The Three Gorges of the Yangtze River

The Three Gorges are grand canyons situated in the upper and middle reaches of the Yangtze River (Yangtze River cruise). At the place where the river reaches the eastern Sichuan Basin, it makes its way deep into and through the Wushan Mountains, forming the most spectacular and absorbing gorges. The Three Gorges, namely Qutang Gorge, Wu Gorge and Xiling Gorge, with breath-taking sceneries, extend 192 km from Baidi City of Fengjie in the west to Nanjin Pass of Yichang in the east.

The Qutang Gorge, known for its magnificence, is the shortest and most marvelous one among the three gorges. Its magnificence lies in mountains and waters. The precipitous peaks, steep cliffs and roaring currents present a splendid sight. The Wu Gorge is famed for its deep valley and quiet beauty. On the banks of the Wu Gorge are exquisite sceneries. To cruise here is like wandering in a natural art gallery. The most absorbing scene here is the twelve peaks, like a string of emerald jades dotted on the banks, among which the Goddess Peak is the most exquisite and famous. The Xiling Gorge, full of turbulent currents and whirlpools as well as rising cliffs and rugged rocks, is one of the most dangerous shoals. Notable tourist attractions in the Three Gorges area include Baidi City, Fengdu City, General Zhang Fei’s Temple, Shibao Fortified Village, and Baiheliang Hydrological Inscriptions and Carvings. The Yangtze River is always contained in the packages of China vacation deals.

At the two ends of the Three Gorges locate two plains—the Chengdu Plain in the west and Jianghan Plain in the east. The two plains are homes to two different but equally brilliant ancient civilizations - Shu and Chu. The Three Gorges area can be compared to a book of Chinese culture and history with cultural relics and historic sites (always listed as the destinations for best tours of China) reserved from the Paleolithic Age to the Qing Dynasty.