The Three Gorges Tribe Scenic Area is located in Sandouping Town, Yiling District, Yichang City, Hubei Province. As a national 5A-level tourist attraction covering approximately 14 square kilometers, it sits along the Xiling Gorge section of the Yangtze River's Three Gorges, boasting picturesque landscapes that perfectly showcase the pristine natural scenery of the Three Gorges and the cultural charm of Ba-Chu culture. Comprising mountain dwellings, water dwellings, and streamside dwellings, it blends natural landscapes with folk culture, earning the reputation as a "microcosm of the Yangtze Three Gorges".
History and Culture
Xiling Gorge, where the scenic area is located, is the longest section of the Three Gorges and has long been a convergence zone of Ba and Chu cultures. The area preserves rich Ba-Chu cultural relics, including ancient Ba hanging coffins and plank road remnants. During Ming and Qing dynasties, it served as an important Yangtze River port and trading hub, developing unique water dwelling culture.
The "Three Gorges Tribe" vividly recreates centuries-old local lifestyles, including fishing, trackers pulling boats, and wedding customs. These authentic cultural displays provide living examples for understanding the region's history and culture.
Main Attractions
Longjin Stream
The core attraction - a 4-kilometer-deep gorge with crystal-clear water, towering peaks, and ancient trees. Featuring Tujia stilt houses, waterwheels, and ancient plank roads, visitors can also watch Tujia women washing clothes and singing folk songs.
Ba King Village
A folk culture area recreating ancient Ba people's life, with structures like Ba King Palace and Ba tribe settlements. Daily cultural performances allow visitors to participate in Ba hunting and worship activities.
Shadow Play Gorge
The most beautiful section of Xiling Gorge, named for mountain shadows resembling lantern light. The narrow, rapid river section features authentic tracker performances, showcasing historical Yangtze shipping hardships.
Bright Moon Pavilion
A viewing platform at the area's highest point offering panoramic Yangtze and Xiling Gorge views. The traditionally styled pavilion is ideal for photography.
Tujia Wedding Performance
Daily scheduled shows vividly present Tujia wedding customs like bridal crying, gate-blocking wine, and carrying the bride, with visitor participation.
Hanging Coffin Site
Preserved ancient Ba hanging coffin remains demonstrate unique burial customs and exquisite craftsmanship, with coffins suspended on cliffs.
Cuisine
Three Gorges Fat Fish
A Yangtze Three Gorges specialty with tender, delicious meat. Traditional preparations include steamed and braised styles.
Tujia Bacon
Tujia traditional food made from local free-range pork through curing and smoking, featuring firm texture and unique aroma.
Baked Potatoes
A Three Gorges snack - small potatoes baked in special ovens until crispy outside and tender inside, often served with chili powder.
Recommended Nearby Cuisine
Other Yichang specialties worth trying include Cold Shrimp, Radish Dumplings, and Three Immortals Chicken, available at nearby restaurants or in downtown Yichang.
Ticket Information
Admission is 150 yuan per person (including round-trip ferry). Seniors over 60 and students with valid IDs enjoy half-price discounts, while children under 1.2 meters enter free. Real-name ticketing requires ID cards.
Opening Hours
Open year-round from 8:00-17:30 during peak season (March 1-November 30) and 8:30-17:00 during off-season (December 1-end of February). Ticket sales stop one hour before closing at each attraction.
Recommended Itinerary
Suggested route: Visitor Center → Ferry crossing → Longjin Stream → Ba King Village → Shadow Play Gorge → Bright Moon Pavilion → Tujia Wedding Performance → Hanging Coffin Site. The full tour takes about 4-5 hours. Natural landscapes are best visited in mornings, cultural experiences in afternoons.
Transportation
- By car: From downtown Yichang, drive about 35 km on Three Gorges Expressway
- By bus: Take Bus 10-1 from Yichang directly to the visitor center
- By boat: Cruise from Yichang Port directly to the area, enjoying Xiling Gorge scenery
Must-See Attractions
- Longjin Stream: Experience pristine Three Gorges nature
- Ba King Village: Discover Ba-Chu cultural charm
- Shadow Play Gorge: Observe authentic tracker culture
- Tujia Wedding Performance: Participate in interactive folk experiences
Travel Tips
- Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather
- Wear comfortable anti-slip shoes for some wet paths
- Check performance schedules for rich cultural shows
- Allow 4-5 hours; a full day permits thorough exploration
- Rent traditional Tujia costumes for memorable photos
Precautions
- Caution advised on some steep paths
- Respect ethnic minority customs
- Protect the environment; no littering
- Wear life jackets when boating
- Secure personal belongings in crowded areas