Many visitors drive themselves. Most are from Hubei, especially Wuhan, Yichang and Xiangyang cities. Some independent travelers arrive by motorcycle or bicycle, he says.

The park received over 184,000 visits between the reopening and May 12, a 50 percent decrease over the same period last year.

Before May 1, travelers could visit Shennongjia's six scenic areas for free.

From May 1 until June 25, visitors can buy a ticket for all these zones at the reduced price of 169 yuan ($24).

Yichang's Tribe of the Three Gorges scenic area has suspended its indoor performances and closed a cave that contains narrow spaces.

Tourists can still enjoy open-air performances of ethnic Tujia wedding ceremonies and folk-culture shows.

"We're cooperating with online influencers to market the scenic spot… It's an efficient way to promote the stunning scenery and cultural items that tourists like to buy as souvenirs," says Qu Jiachun, assistant to the general manager of the company that runs the scenic area.