Xiling Gorge
Yichang, Southwest China
One of the Three Gorges that the Yangtze River runs through between Yichang and Chongqing, Xiling Gorge is known for its soaring limestone cliffs and rugged landscapes. The Three Gorges Dam has raised the height of the river since Chinese poets began to write about these surroundings, but the area still offers stunning photos—not to mention scenic caves, streams, bridges, temples, waterfalls, and minor gorges.
The basics
Most travelers experience the Xiling Gorge on a Three Gorges cruise between Yichang and Chongqing, though there are also longer Yangtze River cruise options. Since this is the closest of the Three Gorges to Yichang, other options for visiting include day trips from Yichang and overnight packages from other cities in Hubei. Many Xiling Gorge day trips from Yichang spend half the day cruising the gorge and half the day at the Three Gorges Dam.
Things to know before you go
- The Xiling Gorge is a great choice for photography, nature, and cruise enthusiasts.
- Yangtze River cruise ships run the gamut from luxurious craft with onboard spas, picture windows, and lavish en-suites to very, very basic ships with no English spoken, no meals included, and shared bathrooms.
- The cruise ships are generally not accessible for travelers who rely on wheelchairs for all their mobility needs. Parents will want to opt for slings or back carriers over strollers.
How to get there
The Yangtze runs through the Xiling Gorge for about 21 miles (34 kilometers). Most travelers visit on half-day cruises from Yichang’s Maoping Port or on multi-day Yangtze River cruises from either Yichang or Chongqing, though a few cruises start as far away as Shanghai.
When to get there
Hubei’s hot, humid summers deliver enough rain to turn the Yangtze yellow, while winters are on the chilly side for a cruise. Spring (March through mid-May) and fall (mid-September through November) are the sweet spots for a Three Gorges cruise. While March and November can be on the cool side, the river is generally less crowded.
Three Gorges cruises: upstream or downstream?
The classic Three Gorges cruises run between Yichang and Chongqing. Ships traveling against the current from Yichang to Chongqing generally spend four nights on the water, while cruises traveling with the flow of the Yangtze from Chongqing to Yichang usually take three nights. Downstream cruises are faster but more expensive, so they’re a better choice for time-pressed travelers; upstream cruises are slower and cheaper, making them best for photographers and budget travelers.
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