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Downstream Yangtze River Cruise from Chongqing
What Is a Downstream Yangtze River Cruise?
A downstream cruise begins in West China, typically Chongqing, and sails to East China, ending in destinations like Yichang or even Shanghai. The term "downstream" refers to sailing with the natural flow of the river.
Chongqing to Yichang Cruise: 4 Days Yangtze River Cruise from Chongqing
Chongqing Shanghai Cruise: 11-12 Days Chongqing Shanghai Cruise
4 Days Chongqing to Yichang Cruise Is the Most Popular Downstream Route
The classic 4-day downstream Yangtze River cruise from Chongqing to Yichang is the most sought-after route.
It offers breathtaking views of the iconic Three Gorges and Shennv Stream (神女溪), a tour of the monumental Three Gorges Dam, and visits to cultural sites like Fengdu Ghost City (丰都鬼城), White Emperor City (白帝城), and the Xiaoguanshan ancient architecture clusters.
You can also enjoy traditional performances like the dramatic Three Kingdoms Show (烽烟三国).
Only Yangtze 1 Offers a 5-Day Chongqing to Yichang Cruise Route
If you have more time, the Yangtze 1 is the only cruise ship offering a 5-day downstream journey. This route ensures ample time to explore all three iconic gorges—Qutang Gorge, Wu Gorge, and Xiling Gorge—in greater detail.
Upstream Yangtze River Cruise from Yichang
What Is Upstream Yangtze River Cruise?
An upstream cruise sails against the river’s current, starting from East China (such as Yichang, Wuhan, Nanjing, or Shanghai) and heading to West China, with Chongqing being the most common endpoint.
Yichang to Chongqing Cruise: 5 Days Yangtze River Cruise from Yichang
Chongqing Shanghai Cruise: 11-12 Days Chongqing Shanghai Cruise
5 Days Yichang to Chongqing Cruise Is the Most Common Upstream Route
Typically lasting 5 days, the upstream route offers a more leisurely pace than its downstream counterpart. It includes the same iconic attractions but often allows for one additional shore excursion, making it an excellent choice for travelers with more time to spare.
Yangtze River Cruise Upstream or Downstream: What’s the Difference?
Choosing between an upstream and downstream Yangtze River cruise involves understanding their distinct characteristics. Here are the main differences:
1. Upstream Cruises Take Longer than Downstream Cruises
Upstream cruises typically last 5 days as they sail against the river’s current at an average speed of 15-18 km/h.
This slower pace allows for more leisurely travel but requires an extra day compared to downstream cruises, which last 4 days and benefit from the river's natural flow, traveling at speeds of 28-30 km/h.
Travelers with limited time often prefer the shorter downstream itinerary.
2. Upstream Cruises Often Have One More Shore Excursion than Downstream Cruises
The shore excursions included in both routes are largely similar, covering highlights like the Three Gorges, Three Gorges Dam, and cultural attractions such as Fengdu Ghost City and White Emperor City.
However, upstream cruises usually include one additional shore excursion, for example, the Three Gorges Tribe show, due to the longer duration.
The visit schedules may vary slightly as well. For example, the Three Gorges Dam Site is often visited in the afternoon on upstream cruises, while downstream cruises typically schedule it in the morning.
Tips: You can check the sample classic itinerary in the table below to find out the difference between the upstream and downstream shore excursions on Yangtze River cruises:
| Day | Downstream Itinerary | Upstream Itinerary |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Board the ship at Chongqing Chaotianmen Dock | Board the ship at Yichang Maoping Port |
| 2 | Shore excursion to Fengdu Ghost City; Optional War of the Three Kingdoms show | Optional Three Gorges Tribe show; Shore excursion to the Three Gorges Dam Project Site; Optional Three Gorges Dam Ship Lift |
| 3 | Shore excursion to White Emperor City and Shennv Stream; Cruise through the Qutang Gorge and Wu Gorge | Shore excursion to Shennv Stream and White Emperor City; Cruise through the Qutang Gorge and Wu Gorge |
| 4 | Disembark at Yichang Maoping Port; Shore excursion to the Three Gorges Dam Project Site; Optional Three Gorges Dam Ship Lift | Shore excursion to Fengdu Ghost City; Optional War of the Three Kingdoms show |
| 5 | / | Disembark at Chongqing Chaotianmen Dock |
3. Upstream Cruises Sail at Night, While the Downstream Ships Don’t
Upstream cruises often sail at night to maximize daylight hours for shore excursions and sightseeing. This schedule is designed to overcome the slower travel speed caused by sailing against the current.
Conversely, downstream cruises do not travel at night, offering passengers a chance to enjoy tranquil evenings docked at picturesque locations.
4. Scenic Perspectives Vary between Upstream and Downstream Cruises
On an upstream cruise, the gradual narrowing of the Yangtze River from the wide expanses of East China into the dramatic Qutang Gorge provides a sense of adventure and discovery.
Meanwhile, downstream cruises offer a different kind of spectacle as the river gradually opens into broader vistas, creating a visually rewarding experience of expansion and openness.
5. Prices Are Pretty Much the Same for Cruises Upstream and Downstream
Upstream cruises, traveling against the current from Yichang to Chongqing, typically take one day longer than downstream trips from Chongqing to Yichang.
Despite the extra day and slower pace of upstream cruises, the ticket prices for both directions are similar, making the choice primarily dependent on your schedule and travel preferences rather than budget constraints.
Yangtze River Cruise Upstream or Downstream: How to Choose?
Selecting the best Yangtze River cruise route for your journey depends on several factors, including your available time, transportation options, and travel preferences. Here’s how to make your decision:
Travel Time
Your available travel time plays a significant role in determining your choice.
If you only have 4 days, a downstream Yangtze River cruise from Chongqing to Yichang is ideal for its shorter duration and faster pace.
However, if you can spare 5 days, consider an upstream cruise from Yichang to Chongqing for a more relaxed itinerary with potentially additional shore excursions and a deeper exploration of the region.
Tips: If you have a week or more, both upstream and downstream cruises can be paired with additional days to explore Chongqing, known as China’s magical “4D mountain city.” Consider planning 1-3 days before or after your cruise for a well-rounded trip!
Transportation Convenience
Both Chongqing and Yichang are well-connected by international airports and high-speed train stations.
Chongqing boasts major transport hubs like Jiangbei International Airport and Chongqing West Station, while Yichang is served by Sanxia International Airport and Yichang East Railway Station.
If reaching Chongqing is more convenient for your departure point, a downstream cruise might be the better option. Alternatively, if Yichang is more accessible, consider starting with an upstream journey.
Chongqing Airport to Chaotianmen Dock | 4 Options from Chongqing Jiangbei to Chaotianmen
Chongqing Train Stations to Chaotianmen Dock | Car, Metro or Taxi to Chaotianmen Dock
How to Travel Between Yichang Airport and Yichang Port
How to Get to Yichang Port from Yichang East Station (2025)
Scenic Preferences
If you wish to enjoy the dramatic transition from the wide lower river to the narrow gorges, an upstream cruise offers a sense of gradual exploration.
On the other hand, a downstream cruise provides a stunning visual spectacle as the river gradually opens up, offering breathtaking panoramas of Central China or East China.
Cruise the Yangtze River with Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT)
Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT) specializes in crafting Yangtze River cruise tours. Whether you’re considering an upstream or downstream Yangtze River cruise, our professional team is here to make your journey seamless. We offer:
- Personalized Ship Selection: Choose from top-rated cruise lines like Century Cruises, Victoria Cruises, or Changjiang Cruises.
- Private Transfers: Enjoy hassle-free transfers from airports or train stations to the cruise dock in Chongqing or Yichang.
- Tailored Itineraries: Combine your cruise with tours of nearby attractions, for example, Chongqing’s vibrant cityscape and natural beauty.
- Dedicated Support: Our expert travel consultants provide 24/7 assistance, ensuring a worry-free travel experience.
Take a Yangtze River cruise with Asia Odyssey Travel and let us guide you through the best of China’s scenic and cultural treasures. Whether you prefer the adventure of an upstream journey or the efficiency of a downstream route, we’ll make your trip wonderful!
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