The Yangtze River, China's longest river and the third longest waterway in the world, originates on the Qinghai-Tihet Plateau. Hundreds of rivers and streams join the Yangtze, which flows like a torrent eastward to empty into the East China Sea.

The Three Gorges in the Yangtze River Valley comprise Qutang Gorge, Wu Gorge and Xiling Gorge. The Three Gorges area starts at Baidicheng (White Emperor Town), Fengjie in Sichuan Province and extends to Nanjin Pass, Yichang in Hubei Province. It stretches over a total of 120 miles. Qutang Gorge is renowned for its majestic appearance. The peaks tower above the river and the waters tumble down in torrents. Wu Gorge is splendid, intertwined and secluded, housing the famous Twelve Peaks.