The Lesser Three Gorges is one of the exciting and
famous stops in the Yangtze Three Gorges. It is often called
the "highlight" of the cruise, even the whole China
trip. It always refers to the three separate valleys of the
Daning River, namely "Dragon-Gate Gorge", "Misty
Gorge" and "Dicui (Emerald) Gorge". These three
gorges, with an area of 160 hectares of forest, lie on the lower
reaches of Daning, extending from the entrance of the Dragon-Gate
Gorge in the South to Tujiaba in the North for 50 km. Here sheer
cliffs and steep mountains rise on either side, creating one
of natural fine arts gallery as natural scenic wonders unfold
on both banks of the river. Clear water flows between precarious
precipices and peaks covered with green trees and bushes. Here
you can board a small junk to enjoy the spectacular views and
experience a water-borne sensation you never did before. Its
"subtle mountains, clear waters, pretty rocks, dangerous
rapids, sharp turns, fantastic caves, and stalactites in various
shapes" characterize the natural landscape in the Lesser
Three Gorges. Monkeys, mandarin ducks, water birds and fish
can be seen in this area. In addition to the continuous natural
scenery there are a number of historical places of interest
along the way, such as suspending coffin, boat coffin, remains
of ancient plank walkway. The area has been made one of the
key nature reserves in China and is becoming known as a tourist
attraction continuing to offer its charms.
If you like to explore the Lesser Thee Gorges, to embrace the
nature. Take those ships which stop at here. You will find the
photographs, articles, poems and draw paintings enthusiastically
about here. There are other scenic spots include: Yinwo (Silver)
Shoal, Stalactite Buddhism Cliff, Mianyang (Sheep) Cliff, White
Dragon Crossing the River Waterfall, MaduRiver.