Gezhouba Ship Lock: A Marvel of Engineering on the Yangtze

Where to Find It

Gezhouba Ship Lock sits in Yichang, Hubei Province, right where the Yangtze River bends toward the Three Gorges Dam. It’s easy to reach by bus or taxi from Yichang city center, and many river cruises stop here. The lock is part of the Gezhouba Dam, nicknamed “The First Grand Dam of the Yangtze” because it was China’s first big dam on the river.

How to Get There

• By Bus: Local buses from Yichang take about 30 minutes. Ask for “Gezhouba” and hop off near the left bank of the dam.
• By Boat: Cruises from Yichang often include a lock passage. It’s a cool way to see how ships move through the locks!
• Driving: If you rent a car, follow signs to “Gezhouba Project”—parking is available near the visitor area.

What Makes It Special (Nature & Design)

The Gezhouba Ship Lock isn’t just a pretty dam—it’s a game-changer for river transport. Imagine a giant staircase for ships! The lock has two channels with three gates each, lifting or lowering boats like elevators. When a ship enters, water levels rise or fall to match the next section of the river. It’s like watching a boat float up a waterfall!

Surrounding the lock, the Yangtze River flows steadily, with hills and mist adding drama. At dawn or dusk, the lights on the dam and passing ships create a futuristic vibe.

Human Ingenuity at Work

This place isn’t just about nature—it’s a masterclass in engineering. Built in the 1980s, Gezhouba Ship Lock was designed to help ships navigate the tricky waters near the Three Gorges Dam. Before it opened in 1981, this stretch of the Yangtze was dangerous for boats. Now, over 120 kilometers of river are safer, thanks to this “staircase” system. Thousands of cargo ships pass through daily, making it one of the world’s busiest locks.

Fun fact: The lock is part of a “dual-purpose” project. While it helps ships, the dam also generates clean energy—talk about multitasking!

What You Can Do Here

• Watch the Locks in Action: Stand on the observation deck (free!) to see massive ships glide through the gates. It’s like live theater with water instead of a stage.
• Visit the Exhibition Hall: Learn about the dam’s history and how the lock works. Models and videos make it easy to understand.
• Walk Along the Dam: Stroll across the left bank for epic river views. Bring a camera—the contrast between modern tech and natural cliffs is Instagram-worthy.
• Riverside Picnic: Pack a lunch and relax by the water. Just avoid swimming here—those locks are for ships, not people!

Tips for Your Visit

  • Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon avoids crowds and harsh midday sun.
  • Guided Tours: Some cruises offer expert解说 (explanations) during lock crossings.
  • Stay Nearby: Yichang has plenty of hotels, but book ahead—this spot’s popular with both tourists and engineers!

Why It’s Worth Your Time

Gezhouba Ship Lock might not be as famous as the Three Gorges Dam, but it’s equally impressive. It’s a chance to see Chinese engineering in action, all while enjoying the Yangtze’s raw beauty. Whether you’re into boats, bridges, or just big-scale wonders, this is a must-stop between Yichang and the Three Gorges.

Plus, knowing that this lock helps thousands of ships every day adds a thrill—you’re witnessing a critical part of China’s river life!