Lesser Three Gorges of Jialing River in Chongqing

The Lesser Three Gorges of Jialing River (嘉陵江小三峡), located in the Beibei and Hechuan districts of Chongqing, is a scenic area known for its breathtaking landscapes, rugged cliffs, and clear rushing waters. Comprising three main gorges — Libi Gorge (沥鼻峡), Wentan Gorge (温塘峡), and Guanyin Gorge (观音峡) — this natural wonder stretches over a total of 27 kilometers, offering visitors a stunning display of nature's beauty.

Geographic Location and Scenic Areas

1. Libi Gorge (沥鼻峡)
   Situated in Yanjing Town of Hechuan District, Libi Gorge spans 3 kilometers. This gorge is renowned for its turbulent currents, deep waters, and dramatic cliffs. The gorge features various fascinating landscapes, such as the Giant Beam Beach, Lion Tomb, Laughing Monk, Niu Bi Cave, Monkey Rock, and Mo Zi Tuo. Each of these scenic spots offers picturesque views, making it a favorite for nature lovers and photographers.

2. Wentan Gorge (温塘峡)
   Located in the Jinyun Mountain section of Beibei District, Wentan Gorge is 2.7 kilometers long. It is named after an ancient hot spring pool at the entrance of the gorge, which was known as Wentan. The gorge is known for its roaring rapids, swirling whirlpools, and steep cliffs that are only 200 meters apart. The springs gushing from the rocks, combined with the dramatic landscape, make this gorge one of the most spectacular in the region.

3. Guanyin Gorge (观音峡)
   Extending for 3.7 kilometers, Guanyin Gorge is also located in Beibei District. The gorge is named after a large stone at its entrance, which is said to resemble a Buddhist tablet, and a temple called Guanyin Pavilion (now gone). The gorge features several notable bridges, including the Chaoyang Bridge, Biedong Bridge, and several others. These bridges make the area unique in terms of its density of large bridges, which adds to its scenic charm.

Climate

The Lesser Three Gorges area experiences a subtropical monsoon climate, with mild winters and hot summers. The average annual temperature is around 18°C (64°F). Winter temperatures generally range from 6°C to 8°C (43-46°F), while summer temperatures range from 27°C to 38°C (81°F to 100°F), with a recorded extreme high of 43.8°C (110°F). The region experiences frequent rainfall, especially during summer and autumn, contributing to its misty, foggy weather. Visitors can expect a moist and cloudy climate year-round, making it an ideal destination for those who enjoy dramatic weather and lush landscapes.

Tourism Information

Local Cuisine

Chongqing is famous for its spicy hotpot (重庆火锅), a dish made with a variety of meats, poultry, offal, and vegetables, all cooked in a bubbling pot of spicy broth. The dipping sauce typically consists of sesame oil and garlic, which balances the heat and enhances the flavor. Hotpot is a year-round delicacy, but it is especially popular in the summer, where people can be seen enjoying it on outdoor streets, sweating and laughing in the heat. Visitors often find the spicy food addictive, making it a memorable part of the Chongqing culinary experience.

Accommodation Options

• Yangtze River Holiday Hotel (扬子江假日酒店)
  A 4-star hotel located in the Nanping Economic Development Zone, offering panoramic views of the Yangtze River. It is approximately 33 km from the airport and 3 km from the train station, making it an ideal base for visitors.

• Chongqing Hotel (重庆宾馆)
  Another 4-star foreign-oriented hotel, located near the Jiefangbei commercial area, offering easy access to transport and amenities. The hotel is famous for its Chinese traditional garden-style architecture. It is located 25 km from the airport and 4 km from the train station.

• Hilton Chongqing (重庆希尔顿酒店)
  Located at the confluence of the Yangtze River and Jialing River, this 5-star hotel is perfect for both business and leisure. It is just 4 km from the city center and close to major tourist attractions, including Datianwan Sports Center. The hotel is located 25 km from the airport and 1 km from the train station.

Specialty Products

• Jingjiang Pork (京酱风肉)
  A traditional Fuling dish known for its beautiful appearance, delicate taste, and refreshing texture. It can be steamed, stir-fried, or deep-fried and is commonly served alongside drinks or meals.

• Jin Jiao Brand Old Sichuan Five-Spice Beef Jerky (金角牌老四川五香牛肉干)
  Founded in 1937, this beef jerky is made with high-quality beef, flavored with Sichuan salt, sugar, and a blend of natural spices. It is known for its distinctive five-spice flavor and is believed to promote digestive health and vitality.

• Shuangjiang Pigeon Duck (双江片熊鸭子)
  A unique dish that originated in 1909, made from tender ducks marinated with rare herbs and spices, then roasted to perfection. The meat is tender, aromatic, and flavorful, offering an unforgettable culinary experience.

Transportation

Travelers can take a bus from Chaotianmen to Beibei District, and then transfer to a tourist bus heading to Jinyun Mountain. The bus ride costs approximately 4 CNY and offers an affordable way to reach the scenic area.

Nearby Attractions

Simianshan (四面山) - Jiangjin District

Located 140 kilometers from Chongqing, Simianshan is a geological marvel with a name derived from its surrounding mountains, which form an almost circular structure. The region is known for its original forests, cascading waterfalls, and rich biodiversity.

The area features over 100 waterfalls, including some of the highest in China, such as the Wangxiangtai Waterfall (152 meters tall) and the Shuikou Temple Waterfall (94 meters tall). These waterfalls are powerful, creating an awe-inspiring atmosphere, with mist filling the air and the sound of rushing water echoing for miles.

Simianshan also has a lake, Honghai Lake, which is famous for its crystal-clear waters. Visitors can enjoy boating on the lake, surrounded by forests and cliffs.

The region is home to more than 1,500 plant species, including 19 endangered plants and 207 animal species, some of which are under national protection. Notable attractions within Simianshan include Da Wopu, Bajiao Jian, Ping Shan, and several historic sites such as Hanging Bridges, Elephant Mountain, and Monkey Mountain.

With its pristine natural beauty and biodiversity, Simianshan is considered one of China’s most significant biological gene pools and a top destination for eco-tourism and adventure seekers.