Most waterfalls are meant to be looked at. The Three Gorges Waterfall is meant to be felt.
Located in Yichang, this hidden gem is often overshadowed by the Dam, but for me, it was the more visceral experience. The approach was a lush trek through a canyon that felt like a rainforest. The sound hit me first—a low, rhythmic thrumming that vibrated in my chest.
As I turned the corner, there it was: a 102-meter high curtain of white water crashing down. But the path didn't stop at a viewing platform.
It went behind the waterfall.
I put on a flimsy blue raincoat that I bought for 10 yuan, knowing it would be useless. I stepped onto the slippery walkway that cuts through the cave behind the falling water. The noise was deafening, a roar that drowned out all thought. Water didn't just fall; it exploded. The air was thick with mist, soaking my shoes, my pants, my hair.
For a few seconds, I was inside the waterfall. The world outside was a blur of green and gray through the veil of water. I shouted just to hear my own voice, but the sound was swallowed instantly. It was chaotic and exhilarating. I felt small, fragile, and incredibly washed clean.
Emerging on the other side, dripping wet and shivering slightly in the warm afternoon sun, I saw a perfect double rainbow arching over the pool.
To dry off, I crossed the "Shaky Bridge," a suspension bridge that swayed wildly with every step, forcing strangers to hold onto each other for balance. Laughter echoed across the water. It was a reminder that the best travel experiences are the ones that strip away your composure and leave you laughing, wet, and happy.