Statues at Fengdu's Mingshan Mountain.

Three Gorges revived

Tourism numbers to the Three Gorges have fallen in recent years, with new facilities hoping to add life to the area.

"From this year, we are planning to invest about 3 billion yuan ($441 million) to develop tourism districts along the Three Gorges, to create in-depth tourist products for travelers, such as luxury cruises, the ancient plank road along the cliff of the Little Three Gorges and the ancient towns," said Xu Jian, from Chongqing Traffic and Tourism Investment Group.

After the construction of the dam, the widening of the Three Gorges has allowed larger ships to pass, changing the way the area can be viewed.

"In the past, travelers were attracted by the adventurous journey on the river, now it is quite peaceful and safe, more romantic and leisurely."

Xu said his favorite spot is Fengdu, with its mix of folk culture, Confucianism, Buddhism and Taoism."

"We have put more effort in developing facilities nearby, like five star hotels, with the hope of attracting more visitors to stay longer during their journey, to experience the area, not only come for sightseeing," he said.

Xu added that the Little Three Gorges is also a great place to visit, with facilities also boosted to allow travelers to enjoy the area's mountains, deep valleys and interesting rock formations.

"It is very safe traveling in this area and the autumn view is gorgeous." he said. "We are currently investing 2 billion yuan ($294 million) to develop about 10 super-luxurious river cruise liner."

With the first ship scheduled for a May 2011 delivery, Xu said the ships will be like ocean cruise liners, with helicopters and golf courses on deck.