The Three Gorges Dam Tourist Area (三峡大坝旅游区), located within the borders of Yichang City in Hubei Province, China, officially opened to the public in 1997. Spanning a total area of 15.28 square kilometers, this tourist zone is centered around the world’s largest hydraulic engineering project—the Three Gorges Dam. It comprehensively showcases the cultural aspects of the engineering marvel and water conservancy, offering visitors a multifaceted experience that combines sightseeing, education, leisure, and entertainment.
The tourist area is divided into three main sections: Tanziling Park, 185 Park, and the Diversion Memorial Park. Tanziling allows visitors to overlook the grandeur of the dam and enjoy panoramic views of the Yangtze River. The 185-meter water level observation area provides a breathtaking spectacle of the turbulent waters during flood discharge. The Diversion Memorial Park features captivating performances and activities, serving as the central hub for internal transportation within the scenic area.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Three Gorges Dam Tourist Area
- Vlog about the Three Gorges Dam
- Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
- Other Attractions near Three Gorges Dam
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 2- 3 hour |
| Ticket Price | Free |
| Shuttle Bus | 35 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 8.30 – 16.30 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0717-6763498 |
Location and Transportation
The Three Gorges Dam Tourist Area is situated in the middle section of Xiling Gorge, within the boundaries of Yichang City in Hubei Province, China. Specifically located at San Dou Ping, it is approximately 38 kilometers upstream from the Yichang Gezhouba Water Conservancy Hub. To reach the Three Gorges Dam Tourist Area:
From downtown Yichang, at the entrance of Daxia Three Gorges International Travel Agency (80 Dongshan Avenue), hop on the tourist shuttle directly to the tourist transfer center within the scenic area. Two shuttles depart daily at 8:30 AM and 2:00 PM. The round trip costs about 40 yuan, taking approximately one hour each way.
Alternatively, from Yichang’s downtown area, head to the Three Gorges Tourist Center (142 Jianghan Avenue). Two daily buses depart for the tourist transfer center within the scenic area at 8:00 AM and between 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM. The fare is around 45 yuan.
Highlights of Three Gorges Dam Tourist Area
Tanziling: A Panoramic Vista of Grandeur
Tanziling Scenic Area derives its name from the observation platform resembling an inverted jar at its peak, towering at an elevation of 262.48 meters. Positioned as the prime location for a comprehensive view of the Three Gorges Project, ascending the top of Tanziling provides a breathtaking panorama. Visitors are treated to the magnificent spectacle of the Three Gorges Dam, along with the towering dual-line, five-level ship lock, dubbed the “Fourth Gorge of the Yangtze”. Additionally, Tanziling offers a feast for the eyes with the picturesque scenery of Huangniu Cliff in the Xiling Gorge and the distant skyline of the newly developed city in Zigui County.
The park is divided into three tiers, gradually ascending from low to high. It features model exhibition halls, millennium riverbed stones, the symbolic rock of the Yangtze diversion, the cornerstone of the Three Gorges Dam site, the silver-plated celestial book, and finally the Tanziling viewpoint. The entire area is interconnected by spectacular fountains, charming waterfalls, meandering streams, and lush green lawns, enhancing the overall scenic experience.
185 Observation Point: A Proximity to Majesty
Situated on the left side of the Three Gorges Dam’s crest, the 185 Platform is aptly named due to its elevation matching the dam’s height of 185 meters. Standing on this platform provides an up-close view of the dam’s summit and a distant gaze over Maoping in Zigui County. Facing upstream, visitors witness the magnificent scenery of towering cliffs and tranquil waters, while downstream showcases the optimal viewpoint for observing the Three Gorges Ship Lift.
Diversion Memorial Park: Celebrating Engineering Triumphs
Dedicated to the theme of the Three Gorges Project diversion, the Diversion Memorial Park stands as China’s first water conservancy-themed park, seamlessly blending sightseeing, education, and leisure. Nestled downstream from the Three Gorges Dam, this park, spanning approximately 93,000 square meters, officially opened its doors on September 26, 2005. It stands as the premier location for admiring downstream landscapes.
Within the park, visitors encounter exhibitions showcasing the historical significance of the diversion, a collection of large-scale engineering machinery, sculptural representations of key components, and unique Three Gorges stones.
Vlog about the Three Gorges Dam
Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
Walking Distance: The distance from the Ship Locks Viewing Platform to the 185 Viewing Platform is only 500 meters if you walk along the left-hand pathway. There’s no need to take the electric buggy, which costs 10 yuan per person. Save your money and enjoy the short stroll.
Ticket Purchase: It’s essential to buy tickets from the Transfer Center. Avoid taking unofficial transportation or listening to individuals who claim they can take you to see the dam. The area is guarded by armed police officers at each intersection, and private vehicles are not allowed inside.
Boat Tours: Boat tours typically depart from the starting point of the Three Gorges Dam and explore two dams and a gorge (Three Gorges Dam – Gezhouba Dam – Xiling Gorge).
Aerial Restrictions: Note that the Three Gorges Dam area falls within a restricted management zone, and drone flights are prohibited for security reasons.
