The Three Gorges Tribe Scenic Area (also known as the Three Gorges Household Scenic Spot) is one of the most famous cultural and natural attractions in Yichang, Hubei Province. It is officially recognized as a Protected Center of the Popular Culture and Art of the Three Gorges, preserving the traditional lifestyle and folk culture of communities living along the Yangtze River.
Located in Xiling Gorge, between the world-famous Three Gorges Dam and Gezhouba Dam, the scenic area combines dramatic mountain landscapes, clear streams, traditional villages, and the unique culture of the Three Gorges region.
Surrounded by green mountains, mist-covered valleys, and the blue waters of the Yangtze River, the scenery resembles a traditional Chinese landscape painting.
A Unique Scenic Area Between Two Great Dams
The Three Gorges Tribe Scenic Area is located within the “Two Dams, One Gorge” tourism area and is the only major scenic spot in this section that remains largely unaffected by the construction of the dams.
Covering an area of spectacular natural beauty, the attraction offers visitors an opportunity to experience the original lifestyle of people who have lived along the Yangtze River for generations.
Local traditions and daily activities can still be seen here, including:
* Women singing traditional songs while traveling by boat
* Fishermen casting nets into the river
* Local residents washing clothes beside the streams
* Traditional wooden houses built along the mountainsides
The combination of natural scenery and living folk culture makes it one of the top tourist destinations in Hubei Province.
Three Main Areas of Three Gorges Tribe Scenic Area
The scenic area is divided into three distinctive sections:
* Village on the Water
* Brook-Side Village
* Mountain-Top Village
Each area showcases a different aspect of traditional Three Gorges life and architecture.
1. Village on the Water – Traditional Fishing Culture Along the Yangtze River
Located at the meeting point of Longjin Brook and the Yangtze River, the Village on the Water is surrounded by green mountains, misty valleys, and clear blue waters.
The peaceful scenery creates a picturesque atmosphere similar to a Chinese ink painting.
For generations, local people have depended on the river and mountains for their livelihood. Visitors can experience traditional fishing culture and observe the daily life of communities that have maintained their connection with nature for centuries.
Highlights include:
* Traditional fishing activities
* Local boat culture
* Riverside scenery
* Folk songs and customs of the Three Gorges people
2. Brook-Side Village – A Peaceful Mountain Retreat
Built beside a stream and surrounded by green mountains, the Brook-Side Village offers a quiet and beautiful environment.
Traditional houses blend naturally with the landscape, creating a harmonious scene where mountains, water, and architecture come together.
With gentle streams, light rain, and mist-covered hills, visitors may feel as if they have entered a peaceful fairyland.
Highlights include:
* Mountain streams
* Traditional village scenery
* Wooden houses along the water
* Relaxing natural surroundings
3. Mountain-Top Village – Unique Stilt Houses of the Three Gorges
The Mountain-Top Village showcases the traditional wooden houses commonly found in the Three Gorges region.
Because the terrain along the Yangtze River gorges is steep and mountainous, local residents developed a unique style of architecture known as stilt houses.
These traditional buildings are usually constructed with:
* Wooden structures
* Supporting pillars
* Elevated floors
* Side passageways
* Rear balconies overlooking the mountains
Modern architects often praise this style for its clever adaptation to the challenging mountain environment.
Surrounded by banana trees and built along steep slopes, these houses reflect the creativity, optimism, and close relationship with nature of the people living in the Three Gorges area.
Standing on the balconies of these mountain homes, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, rivers, and valleys.
Why Visit Three Gorges Tribe Scenic Area?
The Three Gorges Tribe Scenic Area offers a rare opportunity to experience both the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Yangtze River region.
Visitors can enjoy:
* Stunning scenery of Xiling Gorge
* Traditional Three Gorges villages
* Unique stilt-house architecture
* Local folk customs and performances
* Beautiful mountain and river landscapes
* Authentic rural life along the Yangtze River
For travelers visiting Yichang and the Three Gorges Dam, the Three Gorges Tribe Scenic Area is an excellent destination to discover the traditional culture, history, and natural beauty of the Yangtze River.