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Wushan County, Chongqing, middle of China
The starting point of Wu Gorge; famous for peaks of all shapes
It is the main reason for making a stop at Mt. Wushan, a town surrounded by picturesque mountain peaks and situated on the north bank of the Yangtze River.
Mt. Wushan is one of the original locations of primitive civilization, having existed since the latter part of the Shang Dynasty (16th - 11th century BC). During the Warring States Period, (476 B.C. - 221 B.C.) the Wu prefecture was established here by the King of Chu. During the first century, the Buddhist faith reached China and many temples were built here; however, over the years, almost all the temples have been destroyed. During the Han Dynasty, agriculture and manufacture industry flourished. The town was named after Wu Xian, a successful doctor to the imperial court during the Tang Dynasty. He was buried on Nanling Mountain, on the south bank of the Yangtze River, opposite Mt. Wushan. During the Qing Dynasty, large numbers of refugees poured into the town due to the war.
The most memorable attraction is the climb to the summit of Mt. Wushan (Witches Hill). From the summit the views of Wu Gorge and the river are spectacular. There is also Luyou Dong, (named after an official of the Song Dynasty), which has teahouses and ornamental pavilions.
Mt. Wushan can be visited throughout the year, but the best times are during spring and autumn. From March to May, the climate is mild and pleasant, and the mountains are adorned with blooming flowers, creating a picturesque, ink-painting-like scenery especially around Wu Gorge. It’s also a great time to experience local culture during the Bashu Cultural Festival.
From late October to mid-November, the mountains are ablaze with red and golden foliage. Over 80% of the hillsides near Wu Gorge and Shennü Stream turn into a brilliant sea of crimson against the emerald river, making it the most recommended time for photography enthusiasts—especially in mid to late November when morning mist often envelops the famous Goddess Peak. Visitors can also take part in the annual Red Leaves Festival held in this period.
In summer (June to August), although the weather is hot, it is an ideal time to enjoy a Yangtze River cruise and explore nearby cool retreats such as the Goddess Peak and the Lesser Three Gorges. Winter (December to February) is slightly chilly, but with fewer tourists, it offers a quieter and more contemplative experience of the area.
The most recommended way to explore Mt. Wushan and its surrounding scenic areas is by taking a Yangtze River cruise. Most cruises sailing through the Three Gorges region make a stop at Wushan County, allowing travelers to disembark and explore the famous Wu Gorge and nearby attractions such as Shennü Stream and the Lesser Three Gorges.
Cruising is a comfortable and leisurely way to admire the steep cliffs, misty peaks, and dramatic river landscapes that are otherwise difficult to access by land. While onboard, travelers can enjoy guided tours, cultural performances, and panoramic viewing decks that provide excellent photo opportunities of the iconic Goddess Peak and the vibrant red leaves in autumn.
1. Lesser Three Gorges (Wushan Lesser Three Gorges)
Highlights: Known as a "natural wonder of China," the Lesser Three Gorges consist of Longmen Gorge, Bawu Gorge, and Dicui Gorge—collectively considered the most beautiful section of the Daning River. Towering cliffs, jade-green waters, and dramatic rock formations line the route, creating a landscape said to rival, if not surpass, the main Three Gorges. Bawu Gorge is especially famous for its mysterious hanging coffins embedded high in the cliffs—an ancient burial practice still unsolved today. Dicui Gorge, meanwhile, is home to wild monkeys often seen playing along the riverbanks. Along the way, visitors can also spot remnants of ancient plank roads once used by trackers hauling boats upstream by hand.
How to Visit: The best way to explore is by boat. A typical trip lasts about 3 hours and offers close-up views of the hanging coffins, ancient paths, and native wildlife.
Tips:
Spring and summer are the best seasons, with abundant water and lush scenery.
Onboard guides offer commentary—learning the background beforehand will enrich your experience.
2. Goddess Peak (Shennü Peak)
Highlights: As the most iconic of the Twelve Peaks of Wushan, Goddess Peak rises to 922 meters and resembles a graceful maiden standing amid the mist. According to legend, she is the incarnation of Yao Ji, daughter of the Queen Mother of the West, who helped control the floodwaters in ancient times. Literary references abound—from Qu Yuan’s Nine Songs to Li Bai’s famous line, “The Goddess, serene and still, will amaze the world anew.” The peak is particularly stunning at sunrise or sunset, when it seems to float in the clouds like a classical Chinese painting.
How to Visit:
By boat: Most Yangtze River cruises offer spectacular views of the peak.
By hiking: Outdoor enthusiasts can climb the mountain for sweeping views of the Yangtze River.
Tips:
Early morning or dusk offers the most atmospheric conditions for photography.
Wear comfortable shoes if planning to hike.
Highlights: Often regarded as the most elegant of the Three Gorges, Wu Gorge is celebrated for its enchanting mists and steep, forested cliffs. The winding river is flanked by towering peaks, offering a constantly shifting panorama of light, water, and rock. It is a place steeped in poetry and legend—immortalized by Li Bai in his verse: “Farewell to White Emperor Town, in clouds of morning light; A thousand miles to Jiangling, in a single day’s flight.” In autumn, the hillsides burst into brilliant red foliage, making it a paradise for photographers.
How to Visit: Enjoy the scenery aboard a river cruise to experience the gorge’s majestic beauty.
Tips:
4. Dachang Ancient Town
Highlights: With over 1,700 years of history, Dachang is one of the best-preserved ancient towns in the Three Gorges area. Although it was relocated and rebuilt due to the Three Gorges Dam project, its Ming and Qing-style architecture remains intact. Walking through its flagstone streets, visitors encounter elegant wooden homes with intricate carvings, ancestral halls, and a restored city gate. Highlights include the Wen family courtyard and traditional opera stage—offering a vivid glimpse into the life of old Sichuan.
How to Visit: Stroll along the old streets and explore courtyards, temples, and stage pavilions to immerse yourself in Bayu culture.
Tips:
Small enough to explore in 1–2 hours. Great for photography.
Nearby farmhouses serve delicious local dishes.
5. Wenfeng Temple (Wenfeng Guan)
Highlights: Perched atop Wenfeng Mountain, this Taoist temple complex was originally built in the Ming Dynasty and remains one of the area’s most important spiritual landmarks. Its layered architecture blends harmoniously with the surrounding pine-covered slopes. From the top viewing platform, visitors enjoy a sweeping 360-degree view of the Yangtze River and Wushan County. At sunrise, the temple is bathed in golden light, creating a scene of breathtaking tranquility.
How to Visit: Hike or drive up the mountain to tour the temple and enjoy sunrise or sunset views.
Tips:
The trail can be steep—wear hiking shoes.
Morning mist enhances the spiritual atmosphere.
6. Dangyang Grand Canyon (Dangyang Daxiagu)
Highlights: A hidden gem for nature lovers and adventure seekers, this newly developed canyon offers pristine beauty and rugged landscapes. Inside the gorge, you’ll find cascading waterfalls, dense virgin forests, and crystal-clear streams. The most dramatic feature is the “One Line Sky,” where sheer cliff walls rise so close together that only a narrow sliver of light shines through. In summer, the cool, shaded environment makes it a refreshing retreat, while in the rainy season, dozens of waterfalls create a spectacular curtain of water.
How to Visit: Hike through the canyon to see waterfalls, streams, and untouched forest scenery.
Tips:
Some sections are steep and slippery—go with companions and wear proper gear.
Ideal for summer visits, but be cautious of wet paths.
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From $ 327
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