Among the twelve spectacular peaks of Wuxia Gorge, one of the most famous and beautiful landmarks is Goddess Peak (Shennv Peak). Located in the Wushan Mountains along the Yangtze River, Goddess Peak is admired for its unique shape, breathtaking scenery, and fascinating ancient legends.
The peak rises dramatically beside the river, topped by a large rock formation that resembles a graceful young woman standing and looking down at passing boats below. Because it is the first mountain peak to welcome the morning sunlight and the last to receive the evening glow, it is also known as Wangxia Peak (Peak of Watching the Sunrise Glow).
With its mysterious appearance and romantic legends, Goddess Peak has become one of the most iconic sights on a Yangtze River cruise through the Three Gorges.
Legend of Goddess Peak
According to Chinese mythology, Goddess Peak is associated with Yao Ji, a beautiful goddess from the heavenly palace. She was said to be the twenty-third daughter of the Queen Mother of the West and later received the title Lady Yunhua after learning magical skills from the Goddess of Three Primes.
Unlike other heavenly beings who enjoyed a quiet life, Yao Ji was adventurous and curious about the human world. One day, she left the heavenly palace and traveled westward on a cloud, crossing thousands of mountains and seeing the beauty of the mortal world.
When she arrived at the mist-covered Wushan Mountains, she discovered that twelve dragons were causing disasters and harming local people. Determined to protect the people, Yao Ji used her divine power to defeat the dragons. Thunder shook the mountains, and the bodies of the twelve dragons transformed into twelve towering peaks, creating barriers that blocked the Yangtze River and caused devastating floods.
Yao Ji and the Control of the Floods
To control the flooding, the legendary hero Yu the Great traveled from the Yellow River region to the Yangtze River and attempted to open passages through the mountains. However, the enormous task was beyond the ability of ordinary people.
Moved by Yu’s determination and dedication, Yao Ji summoned six of her followers. Using their magical powers, they helped open channels through the Three Gorges, allowing the floodwaters to flow safely toward the East China Sea.
After the flood was controlled, Yao Ji chose to remain in the Wushan Mountains. According to legend, she stood on the mountain peak, guiding boats along the river, protecting travelers, bringing rain to nourish crops, and discovering medicinal plants to help local people.
Over many years, she devoted herself completely to helping humanity. Eventually, she transformed into the magnificent Goddess Peak, becoming an eternal guardian of the Three Gorges. The surrounding peaks are believed to be her loyal companions standing beside her.
Cultural Heritage of Goddess Peak
The legend of Goddess Peak has been passed down for generations among communities in the Wushan Mountains. Ancient local people honored Yao Ji with the title “Wonderful True Taoist” and built the Goddess Temple near Flying Phoenix Peak in her memory.
A nearby terrace known as Book Presenting Terrace is believed to be the place where Goddess Yao Ji presented a magical book to Yu the Great, helping him complete his mission of controlling the floods.
Today, Goddess Peak remains one of the most popular attractions of Wuxia Gorge. Combining dramatic mountain scenery, ancient mythology, and cultural traditions, it offers travelers a memorable experience during a Yangtze River cruise through the Three Gorges.