White Emperor City
White Emperor City or Baidicheng is an ancient fortress and temple complex located on a hill on the north bank of the Yangtze River.
Origin of the Name
It is said that the area was surrounded by white fog, which gave it a mysterious and serene appearance. Another legend said that the local leader Gongsun Shu saw a white dragon appear there. He found it a symbol of emperor and thus declared himself the White Emperor and later founded the city.
City of Poems
White Emperor City is also known as the City of Poems, because the famous poet Li Bai wrote one of his masterpiece poem So Long, White Emperor City here. And the other poet worthy of high reputation Du Fu resided in the city for years. Furthermore, Liu Bei, the first emperor of the Shu Han during the Three Kingdoms era, is said to have died in White Emperor City.
Attractions of White Emperor City
White Emperor City is the best place to admire the Kuimen landscape of Qutang Gorge, where a special viewing platform is set up. At the same time, it is an ideal position to take photos of the scenery printed on the 10 RMB bill. It rises against imposing mountains and overlooks the Yangtze River. The magnificent landscapes make it a reputed attraction along the Three Gorges travel route.
More than 1,000 historical relics and many inscriptions on tablets are displayed in the White Emperor City. One of the most notable relics is the Bashu Bronze Sword, made during the Spring and Autumn Period. Tourists are captivated by their consummate craftsmanship and praise the wisdom and skill of the ancient Ba.
More than 70 very well preserved stone tablets are displayed in the tablet forest. One of them, from the Sui dynasty, has a history of about 1,400 years. There are other interesting attractions in Baidicheng, such as Zhuge Liang Memorial Hall, Guan jing Pavilion and Wangjiang Tower. Additionally, there are golden sculptures of Liu Bei, Zhuge Liang, Guan Yu and Zhang Fei.
Due to the rising water level after the construction of the Three Gorges Dam, many old structures were submerged and new, taller buildings have been built. White Emperor City is linked to the north bank of the Yangtze by a bridge. Baidicheng, with its natural and cultural landscapes, has become a must-see destination for tourists from all over the world when visiting the Three Gorges of the Yangtze River.
