Wushan

　　 Wushan is situated at the western mouth of the serene and picturesque Wu Gorge, on the northern bank of the confluence of the Yangtze River and the Daning River. It is the easternmost county-level city in Chongqing and a popular tourist destination surrounded by mountains and rivers, boasting beautiful scenery and numerous historical sites.

　　 Within its territory are the world-famous Three Gorges of the Yangtze River, known for their canyons and river landscapes; the Lesser Three Gorges and the Even Smaller Three Gorges, which are serene, picturesque, and mainly offer adventure, leisure, and rafting experiences; as well as the “Three Terraces, Eight Scenes, and Twelve Peaks” of Wushan, represented by the Goddess Peak. After the impoundment of the Three Gorges Dam, the Wushan scenic area features interconnected canyons and linked lakes and reservoirs, becoming a picturesque tourist city nestled against mountains and water.

　　 The Lesser Three Gorges of Wushan

　　 The Lesser Three Gorges of Wushan refer to the three gorges—Longmen Gorge, Bawu Gorge, and Dicui Gorge—located in Wushan County along the lower reaches of the Daning River, the largest tributary of the Yangtze River. Stretching a total of 50 kilometers, these gorges feature majestic and uniquely shaped peaks, treacherous shoals, and fast-flowing clear waters. The surrounding mountains display a dazzling array of forms and colors, with clear springs and waterfalls adding to their charm. Lush forests cover the hills, and the ever-changing seasons bring misty clouds that create a fairy-tale atmosphere. Wildflowers bloom among the trees, flocks of birds fly over the islands, mandarin ducks play in the water, and fish swim near the surface. Playful monkeys echo through the valleys, forming a breathtaking natural gallery. There are also ancient Ba people’s hanging coffins shrouded in mystery, ancient plank roads that spark curiosity, and the quaint, well-preserved Dachang Ancient Town, all contributing to unforgettable cultural landscapes. Together, they form the unique and stunning canyon scenery of the Lesser Three Gorges, making it an extraordinary tourist destination that captivates visitors with its beauty and leaves them with lasting memories. It is hailed as a “Marvel of China” and a “Sight Unparalleled Under Heaven.”

　　 Longmen Gorge

　　 Located about 3 kilometers from Wushan County, Longmen Gorge is the first gorge along the Daning River. Upon entering the gorge, visitors are greeted by towering cliffs on both sides that seem to touch the sky, with azure skies and emerald waters. A bridge, the 184-meter-long Longmen Bridge, spans the gorge, making the entrance resemble a grand gateway—and even more precipitous than the Kuimen Gate.

　　 The riverbed within the gorge features complex elevation changes, causing the water flow to alternate between rapid and calm. In the fast sections, white waves surge violently,

　　 while in calmer areas, the surface becomes mirror-like. No matter the depth, the colorful pebbles on the riverbed are clearly visible.

　　 At the gorge’s exit lies the famous Yinwo Shoal, historically known for its dangerous currents and challenging navigation, often causing boats to capsize—hence its name, which implies “hidden treasures” beneath the waters. Today, after dredging, the journey remains thrilling yet safe, offering a unique experience.

　　 Upon entering the “Dragon Gate,” one can see small square holes, about six inches in size, carved into the cliffs on both sides. These holes, spaced roughly 1.5 meters apart, mark the beginning of China’s longest ancient plank road, which stretches over 300 kilometers.

　　 Bawu Gorge

　　 Bawu Gorge is the second of the Lesser Three Gorges, stretching 10 kilometers from Dongpingba to Taipingtan. Named after the Bawu River, a tributary within the gorge, it is also called Iron Coffin Gorge or Guanyin Gorge. The gorge is characterized by abrupt peaks and rugged rocks,

　　 with serene blue waters and stunning stalactite formations that resemble humans, objects, and animals—natural sculptures of exceptional beauty. On the western cliff at the gorge’s entrance, a blackish-brown stone relief resembling a turtle is embedded in the rock face marked with the words “Bawu Gorge.” This spot, located at the shoal, is thus named Turtle Shoal.

　　 The most intriguing attraction in Bawu Gorge is the hanging coffins. Research suggests that this burial custom began in the Western Zhou Dynasty and continued until the Ming Dynasty. According to local customs, the higher the ancestors were buried, the more filial the descendants were considered. Some of these coffins, dating back over two thousand years, remain remarkably well-preserved—an extremely rare sight both in China and abroad.

　　 Dicui Gorge is the third and longest of the Lesser Three Gorges, stretching 20 kilometers. It is also the most picturesque. The cliffs on both sides are strikingly steep, covered with lush bamboo and dense ancient trees. Amidst the woods and cliffs, waterfalls cascade down, splashing like thousands of silver ribbons falling from the clouds. The wind sweeps through the green mountains, producing a soothing roar like rolling waves. Eagles are often seen circling the mountaintops, while monkeys swing from vines and leap between trees.

　　 The gorge features attractions such as the towering “Red Cliff Reaching the Sky,” the classic and misty “Luo Family Ancient Stockade,” the elegant “Moon-Reflecting Rock,” the majestic “Heaven-Climbing Peak,” the charming “Golden Monkey,” the mystical “White Horse Cave,” and the unfathomably deep “Carp Cave.”

　　 In Dicui Gorge, the “Water Curtain Cave” waterfall drifts like a white silk ribbon, while the “Red, Green, and Jade Lotus” stalactites hang upside down like lotus flowers from a red cliff. “Heavenly Spring Rain” is a stream gushing from a high mountain cave, cascading down “three thousand feet” into a shower of droplets that dance throughout the gorge, creating a scene reminiscent of a heavenly paradise.

　　 The Even Smaller Three Gorges of Wushan

　　 The Even Smaller Three Gorges of Wushan are sister gorges to the Lesser Three Gorges of the Daning River and are named for being even smaller. The Madu River, a tributary of the Daning River, consists of three sections—Sanzheng Gorge, Qinwang Gorge, and Changtan Gorge—stretching 20 kilometers in total. These gorges are adorned with uniquely shaped peaks, mirrored reflections between water and mountains, idyllic scenery, gentle and crystal-clear waters, and steep cliffs that leave only a sliver of sky overhead. The area combines serenity, beauty, lush greenery, wonder, and peculiarity into a delicate canyon landscape resembling a miniature bonsai, exuding irresistible charm. The most captivating experience here is a safe, fun, and immersive self-participation rafting adventure that combines leisure tourism and physical activity. It is a radiant gem and a vibrant blossom within the Lesser Three Gorges Scenic Area.

　　 It offers an exciting yet safe rafting experience integrating leisure tourism and physical fitness. With no boatman needed, visitors don life vests, grip three-foot oars, steer their way downstream, and fully immerse themselves in the thrilling yet secure splash-filled journey.

　　 The Madu River originates from Wudunzi in Dangyang Township, Wushan County, where dense forests border the mysterious Shennongjia primitive forest. The woods feature unique “joined trees,” commonly known as “couple trees.” The river flows northeast to southeast before joining the Daning River at the Heaven-Climbing Peak in Dicui Gorge.

　　 Legend has it that the Madu River got its name during autumn in the 13th year of the Chongzhen era of the Ming Dynasty. After rebel leader Zhang Xianzhong destroyed the Ming army stronghold at Tudi Ridge, he divided his forces into three groups

　　 and crossed the river here under the cover of night to capture Dachang County. Hence, it became known as “Horse Crossing River.” Another tale says that in ancient times, there were no ferries, so horses were used to transport people across, leading to the name. The *Wushan Place Names Record* states: “In the Ming Hongwu era, when advancing against Ming Sheng, riders crossed here on horseback, hence the name.”

　　 The Even Smaller Three Gorges of the Madu River offer a thrilling rafting adventure that combines tourism, exploration, and physical activity, making it one of the best rafting destinations in the country. Visitors ride inflatable rafts without a guide, wear vest-style life jackets, and paddle with three-foot oars to navigate the rapids—all while enjoying an exhilarating yet safe splash-filled ride.

　　 The Twelve Peaks of Wushan in the Clouds and Rain

　　 The Twelve Peaks of Wushan are located on both banks of the Yangtze River in the eastern part of Wushan County. There are six peaks on the southern bank and six on the northern bank, each situated 10–30 kilometers from the county town. The northern peaks include Denglong, Shengquan, Chaoyun, Wangxia (Goddess), Songluan, and Jixian, all clearly visible. On the southern bank, the peaks Jingtan, Qiyun, and Shangsheng are hidden behind the ridges, while only Feifeng, Cuiping, and Juhe are visible. The twelve peaks are exquisitely beautiful and come in a variety of forms, having captivated people throughout history. The ancient verse “Sailing down Wu Gorge, my heart is set on the Twelve Peaks” reflects the admiration these peaks inspire.

　　 In addition to their graceful shapes, the ever-changing and elusive mists and rains of Wushan add to the peaks’ mystique. The high mountains and deep valleys trap moisture that rises along the slopes, sometimes forming drifting clouds and light rain. At other times, the mist thickens into dark clouds or blankets the area in white fog. The Twelve Peaks appear and disappear amid the clouds, resembling a fairyland.

　　Ancient literati often wove the names of the Twelve Peaks into poetry. Here is one such poem:

　　Once I walked to the Pure Altar to visit the Immortal Gathering,

　　Where morning clouds rise from deep layers, connecting with gathering clouds;

　　From the summit of the Ascending Peak, I gaze afar at the rosy glow,

　　While moonlight on the emerald screen heralds cranes returning home.

　　Just as I glimpse the Dragon Soaring, leaping into the Han sky,

　　I look afar to see the Flying Phoenix playing over the sunny river;

　　On both shores, the pine-clad peaks never cease their roaring—

　　It must be friends calling each other to drink from the Sacred Spring.

　　Immortal Gathering Peak

　　Pine Clad Peak

　　Rosy Glow Peak

　　Morning Cloud Peak

　　Sacred Spring Peak

　　Dragon Soaring Peak

　　Emerald Screen Peak

　　Crane Gathering Peak

　　Flying Phoenix Peak

　　Pure Altar Peak

　　Rising Cloud Peak

　　Ascending Peak

　　The “Three Terraces and Eight Sceneries” of Wushan