Qutang Gorge extends from Baidicheng in the west to the town of Daxizhen in the east. It is the shortest but the most magnificent of the Three Gorges. Qutang Gorge is also known as Kuixia Gorge. The broadest part of the gorge is only 150 meters, while the narrowest is less than 100 meters. At the mouth of the gorge stand two perpendicular cliffs facing each other. They look like two giant gates, hence the name Kui Gate or Qutang Pass. It is also the most dangerous and feared part of the Three Gorges.

On the north bank of the gorge is Chijia (Red Scale) Mountain, which looks crimson. Opposite it stands the Baiyan (White Salt) Mountain, which bears the color of grayish white. Presenting a sharp color contrast, the two mountains make a marvelous view. In addition to Baidicheng, there are many other scenic spots and places of historical interest in the gorge, such as the peculiar rock called the Monk Hanging by the Feet, the legendary Meng Liang Staircase, the Fengxiang (Bellows) Gorge, an ancient plank road built on the face of a cliff, and the Phoenix Spring, etc.