Yichang: 3 Days That Broke My Bank (and My Heart)

Hey everyone👋! I'm a travel enthusiast, and I just got back from a trip to Yichang. Yichang in April is absolutely stunning, with tons of fun things to do and delicious food to eat. I can't wait to share my travel guide with you all, so let's get started! 📍【My Impression of Yichang】 Yichang, located in southwestern Hubei, is a charming city👏! Situated along the Yangtze River, it boasts rich natural resources. The majestic Three Gorges Dam showcases the marvel of engineering, while the picturesque Qingjiang Gallery offers a breathtaking blend of mountains and water, resembling a fairyland. In April, Yichang is bathed in the warmth of spring. Peach blossoms bloom along the banks of the Three Gorges, a gentle spring breeze blows through the Xiling Gorge, and the city is full of life and vitality. With its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, every step in Yichang is a feast for the senses. 🚗【Transportation Guide】 ✈️By Air: Fly directly to Yichang Sanxia Airport, which offers numerous routes to meet most travel needs. Airport buses connect to various downtown areas, and taxis are also readily available. You can reach the bustling city center in about 20-30 minutes and start your journey. 🚄By High-Speed Rail: Yichang East Railway Station has frequent high-speed train services, making it easy to travel south to Wuhan, north to Chongqing, or east to other parts of Jingchu. Public transportation is readily available outside the station, providing seamless connections to popular attractions like the Three Gorges Dam and Yiling Square😃. 🚗By Car: The expressways to Yichang are in good condition. However, parking can be challenging in some old streets and around scenic areas. Check parking lot locations in advance to avoid illegal parking. 🗺【Recommended Itinerary】 Day 1: Three Gorges Dam - Cutoff Memorial Garden - Three Gorges Family Morning: Head to the Three Gorges Dam and marvel at the panoramic view from the Tanzi Ridge viewing platform. Feel the grandeur of this engineering marvel and be filled with awe and pride. Noon: Try Yichang cold shrimp noodles nearby. Made with rice milk and shaped like small shrimp, these cold noodles are served with brown sugar water for a refreshing and sweet treat😋. Afternoon: Visit the Cutoff Memorial Garden to learn about the arduous process of dam construction. The exhibits of large machinery tell the story of the past. Then, head to the Three Gorges Family to experience the local culture, see the houses along the river and on the mountain, and enjoy Tujia folk performances. Day 2: Qingjiang Gallery - Changyang Tujia Autonomous County Morning: Take a boat trip along the Qingjiang Gallery. In April, the river is crystal clear, and the mountains on both sides create a picturesque scene. Noon: Enjoy a hearty Tujia meal. I recommend "Hezha," also known as "lazy tofu," made from ground soybeans. It has a smooth texture and is served with minced meat, chili, and other seasonings. Afternoon: Visit Changyang Tujia Autonomous County, stroll through the Tujia-style streets, experience the rich ethnic culture, and buy some local handicrafts. Day 3: Xiling Gorge - Sanyou Cave - Return Trip Morning: Visit the Xiling Gorge, the starting point of the Three Gorges. Hike through the stunning natural scenery and breathe in the fresh air. Noon: Try the local specialty, roasted potatoes. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, they are sprinkled with spring onions, chili powder, and other seasonings. After lunch, buy some local products, such as Wufeng tea and Zigui navel oranges, before heading back. 📝【Practical Tips】 🎫Tickets: The Three Gorges Dam is free but requires advance booking. Tickets are required for some attractions, such as the Three Gorges Family and Qingjiang Gallery. Booking online in advance often offers discounts and avoids queuing. 🕙Opening Hours: Vary by attraction. Check the official website or call in advance to plan your itinerary accordingly. 📸Photography: Wearing Hanfu or Tujia ethnic clothing at the Three Gorges Family and Qingjiang Gallery creates a great atmosphere. Bright-colored sportswear is perfect for scenic areas. 🍱【Food Recommendations】 1. Red Oil Noodles: Thin, chewy noodles topped with red oil, spring onions, and minced meat. The broth is red and oily, spicy and fragrant. 2. Radish Dumplings: Made with rice and soybean milk batter, filled with shredded radish, and deep-fried. The skin is crispy, and the filling is juicy. 3. Yuan'an Chongcai: A unique dish with a pungent, spicy flavor. 4. Zhijiang Fish Cake: Made with fish meat, it has a tender texture and can be steamed, boiled, or stir-fried. 💡【Tips】 1. The temperature difference between day and night in Yichang in April can be significant. Bring a light jacket🧥. 2. Tujia cuisine is generally spicy. If you can't handle the heat, let the restaurant know in advance. 3. Follow the rules and regulations when visiting scenic areas such as the Three Gorges Dam. Yichang in April is full of surprises. Pack your bags and head out💕! I'm sure you'll fall in love with this charming place!