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The Three Gorges People's Home Scenic Area is located in the middle of the Xiling Gorge, between the Three Gorges Dam and the Gezhouba Dam. It is the last remaining area in the Three Gorges to retain its pristine Three Gorges landscape. Longjin Creek, a small stream on the south bank of the Yangtze River within the Three Gorges People's Home Scenic Area, is one of the area's most picturesque attractions. Stilt houses lining the creek are half leaning against the mountain and half beside the water. On both sides of the creek, verdant mountains and clear waters, pastoral paths, slanting sun, small bridges, and misty rain can be seen. Small bamboo rafts traverse the waves, snaking through vines and branches, while ancient sailboats glide slowly through the water. The scenery is quaint and profound, resembling a paradise.
Mid-subtropical climate
Qidiequan
Following the path deeper into the valley, one discovers a winding path leading to a secluded place, where the grass and trees are thick beside the stream. The banks are lush and verdant, and the fragrance of flowers fills the air. The stream ripples with clear, charming, and amorous waters, and the occasional chirp of birds seems to cheer on guests from afar. After living in a bustling city for a long time, one suddenly finds oneself in a deep mountain valley, where "the cries of monkeys on both sides of the river ceaselessly cries," experiencing the tranquility of "the birdsong makes the mountains even more secluded," as if transported to a paradise. In the valley ahead, several huge rocks lie across the stream, one on each side, perfectly guarding the gully. On a rock before the Dragon Gate, a small, natural fish, shaped like a carp, leaps with its head toward the stream, as if attempting to leap over the Dragon Gate and visit the Three Gorges residents. Hence the name "Carp Leaping Over the Dragon Gate." The stream before us flows through a riverbed formed by a single rock mass. Over time, the water erodes and flows over the solid rock, forming seven small troughs, like seven cheerful notes playing a beautiful melody. This is the "Seven-Layered Spring." Beyond the "Seven-Layered Spring," the riverbed is covered with round, smooth pebbles, and above them grows emerald green grass, covered with white flowers. It resembles a bonsai garden in the stream, a marvel of wonder and interest.
Water Village
At the confluence of Longjin Creek and the Yangtze River, several ancient sailboats stand facing the wind, small fishing boats cast their nets, and the exquisite Chuxia Pavilion stands tall. Near the creek, a dam has been built, damming the tranquil waters of Longjin Creek and raising the stream's level by one to two meters. The emerald waters, lush trees, and the weathered Longxi Bridge span it, with several small fishing boats quietly moored beneath. "Under the Longxi Bridge, the spring waves are green, once a startling reflection of a swan"—a dreamlike and enchanting scene. For generations, the people of the gorge, driven by a commitment to living by the mountains and the water, have developed a unique way of life and work habits. The most distinctive of these are the fishermen's homes. Many Three Gorges residents have lived on boats for generations, fishing year-round. They navigate the waters, braving the wind and waves, and living alongside their fishing boats, forming a "waterside community." Although the lives of fishermen have improved now, this ancient custom has been preserved for a long time. The younger generation still casts nets to catch fish, going out in wind and rain, continuing this ancient fishing culture.
Xiajiang fishing boat
Fishing boats along the gorge are unique in their charm. They serve as both the "home" of the fishermen and a distinctive feature of the ancient Three Gorges landscape, enduring for thousands of years like the dark spirits that inhabit the gorge. Resembling the Shaoxing wupeng boats, large ones can carry 10 to 20 people, while smaller ones can only carry 3 or 4. They consist of two parts: a wooden boat and an upper bamboo canopy. The canopy, with several panels, is semicircular and woven from bamboo strands and bamboo chopsticks, painted black with soot and tung oil. Each panel can be moved freely, closing to block sun and rain or opening to let in light and air. Inside the canopy is a cabin. Larger ones can stand upright and have seats for guests. Smaller ones, while not so comfortable, have mats on the floor for sitting or lying down. Larger boats are powered by oars, while smaller ones are powered by paddles. While most boats now have engines, making navigation much easier, the fishing boats of Longjinxi still retain the traditional method of rowing. Riding a fishing boat is a supreme delight. With the awning half-open, a cool breeze from the river arrives. Gazing out from the horizon, the moonlit landscape, a dazzling panorama of mountains and rivers, one frame after another, a dazzling sight. Leaning back in the cabin, closing your eyes, your body and mind drift with the gentle rocking of the boat. Lying flat on the deck, the gurgling water beneath evokes a melody like a zither. Inside, gathering around the table, sipping tea and chatting, the experience is truly blissful and intoxicating. "The bridge is like a rainbow, the water is like the sky, a leaf drifting in the mist," "Taking the oar and dancing, embracing a straw raincoat and sleeping, not a celestial being, but a daffodil"—these are the ancients' eulogies and yearnings for fishing boats.
8:30-17:30, the last cruise ends at 17:00.
Longjinxi is a picturesque river valley in Yichang, known for its clear waters, unique rock formations, and natural beauty. It is significant as a local ecological and scenic area, attracting nature lovers and photographers.
Entrance fees are modest and can usually be purchased at the park entrance. Online ticket options may exist via local tourism platforms.
Booking in advance is generally not required except for group visits or holidays; 1–3 days ahead is sufficient during peak periods.
2–4 hours to hike trails, enjoy scenic spots, and take photos at a relaxed pace.
Guided tours may be available in Mandarin; English guides may require advance booking with local operators.
Start at the main entrance, follow the riverside trail to the waterfalls, explore nearby rock formations, then loop back through forested paths to the entrance.
Night visits are generally not allowed; no regular light shows, but special eco-tours or events may occur seasonally.
Relatively quiet, with more visitors on weekends and public holidays. Weekdays and early mornings are the least crowded.
Some trails may be steep or uneven; suitable for moderately fit visitors. Children should be supervised; elderly and disabled visitors may be limited to easier paths.
Cash is recommended; some entrances may accept mobile payments via Alipay or WeChat Pay.
Vegetarian options are limited but available at local eateries; halal options may be scarce and require checking ahead.
Souvenirs include local handicrafts, river-themed items, and postcards.
