Three Gorges Dam guide for first-time visitors
Travelers often wonder how to plan their first visit to the three gorges dam. Millions have made this journey, with about 2 million people visiting the three gorges dam each year. The three gorges dam draws families, students, and explorers from around the world. Visitors see the three gorges dam as a symbol of modern engineering. They learn about its impact and experience its size up close. The three gorges dam welcomes newcomers, making the trip easy with clear signs and helpful staff.
Over 10 million tourists have visited the three gorges dam in the last five years.
In early 2023, about 450,000 people toured the three gorges dam.
Key Takeaways
Before you go to the Three Gorges Dam, check ticket prices and how to get there. Tickets cost ¥105. You can buy tickets online. This helps you skip long lines.
See the dam's amazing size and cool engineering. Visit the observation decks for great views of the dam and the Yangtze River.
Think about joining a guided tour. Tours help you learn more about the dam's history and how it works. You will find out how the dam makes power and stops floods.
Bring important things like a camera, comfy shoes, and water. Be ready for weather changes. Take sunscreen or an umbrella.
Take care of the environment and follow safety rules. Keep the area clean. Listen to signs and watch where you go.
Why Visit
Main Sights
The Three Gorges Dam stands as one of the largest engineering projects in the world. Visitors see the dam stretch across the yangtze, holding back a massive reservoir. The dam measures over 2,300 meters long and rises 185 meters high. People often feel amazed by the size and strength of the structure. The yangtze flows through the dam, creating a powerful scene that shows the force of nature and human skill.
The dam holds several world records, including the largest hydroelectric power station.
The yangtze river, the third longest river in the world, passes through this site.
Observation decks give visitors wide views of the river and the dam.
Ships pass through giant locks, showing how the dam helps with shipping.
Note: The dam plays a key role in controlling flood risks along the yangtze. Many people visit to learn how the dam protects cities and farmland from dangerous floods.
Unique Experiences
A first visit to the Three Gorges Dam offers more than just sightseeing. Travelers can watch huge ships move through the locks, which lift vessels up and down between different river levels. The yangtze creates a busy waterway, and the dam makes shipping safer and faster.
Guided tours help visitors understand how the dam works. Museum exhibits explain the history of the yangtze and the building of the dam. People can see models, photos, and videos that show the challenges and successes of the project.
Some visitors enjoy walking along the riverbanks to see the yangtze up close. The area around the dam offers peaceful spots to watch the river flow and to take photos. Each season brings a new look to the yangtze, making every visit special.
About the Three Gorges Dam
Dam Facts
The Three Gorges Dam sits on the Yangtze River. It is 2,335 meters long and 181 meters high. The reservoir behind the dam holds 22 cubic kilometers of water. The dam’s total capacity is 39.3 cubic kilometers. This dam is the largest in the world by capacity. Workers started building it in 1994. They finished the dam in 2012. The dam helps control floods. It makes power and helps ships travel on the river.
Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
Height | 181 m (594 ft) |
Length | 2,335 m (7,661 ft) |
Reservoir Capacity | 22 km³ (5.3 mi³) |
Total Capacity | 39.3 km³ (31,900,000 acre⋅ft) |
Hydropower Significance
The Three Gorges Dam is the biggest hydroelectric power plant. It makes 22,500 megawatts of power. This much power can run millions of homes and factories. The dam and the Gezhouba hydroelectric complex together make 25,215 megawatts. Hydropower from the dam helps China use less coal and fossil fuels. The dam uses the river’s force to make clean energy. The Yangtze River moves through turbines to make electricity. The dam’s hydropower helps China meet its energy needs.
Dam Name | Capacity (MW) |
|---|---|
Three Gorges Dam | 22,500 |
Itaipu Dam | 14,000 |
Environmental Impact
The Three Gorges Dam has changed the environment in many ways. Erosion and landslides have changed the land near the river. Flooding from the reservoir has destroyed habitats. Some plants and animals are now in danger. Some species may disappear because of these changes. The dam made millions of people leave their homes. Many families got little help and now live in crowded cities. These changes have caused poverty and problems in some places.
The dam’s effects show why planning is important for big projects. Hydropower gives benefits, but people must protect nature and communities.
Getting There
Transport Options
People can get to the Three Gorges Dam in different ways. The main ways are by air, train, or ship. Each way gives a different travel experience. Look at the table below for details about each method:
Transportation Method | Description |
|---|---|
By Air | This is the easiest way. Three Gorges Airport is 26 km from Yichang. It has flights to big cities. A taxi to the airport costs about 60 CNY. Shuttle buses cost 20 CNY. |
By Train | Yichang Railway Station connects to many cities. A taxi from the station to Yichang Quay costs about 10 CNY. |
By Ship | Ships give a slow and relaxing trip. Routes start from Chongqing, Shanghai, Nanjing, Wuhan, or Yichang. Ships travel along the Yangtze River. |
Air travel is fast. Trains are comfortable and easy to use. Ships let you see nice views of the Yangtze River. All these ways bring people close to the dam.
From Major Cities
Many visitors begin their trip in big cities like Chongqing, Shanghai, Wuhan, or Nanjing. Planes from these cities land at Three Gorges Airport near Yichang. Trains link Yichang to many other cities. Ship cruises start in Chongqing or Shanghai. Ships travel along the Yangtze River and stop at ports before reaching the dam. Travelers pick the way that matches their plans and what they want to see.
Local Transit
After arriving in Yichang or near the dam, local buses and taxis help people reach the visitor center and main sights. Many city buses go to the port:
City buses (No. 2, 3, 4, 7, 810, 28, 29) go to the port.
Taxis take people from the railway station to the dam.
Shuttle buses run from Sanxia Airport to Sanxia Hotel. Then, a short taxi ride goes to the port.
Cruise passengers at Maoping Port can use shuttle buses from cruise companies. Taxis and private cars also go to Maoping Port. Maoping Port is about 36 km from the downtown visitor center. Local buses and taxis make it simple for people to visit the dam and nearby places.
Tip: Check bus times and taxi prices before you arrive. Planning ahead helps you save time and avoid problems.
Visitor Info
Hours & Tickets
You can visit the Three Gorges Dam during the day. The site opens at 8:00 am and closes at 5:30 pm. Everyone needs to buy a ticket before going in. Each ticket costs ¥105 for one person. The table below shows when you can visit and how much tickets cost:
Operating Hours | Ticket Price |
|---|---|
8:00 ~ 17:30 | ¥105/person |
Tip: Buy your ticket early. This helps you skip long lines, especially when it is busy.
Entry & Security
Security at the Three Gorges Dam is very strict. Visitors must leave their cars and take a coach to the main area. This rule helps keep everyone safe from car bombs. Security staff check bags and watch for anything strange. Some people say security workers may ask for a small bribe to let cars in more easily. Always follow the rules and listen to the staff.
Best Times
The best time to visit depends on the weather and crowds:
Summer (June to August) and autumn (October to November) are the nicest times.
Many families come in summer because of school breaks.
Autumn has pretty colors along the Yangtze River.
The busiest time is from March to December.
Winter (late December to early March) is cold and has fewer cruises.
Note: Autumn is cooler and has great views. Many people like to visit then.
Accessibility
The Three Gorges Dam is ready for visitors with disabilities. There are paths for wheelchairs and people who need help walking. Services are there for those who need extra help. If you call the visitor center before you come, you can learn more about what is offered.
Wheelchair paths and mobility aids are available.
Services help visitors who have trouble moving.
The visitor center gives details about accessibility if you ask before your visit.
People who use wheelchairs or need special help can see the dam’s main sights if they plan ahead.
What to See
Viewing Areas
Visitors can find many good places to see the Three Gorges Dam. Each spot lets you look at the dam and the land around it in a different way. The Three Gorges Tourism Area is easy to visit. Escalators take people up to a gallery above the dam. You can walk down from there to get closer to the dam. High lookout points show wide views from above. Lower spots let you see the dam and lock system up close. Terraces are reached by escalators and give new angles of the dam. The Visitors Centre is on the north side of the Yangtze River. From the top of the hill, you can see the dam, locks, and ship elevator.
Viewing Area | Description |
|---|---|
Three Gorges Tourism Area | Escalators take you to a gallery above the dam. You can walk down to the dam. |
Great Lookout Points | High spots show wide views. Lower ones let you see the dam and locks up close. |
Terraces | Escalators lead to terraces with great views of the dam. |
Visitors Centre | From the hilltop, you see the dam, locks, and ship elevator. |
Tip: Bring a camera. The best pictures come from terraces and lookout points.
Museums
Museums near the Three Gorges Dam help people learn about the area's past and culture. The Three Gorges Museum in Chongqing has old objects and rocks. Interactive displays show how the Yangtze River and the dam changed local life. Some rooms teach about minority groups and the land’s history. The Three Gorges Immigration Museum tells stories about people who moved and shows cultural items. Its building looks like the cliffs of the Yangtze. Main exhibits talk about moving and personal stories. The Memory Wall has over 10,000 photos of families who left because of the dam.
Museum Name | Exhibits |
|---|---|
Three Gorges Immigration Museum | Fossils, more than 800 artifacts, stories about moving, Memory Wall with 10,000+ photos. |
Three Gorges Museum | Old objects, rocks, interactive displays, ancient items, audio guides you can use. |
Three Gorges Immigration Museum:
The building looks like Yangtze cliffs.
Main exhibits show moving and cultural items.
Personal stories and objects make it emotional.
Three Gorges Museum:
Many objects show local life and history.
Interactive displays help you learn in new ways.
Observation Decks
Observation decks let people see the dam from above. Tanziling Ridge is 260 meters high. This deck gives a wide view of the dam and river. The 185 Observation Deck is closer to the dam. People use these decks to watch ships go through the locks and see the dam’s shape.
Observation Deck | Elevation Level (meters) |
|---|---|
Tanziling Ridge | 260 |
185 Observation Deck | N/A |
Note: Tanziling Ridge is the highest deck. It gives the best wide view of the dam and the Yangtze River.
Dam Tours
Guided tours help people learn about the dam’s building and history. The general tour lets you see the dam from a special platform. Guides explain how the dam works at the visitor’s center. The Yangtze River cruise takes guests through the dam’s big ship locks. This trip shows how the dam helps boats and makes power. The Three Gorges Dam is the biggest hydropower dam in the world. Building it made more than one million people move from their homes.
Tour Type | Description |
|---|---|
General Tour | See the dam from a platform. Learn about how it works at the visitor's center. |
Yangtze River Cruise Excursion | Go through the dam's ship locks. This is important for river travel. |
The trip to the Three Gorges Dam is a main part of the Yangtze River cruise.
It shows why hydropower matters to people in China.
These tours help visitors understand how the dam makes energy and controls the river.
Visitor Tips
What to Bring
Visitors often pack light for a trip to the Three Gorges Dam. A camera helps capture the views. Comfortable shoes make walking easier. Sunscreen protects skin from strong sunlight. A hat or umbrella shields visitors from rain or heat. Water bottles keep people hydrated. Some travelers bring snacks for energy. A small backpack carries personal items. People who visit in cooler months wear jackets or sweaters. Extra batteries or a power bank keep devices charged.
Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
Camera | Take photos |
Comfortable shoes | Walk long distances |
Sunscreen | Prevent sunburn |
Hat/Umbrella | Shade or rain cover |
Water bottle | Stay hydrated |
Snacks | Quick energy |
Jacket/Sweater | Warmth in cool weather |
Power bank | Charge devices |
Tip: Pack light but bring what you need for comfort and safety.
Language Help
Most signs at the dam use Chinese and English. Staff members speak basic English. Visitors who do not speak Chinese use translation apps. Phrasebooks help with simple questions. People often point to maps or tickets to ask for help. Some guides speak English and explain things clearly. Travelers who learn a few Chinese words find it easier to ask for directions.
Safety
Safety matters at the Three Gorges Dam. Staff post signs to warn about hazards. Visitors read signs and follow barriers. People check maps or ask locals about safe areas. Those who go near water wear life jackets. Travelers tell someone their plans before exploring. If someone sees trouble in the water, they call for help instead of entering.
Check maps or ask locals about hazards.
Obey posted signs and barriers.
Wear a life jacket near water.
Tell someone your plans and return time.
Call for help if someone is in trouble.
Note: Safety rules protect everyone. Staff help visitors stay safe.
Facilities
The Three Gorges Dam offers many facilities. Restrooms stay clean and easy to find. Cafes and snack shops sell food and drinks. Visitor centers provide maps and guides. Escalators and elevators help people reach viewing areas. Parking lots hold cars and buses. Staff answer questions at information desks. People with disabilities use ramps and special paths.
Etiquette
Visitors show respect at the dam. People speak quietly in museums and viewing areas. Littering is not allowed. Staff ask visitors to stay on marked paths. Taking photos is fine, but some places ask for no flash. Travelers wait their turn at busy spots. People thank staff for help. Everyone follows rules to keep the dam clean and safe.
Good manners make the visit pleasant for all.
Itinerary Ideas
Half-Day Plan
A half-day visit to the Three Gorges Dam gives travelers a chance to see the main sights and learn about the dam’s history. Many visitors start early in the morning. They follow a schedule that helps them make the most of their time.
07:20: Travelers leave their hotel in Yichang. A driver takes them to the Yichang Sanxia Tourist Center.
08:00–08:30: Visitors board a cruise ship. The ship sets sail on the Yangtze River.
09:00: The cruise passes through the Gezhouba Dam ship lock. People watch the ship move through the lock system.
09:00–11:30: The cruise continues through Xiling Gorge. Passengers see steep cliffs and green hills. The ship arrives at Sandouping Pier near the Three Gorges Dam.
11:30–13:00: Lunch takes place at the Three Gorges Project Hotel. Guests enjoy local dishes and rest before the tour.
13:30–16:00: A private tour of the dam begins. The guide leads visitors to Tanziling Park, the Ship-Locks Viewing Platform, the 185-Platform, and the Interception Memorial Park. Each stop offers a different view of the dam and the river.
16:00: Travelers return to Yichang downtown.
17:00: The group arrives at their hotel.
Tip: A half-day plan works well for people with limited time. The cruise and guided tour help visitors see the best parts of the dam.
Full-Day Plan
A full-day itinerary lets travelers explore the Three Gorges Dam and nearby attractions. People start in the morning and finish in the evening. They see more sights and learn about the area’s culture.
Morning: Travelers visit the Three Gorges Museum in Yichang. They see exhibits about the Yangtze River and the dam’s construction.
Late morning: The group takes a bus or taxi to the dam’s visitor center. Staff provide maps and answer questions.
Midday: Visitors walk to the observation decks. They take photos from Tanziling Ridge and the 185-Platform.
Afternoon: Lunch takes place at a local restaurant or the Project Hotel. People try regional food and relax.
Early afternoon: Travelers join a guided tour. The guide explains the dam’s history and shows the ship locks.
Late afternoon: The group explores the Interception Memorial Park. They learn about the dam’s impact on the river and local communities.
Evening: Visitors return to Yichang. Some choose to eat dinner at a riverside restaurant.
Note: A full-day plan gives travelers more time to enjoy museums, parks, and scenic views. People who want a deeper experience should choose this option.
Stay & Eat
Hotels
Visitors can pick from many hotels in Yichang and near the Three Gorges Dam. Most hotels have clean rooms and friendly staff. It is easy to get to local places from these hotels. Travelers choose budget, business, or luxury hotels. Many hotels give free Wi-Fi and breakfast. Some offer shuttle rides to help guests travel. A few hotels are close to the river. Guests see pretty views of the Yangtze from their rooms.
The Three Gorges Project Hotel is popular. It is near the dam and has comfortable rooms. The Yichang International Hotel is in the city center. It is close to shops and places to eat. Travelers who want quiet often stay near the riverbank. Staff at these hotels help guests find their way and give travel tips.
Tip: Book your hotel early if you visit in summer or autumn. Many people come during these busy times.
Dining
Yichang has many places to eat. Restaurants serve Chinese, Western, and Thai food. Travelers try local dishes and foods from other countries. Some restaurants have rooftop dining with river views. Others serve Sichuan food or special local recipes.
Restaurant Name | Description | Location Details |
|---|---|---|
CoBurger German Bar and restaurant | This steakhouse has Western food, a nice atmosphere, and good prices. | Near downtown, easy to reach by taxi or bus. |
Pan Thai Restaurant and Bar | Rooftop dining with river views, on the 8th floor of Aqua Plaza. | Take bus B68 or a taxi, close to the airport. |
Yichang Huajian Private Kitchen | Famous for spicy Sichuan food and team-building events. | Located in Yichang city. |
Ci Ma Dàpái Dàng | Known for Dry-Fried Lotus Root Strips and Strange Flavor Steak. | A well-known food spot in Yichang. |
People who want Western food go to CoBurger German Bar and restaurant. Those who like Thai food pick Pan Thai Restaurant and Bar. Yichang Huajian Private Kitchen serves spicy Sichuan meals. Ci Ma Dàpái Dàng is popular for its creative menu. Many restaurants are close to hotels and tourist places.
Note: Try local food to enjoy Yichang’s real taste. Most restaurants welcome families and groups.
When people plan a trip to the Three Gorges Dam, they feel ready. They look at ticket prices and pick how to get there. They also find fun places to visit nearby. The table below gives key facts for a good trip:
Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
Ticket Price | 105 yuan per adult |
How to Get There | Shuttle buses from No.80, Dongshan Avenue, or Liuzhashou Tourist Reception Center. City buses available. |
Nearby Attractions | Wu Gorge, Chinese Sturgeon Museum, Huangling Temple |
Some cool places to see nearby are:
Wu Gorge has pretty mountains.
The Chinese Sturgeon Museum teaches about fish.
Huangling Temple is very old, over 2500 years.
Getting ready helps people enjoy the dam and learn its story. They can plan their trip and get excited for a great time.
FAQ
What is the best way to buy tickets for the Three Gorges Dam?
Visitors can buy tickets at the entrance or online. Staff at the ticket office answer questions. Booking online saves time when it is busy.
Tip: Buy tickets early to skip long lines.
Can travelers visit the dam without joining a tour?
Travelers can visit the dam by themselves. They walk through viewing areas and museums. Guided tours give more details, but many people like self-guided visits.
Visit Type | Guided Tour | Self-Guided |
|---|---|---|
Allowed | ✅ | ✅ |
Are there food options near the dam?
Restaurants and snack shops sell local and international food. Cafes in the visitor center offer drinks and small meals. Travelers find more places to eat in Yichang city.
Local dishes
Western meals
Snacks and drinks
Is photography allowed at the Three Gorges Dam?
People can take photos in most places. Some museums ask visitors not to use flash. Staff can answer questions about photo rules.
Note: The best photo spots are on observation decks.
What should visitors do if they need help during their visit?
Staff at the visitor center help with questions and directions. Signs in English and Chinese show travelers where to go. Emergency phones connect visitors to security teams.
🆘 Find help desks or ask staff in uniforms.