Zigui

Introducing Zigui

Zigui, the first county in the Three Gorges Reservoir area, is the hometown of Qu Yuan. The name of Zigui County comes from the "Waterways of the Classic of Waterways," which states: "Qu Yuan had a virtuous sister who, upon hearing of his exile, returned home, hence the name Jiegui." "Zi" is derived from "jie" (sister). In 2011, Zigui was awarded the title of "Hometown of Chinese Poetry." Famous attractions include Qu Yuan's hometown, Qu Yuan Temple, Reading Cave, Mirror, and Bingshu Baojian Gorge.

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Most Popular FAQs for Zigui

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Zigui is a county in the Yichang region, famous for its historical significance as part of the Three Gorges area. It is home to ancient temples, scenic spots, and its connection to the legendary general Zhang Fei. The county holds a place in Chinese history for its role during the Three Kingdoms period and as a crucial part of the Three Gorges Dam project.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Zigui is located in the Yichang area of Hubei Province. The best way to get there is by taking a bus or taxi from Yichang, which is about a 1.5-hour drive. There is no metro system in Zigui, so taxis or buses are your best options for reaching the area.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Zigui is accessible year-round, but the best times to visit are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is mild. The most popular times for tourists are during national holidays, so visiting on weekdays is ideal to avoid the crowds.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee to sites like the Zhang Fei Temple is usually around 30-50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site, though it is advisable to check online in advance, especially for larger attractions in the region.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is recommended, particularly during the peak tourist season. A few days to a week ahead is sufficient to secure your spot, especially for popular attractions like the Zhang Fei Temple or boat rides on the Yangtze River.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to Zigui, including its main attractions such as the temples, scenic spots, and a Yangtze River boat ride, would take around one full day. If you plan to hike or explore more remote areas, you may need an additional day.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Zhang Fei Temple, dedicated to the legendary Three Kingdoms general.
• The scenic Zigui Gorge, perfect for hiking and nature photography.
• The Yangtze River, which offers boat tours with stunning views of the Three Gorges.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available at most of the historical and cultural sites in Zigui. These are typically offered in Mandarin, though English-speaking guides can be arranged with prior notice at major attractions like the Zhang Fei Temple.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• On the boat tour along the Yangtze River, there are numerous vantage points for photographing the Three Gorges.
• The cliffs and hills surrounding Zigui offer excellent opportunities for scenic photography, particularly at sunrise and sunset.
• The ancient Zhang Fei Temple also provides great photography opportunities with its traditional Chinese architecture and surrounding landscapes.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start your day by visiting the Zhang Fei Temple, then take a boat ride on the Yangtze River to enjoy the stunning views of the Three Gorges. Afterward, explore the Zigui Gorge for a scenic hike before relaxing at a local restaurant to sample the regional cuisine.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits and light shows are not common in Zigui. However, some river cruises may offer evening tours with views of the lit-up Three Gorges. It’s best to check with local tour operators for special evening tours or events.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Zigui can become crowded during Chinese national holidays, particularly in the summer months. To avoid crowds, visit during weekdays in the spring or autumn when the weather is pleasant, but tourist numbers are lower.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic facilities such as toilets, food stalls, and rest areas are available at popular tourist sites like the Zhang Fei Temple and the Yangtze River boat terminals. You can find shops selling local snacks and souvenirs in Zigui as well.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Most of the main attractions in Zigui are accessible to elderly and children, with paved paths and basic facilities. However, some hiking trails in the Zigui Gorge may be challenging for those with limited mobility. It's advisable to check in advance for accessibility at specific sites.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is still widely accepted in Zigui, but mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are increasingly popular and recommended. Credit cards may also be accepted in larger establishments.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few local restaurants offering traditional Hubei dishes such as fish and rice-based meals. For more variety, head to Yichang city, where you can find a greater selection of restaurants and cafes.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available, but vegan and halal food might be limited in more rural areas. You can find more variety in Yichang city.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• There are budget hotels and guesthouses near Zigui, offering basic amenities.
• For more upscale options, several hotels are located in Yichang city, about 1.5 hours away by car.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• The Three Gorges Dam, located nearby, is an iconic landmark and can be easily combined with a trip to Zigui.
• Shennongjia Forest, known for its scenic beauty and biodiversity, is another popular day trip option.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops in Zigui sell local handicrafts, traditional Chinese art, tea, and snacks. Popular items include embroidered goods, small statues, and postcards featuring the Three Gorges region.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting Zigui, the best transportation options are to take a bus or taxi back to Yichang. From Yichang, you can continue your trip by train, bus, or flight to other destinations in China.