Three Gorges Dam

Location

Jiangxia Avenue, Sandouping Town, Yiling District, Yichang City, Hubei Province, China

Reasons to visit

It is currently the world's largest water conservancy project and the largest hydropower station

Our Ratings

Opening Hours

08:00-17:00

The Three Gorges Dam Site is 27 miles upstream from Yichang City proper, at Sandouping Town, 38km upstream from the Gezhouba Dam Lock, inside the third of the Three Gorges.

The Three Gorges Dam Site is planned to be by far the largest hydroelectric project in the world. The Project calls for the construction of a concrete dam, a hydroelectric power plant and a series of locks just below the scenic Three Gorges region. The project is designed to be built in three phases and is scheduled for completion in year 2009.

Upon arrival at Sandouping, passengers will take a bus across the Three Gorges Bridge, which leads toward the top of the hill for a birds-eye view of the construction from the observation deck. Visitors will observe the five-step ship lock, the diversion canal, the dam in construction, and the power station. English speaking professional guides will be on hand to provide detailed information on the history of the dam and facts on its construction. In addition, an exhibition room displays a model of the dam, and offers passengers another opportunity to ask questions and learn about the benefits of this amazing project.

One of the largest construction projects ever undertaken in the world, the Three Gorges Project will forever change the face of the Yangtze River as we know it today. Possessing comprehensive utilization benefits mainly for flood control, power generation and navigation improvement.

It will be a vital important and backbone project in harnessing and developing of the Yangtze River. Measures have been taken to preserve and move the historical and cultural relics found along its banks; however many scenic spots will be adversely affected. The most dramatic section of the river, what we refer to as "the heart of the Yangtze"-the area from the Three Gorges all the way upstream to Chongqing-will eventually be drowned by the completion of the Three Gorges Dam, an integral part of the Three Gorges Project.

Why Visit Three Gorges Dam

Technical Significance: As the largest hydroelectric power station in the world, Three Gorges Dam showcases impressive modern engineering on a monumental scale.

Scenic Beauty: At the observation deck of the Three Gorges Dam, you can have a panoramic view of the magnificent view of the dam as well as the sweeping view of the Yangtze River and Xiling Gorge.

A Popular Stop after Taking Yangtze River Cruise: Taking the Yangtze River Cruise, you will get off the cruise at Yichang, and Three Gorges Dam in Yichang is a famous stop after taking the Yangtze River Cruise.

What to Do at Three Gorges Dam

Have A Panoramic View of the Three Gorges Dam at Tanziling

Tanziling is the best place to have a panoramic view of the spectacular Three Gorges Dam. Tanzi means jar in Chinese, and Tanziling is named because the shape of the observation deck looks like an inverted jar. At the viewing platform of Tanziling, you can have a panoramic view of the Yangtze River and Xiling Gorge.

The 185 Observation Deck is also a nice place to get close to the top of the Three Gorges Dam. The 185 Observation Deck is named because its altitude happens to be the same with the height of the top of the Three Gorges Dam. Standing at the 185 Observation Deck, you can see the calm surface of the water and the high Three Gorges Dam in the upstream. And to the lower reaches, it is the best viewing point of the Three Gorges ship lift.

Visit the Huge Rock from the bottom of the Yangtze River

This huge rock from the bottom of the Yangtze River is granite, which is about 20 tons. It is an ancient rock with long history. Viewing this rock, we can know about the long history of the Yangtze River.

View the Flood Discharge(Depends on the weather and real situation)

If you happen to visit the Yangtze River and Three Gorges Dam in rainy season in China, you may have chance to witness the grand view of the flood discharge at the Three Gorges Dam, the largest hydroelectric power station in the world. You will be amazing at the majesty of the Three Gorges Dam and breathtaking view of the flood discharge of Yangtze River.

Best Time to Visit Three Gorges Dam

The best time to visit Three Gorges Dam depends on your preference. Generally speaking, spring(March to May) and autumn(September to November) is best recommended to experience the scenic beauty of Yangtze River and Three Gorges Dam with pleasant climate and less crowds.

In spring, the weather in Yichang is mild and comfortable with colorful flower blossoms and lush greenery on the both sides of Yangtze River.

In autumn, the weather in Yichang is crisp and cool with clear skies. During this time, you can enjoy the stunning colorful autumn foliage. Please note that the National Day Holiday(generally from Oct, 1 to Oct, 7) is also the peak season of Yangtze River Cruise and Three Gorges Dam, it is recommended that you avoid the National Day holiday to visit the Three Gorges Dam and take the Yangtze River Cruise.

Summer is also the peak season in China with the crowds of school summer vacation from July to August. With the rains in summer, the Three Gorges Dam may perform flood discharge, which is spectacular and astonishing. If you want to witness the magnificent scene of the flood discharge of Three Gorges Dam, you can visit the Three Gorges Dam in summer(July and August).

How to Get to Three Gorges Dam

Three Gorges Dam is about 40 kilometers from Yichang. And you can take taxi to the Three Gorges Dam.

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