White Emperor City

White Emperor City stands on Baidi(White Emperor) Mountain in Fengjie. Before the construction of the Three Gorges Reservoir, the mountain formed a peninsula rising 248 meters above sea level, surrounded by water on its north, east, and south sides and connected to the hills to the west. This terrain made it a strategically vital location throughout Chinese history, especially during the era of cold-weapon warfare.

Originally named Ziyang City, Baidi City was built by Gongsun Shu, the warlord who controlled the Shu region at the end of the Western Han dynasty. According to historical accounts, a well within the city often emitted white vapors resembling a rising white dragon. Gongsun Shu used this omen to proclaim himself the “White Emperor,” giving the city the name Baidi City.

For centuries, Baidi City has been celebrated as a place of cultural significance. From the Tang and Song dynasties onward, many renowned poets visited and composed verses here, capturing the unique scenery surrounding the city and leaving behind valuable works of calligraphy and literature.

After the Three Gorges Reservoir was filled, Baidi City became completely surrounded by water. To ensure convenient access for visitors, Fengjie constructed a 338-meter-long, 7-meter-wide covered corridor bridge in the style of the Han dynasty. This bridge, along with its three pavilions, blends seamlessly with the architecture of Baidi City and creates a striking sight. Today, it serves not only as the city’s sole connection to the mainland but also as an added scenic attraction.