Introducing Three Gorges Dam Scenic Area
One of the first national AAAAA-rated scenic spots, it is located in the middle section of the Xiling Gorge. Here, majestic natural scenery blends with world-class cultural attractions, creating a breathtaking scene of "cutting off the clouds and rain of Wushan, and emerging from the high gorges into a tranquil lake." As a core scenic spot for the New Three Gorges Tourism, it is anchored by the Three Gorges Project, the world's largest water conservancy project, and comprehensively showcases the culture of engineering and water conservancy. The scenic area comprises three regularly open areas: Tanziling Park, Diversion Memorial Park, and Park 185. Platform 185, located to the left of the Three Gorges Dam crest road, derives its name from its altitude, which matches the height of the Three Gorges Dam at 185 meters. Looking down from Platform 185, one feels as if one is standing on the dam crest, and one can feel the height of the dam.
Most Popular FAQs for Three Gorges Guanba Scenic Area
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
Tribe of the Three Gorges (三峡人家 Scenic Area) lies between the Three Gorges Dam and the Gezhouba Dam in the Xiling Gorge region. It is designated as a “Protected Center of the Popular Culture and Art of the Three Gorges” and has preserved folk traditions, Ba & Chu cultural relics, and natural landscapes relatively unaffected by dam flooding.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
- It’s located in the hinterland of Xiling Gorge, between the Three Gorges Dam and Gezhouba Dam, Yichang, Hubei.
- By bus: From Yiling Square in Yichang, take a special bus to Tribe of the Three Gorges (first around 07:00) or take Bus 10-1 (first ~07:05) to the scenic area.
- By boat/ferry: Depart from the No. 3 Ship Lock at Gezhouba Dam; boats leave around 08:30 and 10:30, returning about 18:00.
- By taxi / private car: Drive via local routes from Yichang or from the dam areas.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
- March to November: 8:00 – 17:30.
- December to following February: 8:30 – 17:00.
- Best visiting season: spring through autumn when waterfalls have higher flow and natural scenery is vibrant.
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
The admission ticket is about ¥150 for adults.
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
Generally, you can purchase tickets on-site. For boat/ferry rides or peak season, it’s wise to check ahead or reserve via scenic area’s official channels.
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
Plan for 4 to 5 hours to cover the villages, waterfalls, cave, performances, and boat rides.
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside? - Village on the Water, Brook-side Village, Mountain-top Village (three core zones)
- Shadow-Play Stones and Shadow-Play Cave
- Yellow Dragon Waterfall & Qinying Waterfall
- Macaque Mountain (monkeys), Moon Bay, Longjin Brook
- Panoramic views from hilltops or cableway / escalator routes
- Folk performance areas and cultural exhibition zones
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
On-site daytime tours or guides (in Chinese) may be available; English or foreign-language services are less common. Using a translation app or having a bilingual guide helps.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
- From hilltop overlooks or the mountaintop village for panoramic views over rivers and villages.
- Near waterfalls (Yellow Dragon, Qinying) to capture cascading water framed by cliffs.
- Along the water villages and walking paths under stilt houses, river reflections, bamboo groves.
- Shadow-Play Stones, especially at sunset or when ambient light highlights their silhouette effect.
- Moon Bay curve of the Yangtze River from vantage points along boat routes.
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
- Start from the main entrance and take a shuttle or walk into the water village zone.
- Visit Brook-side Village and Mountain-top Village sequentially, exploring architecture and paths.
- Go to Shadow-Play Stones and enter the Shadow-Play Cave.
- Proceed to the waterfalls (Yellow Dragon & Qinying) and adjacent natural streams.
- Use cableway/escalator to climb to higher viewpoints for panorama.
- Catch a boat ride to link different village sections or view moon bay scenery.
- End with folk performances or cultural exhibition zones near the exit.
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
Night visits and light shows are not standard. Most operations (villages, trails) close by evening. Occasionally special cultural events may be scheduled—check with scenic area in your travel year.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
- Peak times: weekends, public holidays, mid-season (spring to autumn).
- Least crowded: weekday mornings or shoulder seasons (early spring or late autumn).
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
The scenic area provides restrooms, snack stalls, restaurants, benches, viewing platforms, ticket offices, cableway / escalator facilities, and souvenir shops near visitor hubs.
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
General walking paths are moderate. Elevation changes exist (stairs, slopes). Cableway / escalators help with vertical climbs. Some areas may be less accessible for those with mobility challenges.
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?
Major services (ticket office, restaurants) accept mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay); cash is also accepted.
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
Inside the scenic area, there are restaurants and snack stalls serving local specialty dishes. Outside, in Yichang and nearby Huanghua/Town areas, local eateries serve Three Gorges cuisine.
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
Vegetarian options (vegetable dishes, tofu) are common in area restaurants. Halal may be limited; it’s better to ask locally.
What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?
Stay in Yichang city (in Yiling / Xiling Districts) and travel out to the scenic area. Hotels in Huanghua town or near dam areas may be closer. Booking ahead is prudent in peak season.
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
- Three Gorges Dam and its visitor center.
- Gezhouba Water Conservancy Project.
- Xiling Gorge (other gorges, rapids) and scenic river cruises.
- Qu Yuan’s Hometown, Sanyou Cave, local cultural attractions in Yichang.
- Qingjiang River scenic gallery areas.
Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?
Souvenir shops sell Tujia handicrafts, carved wooden items, prints, local tea, ethnic textiles, musical instruments, and postcards.
What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?
- Return by bus or scenic area shuttle to Yiling / Yichang transport hubs.
- Take taxi or ride-hail to nearby attractions (Dam, riverside parks, city center).
- Boat or ferry connections via Yangtze River to reach other gorges or river cruise itineraries.
