Yangtze River Cruise

长江三峡

Yangtze River Cruise

China's greatest river journey — through the Three Gorges, past cliff shrines, and across the world's largest dam.

About Yangtze River Cruise

The Yangtze River cruise from Chongqing to Yichang (or vice versa) is one of the world's great river journeys. Over 3-4 days, the ship passes through three massive gorges — Qutang (shortest and most dramatic), Wu (deepest and most beautiful), and Xiling (longest). Shore excursions include the Lesser Three Gorges on a small boat, the Ghost City of Fengdu, and the Three Gorges Dam — the largest hydroelectric dam in the world at 185m tall and 2.3km wide. The dam raised the river 175m, submerging entire cities but creating a calm, navigable waterway through scenery that was previously inaccessible.

Top Sights

1.Three Gorges (Qutang, Wu, Xiling)
2.Three Gorges Dam
3.Lesser Three Gorges excursion
4.Fengdu Ghost City
5.Shennong Stream
6.White Emperor City

What to Eat

Yangtze river fishChongqing hotpotSichuan cuisineHubei dishesShip's buffet

Local Tips

Book a balcony cabin — gorge views are the point
Upstream (Yichang to Chongqing) is 1 day longer but cheaper
Shennong Stream excursion is better than Lesser Three Gorges
Dam tour is impressive but crowded

Quick Facts

Best For
Cruise lovers, nature enthusiasts, photographers
Duration
4 days recommended (3-night cruise)
Best Season
April-May, September-November
Climate
Varies — Chongqing hot/humid, gorges cooler, Yichang temperate
Getting There
Embark in Chongqing (CKG airport) or Yichang (YIH airport).

Plan a Trip to Yangtze River Cruise

Get a free custom itinerary featuring Yangtze River Cruise.

Get Free Itinerary

Tours Including Yangtze River Cruise