Little Three Gorges

Introducing Little Three Gorges

Located on the Madu River, a tributary of the Daning River at Dicui Gorge, the Wushan Mini Three Gorges encompass Changtan Gorge, Qinwang Gorge, and Sancheng Gorge. Known as China's best rafting destination, the Wushan Mini Three Gorges offer a thrilling, participatory rafting experience that returns to nature without any danger. It's known as "China's No. 1 Rafting."

In January 2016, the National Tourism Administration and the Ministry of Environmental Protection planned to designate the Wushan Little Three Gorges-Xiaoxiao Three Gorges Ecological Tourism Area in Chongqing as a national ecological tourism demonstration area.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Changtan Gorge stretches 5 kilometers from Shuanghe to Pinghe. Within the gorge lies a roughly 2-kilometer-long, straight, mirror-like beach, over ten meters wide, with white sand and rocks. The scenery on both sides is shrouded in the shadows of the mountains and waters, hence the name Changtan Gorge. The gorge boasts narrow valleys, high mountains, and precipitous cliffs, creating a majestic and treacherous scene. The water is clear, revealing a diverse variety of fish. The shores are dotted with colorful pebbles and the occasional fossil. The gorge boasts scenic spots such as the Dripping Rock, the Smart Spring, the Hand-Climbing Rock, and the Chuandongzi Cave.

Qinwang Gorge: From Shangdukou to Shuanghe, it stretches 4 kilometers. With its picturesque scenery, tranquility, and gentle, crystal-clear waters, it's an ideal spot for rafting. A large cave lies on the east bank of Qinwang Gorge. Legend has it that during the Chongzhen reign of the Ming Dynasty, a bandit surnamed Qin seized the cave and became king, preying on the people. He was captured by the peasant uprising led by Zhang Xianzhong, hence the name "Qin Wang Cave." Within the gorge, attractions include Wangxiang Terrace, Hutou Rock, the Yellow Dragon Crossing the River, the Carp Leaping Over the Dragon Gate, the Fairy Welcoming Guests, the Fairy Music Bell, and the Arhat Hall.

Sancheng Gorge, starting at the entrance of the Madu River and stretching 5 kilometers, is the first gorge of the Little Three Gorges. The cliffs on both sides appear as if cut by an axe, while the narrow river channel, a narrow opening in the sky, creates a picturesque scene. Paddleboarding upstream, the current is turbulent and there is no path for towing, so one can only paddle forward with a single oar, hence the name "Changcheng Gorge." The pristine vegetation is intact, and the path along the way is breathtakingly lush. Strange stalactites are everywhere, and the sky is filled with cascading waterfalls and mist, creating a poetic and picturesque scene. The gorge boasts scenic attractions such as Luhuitou, Shouxing Peak, Shizhu Bay, Xiangsi Spring, Longhu Pond, Bajie Crossing the River, Mother Stone, and Moon Village.

Play time: more than 3 hours

Tickets

Free, included in the Little Three Gorges admission ticket. Tickets for the Little Three Gorges boat tour can be purchased at the Little Three Gorges Visitor Reception Center in Wushan County.

Attraction opening hours

From Monday to Sunday, from 08:00 to 17:30,
the sailing times are: 8:30, 10:00, and 14:00.

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Most Popular FAQs for Little Three Gorges

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

The Little Three Gorges is a scenic area along the Wujiang River, known for its dramatic karst landscapes and cultural heritage of local ethnic groups. It represents one of China’s most picturesque river gorges and is significant for tourism, nature conservation, and traditional culture.

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

Located in Qijiang District, Chongqing. Accessible by taxi or private car from Chongqing city center (around 3–4 hours). Some tour buses operate from Chongqing, but metro access is limited to nearby urban hubs.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Generally open from 8:00 to 17:00. The best visiting months are spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) for mild weather and clear river views.

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

Entrance fee is approximately 120–150 CNY per person for the scenic area. Tickets can be purchased at the ticket office or through online travel platforms.

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

Booking in advance is recommended during peak seasons (holidays and weekends), ideally 1–2 weeks ahead to secure boat tour slots.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A full visit, including a boat ride and hiking, typically takes 4–6 hours.

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

• Wujiang River boat cruise through the narrow gorges
• Qijiang River scenic cliffs and waterfalls
• Local ethnic villages and traditional architecture
• Forest trails and lookout points along the gorges

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

Guided tours are available, usually in Chinese; English-speaking guides may be arranged with advance booking. Audio guides are limited.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• From the deck of the sightseeing boats
• Riverside cliff viewpoints and hiking platforms
• Waterfalls and misty gorge entrances during sunrise or early morning

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start with the boat cruise along the gorges
• Stop at scenic piers for short hikes and photo opportunities
• Visit an ethnic village for cultural experience
• Return via the boat or riverside trail to the starting point

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

Night visits are generally not available due to limited lighting. Special cultural performances may occur seasonally at village stops.

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

The site can be busy on weekends and holidays. Weekdays and early mornings are the least crowded times.

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

Facilities include restrooms at major piers, small restaurants and snack stalls, drinking water points, and souvenir shops at boat terminals.

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

Main boat routes are suitable for most visitors. Some hiking trails may be challenging for elderly or disabled people.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, but mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely used at ticket offices, restaurants, and shops.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Riverside local eateries offer Chongqing cuisine and river fish dishes. Some small cafes near the docks provide drinks and snacks.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at local restaurants; halal options are limited, so plan ahead if needed.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Small riverside guesthouses and mid-range hotels are available in Qijiang District. Chongqing city offers broader hotel options for overnight stays.

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

• Qijiang Old Town
• Wulong Karst National Geology Park (about 1–2 hours by car)
• Local ethnic villages and scenic rivers nearby

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops sell local crafts, hand-carved wood items, small trinkets, and packaged river fish snacks.

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

• Taxi or private car to nearby scenic areas
• Tour buses connecting to Chongqing city or Wulong Karst area
• Combination of river transport and road travel for extended day trips