Liujia Little Three Gorges

Liujia Little Three Gorges

The name “Little Three Gorges” alone suggests the breathtaking magnificence of this place. Here, towering peaks, sheer cliffs, hanging stalactites, and ancient vines suspended in mid-air are common sights. The river water is crystal clear and unfathomably deep. Currently, the developed tour route covers a round trip of 12 kilometers, composed of Tianmen Gorge, Liangfeng Gorge, Longmen Gorge, and the Lijiang rural scenery.

The astonishing Tianmen Gorge features two towering cliffs rising straight from the water, resembling two grand open gates. Legend has it that the two mountains were once connected but were split apart by tectonic forces, forming the current shape. Most magical of all, as the cruise ship sails through Tianmen and moves forward, the two “gates” gradually appear to close behind, evoking the feeling of standing before an impregnable pass.

Also unforgettable is the view of the “lofty gorges holding calm lakes” from the cliffside. A skywalk built hundreds of meters above the cliff transforms the once insurmountable gap between the Muluojia Wharf and the nearby hydroelectric dam into a “stairway to heaven.” Walking along it feels like strolling on water, especially on misty days, when the experience gives the illusion of walking on clouds.

The Little Three Gorges combines the grandeur of the Yangtze River’s Three Gorges with the delicate beauty of the Lijiang River. The valley areas along the gorges are lined with lush bamboo, vast wild banana forests, and even the living fossil of the dinosaur era—tree ferns—creating a stunning ecological adventure destination. Many peaks feature naturally formed indentations, making them ideal spots for rock climbing, and several climbing competitions have been held here. As for scenic spots such as the Lion Watching the Sun, the Turtle Watching the Sun, the Bat Spreading Its Wings, and the Statue of Mo Yi, they never fail to draw excited reactions from visitors.

If you want to experience the daily life of the Yao people, head to the Yao New Village. Although newly developed at the end of the Little Three Gorges route, it is already well-established. Here, you can make zongzi, grind rice with a stone mill, spin cotton thread by hand, or learn intricate embroidery techniques from Yao girls. For those interested, try your luck in the “Dragon-Phoenix Twins” guessing game—with prizes for correct answers. Feeling hungry? For just 2 yuan, buy a pound of taro or chestnuts, and enjoy the sweet taste while watching Yao girls sing traditional Yao songs—a unique and flavorful experience.

When visiting the Little Three Gorges, don’t miss the exceptionally fresh river fish. The local fish here are both tender and delicious—try dishes like pan-fried oil fish, sesame swordfish stewed with tofu, and braised yellow eel bone fish...