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On the northern cliff at the western end of Qutang Gorge, there are stone holes positioned in a series up the cliff. They are the so-called Water-Stealing Holes.

People say that the holes were cut into the cliff by Zhang Xianzhong, leader of a peasant uprising in the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), and his army. In order to oppose the dark rule of the Ming Dynasty, Zhang Xianzhong led his army to occupy the Area of Kui Gate as it was often a place of battle. He overcame and occupied Baidi City. When the Emperor Chong Zhen heard the news that Zhang Xianzhong had taken Kui Gate, he sent forces to shut off the source of water supply to the mountain, giving Zhang Xianzhong's army the choice - surrender or thirst to death.

As it was sunny and rainless at the time, it was difficult to get water on the mountain. Zhang Xianzhong and his army, in order to reach the riverside to obtain water, chiseled holes in the cliff and inserted wooden pegs or steps to climb down every night. These are the Water-Stealing Holes.

Now, they have been submerged under the water due to the Three Gorges Dam Project. Visitors can no longer marvel at these holes.

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