White Emperor City Qutang Gorge Scenic Spot Tickets

4.5/5

China – Chongqing

Panoramic view of cliffs and river at White Emperor City Qutang Gorge Scenic Spot

Located at the western entrance of the Three Gorges along the Yangtze River, the White Emperor City · Qutang Gorge Scenic Spot is a classic destination where breathtaking natural beauty meets rich historical culture. White Emperor City is famed for its ties to the Three Kingdoms era and the famous poetic line by Li Bai: “Departing from White Emperor City in the morning, amid colorful clouds…” Qutang Gorge is renowned for its steep cliffs and roaring river waters. The whole site exudes grandeur and is ideal for travelers interested in dramatic landscapes and cultural heritage.

Opening Hours & Visitor Information

  • Address: White Emperor City Scenic Area, Baidi Town, Fengjie County, Chongqing

  • Opening Hours: Daily from 08:00 to 18:00. Actual hours may vary depending on the season, weather, or boat schedules—please check the official website or ticketing platforms for the latest updates before your visit.

  • Recommended Visit Duration: Plan for half a day to a full day (about 4–6 hours). You can explore White Emperor City on foot or combine it with a boat tour through Qutang Gorge.

  • Best Time to Visit: Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer pleasant weather and high visibility—perfect for enjoying the stunning scenery of the Three Gorges.

  • Additional Notes:

    • Online booking is strongly recommended, especially on weekends and public holidays.

    • Bring valid ID and your ticket confirmation (either digital or printed).

    • If you’re including a boat tour, make sure to check the departure times and pier locations in advance.

Ticket Types & Prices

1-Day Admission Ticket (Adult)

  • CNY 94.8
Check Price

Ticket Information

  • Adult tickets apply to visitors aged 18–59.

  • Discount tickets are available for students aged 7–18 with valid student ID.

  • Senior tickets are available for those aged 60–64.

  • Free admission is available for children under 6 and seniors aged 65 and above—making this a family-friendly destination for multigenerational travel.

How to Get There

Getting to White Emperor City from downtown Chongqing is easy via high-speed rail and shuttle bus—perfect for independent travelers:

  • Take a high-speed train from Chongqing North Railway Station to Fengjie Station (just over 1 hour). The ride also offers scenic views.

  • After arriving at Fengjie Station, follow signs to the shuttle bus service. On-site ticket purchase is simple (about ¥15 per person).

  • The shuttle takes about 40 minutes to reach the scenic area entrance, with smooth roads and views of the Yangtze River and its tributaries.

Highlights & Photo Spots

In addition to general sightseeing, we highly recommend the “Deep Qutang Gorge Cruise” for a more immersive experience of the gorge’s river scenery.

  • The cruise loops around Qutang Gorge. It’s breezy and cool on the deck, and you don’t need to fight for a window seat—you can walk out on deck for a full panoramic view.

  • A highlight is the ancient hanging coffins seen only from the river—eerie and awe-inspiring.

  • Around 11:10 AM, the deep cruise docks at a famous photo location featured on the 10-yuan banknote. After disembarking, you’ll walk up a flight of stairs. Once you reach a row of souvenir shops, take the stairs on the right all the way up to the Chijialou Viewing Platform, the iconic photo spot. Even if water levels obscure the full mountain shape, you’ll still be within the celebrated “10 Yuan View.”

  • Afterward, head down to the cannon fort area, where you can interact with monkeys. Small snack packs (about ¥5) are sold nearby. The monkeys are friendly and won’t grab or snatch—but keeping a respectful distance is always safest.

  • If you’re not continuing the hike, return to the pier to catch the 12:00 PM return boat to Zhongyi Ferry Terminal. If you have time afterward, consider taking a full tour of White Emperor City—it fits perfectly into the day without feeling rushed.

Boat cruising between steep cliffs at Qutang Gorge
Scenic boat ride approaching White Emperor City through the gorge

Visitor Reviews Summary

White Emperor City and Qutang Gorge are two of Chongqing’s most iconic cultural and natural attractions, earning high praise from visitors. Many enjoy the poetic ambiance and the sense of connection between past and present. The towering cliffs and majestic river views of Qutang Gorge are especially admired. Some paths and boardwalks do involve uphill climbs, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Those with limited stamina should plan rest stops accordingly.

Related Guides & Recommended Tours

Want to plan your trip with ease? We’ve prepared a detailed guide with transportation options, the best photo spots, and recommended boat tours. You can also combine this trip with other popular Fengjie attractions such as the Tiankeng-Difeng karst system or Kuimen Gate for a rich two-day cultural and nature getaway.

FAQ

Q: Can I buy tickets on the day of my visit?
A: Yes, same-day tickets are available at the entrance. However, to ensure a smoother experience—especially if you’re taking a boat tour or visiting during peak times—it’s best to book online in advance.

Q: Can I bring food and drinks into the scenic area?
A: Yes, light snacks and bottled water are allowed. Please do not bring alcoholic beverages, and be sure to carry out all your trash.

Q: Are there lines or reservations required inside the scenic area?
A: There are usually no long waits on weekdays. During holidays, there may be brief lines. If you plan to take a boat tour, advance reservation is required to ensure timing coordination.

Q: Is White Emperor City suitable for kids?
A: Absolutely! The grounds are spacious and safe, and there are many educational cultural displays that children can enjoy. However, some areas have stairs, so adult supervision is advised.

Q: How are the boat rides through Qutang Gorge? Are they bumpy?
A: The area offers both short and long cruise options. The river is relatively calm and most visitors don’t experience motion sickness. It’s a perfect pairing with a visit to White Emperor City, offering fantastic views and excellent photo opportunities.