Located in Chibi City, Xianning, Hubei Province, the Three Kingdoms Chibi Ancient Battlefield is a national 5A-level tourist attraction covering approximately 4.7 square kilometers (core area 1.2 km²) on the south bank of the middle reaches of the Yangtze River. As the site of the historic Battle of Red Cliffs, it's renowned for its rich cultural relics and magnificent natural scenery, hailed as "China's No.1 Ancient Battlefield".
History and Culture
The Battle of Red Cliffs (208 AD) was a pivotal confrontation where the allied forces of Sun Quan and Liu Bei defeated Cao Cao, establishing the Three Kingdoms period. This battle represents one of China's most famous naval victories and classic examples of defeating a larger force.
The scenic area preserves numerous historical relics. The cliff inscriptions of "Red Cliffs" are believed to be written by Zhou Yu 1,800 years ago.
Literary giants like Li Bai, Du Fu and Su Shi visited here, creating celebrated poems. Su Shi's "Odes to Red Cliffs" particularly immortalized this site in Chinese cultural history.
Main Attractions
Red Cliffs Cliff Inscriptions
Two giant regular script characters "Red Cliffs" (each 150cm tall) carved on riverside cliffs, allegedly by Zhou Yu. Below stands the Ming-dynasty "Wind-Praying Platform" where Zhuge Liang supposedly summoned the east wind.
Zhou Yu Statue
An 8.58-meter stone statue of the Wu Kingdom general atop Chibi Mountain, depicting his heroic demeanor. The base features the complete "Nostalgia for Red Cliffs" poem, serving as the area's landmark.
Battle of Red Cliffs Exhibition Hall
This 3,200m² hall comprehensively presents the battle's background, process and impact through artifacts, dioramas and multimedia displays.
Young Phoenix Hermitage
Purported retreat of Pang Tong (nicknamed "Young Phoenix"), with current Qing-dynasty structures housing his statue and scholar inscriptions in serene surroundings.
Recommended Itinerary
Half-day tour: Morning at exhibition hall; Riverside sites including cliff inscriptions; Afternoon mountain visit to Zhou Yu statue and hermitage. Consider Yangtze cruise for majestic river views.
Travel Tips
- Best seasons: Spring and autumn (Apr-May, Sep-Oct)
- Pre-reading about the battle enhances appreciation
- Wear comfortable shoes for mountain paths
- Try costume photography activities
- Evening riverside views are particularly photogenic
Precautions
- Exercise caution near riverbanks
- Protect cultural relics - no graffiti
- Spotty reception in some areas - stay with group
- Purchase souvenirs from authorized shops
- Wear life jackets during boat tours
- Summer sun protection/winter windproofing advised
Transportation
- Self-drive: From Wuhan via G4 and G0422 expressways (~1.5 hours)
- High-speed rail: To Chibi North Station, then 30-minute shuttle
- Bus: Direct shuttles from Xianning (~1 hour)
Opening Hours
Open daily 8:00-17:30 (extended to 18:00 peak season). Exhibition hall 9:00-16:30, closed Mondays (except holidays).
Ticket Information
The admission ticket is 135 yuan per person.
You can search for the official WeChat public account "湖北三国赤壁古战场" in WeChat to get the latest updates or purchase tickets online.
Online Booking
Click here to jump to the Trip.com ticketing platform for ticket purchase.