Xiling Gorge measures 75 kilometers from Xiangxikou to Nanjinguan. The whole Gorge area is covered with high mountains, gullies, dangerous shoals and hidden reefs of various sizes.

Xiling gorge is known for its dangerous rapids, sharp turns, and numerous reefs and shoals. It consists of four smaller gorges called Military Books and Sword (Bingshubaojian), Bull's Liver and Horse's Lung (Niuganmafei), Kongling, and Lantern Shadow (Dengying). The recent construction of the Gezhouba water control project has helped calm the torrents but the charms of the scenery remain the same.

The best-known perilous shoal is Qing Shoal. It's formed by collapsed craggy cliffs. Surging waves and rapid currents churn over the shoal embedded with rocks and stones here and there, and then drop two meters in elevation. Ships go downstream over the shoal at an arrow speed, but up the shoal it's as difficult as climbing a steep hill.

The world's largest hydropower Project the Three Gorges Project and the largest hydropower Project in China the Gezhouba Water Control Project are both built near Yichang City.The Gezhouba Dam and the Three Gorges Project Dam with the beautiful Xiling Gorge in between forms an attracting scenery area featuring nature beauty, human civilization and urban sightseeing. You can also enjoy yourself at the home of the local people and feel their warm hospitality.

China tours inclusive of visiting Xiling Gorge