Nature's craftsmanship

A 40-minute drive along winding mountain roads takes visitors to the Heart of the Three Gorges observatory. The vantage point unveils a naturally shaped heart formed by the river and mountain ridges and a panoramic view of nine of Wushan Mountain's 12 peaks. The view echoes Song Dynasty (960-1279) poet Lu You, who wrote a poem about seeing nine peaks from a boat on the Yangtze River.

"After it rains, the mountain exposes dual wonders," says Xiang Ping, a veteran tour guide from Wushan county.

"Mist-cloaked peaks form a mysterious atmosphere and the verdant hills mirror the crystal-clear water as rain washes away any dust and sharpens their colors. Each time you visit, you may encounter a different scene."

Hiking trails, such as the path on the Flying Phoenix Peak, draw ardent fans. From late November to early December, Wushan Mountain is ablaze with red foliage, a testament to nature's craftsmanship.

In the afternoon, the cruise ship arrives at the 8-kilometer-long Qutang Gorge, the shortest section of the Three Gorges.