Three Gorges Dam

The basics

The Three Gorges Dam runs for almost 2.5 kilometers (1.5 miles) across the Yangtze, upriver from the city of Yichang. Most travelers visit either on a day trip or half-day trip from Yichang or as part of a 3-night or 4-night Yangtze River (Three Gorges) cruise between Yichang and Chongqing. Cruise ships let you get a look at the dam from above, but you’ll usually need to book an additional trip to experience the ship elevator.

The Three Gorges Dam site is well organized, with buses connecting the different viewpoints and the visitor center, but largely oriented to local travelers. If you don’t speak Chinese, you’ll likely find it easier to visit with a guide.

Things to know before you go

• The Three Gorges Dam is a must for cruisers, photographers, and anyone with an interest in engineering.
• The site has restrooms, food options, and souvenir shops.
• Allow 2–3 hours to explore the site, including bus transfers between the different viewing areas and time at the visitor center.
• Neither the Three Gorges Dam site nor the standard Yangtze River cruise ships are suitable for travelers who rely on wheelchairs.

How to get there

The Three Gorges Dam lies about a 30-mile (50-kilometer) drive northwest of Yichang. The tourist bus 216 runs to the visitor center from Yemingzhu bus station. However, if you don’t speak Chinese, a tour that includes transportation can be a more convenient option.

When to get there

The Three Gorges Dam is open to tourists from morning until late afternoon, with last admission in the mid-afternoon. As with any major Chinese tourist attraction, plan your visit to avoid weekends and public holidays, particularly the Golden Week holidays at the start of May and October.

The Three Gorges Dam Five-Step Ship Lock

Almost all Yichang-Chongqing or Chongqing-Yichang Three Gorges cruises start from—or finish at—Maoping Port, which is upstream from the dam. So, while you’ll get the chance to admire the dam from the water, you won’t cross the Three Gorges Dam Five-Step Ship Lock. However, many cruises offer the option to board a smaller sightseeing vessel for a ride in the hydraulic ship elevator, which raises craft as much as 371 feet (113 meters)—higher than an American football field is long. Alternatively, to experience the lock proper, opt for a cruise from Shanghai to Chongqing.