Name: Yichang

Chinese Name: 宜昌市

Province: Hubei

Status: Prefecture-level city

Population: 1,337,946 inhabitants

Area: 21,084 km²

Yichang is a prefecture-level city located in the western part of Hubei province on the left bank of the Yangtze River. This ancient and historic city is primarily renowned for being home to the famous Three Gorges Dam.

History

In ancient times, Yichang was known as Yiling. The city fell under attack commanded by General Bai Qi of the Qin state in 278 BC during the Warring States period. In 222, Yichang was the site of the Battle of Yiling during the Three Kingdoms period.

The city witnessed numerous other battles thereafter.

Yichang is the birthplace of Ba culture and the Chu dynasty.

The city is known as the birthplace of the great poet Qu Yuan.

In 1877, a treaty between Great Britain and Chine opened Yichang to foreign trade.

Today

Following many years of development, Yichang city has become the gateway to the upper course of the Yangtze River and a departure point for gorge cruises.

The city boasts significant hydraulic resources and is recognized as the world's largest hydroelectric power base. Tourism centered on the Three Gorges has made the city more famous and prosperous.

The Three Gorges Dam project is one of the greatest wonders in modern human history and has become a world-renowned tourist site. Each year, millions of visitors gather here to admire this immense technical feat.

Beyond the dam, Yichang holds several historical sites such as the Qu Yuan Ancestral Hall in honor of the great poet, or the former residence of Wang Zhaojun.

The city also benefits from abundant natural resources. Mountains, waterfalls, caves, forests, and natural pools surround the city and form picturesque scenes to discover.

Climate

Located in a subtropical zone, Yichang is influenced by a fairly humid climate with nonetheless relatively distinct seasons.

Temperatures are low in winter with an average of 4.9°C in January. Summers are rather warm and humid with an average temperature in July reaching 27.7°C. The heaviest precipitation is recorded during the months of June and July.

It is preferable to visit Yichang in spring or autumn when the climate is favorable for travel.

Air

Shanxia Airport located in the Xiaoting district 26 km from Yichang city center and 55 km from the Three Gorges Dam is served by flights from Beijing, Shanghai, Xi'an, and other major cities in Chine.

Train

Yichang Railway Station is served by numerous lines. Trains depart from/to Changsha, Hankou, Zhangjiajie, Luoyang, Zhengzhou, Xi'an, Beijing, Shanghai…

Long-distance Bus

It is easy to reach Yichang by bus from Wuhan, Xiangfan, Lichuan, Nanchang, Changsha, and Shanghai.

Boat

Being an important river port on the Yangtze.

Boats descend from Wanzhou and Chongqing. Some go to Wuhan, Shanghai, and Nanjing, but journeys are more variable.

Daily buses and taxis circulate throughout the city. Shuttles go to the Three Gorges Dam.

What to do in Yichang?

• Marvel at mankind's engineering prowess at the impressive Three Gorges Dam.
• Visit the Qu Yuan Ancestral Hall, honoring the great Chinese poet.
• Embark on a cruise through the Gorges.