The Qingjiang Gallery Scenic Area is located in Changyang Tujia Autonomous County, Yichang City, Hubei Province, and is a national 5A-level tourist attraction. The scenic area takes the Qingjiang River as its main line, with a total length of about 87 kilometers and an area of about 300 square kilometers. It is known as the "Landscape Gallery" and the "Mother River of the Tujia People." The scenic area features clear waters and lush mountains, with layered peaks and ridges, integrating natural scenery with Tujia culture. It is an important part of the Yangtze River Three Gorges tourism area. The main buildings include the Tujia Customs Park, cruise ship docks, and other supporting facilities.
History and Culture
The Qingjiang River is the birthplace and mother river of the Tujia people, nurturing a splendid Ba-Tu culture. As early as more than 4,000 years ago, the Ba people lived and multiplied here, creating a unique Ba culture.
Changyang Tujia Autonomous County is the only Tujia autonomous county in Hubei Province. A large number of traditional Tujia villages and folk cultures are preserved in the Qingjiang River basin. Tujia intangible cultural heritage such as stilted buildings, hand-waving dance, and bridal lament songs are fully preserved here.
Historically, the Qingjiang River was an important water transportation route, witnessing the exchange and integration between the Tujia and Han peoples. Wuluo Zhongli Mountain within the scenic area is said to be the birthplace of Lin Jun, the ancient leader of the Ba people, and holds important historical and cultural value.
Main Attractions
Wuluo Zhongli Mountain
Wuluo Zhongli Mountain has an elevation of 384 meters and is a landmark attraction of the Qingjiang Gallery. It is said to be the birthplace of Lin Jun, the ancient leader of the Ba people. There are historical relics on the mountain such as the Lin Jun Temple and the Xiang Wang Temple. From the summit, visitors can overlook the panoramic view of the Qingjiang River, with magnificent scenery.
Xianren Village
Xianren Village is a typical karst landscape with an elevation of about 500 meters. Within the village, there are natural wonders such as Xianren Cave and the Natural Bridge, as well as a well-preserved ancient Tujia village that showcases the original Tujia lifestyle.
Daoying Gorge
Daoying Gorge is about 5 kilometers long, with steep cliffs on both sides and crystal-clear water. It is named for its calm, mirror-like water surface that reflects the mountain shadows, and is one of the most essential landscape sections of the Qingjiang Gallery.
Tour Routes：
Recommended one-day tour route: In the morning, take a boat from the Qingjiang Gallery Visitor Center to tour water attractions such as Daoying Gorge and Xianren Village; at noon, taste local cuisine at the Tujia Customs Street; in the afternoon, visit Wuluo Zhongli Mountain and explore the Tujia cultural exhibition; return in the evening. Visitors with sufficient time can choose a two-day tour to deeply experience Tujia folk culture.
Travel Tips：
The best seasons for tourism are spring and autumn (April-May, September-October), when the climate is pleasant and the scenery is most beautiful.
It is recommended to arrive in Changyang County one day in advance to stay overnight, and enter the scenic area early the next morning.
Cruise ships are the main way to tour; it is recommended to choose the morning time slot, as the lighting is more suitable for photography.
Prepare comfortable hiking shoes, as some attractions require walking and climbing.
Respect local ethnic minority customs and traditions, especially when visiting villages.
Notes：
Some areas within the scenic area have weak signal; it is recommended to download offline maps in advance.
Please do not move around casually while the cruise ship is moving, and pay attention to safety.
Protect the environment and do not throw garbage into the Qingjiang River.
Mountain weather is changeable; it is recommended to carry rain gear and sun protection items.
When purchasing local specialties, pay attention to distinguishing authenticity; purchase from正规 stores.
Some sections within the scenic area are steep; the elderly and children need to pay special attention to safety.
Transportation：
Self-driving: Depart from Yichang city area, take the Shanghai-Chongqing Expressway (G50) to the Changyang exit, then drive about 40 kilometers along Provincial Highway 324 to reach the scenic area, about 1.5 hours in total.
Bus: There are direct tourist shuttle buses from Yichang Long-Distance Bus Station to Qingjiang Gallery, about 2 hours' ride.
High-speed rail: Take the high-speed rail to Yichang East Station, then transfer to a tourist shuttle or taxi to the scenic area.
Opening Hours：
The scenic area is open year-round, with daily opening hours from 8:00 to 17:30 (extended to 18:00 during peak season). Cruise departure times are from 9:00 to 15:00, with one departure per hour. Specific times may be adjusted according to the season; it is recommended to check in advance.
Tickets：
Ticket: 140 yuan per person (including cruise). As of July 4, 2025, there are two cruise routes, namely the Shengjing Tour and the Yinghua Tour.