Gezhouba Dam Park: A Hidden Gem Along the Yangtze River

Located in Xiling District of Yichang City, Hubei Province, Gezhouba Dam Park sits like a pearl along the banks of the mighty Yangtze River. Though less famous than the nearby Three Gorges Dam, this park offers a unique blend of engineering marvels, riverside relaxation, and cultural storytelling—all just a stone’s throw from Yichang’s bustling city center.

How to Get There (It’s Easy!)

Gezhouba Dam Park is super accessible! If you’re coming from Yichang Bus Station, a quick taxi or ride-share (around 15 minutes) will drop you right at the entrance. The park’s address, No. 3 Yanjiang Avenue, is along the river, so you can also walk here from downtown Yichang in about 30 minutes. Bonus: the path alongside the river is shaded and packed with street food stalls, so it’s a fun way to arrive!

Nature’s Best-Kept Secret

The real star here is the Yangtze River itself. At Gezhouba Dam Park, you can stroll along wooden boardwalks lined with trees, snap photos of fishermen’s boats bobbing in the water, or watch cargo ships glide past the dam’s massive gates. For a quieter escape, head to the riverside pavilions—perfect for sunset-watching or morning yoga. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom along the paths, while winter brings misty river views that feel straight out of a painting.

Human-Made Wonders to Explore

The park’s name comes from the Gezhouba Dam, a hydroelectric wonder built in the 1980s. Unlike the Three Gorges Dam, this smaller but equally impressive structure feels more intimate. Walk across the dam’s bridge for bird’s-eye views of the river, or visit the exhibition hall inside the dam’s building. Here, interactive displays explain how the dam controls floods, generates power, and even helps ships navigate the river’s treacherous rapids. Fun fact: the dam’s lights sparkle at night, creating a magical river backdrop!

More Than Just a Lookout

Don’t rush through—Gezhouba Dam Park has plenty to keep you busy! Stop by the Riverside Tower for panoramic views, then cool off at the open-air cafe with an ice cream or tea. Families love the children’s play area shaped like a giant river wave, while fitness buffs can jog along the 5-kilometer riverside track. History buffs should check out the statues honoring engineers who built the dam—a touching tribute to human ingenuity.

Tips for Your Visit

  • Best time to go: Morning or late afternoon to avoid midday crowds and heat.
  • What to bring: Comfy shoes (lots of walking!), sunscreen, and a camera.
  • Food options: The park has basic snacks, but nearby Yichang has amazing hot pot and dumpling spots if you’re hungry post-tour.
  • Hidden gem: Look for the “Love Lock Bridge” near the dam’s entrance—couples hang padlocks here for good luck!

Whether you’re a fan of nature, history, or just chilling by the water, Gezhouba Dam Park deserves a spot on your Yichang itinerary. It’s proof that sometimes the most memorable travel moments happen away from the crowds—right where the river meets human creativity.