Three Gorges Summit: Overlook Majestic Qutang Gorge

Autumn (October to November) - A Paradise of Colors

Autumn is the best time to visit the Three Gorges Summit. Qutang Gorge glows with autumn tints, as the leaves on either side transition to yellow and red hues, while some remain deep green. The dark brown mountains and cliffs framing the gorge are adorned with this diverse palette of foliage, all set against a backdrop of a clear blue sky and fluffy clouds.

Spring (March to May) - A Blossom Wonderland

Ascending to Three Gorges Summit, one will be greeted by an array of pink and red peach blossoms, white plum and apricot flowers, etc., interspersed with verdant greenery across the entire mountainside. The air is filled with the melodious tweeting of birds and the rhythmic chirping of insects. Below, emerald river water gently flows. Here, you'll feel a sense of peace and harmony with nature.

Summer (June to September) - Mantled in Lush Green

In summer, the path to the Three Gorges Summit is accompanied by luxuriantly green plants. Looking down, you'll see the Yangtze River during its high-flow period surges forward, crashing with immense power against the steep cliffs that line both sides of Qutang Gorge, the narrowest and most precipitous stretch. The awe-inspiring beauty of Qutang Gorge will leave you utterly breathless.

Winter (December to February) - With Deeper Gorge & Calmer Water

On the Three Gorges Summit, one will see red foliage retain their enchantment well into December. Meanwhile, during winter when the water level of the Three Gorges drops, the exposed mountainsides appear even more towering and majestic, revealing a typical, pure natural beauty of Three Gorges. The water itself slows to a tranquil pace, resembling a serene lake that showcases stunning turquoise hues amidst towering cliffs. Occasional snowfalls further enhance the serene and peaceful beauty of the landscape.

Three Gorges Summit derived its name from the renowned Chinese poet Du Fu's lines “Mount Chijia and Mount Baiyan piercing high into the sky, with rows of houses stretching from their feet to the summit." Since ancient times, renowned poets such as Li Bai, Su Shi, and Liu Yuxi have visited this place, leaving behind many popular verses. It's also the birthplace of Kui, the first musician in the history of China and the founder of Ya Music with a history of 4,000 years. To honor Kui, numerous music-themed scenic spots like Siwangyuetan Square, Music Ancestor Sculpture, Zhu Lv Ya Lan, etc., have been established at the Three Gorges Summit.

In 2025, many cruise ships make Three Gorges Summit a shore excursion site. The 5-star Victoria Cruises, the Yangtze preeminent cruise leader with satisfying international service, offer it as an optional site of their 4 days to 5 days' cruise between Chongqing and Yichang, subject to an additional fee. The Yangzi Explorer, the only super 5-star cruise with one-on-one service, covers Three Gorges Summit in its 4 nights & 5 days' Yichang - Chongqing upstream cruise. Similarly, the Century Legend, the top deluxe and large cruise vessel with advanced hardware and praised service, also adds the Summit to the 11 days - 12 days' cruise between Chongqing and Shanghai.

1. Suitable for: visitors of all ages, since the shore excursion to Three Gorges Summit doesn't need a long walk, and there are many wide and flat wood trails; wheel-chair travellers are not recommended due to the presence of a few stone steps;

2. Walking Tips: wear comfortable antiskid shoes;

3. Clothing: light jackets, Jeans, T-shirts and lightweight windbreakers in springs and autumns; hats, cottons T-shirts and shorts for hot summers; hats, scarves, gloves, and down jackets in winters;

4. Other Items to Take: an umbrella, sunglasses, suntan lotions, water, snacks, etc.

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