The Sanxia Ancient Military Fortresses Scenic Area is located on over a hundred isolated peaks and precipitous rocks spanning approximately 10 square kilometers within the Xiaofeng Gorge on the northern bank of the entrance to the Xiling Gorge on the Yangtze River, about 20 kilometers from the downtown area of Yichang. The fortresses, standing sentinel at rugged passes amidst a forest of perilous peaks, have been constructed with stones according to the natural terrain, presenting diverse architectures. The surrounding stone walls are equipped with arrow slits and observation windows, while multiple stone staircases lead to the outside and winding pathways exist inside. The fortresses feature stone-and-wood-structured rooms ranging from over a dozen to more than 70. With moats beneath them, each fortress is connected by watchtowers and military pathways, dotted with outposts and stone checkpoints, forming multiple layers of defense. Each fortress contains a dozen to several dozen stone houses, accommodating dozens to over a hundred people, and collectively, these fortresses can house more than 10,000 soldiers. The meticulously planned ancient military architectural system, built during the same historical period for both defense and offense, resembles a powerful ancient social group or even a “state”. Visit the Sanxia Ancient Military Fortresses Scenic Area and explore these incredible structures, immersing yourself in the history and grandeur of a bygone era.