Yangtze River

The mighty Yangtze means a lot more than a scenic river to the Chinese. Anthropologists believe it is the origin of the Asian people and art historians say it’s the cradle of Chinese culture. For thousands of years, Yangtze River has played a most important role in Chinese civilizations. With such strong ties, the Yangtze continues to attract numerous visitors who are often amazed at its incredible history and beauty. Take a cruise on the Yangtze and you will see the mesmerizing appeal of the river, which winds through some of China’s most astonishing scenery.

Three Gorges – The Yangtze River is one of the longest rivers in the world, and the most famous part of the Yangtze River is the Three Gorges. Xiling Gorge is the longest of the three. It is known for its strange-shaped cliff faces and rock formations. Try to identify Ox Liver, Horse Lungs, Yellow Cat and Previous Sword. Wu Gorge is home of the twelve peaks of the Wu Mountains, which boast a landscape of dazzling peaks and rocks. Hence it is also known as the Gallery of the Natural Beauty. Qutang Gorge is home to the earliest human civilizations ever discovered in Asia. You can see the original site of the famous Fenbi Wall and the ruins of ancient cliff roads and the Mengliang Steps.

Lesser Three Gorges –During a cruise along the Yangtze River, seeing the Lesser Three Gorges is often the highlight for many. Take a short excursion along a smaller tributary of Yangtze River to see the Lesser Three Gorges: Dragon Gate Gorge, Misty Gorge and Emerald Gorge. Since this tributary is much narrower than Yangtze River, the views are said to be more impressive here, due to the steeper cliffs and mountains, clear water, rich greenery and diverse wildlife. One of the most stunning scenes is the Hanging Coffin, placed there by ancient settlers in the above cliffs as part of their religious beliefs.

Three Gorges Dam – The construction of the Three Gorges Dam, to be one of the largest in the world, will forever change the face of Yangtze River as we know it today. The Dam will flood the Three Gorges, covering many of the historical and cultural sites that stem as far back as prehistoric times. There has been much evidence of numerous ancient civilizations and cultures that have called Three Gorges home, with each leaving marks through architectural structures, graves, bronze ware, pottery and other cultural relics. In an effort to preserve these important artifacts and sites, archeologists have been working tirelessly using advanced technology to carefully excavate and move them to higher ground or to museums. Upon completion of the Dam project, the many benefits will include flood control, hydro-electric power generation and better navigation along the river. The Three Gorges Dam will also be a symbol of China’s rapid development as a powerful and advanced nation.