Rising dramatically from the riverside, Shibaozhai (Stone Treasure Fortress) is a breathtaking architectural marvel that will transport you back in time. This 12-story wooden pagoda, uniquely built against a sheer cliff face without a single nail, stands as a testament to the ingenuity of ancient Chinese craftsmen. Its ingenious design has earned it the poetic title, "The Pearl of the Yangtze."

Ascend through the pagoda's narrow stairways, each level offering a new perspective of the mighty river and the surrounding landscape. The climb culminates at the summit, where a historic temple offers a place of quiet reflection and panoramic views. More than just a structure, Shibaozhai is a living piece of history and is rightly celebrated as one of the true gems of Chinese architecture, perfectly blending human ambition with natural beauty.

Brace yourself for the dramatic and powerful entrance to the Three Gorges at Qutang Gorge. Though the shortest of the three, it packs an unforgettable punch with its sheer, towering cliffs that rise abruptly from the river, channeling the mighty Yangtze into a narrow, roaring channel merely 500 feet wide. This is nature at its most majestic and imposing.

As you sail through this breathtaking defile, you'll be surrounded by legendary landmarks like the Meng Liang Stairway and the awe-inspiring "Kui Men," or "Splendid Gate," where two mountains face each other across the torrent, forming the iconic gateway to the Three Gorges. Qutang Gorge offers a concentrated dose of raw, untamed power, leaving every traveler in awe of the forces that have shaped this magnificent landscape for millennia.

Prepare to be captivated by the timeless elegance of Wu Gorge, renowned as the most graceful and poetic of the entire Three Gorges. As your cruise ship glides silently through its mist-wreathed corridor, you will be enveloped by a scene of serene majesty. Sheer cliffs draped in lush greenery rise dramatically from the river, creating an atmosphere of profound tranquility that has inspired Chinese poets and artists for millennia.

The undisputed highlight is the legendary Goddess Peak, which stands eternally watchful on the northern bank. Her slender silhouette, resembling a graceful maiden, has become the very symbol of Wu Gorge and the subject of countless romantic legends. As you gaze upon this natural masterpiece and the ever-changing panorama of peaks and clouds, you are not just seeing a landscape—you are experiencing a living scroll of traditional Chinese painting, a moment of pure magic suspended in time.

Embark on an unforgettable adventure into the pristine heart of nature along the Daning River. This journey is a highlight of any Yangtze cruise, taking you away from the main river and into a hidden world of serene beauty. Often called the "Little Three Gorges," this tributary offers a more intimate and concentrated version of the main gorges' grandeur.

Glide along its crystal-clear, jade-green waters on a smaller sightseeing boat, surrounded by sheer emerald cliffs. Marvel at the ancient hanging coffins perched mysteriously on high precipices, and keep an eye out for playful monkeys swinging through the lush forests on the riverbanks. Every bend in the river reveals a new, picturesque scene—from cascading waterfalls to bizarre karst rock formations. This tranquil excursion is a perfect escape into a landscape of pure, unspoiled wonder.

Prepare to be awestruck by Xiling Gorge, the longest and most majestic of the Three Gorges. As your vessel sails into this monumental landscape, you'll be surrounded by towering cliffs and mist-shrouded peaks that have inspired poets and painters for centuries. Known for its hidden rapids, deep valleys, and serene waters, Xiling offers a breathtaking panorama of nature's raw power and profound peace.

The gorge is a living history book, home to ancient trails and legendary sites like the Army Book Sword and the Ox Liver & Horse Lung Grotto. Modern engineering marvels also await, as you will witness the world-renowned Three Gorges Dam Ship Locks—a testament to human ingenuity set within this timeless natural wonder. Navigating through Xiling Gorge is not just a journey through scenery; it's a passage through the very soul of the Yangtze River.

As dusk falls, experience the marvel of navigating the Three Gorges Dam's ship locks—a engineering masterpiece on the Yangtze. Gliding through the series of interconnected chambers, feel the ship gently rise or descend, bridging the vast water level difference with precision. The evening glow casts a warm hue over the dam's imposing structure, blending human ingenuity with riverine serenity. This unique passage offers a front-row seat to one of the world’s largest water conservancy projects, combining technical wonder with the tranquil beauty of the Yangtze at night—an unforgettable highlight of any river cruise.

Visit the Three Gorges Dam on the Yangtze River, the world’s largest hydroelectric power station. Witness the monumental engineering feat and learn about its significance in modern China—a must-see for history and engineering enthusiasts.