Tongtian River
通天河
A section of the upper main stream of the Yangtze River. It cuts a deep gorge through Yushu, and the Tongtian River Bridge at Zhimenda is a landmark of the Three Rivers Source Region and the setting of a legend from Journey to the West.
The Tongtian River is a section of the main stream in the Yangtze source region and is widely known from the story in *Journey to the West*, in which Tang Seng and his disciples cross the river and dry the scriptures. The river valley is deeply cut in Yushu. The Tongtian River Bridge at Zhimenda is where National Highway 214 crosses the river, and nearby stands a monument related to the Three Rivers Source Region. It is a stop where self-drive travellers pull over for photos. Along the river you can visit Lebagou and the Princess Wencheng Temple. Entry is free and it can be visited at any time of day. Traffic on the bridge is heavy, so take care when taking photos. The river current is fast, so do not go into the water. It is about 25 km from Jyekundo town.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Dangka Monastery
- Leba Valley
- Gyanak Mani Stone Mound
- Princess Wencheng Temple
- Thrangu Monastery
- Jyekundo Monastery
- Yushu Prefecture Museum
- King Gesar Square