Three Gorges Reservoir Region, body of water
The Three Gorges Reservoir is a large body of water in China surrounded by steep mountains that rise from forested, hilly terrain. The region comprises a main waterway with numerous side arms, coves, and shoreline areas that vary from rocky cliffs to gentler slopes and flatter banks.
The reservoir was created in the early 2000s when a major dam was built across one of China's longest rivers, fundamentally reshaping the landscape. The construction led to the flooding of valleys and the relocation of many inhabitants to newly built towns and villages in the surrounding areas.
The region reflects how people have shaped their lives around water and mountains for centuries, creating a distinctive way of living. Today, visitors can see how communities have adapted to the new waterscape while maintaining traditional practices alongside modern life.
The region is expansive and visiting takes time, whether exploring by foot, boat, or vehicle through various access points. Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant conditions, with clearer views and milder weather, making these seasons ideal for getting around the different areas.
The area is known for harboring one of the largest populations of river dolphins, animals that have become quite rare in modern times. Visitors may encounter or learn about these distinctive mammals while exploring the waters.
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