Day 1: Explore the Beauty of Xiling Gorge

Located in western Hubei Province, Xiling Gorge is the longest section of the Three Gorges with a length of 76 kilometers. It is famous for its picturesque scenery of cliffs, peaks, and waterfalls. The first day of your three-day trip is devoted to exploring the beauty of Xiling Gorge.

Start your day with a leisurely cruise on the Yangtze River to fully appreciate the stunning view of the gorge. The cruise takes about 2-3 hours, during which you can enjoy the fresh air and take lots of photos.

After the cruise, you can visit the Three Gorges Dam Site, the world's largest hydropower project. You'll learn the history and engineering behind this magnificent structure, and the impact it has on the people living in the area. The exhibition hall showcases the construction, the function of the dam, and the preservation of the local culture.

In the afternoon, hike up to Huangling Temple to admire the ancient architecture and enjoy the panoramic view of the gorge. The temple is built on a mountain, and the scenery of the gorge from the temple's balcony is truly awe-inspiring.

Day 2: Experience the Impressive Qutang Gorge

On the second day of your trip, you'll explore Qutang Gorge, the shortest and most dramatic section of the Three Gorges, famous for its steep cliffs and narrow winding path.

Visit the Shibaozhai Pagoda, a stunning 12-story red wooden tower built on a steep cliff, giving you a panoramic view of the Yangtze River and the gorge.

After lunch, take a thrilling speed boat ride through the Qutang Gorge to experience the dramatic scenery at close range. You'll feel the surge of adrenaline as you speed through the narrowest part of the gorge, with steep cliffs on both sides.

In the late afternoon, take a cable car ride up Shennv Stream to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the tributary. The stream is surrounded by steep cliffs and waterfalls, and the lush greenery is breathtaking.

Day 3: Visit the Ancient Town of Fengjie

On the last day of your trip, you'll visit Fengjie, an ancient town with over two thousand years of history, located at the east gate of Qutang Gorge.

Explore the old streets and alleys of Fengjie to discover the rich cultural heritage and unique architecture of the town. You can visit the former residences of famous poets and scholars, and learn about their contributions to literature and art.

After lunch, visit the White Emperor City, a historic site located on top of a mountain, overlooking the Yangtze River. You'll learn about the legend of the White Emperor, who ruled the area during the Three Kingdoms period, and the strategic importance of the site to ancient warfare.

In the evening, visit a traditional performance of Sichuan Opera to enjoy the unique music, dance, and drama of the region. The performance includes the famous face-changing technique, where performers change their masks in the blink of an eye.

Three days may not be enough to explore all the beauty and wonders of the Three Gorges area, but this itinerary will give you a remarkable experience. Don't forget to try the local specialties, like the spicy hotpot, the fragrant fish, and the delicious tea. Enjoy your trip!