Pure Yangtze Upstream
Stretching over 3,000 miles from the glaciers of the Tibetan Plateau to the East China Sea, the Yangtze River is more than Asia’s longest river — it’s the lifeblood of China. Along its banks, ancient civilisations emerged, dynasties rose and fell, and a nation took shape through centuries of culture and change.
Today, cruising the Yangtze offers a rare opportunity to see China from a new perspective. As you drift past misty mountains, dramatic gorges and riverside villages, the pace slows and the scenery tells its own story — one shaped by nature, history and tradition.
Cruise upstream from Yichang to Chongqing from mid-March to mid-November, and witness the beauty and spirit of China unfold with every mile.
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Itinerary
- Day 1 – Arrive Yichang:
Arrive at Yichang airport or railway station where you’ll be met and transferred by private vehicle to Maoping Docks. Board your Yangtze River cruise ship around 6pm, beginning an unforgettable four-night journey upstream through some of China’s most breathtaking scenery. - Day 2 – Three Gorges Dam:
Visit the Three Gorges Dam, the world’s largest hydroelectric dam, and marvel at this incredible feat of engineering. Disembark the ship and take a scenic 45-minute drive (please note that the coach is not permitted to take photo stops) to the viewing area above the ship locks, where you will be able to appreciate the immense scale of this monumental project. Explore a small museum and a lookout point for further insight into its construction and impact on the region. This excursion includes approximately one hour of walking. Return to the ship and cruise through Xiling Gorge, the longest and deepest of the Three Gorges. Additional shore excursions may include the Three Gorges Dam Lift, visit to the Tribe of the Three Gorges or to the Hometown of Qu Yuan. - Day 3 – Shennong Stream:
Transfer to smaller vessels for a relaxing 1.5-hour excursion through the Shennong Stream gorges. Though narrower than the Three Gorges, these dramatic waterways offer equally as impressive scenery. There is no walking involved on this shore excursion, however you will need to get on and off the boat without assistance. Later, as the cruise ship continues upstream, prepare for breathtaking vistas as you pass through Wu and Qutang gorges. Wu Gorge is known for its quiet beauty, with forest-covered mountains and towering cliffs, while Qutang Gorge, the shortest and narrowest, captivates with its sheer rock faces and dramatic landscapes. Depending on local river conditions, you may travel along the gorges of Goddess Stream instead of Shennong Stream. Additional shore excursions may include White Emperor City and a ‘Return to the Three Gorges’ show. - Day 4 – Continue Cruising:
Continue cruising along the mighty Yangtze River. Relax onboard or disembark to explore the Xiaoguanshan Folk Culture Park, a reconstructed park featuring ancestral homes, the historic Tianfo Temple, and Huichuan Gate, all rescued from the submerged areas of the Three Gorges Dam. Sightseeing is on foot at a leisurely pace, taking approximately 1-2 hours. Depending on local river conditions and the cruise programme, you may visit Shibaozhai or Mt Shuanggui instead. Additional shore excursions may include Fengdu’s ‘Ghost City’. - Day 5 – Depart Chongqing:
Check out of your cabin early this morning and disembark in Chongqing around 9am. There are around 200 steps from the cruise dock to the coach parking. Transfer to the airport or railway station by private vehicle, for your onward journey.
Highlights
- Cruise through the stunning Three Gorges, including the world’s largest hydroelectric dam.
- Explore the Shennong Stream gorges on a relaxing boat excursion.
- Witness the beauty and history of China’s heartland from a new perspective.
Stretching over 3,000 miles from the glaciers of the Tibetan Plateau to the East China Sea, the Yangtze River is more than Asia’s longest river — it’s the lifeblood of China. Along its banks, ancient civilisations emerged, dynasties rose and fell, and a nation took shape through centuries of culture and change.
Today, cruising the Yangtze offers a rare opportunity to see China from a new perspective. As you drift past misty mountains, dramatic gorges and riverside villages, the pace slows and the scenery tells its own story — one shaped by nature, history and tradition.
Cruise upstream from Yichang to Chongqing from mid-March to mid-November, and witness the beauty and spirit of China unfold with every mile.
Inclusions
- Shennong Stream.
- Xiaoguanshan Folk Park.
- Day 1 highlights Arrive Yichang: Arrive at Yichang airport or railway station where you’ll be met and transferred by private vehicle to Maoping Docks. Board your Yangtze River cruise ship around 6pm, beginning an unforgettable four-night journey upstream through some of China’s most breathtaking scenery.
FAQs
How long is this journey?
This itinerary runs for 5 days and 4 nights.
What is generally included?
Inclusions typically cover guided touring and selected experiences, with exact details listed in the itinerary.
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