First Bend of the Yangtze River: Shigu

Author: Liu Guangping
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-05-01
Features: In Shigu Town, 45 kilometers northwest of Lijiang City, the Jinsha River turns 180 degrees here, breaking through the of the towering mountains and heading north then east, forming the famous "Three Gorges of the Yangtze River." In Naxi, it is called "Laba," meaning "the roar of a tiger" or "the flower of the tiger clan." The Three Gorges of the Yangtze River is surrounded by mountains and rivers, picturesque in scenery. The river flows wide and gentle here, with willow groves like ribbons along the banks. The surrounding Yunling Mountains rise in layers, winding around the area. Terraced fields spiral up the slopes, connecting with flat, fertile plains and villages with tiled roofs, earning it the reputation of "Little Jiangnan." The Three Gorges of the Yangtze River is not only an important scenic spot in Lijiang but also the key passageway to the Laojun Mountain Scenic Area and the Three Rivers Confluence Scenic Area. The 100-kilometer highway from Shigu to Tacheng runs along the western bank of the Jinsha River. Entering this route, you first step into the picturesque scenery of the river bend, while the historic sites and ancient ferry crossings along both banks of the river reveal a cultural and historical corridor. A sense of depth will permeate the entire route, as you delve into an even older Naxi legend. Shigu, Juidian, and Tacheng are the three main tourist spots along this route.