Three Gorges Summit in Chongqing

The Three Gorges Summit (三峡之巅景区), located in Fengjie County (奉节县), Chongqing, is a premier scenic destination that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Qutang Gorge (瞿塘峡), the first and most dramatic stretch of the Three Gorges along the Yangtze River. This 4A National Scenic Spot stands at an elevation of 1,388 meters, providing an unrivaled vantage point of the Yangtze River and its surrounding landscape.

Opened to the public on May 1, 2020, the Three Gorges Summit has quickly become a must-visit spot for tourists seeking to explore the majestic beauty of the river and its surroundings. Over the years, the site has been upgraded with new facilities, including the Three Gorges Summit Cableway (三峡之巅索道) in April 2023, which allows visitors to soar above the Qutang Gorge and witness its grandeur from the sky.

Key Highlights of Three Gorges Summit

Location:

• Fengjie County, Chongqing

• Distance from Chongqing Downtown: 420 km (5.5 hours by car)

• Distance from Fengjie Railway Station: 50 km (1 hour 20 minutes by car)

What to Expect:

From the summit, visitors can witness a panoramic view of the Qutang Gorge, known for its narrow and deep form, surrounded by towering cliffs. The Yangtze River flows like a jade ribbon through the gorge, with notable landmarks such as Kui Gate (夔门), White Emperor City (白帝城), and the entire Fengjie County clearly visible.

• Breathtaking Views: The summit provides an all-encompassing view of the 8 km long Qutang Gorge, where the river surges between the steep cliffs, offering dramatic and awe-inspiring vistas.

• Seasonal Scenery: Visitors can expect different yet equally stunning landscapes depending on the season, from lush greenery to vibrant autumn hues.

Best Time to Visit:

• March to December: The weather is most pleasant during this period, with clear skies and excellent visibility, making it the best time to visit the summit.

Opening Hours:

• 8:30 AM - 7:00 PM, year-round

Ticket Price:

• CNY 50

Seasonal Beauty at Three Gorges Summit

Autumn (October - November): A Paradise of Colors

• Scenery: The gorge transforms into a vibrant tapestry of yellow, red, and green foliage, with the crisp autumn air and clear blue skies creating a breathtaking atmosphere. This season is especially popular among visitors for the striking views and perfect weather.

• Best Time for Photography: The autumn colors provide a magical backdrop for photos, with the contrast of the colorful foliage and the rugged mountains creating stunning visual contrasts.

Spring (March - May): A Blossom Wonderland

• Scenery: The entire mountainside comes alive with blooming peach blossoms, white plum flowers, and fresh greenery. The air is fragrant with the scent of flowers, and the harmonious sounds of birds and insects fill the atmosphere.

• Best for Nature Lovers: Visitors can immerse themselves in the peaceful ambiance of the gorge while enjoying the fresh, rejuvenating spring air.

Summer (June - September): Mantled in Lush Greenery

• Scenery: The summit and the gorge are covered in lush, vibrant greenery. The river’s high-water levels add to the drama, as it rushes through the narrow cliffs of Qutang Gorge with immense force.

• Best for Adventure Seekers: The dynamic landscape and powerful river currents create a thrilling and immersive experience, perfect for those seeking adventure and natural beauty.

Winter (December - February): Deep Gorge & Calmer Water

• Scenery: As the water level drops, the exposed cliffs become even more striking, and the river resembles a calm lake. Snowfall is rare, but when it occurs, it adds a serene and peaceful touch to the already tranquil surroundings.

• Best for Tranquility: Winter offers solitude and quiet beauty, providing a peaceful retreat from the crowds and a chance to experience nature’s purity.

Cultural and Historical Significance of Three Gorges Summit

Inspiration for Poets and Artists

The Three Gorges Summit has been an important source of inspiration for some of China’s greatest poets and artists, including Li Bai (李白), Su Shi (苏轼), and Liu Yuxi (刘禹锡). One of the most famous mentions of the summit is by Du Fu (杜甫), the “Poet Sage” of the Tang Dynasty, who wrote about the beauty and grandeur of the area in his poetry.

Birthplace of Ancient Music

The summit holds special cultural significance as the birthplace of Kui (夔), the first musician in Chinese history and the founder of Ya Music (雅乐). Several music-themed attractions have been established to honor Kui's legacy, including:

• Siwangyuetan Square (四望月坛)

• Music Ancestor Sculpture (音乐祖师雕像)

• Zhu Lv Ya Lan (竹吕雅兰)

These attractions not only celebrate the ancient origins of Chinese music but also offer visitors a deeper understanding of the region's rich cultural heritage.

Major Attractions at Three Gorges Summit

1. Kui Gate (夔门)

The Kui Gate is one of the most iconic landmarks in the Three Gorges region, symbolizing the gateway to the Qutang Gorge. It is a historic and natural marvel where the Yangtze River dramatically enters the gorge, flanked by towering cliffs.

2. Ancient Elephant Fossils (夔门古象馆)

Discovered in 1990, the Ancient Elephant Fossils were found near the entrance of the gorge in Baidi Township (白帝乡), Fengjie County. These fossils are now housed in a dedicated museum, showcasing prehistoric creatures that once roamed the region.

3. Iron Pillars (锁江铁柱)

The Iron Pillars, dating back to the Song Dynasty (960-1279), were erected by Xu Zongwu (徐宗武) to prevent Mongol invasions. They stand as a testament to the area's military history and are an important landmark at the entrance to the Qutang Gorge.

4. Red Armor Tower (赤甲楼)

Built in 1995 at the foot of Red Armor Mountain (赤甲山), the Red Armor Tower is one of Fengjie’s three major towers, alongside Seven Stars Tower (七星楼) and Wangjiang Tower (望江楼). The tower provides spectacular views of the river and gorge.

5. Danqing Cliff (丹青崖)

The Danqing Cliff is historically significant for being the location where famous artists completed the designs for China’s fifth edition of the 10 yuan bill in 1998. The cliff is now named after these artists and their work.

How to Visit Three Gorges Summit

Access:

• From Fengjie Railway Station: 50 km, approximately 1 hour 20 minutes by car

• From Chongqing Downtown: 420 km, approximately 5.5 hours by car

Transportation:

• By Car: There are regular routes from Fengjie and Chongqing, making it easy for visitors to drive directly to the summit. The location is also accessible via river cruises, which often include shore excursions to the summit.

• By Foot: There are scenic walking trails that take visitors through the key attractions at the summit, including the Ancient Elephant Fossils Museum, Iron Pillars, and Red Armor Tower.

Cultural Events and Activities

The Three Gorges Summit hosts a variety of cultural and outdoor activities throughout the year, including:

• Red Leaves Hiking Festival (三峡之巅红叶登山节)

• Hiking, Self-driving, and Photography Events (徒步、自驾行摄)

• Drone Photography Contest (飞‘阅’三峡之巅)

• Extreme Music Festival (达古冰川极限音乐会)

These events showcase the natural beauty of the area while also celebrating its cultural heritage and artistic legacy.

The Three Gorges Summit offers an unforgettable experience, providing some of the most stunning views along the Yangtze River. Whether you're visiting during the vibrant autumn, the blossoming spring, the lush summer, or the serene winter, the summit offers a unique way to connect with nature and Chinese cultural history. If you’re planning a Yangtze River cruise, make sure to include this iconic destination on your itinerary to experience its unparalleled beauty.