Overview:

Qutang Gorge is the shortest and narrowest of the three gorges on the Yangtze River in China. Located in the Wushan District of Chongqing Municipality, it is 8 kilometers long (5 miles) and has a staggering depth of up to 135 meters (450 feet) at some points. It's unique peaks, breathtaking landscape, and stunning cliffs are all surrounded by the mist that hovers at the top of the valley, giving it a mysterious and sacred feel. It's also the site of the famous Kui Gate (Kui Men), one of the three famous passes along the Yangtze. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in China
Prominent Features:

Qutang Gorge is the shortest of the Three Gorges along the Yangtze River in China. One of the most well-known tourist attractions in the country, the wind and currents that run through it are considered extremely hazardous for ships. Characterized by its steep cliffs and turbulent rapids, it is a popular spot for rail and boat excursions. Measuring just 8 kilometers (5 mi) long, it boasts a variety of scenery, including a multitude of limestone peaks, unique caves, and the magnificent Stone Wall of Iron as well as the Dam of the First Bend of the Yangtze River. Many stunning and mysterious historical sites can be found at the side of the river, including the ancient cliff carvings of the Shuipo and the haunting Iron Coffin. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in China.

History:

Qutang Gorge is one of the three gorges that make up the Yangtze River in China. It is located between Wushan and Badong counties in Hubei province and is the narrowest and most spectacular of the three. The first record of Qutang Gorge appears in the Records of History of the Han Dynasty (206 BC-220 AD). The book describes how Emperor Wu of the Han Dynasty once led a fleet of boats down Qutang, marveling at its impressive views. For centuries, Qutang Gorge was the key passage for many traders and adventurers who navigated the Yangtze River. It was also a site of numerous battles. In 1276, Mongolian leader Kublai Khan used Qutang Gorge as the primary route for his campaign to conquer the south of China, where his military boats destroyed a fleet of the Song Dynasty, effectively ending the Song Dynasty. In the 19th century, Qutang Gorge became an important site for China's industrialization, when steam-powered boats replaced traditional sailing vessels. This allowed bigger ships to pass through the Gorge, transporting goods and people. Today, Qutang Gorge remains a popular tourist destination, hosting many boat trips that pass through its narrow alleyways and highlight its spectacular views. Visit one of the famous monuments of China with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. Qutang Gorge is the shortest, narrowest, and most remarkable of the Three Gorges of the Yangtze River. It is 8 kilometres (5 miles) long, and is located between the cities of Fengjie and White Emperor City. 2. It is known for its sheer cliffs which are hundreds of metres high. In some areas, the river is only 200 metres (656 feet) wide. 3. At its entrance, the gorge is flanked by two massive natural rock formations known as Heaven’s Gate and the Gate of Kings. These two peaks, measuring some 50 metres (164 feet) high, are said to look like a gate leading to paradise. 4. Surprisingly, the area used to be part of an ancient salt route, with ancient brine pits in some of the higher ground within the gorge. 5. It is said that boats navigating the gorge have to travel in single file, otherwise the heavy current and strong whirlpools could cause them to collide. 6. The most iconic feature of the Qutang Gorge is its waterfall. The Wu bi Waterfall stands 40 metres (131 feet) high and 70 metres (230 feet) wide, making it possibly the world’s widest. The thunderous sound of the cascade echo up the gorge, providing a majestic view. One of the historical monuments of China, it tells the story of a bygone era