goddess and her sisters often came here to play their zithers and sing, with the music echoing over the gorge, especially on full moon nights. From this viewpoint, visitors can enjoy a view of the mountains stretching into the distance, and it's particularly notable for the simultaneous views of Chaoyun Peak (朝云峰) and Shennv Peak.

4. Shanshen Temple (山神庙)

• A small temple dedicated to the Mountain God of Wushan, which is also a protector deity associated with the local Shennv legend. The temple is said to protect the area and offer blessings to travelers.

5. Feiyuntai (飞云台)

• Known as the Cloud Floating Platform, Feiyuntai is named after the flying clouds that are frequently visible here. This platform is closely linked to the legend of Shennv and her sisters, who danced on this very site amidst the clouds. Visitors can enjoy the captivating view of the rolling clouds and the Shennv Peak in the distance.

Legends and Myths of Goddess Sky Road

Feiyuntai (飞云台): The Dance of the Goddesses

Feiyuntai is a place of mythic significance. Shennv and her sisters are said to have danced here with the clouds after playing in the Shennv Stream. This place became legendary for its celestial beauty and was named "Feiyuntai," meaning "Flying Cloud Platform."

Yaotai (瑶台): The Celestial Balcony

Yaotai is said to be where the Shennv and her sisters spent their nights, playing the zither and singing. Their songs, carried by the wind, echoed across the gorge. The site is associated with a deep sense of tranquility and ethereal beauty, making it an ideal spot for reflection and appreciation of the surrounding natural wonders.

Xianlü Tai (仙履台): Footprints of the Goddesses

This viewing platform is linked to the ancient legend of Yaohime, who descended from the heavens to assist Dayu in controlling the floods. It is believed that her and her sisters’ footprints remain imprinted at this location. Visitors can also see the small pathways beneath the platform, which are said to have been walked by the goddesses.

Tianzhan Light (天盏灯): A Lantern from Heaven

The story of the Tianzhan Light dates back to the legendary figure Yaohime, who is said to have lit a magical lantern to help Dayu with his efforts. This lantern is said to have illuminated the night sky and guided the efforts to tame the mighty Yangtze River. The site remains an important cultural symbol.

Visitor Information

Opening Hours:

• 08:30 AM - 05:00 PM, year-round.

Ticket Prices:

• 230 CNY for the Southern Ring Line Pass, which includes access to Shennv Peak, Shennv Stream, and Goddess Sky Road.

• 150 CNY for a combined ticket for Goddess Sky Road and the Huangyan Cable Car.

Duration of Visit:

• 5-6 hours for the entire tour, including travel by cable car, visiting the viewpoints, and exploring the area.

How to Visit Goddess Sky Road

By Car:

Visitors can drive from Wushan County to Liuping Visitor Center (柳坪游客中心) via the Yangtze River Bridge, then switch to a sightseeing vehicle to visit the main attractions along the Goddess Sky Road, including Tianzhan Light, Xianlü Tai, Yaotai, Shanshen Temple, and Feiyuntai.

Afterward, continue to Huangyan Visitor Center, where visitors can take the Huangyan Cable Car to get closer views of Jingtan Peak and experience the Goddess Sky Ladder (神女天梯). Visitors can then continue to Jiulong Cableway and take a boat trip along Shennv Stream to reach Shennv Peak.

By Cable Car:

Once at the Liuping Visitor Center, visitors can take a cable car to the Huangyan Visitor Center, enjoying the spectacular views. From here, visitors can ascend to Jingtan Peak, the Goddess Sky Ladder, and explore the area further before heading to Shennv Stream by boat.

Seasonal Scenery and Red Leaf Festival

Red Leaf Season (October - November):

The Red Leaf Festival is one of the highlights of the year, drawing photographers from around the world to capture the stunning contrast of red foliage against the mist-covered hills and the Yangtze River. This season is particularly famous for its picturesque views of the gorge and clouds, making it a must-visit time of year.

Autumn and Winter:

• Autumn (October - November): The foliage turns brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow, providing a stunning contrast against the misty hills and Yangtze River.

• Winter (December - February): The winter months offer a quieter and more peaceful experience, with the chance to witness occasional snowfalls and serene landscapes.

Recommended Routes:

• Half-Day Land Tour: This tour includes visits to the Liuping Visitor Center, Shennv Sky Road, and the Huangyan Cable Car.

• Full-Day Southern Ring Line Tour: This route includes all three core attractions, Shennv Peak, Shennv Stream, and Goddess Sky Road.

Accommodation and Dining

There are several local inns and guesthouses in Huangyan Village, where visitors can stay to experience local Wushan red leaf culture and enjoy traditional cuisine. These guesthouses provide meals, accommodation, and shopping services for visitors who wish to immerse themselves in the culture of this unique mountain area.

The Goddess Sky Road (神女天路) in Wushan County offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and mythology buffs alike. With its breathtaking mountain views, stunning gorge scenery, and rich cultural and mythical significance, this destination offers something for every traveler. Whether you're visiting during the Red Leaf Festival, enjoying the clouds and mist, or exploring the ancient goddess legends, Goddess Sky Road is a must-see destination in the Yangtze River region.