Xiling Gorge, Yichang – Ticket, Opening hours, Location, and Highlights

Located in the western section of Xiling Gorge in the Three Gorges of the Yangtze River, Bing Shu Bao Jian Gorge is approximately 5 kilometers long, stretching from the mouth of the Xiangxi River to Xintan in Zigui County, Hubei Province. The gorge is characterized by narrow waters, with the river reaching a width of nearly 100 meters at its narrowest point. The cliffs along the shore are primarily composed of limestone. The name, meaning “Military Book and Precious Sword Gorge,” stems from the belief that the crevices in the northern cliff contain ancient coffin-like relics resembling military books, rumored to be hidden by the legendary strategist Zhuge Liang. Additionally, a massive stone standing upright in the river, resembling a sword, is said to be the precious sword also hidden by Zhuge Liang. Due to the iron-like appearance of the “book,” it is also known as Iron Coffin Gorge. Legend has it that Zhuge Liang once stationed troops and stored provisions in this area, earning it the alternative name of Rice Granary Gorge.

Not far east from Bing Shu Bao Jian Gorge, on the northern bank of the Yangtze, lies the Niu Gan Ma Fei Gorge. Characterized by two overlapping and hanging chunks of yellowish rock on the cliff, resembling the liver of a cow and the lung of a horse, the gorge is aptly named Niu Gan Ma Fei, translating to “Cow’s Liver and Horse’s Lung.” These formations are actually stalactites formed by the deposition of calcium carbonate from underground water. While the “cow’s liver” remains intact, the “horse’s lung” was partially destroyed in 1900 by British warships during the invasion, leaving it incomplete.

Between Liantuo and Nanjin Pass lies Deng Ying Gorge, renowned for its clear and pure cliffs devoid of any extraneous colors. The surroundings are adorned with verdant hills resembling flowing clouds and cascading springs akin to jade. The cliff reflections in the river create a tranquil and crystalline ambiance. Passing through this gorge during the night, especially under the moonlight with the moon hanging over the western mountains, transforms the scenery into an exceptionally beautiful spectacle, earning it the alternate name “Bright Moon Gorge.” One significant feature of Deng Ying Gorge is the breathtaking view at sunset when the sunlight casts shadows resembling the characters from the Chinese shadow play, especially the characters from the classic “Journey to the West.” This unique scence has given the gorge its name.

Continuing beyond Deng Ying Gorge, a series of steep cliffs come into view. Towering above the lush peaks, these cliffs overlook the surging torrents below. Nine winding ridges descend from the precipice, resembling nine dragons entering the water, creating a grand and majestic spectacle. The colossal rock wall suspended in mid-air is known as Huangniu Rock, and the valley is called “Huangniu Gorge.” Compared to Deng Ying Gorge, the terrain on both sides of Huangniu Gorge is steeper, and the rock formations are rugged and varied. This area is representative of the geological fault lines from the Sinian Period. Fossils of fish, trilobites, and other marine organisms can still be found in Huangniu Gorge, providing a record of the geological changes in the Three Gorges over millions of years. In the past, navigating through Huangniu Gorge was challenging due to swift waters and numerous reefs. Ships had to proceed cautiously, especially when traveling against the current, which often resulted in slow progress over several days.

On the southern bank of Huangniu Gorge stands Huangling Temple, a magnificent ancient structure with red walls, yellow tiles, and splendid golden decorations. It is the largest and oldest building in the Three Gorges region. Originally known as “Huangniu Shrine,” during the Three Kingdoms period, when Zhuge Liang passed through Huangniu Gorge, he saw the dilapidated temple and funded its reconstruction. He even wrote the “Huangniu Temple Inscription” in honor of this renovation.

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