The double-way and five-step ship lock was excavated through the ridge to the left of the hydropower complex, with upstream and downstream approach channels connecting to the Yangtze main channel. The total length is 6442 meters including 1607 meters for main body section. Continuous high slopes lie on both sides of the ship lock, with maximum height of 170 meters, the area of more-than-120 meters-high slope extends for about 460 meters long.