This is how to truly experience Yichang! Unlock world-class mountains, waters, and hidden gems in the streets and alleys in three days

I've been to Yichang twice, once in spring and once in autumn, and both times were fantastic. This city has an exceptionally good "mountain-water balance"—it boasts the grandeur of the river and the convenience of the city, making it comfortable to stay and enjoyable to explore.

Here’s a rough itinerary idea:
I suggest spending three days and two nights, which is just right—not too rushed, allowing you to experience all the core highlights. For accommodation, I strongly recommend staying near "Yanjiang Avenue" or around the city center "CBD." Along Yanjiang Avenue, you can take evening strolls to enjoy the river view with twinkling lights, which is very soothing; the CBD area is convenient for dining, shopping, and if you want to grab some skewers or noodles at night, it’s just a short walk away.

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Day 1: Feel Yichang’s “Water Soul”

Sleep in naturally in the morning (don’t tire yourself out while traveling), then take a stroll in "Binjiang Park." This park runs along the Yangtze River, is very long, and free! You’ll see locals fishing, dancing, and practicing Tai Chi here, full of life’s atmosphere. When the river breeze blows and you look at the wide river surface, all your worries can be set aside. The mountains on the opposite bank layer upon layer, and on a clear day, it looks like an ink painting.

In the afternoon, the main event—the Three Gorges Dam. I have to say a bit more about this. Before going, I thought it was just a huge engineering project, quite impressive but maybe a bit dull. But when you get there, especially standing on the Tanziling viewing platform, seeing the massive ship locks and the "high gorges turning into a flat lake" scene, the grandeur created by human wisdom and natural power is something photos can’t convey. You’ll feel an involuntary sense of pride. Getting to the dam can be a bit tricky, so I recommend booking a half-day tour online in advance, which includes pick-up, drop-off, and a guide—much more convenient.

In the evening back in the city, you must visit Taozhu Road Food Street or Railway Dam Snack Street. They are bustling with people and full of lively atmosphere. I recommend trying local specialties like Liangxia (a dessert made from rice paste served with brown sugar water, refreshing and thirst-quenching) and radish dumplings (crispy golden outside with spicy shredded radish inside, very flavorful). As for fresh fish from the Yangtze River, all restaurants have them; just pick the one with the most people—steamed or braised, both are delicious.

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Day 2: Dive into Yichang’s “Mountain and Wild Fun”

Today’s theme is the Three Gorges Folk Culture Village. It’s a bit far from the city, so plan a full day. My personal experience is that this place is more interesting than just viewing mountains and waters because it perfectly combines natural scenery with Tujia ethnic culture.

When you enter, you first take a boat in; the mountains on both sides are lush green, and the water is emerald green. After disembarking, you walk along the stream and mountain paths. You’ll see Tujia girls washing clothes by the stream (a performance), stilted buildings built against the mountains, and you might hear original mountain folk songs in duet. It feels like you’ve instantly traveled back to an ancient, isolated village. The most interesting spot is "Monkey Mountain," home to many wild macaques. They are not afraid of people and will jump around you, but remember, just watch them, don’t tease them, and don’t eat in front of them—safety first.

After a day of hiking, you’ll definitely be tired, so don’t schedule too many activities at night. Find a foot massage place or go back to the hotel early to rest and recharge for the last day.

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Day 3: Slow Pace and Reflection in the City

The last day can be more relaxed. I recommend visiting the new Yichang Museum. Don’t think museums are boring; this one is grandly built, with excellent exhibitions on Ba and Chu cultures and the history of Three Gorges project immigrants, which will deepen your understanding of the scenery you’ve seen these days. The best part is, it’s free and a great place to cool off and learn.

If you’re especially interested in history and culture, you can also visit Sanyou Cave, a place once toured by Su Shi and Su Zhe, with many cliff inscriptions. It’s located at the entrance of Xiling Gorge and has nice scenery.

In the afternoon, depending on your train or flight schedule, you can buy some local specialties, such as Yichang tea (like Caihua Maojian) or Ziguai navel oranges (if in season), then head home satisfied.

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A few final tips:

· Transportation: Taxis and buses in Yichang city are very convenient. But for major scenic spots, taking the "tourist shuttle bus" is the most reliable option, with fixed schedules and transparent prices.
· Weather: As a city by the Yangtze River, summers can be humid and hot, so be sure to use sun protection and drink plenty of water. Winters are a bit damp and cold, so keep warm.
· Mindset: The core of visiting the Three Gorges is to enjoy the water and mountains, so keep a calm mindset and savor the slow pace of "the boat sailing on the river, people traveling in a painting," rather than just rushing to check off spots.

Yichang is a city worth savoring slowly. I wish you a happy trip and satisfying meals there!