Geographic Location

Three Visits Cave Scenic Area lies in Nanjinguan, Yiling District, Yichang, Hubei Province, nestled at the mouth of Xiling Gorge (part of the Yangtze River Three Gorges) and facing Xialao Creek. This spot blends rugged mountain scenery with serene water views, creating a dramatic natural backdrop. The area’s unique location makes it a perfect stop for travelers exploring the Yangtze River Gorges or nearby Yichang.

Getting There

  • By Bus: From Yichang city center, take a direct bus to Nanjinguan (around 40 minutes).
  • By Car: Drive along the G42 Huyong Highway, exit at Yichang, then follow signs to Nanjinguan. Parking is available near the entrance.
  • By Boat: Cruise ships stopping at Xiling Gorge often include Three Visits Cave in their itinerary.

Natural Wonders

The heart of Three Visits Cave is a limestone grotto carved into a cliffside, surrounded by towering peaks and the rushing Xialao Creek. Inside, stalactites and rock formations create eerie yet beautiful shadows. Step outside, and you’ll find sweeping views of the Yangtze River winding through the mountains—a textbook example of China’s “mountain and water” aesthetic. Nearby, Zhang Fei’s Drum Tower (a flat stone platform) offers legends of the warrior god practicing his drumming skills against the backdrop of the Three Gorges.

Cultural Treasures

This site has been a hit since ancient times! Since the Tang and Song dynasties, poets like Bai Juyi and scholars like Ouyang Xiu visited and left their mark. Walk into the cave, and you’ll see hundreds of inscriptions on the walls—poems, paintings, and calligraphy etched by literati over centuries. Don’t miss:

  • The Three Visits Story: The name comes from Bai Juyi, his brother, and friend visiting together (hence “three visits”).
  • Lu You’s Spring: A clear pool named after the poet Lu You, who once drank here.
  • Chu Seal Tower: A reconstructed watchtower inspired by ancient Chu State architecture.

Modern Attractions

While steeped in history, Three Visits Cave isn’t stuck in the past. New additions include:

  • Ba-Chu Music Palace: A theater showcasing traditional music and dance from Hubei and Sichuan.
  • World Chinese Seal Art Garden: A outdoor exhibit of intricate stone carvings representing cultures from across the global Chinese community.
  • Middle Cambrian Conodont Garden: A quirky collection of fossilized sea creatures (perfect for science buffs!).

Practical Tips

  • Best Time to Visit: Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–November) offer mild weather and fewer crowds.
  • What to Bring: Comfortable shoes (lots of stairs!), a flashlight for cave exploration, and sunscreen.
  • Eat & Drink: Nearby Nanjinguan Town serves fresh Yangtze River fish dishes and spicy Hubei-style hotpot.

Immersive Experience

Start your day early to beat the tour groups. Explore the cave first (cool and damp, even in summer), then climb up to Zhi Xi Pavilion for panoramic river views. History lovers can spend hours decoding the inscriptions, while photographers will flip for the mist-covered peaks at dawn. For a deep dive into culture, catch a performance at Ba-Chu Music Palace—it’s like time-traveling through China’s musical heritage.

Whether you’re into nature, history, or just snapping epic photos, Three Visits Cave Scenic Area packs everything into one bite-sized adventure. It’s not just a “see and leave” spot—plan for at least half a day to truly soak it all in!