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Chongqing Shanghai Cruise: 11-12 Days Chongqing Shanghai Cruise

Written by Lydia|Updated: 2025-01-10

The Century Legend offers an unparalleled travel experience along the Yangtze River, connecting the vibrant city of Chongqing and the bustling metropolis of Shanghai.

This iconic Chongqing Shanghai Cruise spans 11 days downstream or 12 days upstream, featuring must-see destinations like Yichang, the gateway to the Three Gorges Dam, and other cultural and historical highlights across 11 cities.

Throughout the journey, you’ll marvel at the breathtaking Yangtze Three Gorges, explore ancient cities, and enjoy curated shore excursions to attractions like Fengdu Ghost City, Jingdezhen’s porcelain hubs, Mount Jiuhua, and the iconic Yellow Crane Tower.

This article provides a detailed overview of the Chongqing-Shanghai cruise routes – Yangtze River cruise from Chongqing to Shanghai & Yangtze River cruise from Shanghai to Chongqing, itinerary highlights, and booking options for this extraordinary river cruise.

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  • triangleWhy Take Chongqing Shanghai Cruise?
  • triangleCentury Legend: The Only Ship for Chongqing Shanghai Cruise
  • triangle11 Days Chongqing to Shanghai Yangtze Cruise Itinerary
  • triangle12 Days Shanghai to Chongqing Yangtze Cruise Itinerary
  • triangleChongqing Shanghai Cruise: Destinations & Cities along the Yangtze River
  • triangleHow to Book a Chongqing Shanghai Cruise?
  • triangleJoin Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT) on a Chongqing Shanghai Cruise

Why Take Chongqing Shanghai Cruise?

  • Cruise along the breathtaking Yangtze Three Gorges and witness the engineering marvel of the Three Gorges Dam.
  • Enjoy a panoramic journey from the upper reaches to the lower reaches of the Yangtze River. The cruise distance between Chongqing and Shanghai along the Yangtze River is approximately 2,400 kilometers (1,500 miles).
  • Visit 11 iconic cities in China, including Chongqing, Fengjie, Yichang, Jingzhou, Yueyang, Wuhan, Jingdezhen, Chizhou, Nanjing, Yangzhou, and Shanghai.
  • Discover 7 types of Chinese cultures along the Yangtze, including Shanghai Regional Culture, Wu & Yue Kingdom Culture, Salt Merchants Culture, Buddhist Culture, Three Kingdoms Period Culture, Three Gorges Culture, Poetry Culture and Food Culture.
  • Unlock dishes from 5 major Chinese cuisines (Sichuan, Huaiyang, Anhui, Hunan and Hubei).

Century Legend: The Only Ship for Chongqing Shanghai Cruise

Century Legend
Century Legend
Century Legend Deluxe Cabin
Century Legend Deluxe Cabin

Managed by Century Cruises, Century Legend (世纪传奇) offers the Yangtze River cruise between Chongqing and Shanghai, delivering a waterborne paradise just for you! Here’s the basic facts about Century Legend.

  • Managed By: Century Cruises
  • Maximum Capacity: 400 passengers
  • Gross Tonnage (T): 12,516
  • Number of Decks: 6
  • Maiden Voyage: 2013
  • Last Renovation: 2013

11 Days Chongqing to Shanghai Yangtze Cruise Itinerary

Three Gorges
Three Gorges
War Fire of Three Kingdoms Show
War Fire of Three Kingdoms Show

Sail from the bustling city of Chongqing through the scenic Yangtze River for 11 days.

Pass by iconic destinations such as the Three Gorges, Jingzhou, Nanjing and other historic cities, as well as vibrant cultural landmarks including White Emperor City, King Chu's Horse and Chariot Array, etc., before arriving in the modern metropolis of Shanghai.

Here comes the sample itinerary for an 11-day Yangtze River cruise from Chongqing to Shanghai for your reference.

Note:

1. The itinerary is subject to change due to season, water levels, weather, navigation or government regulations.

2. In addition, alternative transport will be arranged if the embarkation pier changes to Fengdu or Fuling ports during dry or flood seasons.

Day Destinations Attractions
1 Chongqing Free Time Explore; Embarkation at Chaotianmen Dock (朝天门码头) Wharf No.11
2 Fengdu Shore excursion to Fengdu Ghost City, The War of the Three Kingdoms live performance
3 Fengjie Shore excursion to White Emperor City / Three Gorges Summit, Pass through Qutang Gorge (瞿塘峡) and Wu Gorge (巫峡)
4 Yichang Shore excursion to Three Gorges Dam Site: River Closure Memorial Park (截流纪念园) and Three Gorges Dam Project Museum (三峡工程博物馆), Pass through Gezhouba Dam (葛洲坝)
5 Jingzhou Optional shore excursion to King Chu's Horse and Chariot Array / Jingzhou Museum and Jingzhou Ancient City Wall
6 Wuhan Shore excursion to visit the Yellow Crane Tower and Hubei Provincial Museum
7 Jingdezhen Shore excursion to Jingdezhen Ancient Kiln Folk Museum + Jingdezhen Ceramic City or Mount Lu
8 Chizhou Full-day excursion to Mount Jiuhua and Baisui Palace / Jin Dizang Temple
9 Nanjing Shore excursion to Niushou Mountain
10 Yangzhou Shore excursion to Slender West Lake
11 Shanghai Disembark at Shanghai International Cruise Terminal

Chongqing Train Stations to Chaotianmen Dock | Car, Metro or Taxi to Chaotianmen Dock

Chongqing Airport to Chaotianmen Dock | 4 Options from Chongqing Jiangbei to Chaotianmen

12 Days Shanghai to Chongqing Yangtze Cruise Itinerary

The Bund, Shanghai
The Bund, Shanghai
Three Gorges Dam
Three Gorges Dam

Enjoy a 12-day upstream adventure from Shanghai to Chongqing, exploring the Yangtze River from its lower to upper reaches.

This route allows you to immerse yourself in the river’s diverse landscapes and vibrant cultures while visiting renowned cities such as Yangzhou, Jingdezhen and Yichang and experiencing the beauty of the Yangtze’s natural and man-made wonders like the Three Gorges Dam.

For those who wish to experience an upstream Yangtze River cruise from Shanghai to Chongqing, see the 12-day Shanghai to Chongqing cruise itinerary below.

Note:

1. Destinations listed in the itinerary may be adjusted based on seasons, water levels, weather, or waterways. Daily itineraries announced by the cruise will take precedence.

2. In case of water level, weather, or navigation control issues, disembarkation may be adjusted to Fengdu or Fuling ports, with unified transfers to Chongqing’s urban area.

Day Destinations Attractions
1 Shanghai Board the ship at Shanghai International Passenger Terminal
2 Yangzhou Shore excursion to Slender West Lake
3 Nanjing Shore excursion to Niushou Mountain
4 Chizhou Full-day excursion to Mount Jiuhua and Baisui Palace / Jin Dizang Temple
5 Jingdezhen Full-day excursion to Jingdezhen Ancient Kiln Folk Museum + Jingdezhen Ceramic City or Mount Lu
6 Wuhan Shore excursion to visit the Yellow Crane Tower and Hubei Provincial Museum
7 Yueyang Shore excursion to Yueyang Tower (岳阳楼) and Bianhe Street (汴河街)
8 Jingzhou Optional shore excursion to King Chu's Horse and Chariot Array (楚王车马阵) / Jingzhou Museum and Jingzhou Ancient City Wall
9 Yichang Shore excursion to Three Gorges Dam Site: River Closure Memorial Park (截流纪念园) and Three Gorges Dam Project Museum (三峡工程博物馆)
10 Fengjie Pass through Wu Gorge (巫峡) and Qutang Gorge (瞿塘峡), Shore excursion to White Emperor City (白帝城) / Three Gorges Summit
11 Fengdu Shore excursion to Fengdu Ghost City (丰都鬼城)
12 Chongqing Disembark at Chongqing Port (朝天门码头)

Chongqing Shanghai Cruise: Destinations & Cities along the Yangtze River

Yangtze River Cruise Map
Yangtze River Cruise Map

Chongqing - Upper Reaches of the Yangtze River

Chongqing lies on the upper reaches of the Yangtze River.

Highlights include a shore excursion to Fengdu Ghost City (丰都鬼城), a site of rich Chinese folklore that offers a glimpse into the afterlife. Additionally, you can enjoy The War of the Three Kingdoms (烽烟三国) live performance, an immersive show celebrating China's ancient history and military strategies.

In Fengjie, explore the historic White Emperor City (白帝城), a site of great literary and historical significance. Alternatively, opt for a visit to the Three Gorges Summit for breathtaking panoramic views.

Hubei - Start of the Yangtze River Middle Reaches

Three Gorges Five-Tier  Ship Locks
Three Gorges Five-Tier Ship Locks
Visit the iconic Yellow Crane Tower in Wuhan
Visit the iconic Yellow Crane Tower in Wuhan

Your cruise stops at Yichang, where you’ll visit the impressive Three Gorges Dam Site.

At Jingzhou, you can choose between exploring King Chu's Horse and Chariot Array (楚王车马阵), an archaeological treasure of ancient military history, or visiting the Jingzhou Museum and Jingzhou Ancient City Wall for a closer look at the city's cultural and historical legacy.

In Wuhan, visit the iconic Yellow Crane Tower (黄鹤楼). The Hubei Provincial Museum is another highlight, showcasing exquisite artifacts that illuminate the rich history of the region. With the Yangtze River running through the middle of the city, Wuhan has the nickname of “River City”.

Hunan

In Hunan Yueyang, your cruise takes a shore excursion to the historic Yueyang Tower (岳阳楼), a renowned Chinese architectural masterpiece with stunning views of Dongting Lake (洞庭湖). Afterward, explore Bianhe Street (汴河街), a charming area filled with traditional shops and local delicacies.

Jiangxi - Start of the Yangtze River Lower Reaches

Jingdezhen Ancient Kiln Folk Museum
Jingdezhen Ancient Kiln Folk Museum
Mount Lu's picturesque landscapes
Mount Lu's picturesque landscapes

Known as the porcelain capital of China, Jingdezhen offers a fascinating journey into the art of ceramics.

Visit the Jingdezhen Ancient Kiln Folk Museum (景德镇古窑民俗博览区) to witness traditional porcelain-making techniques, followed by a tour of Jingdezhen Ceramic City (景德镇陶瓷城) to admire exquisite pottery.

Alternatively, experience a scenic excursion to Mount Lu (庐山), a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its picturesque landscapes.

Anhui

The Yangtze River cruise between Chongqing and Shanghai stops at Chizhou, Anhui.

You have a full-day excursion to the sacred Mount Jiuhua (九华山), a key site for Buddhist pilgrimage. Explore the serene Baisui Palace (百岁宫), known for its cultural and spiritual heritage, or visit the Jin Dizang Temple (金地藏寺), a tranquil sanctuary steeped in history.

Jiangsu

Enjoy a leisurely visit to Slender West Lake
Enjoy a leisurely visit to Slender West Lake
Niushou Mountain, a site of profound Buddhist heritage
Niushou Mountain, a site of profound Buddhist heritage

The capital of Jiangsu Province, Nanjing is located on the lower reaches of the Yangtze River and offers a rich blend of history and nature. Take a shore excursion to Niushou Mountain (牛首山), a site of profound Buddhist heritage featuring unique architecture and beautiful natural surroundings.

In Yangzhou, enjoy a leisurely visit to Slender West Lake (瘦西湖), a stunning landscape garden known for its graceful scenery and poetic charm.

Shanghai - Where the Yangtze River Enters the Sea

Shanghai is where the Yangtze River enters the East Sea. Explore on your own or join guided tours offered by Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT).

Shanghai’s highlights include the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower and Shanghai Tower for spectacular city views, a stroll along The Bund, and cultural gems like Yu Garden.

How to Book a Chongqing Shanghai Cruise?

Through Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT)

For a hassle-free experience, book through Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT). We offer comprehensive packages, including cruise tickets booking, guided tours, customized itineraries in Chongqing and Shanghai, and additional services to enhance your Yangtze River cruise journey.

Check the detailed Yangtze River cruise booking steps >

Visit the Bund in Small Group with AOT
Visit the Bund in Small Group with AOT
Visit Hongya Cave in Chongqing with AOT
Visit Hongya Cave in Chongqing with AOT

Through Cruise Company - Century Cruises

You can book directly with Century Cruises, the official operator of the Chongqing-Shanghai cruise route. Visit their website (centurytrip.com/en/) for details on schedules, routes, cabins, and prices.

Join Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT) on a Chongqing Shanghai Cruise

A Chongqing Shanghai Cruise is more than a voyage - it's a deep dive into the landscapes, cultures and history of the Yangtze River.

With Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT), you gain access to expertly curated packages, seamless booking services, and personalized itineraries that cater to all your travel needs. From exploring the natural wonders of the Yangtze Three Gorges to visiting ancient cities and savoring diverse cuisines, this cruise offers wonderful experiences at every turn.

Let AOT guide you through this once-in-a-lifetime journey, combining world-class service with the breathtaking beauty of the Yangtze River. Book your adventure today and let the magic of the Century Legend Chongqing-Shanghai Cruise create memories that last forever!

If you have any questions about this article, please contact us by submitting the following form and we'll immediately get back to you.

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