Qutang Gorge

Qutang Gorge, also known as Kui Gorge, was historically referred to as Guangxi Gorge, Ba Gorge, Xiling Gorge, among others, and is the first of the Three Gorges of the Yangtze River. Starting from the Baidi City in Fengjie to the east at Daxi Town in Wushan, it boasts the richest array of scenic spots and historical sites. The gorge is steep and narrow, with peaks on both sides almost touching, sheer cliffs and ancient trees draped with old vines, resembling a high-hanging embroidered curtain. In 2008, after the water level of the Three Gorges Dam was raised to an elevation of 175 meters, Qutang Gorge became a high gorge and a flat lake, with the perilous peaks and rugged rocks on both banks remaining unchanged. It presents a splendid and colorful vista with mountains covered in red leaves, as well as the serene and magnificent beauty of the rippling blue water and vast misty waves.