The Magnificent Three Gorges and the Dam.The Three Gorges is an area of great scenic beauty on the Yangtze River downstream from Chongqing. Many people know the area because of the construction of a gigantic dam. This controversial project is building a massive dam across the River Yangtze over 400 kilometres downstream from Chongqing. The dam will control water flow in the Yangtze thus preventing massive flooding that periodically occurs, and will also generate hydro-electric power. However, many people's homes will be flooded in valleys and towns. The government is undertaking a massive resettlement program to move the people. When you visit Chongqing, you will be overwhelmed by the number of massive apartment blocks being built for migrant rural workers. There are hundreds of cranes on the Chongqing skyline - hard to believe but true. Definitely visit the Dam to appreciate the massive engineering feat.
How to see the GorgesPeople generally take a three day cruise on the Yangtze from Chongqing to Wuhan. The journey passes through beautiful Chinese countryside culminating in the Gorges before finishing at Wuhan. Wuhan has a domestic airport where you can continue your journey onwards. The cruise ships vary in standard but the four and five star boats are very good.You will find different nationalities on the ship - Chinese, Europeans, Americans, Australians and others. The service is good. There is other entertainment such as a band. Explore the minor gorges as well. You get on a little boat from the main boat to do this. They are very spectacular. Return from Three Gorges to Chongqing.
Return from Three Gorges to Sichuan.
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The best thing though is the sheer beauty of the landscape.