Take China Group Tours in 2025 to enjoy a 30% discount compared to a private tour. Same Experience & Lowest Price!
How to Plan Your Yangtze River Cruise Itinerary/Route
- First-time visitor: Go for the 4-day downstream cruise from Chongqing to Yichang - it covers all the Three Gorges must-sees
- Short stay: Try the 5-day upstream cruise from Yichang to Chongqing - it's more relaxed and lets you soak in the views
- Want the full experience: Book the 11-12 day journey from Chongqing to Nanjing/Shanghai - you'll see everything the mighty Yangtze has to offer!
Chongqing Shanghai Cruise: 11-12 Days Chongqing Shanghai Cruise
Yichang to Chongqing Cruise: 5 Days Yangtze River Cruise from Yichang
Chongqing to Yichang Cruise: 4 Days Yangtze River Cruise from Chongqing
No.1 4-Days Chongqing to Yangtze River Cruise Itinerary (Most Recommended)
The 4-day, 3-night cruise from Chongqing to Yichang is the classic Yangtze River itinerary and definitely one of the most recommended experiences. It combines important historical landmarks, natural wonders, and modern marvels, all while maintaining a comfortable pace that works for all ages. The downstream direction also ensures a smoother journey, making it a perfect choice for first-time cruisers.
Around 40 different ships offer this classic route, and while some may vary in the specific sights they include, most of them follow the same main itinerary. Here’s a look at the classic route you can expect:
Day 1: Setting Sail at Chongqing's Chaotianmen Dock
Day 2: Fengdu Exploration (Shuanggui Moutain, Xiaoguanshan Acient Folk Culture, Threee Kindom Show)
Day 3: Fengjie to Wu Gorge (White Emperor City, Shennv Stream, Shennv Sky Road)
Day 4: Dam Visit & Departure
Yichang to Chongqing Cruise: 5 Days Yangtze River Cruise from Yichang
Day 1 - Embarking on Your Adventure in Chongqing
Your journey begins at Chongqing's Chaotianmen Dock, where all major Yangtze River cruise ships depart in the evening. After settling into your cabin, you'll have time to explore the ship's facilities and enjoy a welcome dinner. As the city lights fade behind you, you're treated to the spectacular night view of Chongqing's skyline.
Day 2 - Cultural Immersion in Fengdu
Highlights:
- Fengdu Ghost City: A must-see blend of mythology, folklore, and Taoist-Buddhist beliefs, exploring the Chinese underworld with eerie temples and shrines.
- Shuanggui Mountain Park: A peaceful retreat near Fengdu, offering stunning river views and traditional gardens for a relaxing cultural experience.
- Xiaoguanshan Ancient Residences: A well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty complex, offering a fascinating glimpse into traditional Chinese life and architecture.
- The Fengyansanguo Show: A thrilling evening performance, bringing the Three Kingdoms era to life with 7 epic scenes from Guan Yu's legendary story.
The second day brings you to the mystical Fengdu, where you can explore the famous Ghost City, a unique complex showcasing Chinese mythology and folklore. Different cruise lines offer varied experiences - from visiting the ancient Xiaoguanshan residences to hiking Shuanggui Mountain. The day culminates with the optional but highly recommended Three Kingdoms Show, combining stunning acrobatics with historical drama.
Day 3 - Three Gorges Spectacular
Highlights:
- Qutang Gorge: Marvel at nature's dramatic sculpture of towering cliffs and rushing waters. Though just 8km long, it's nicknamed "the grand gorge" for its awe-inspiring narrowness.
- Wu Gorge: Home to the famous Twelve Peaks and mystical morning mists. The silhouette of Goddess Peak stands guard over this 45km stretch of serene beauty.
- White Emperor City: Ancient fortress-turned-cultural landmark offering spectacular gorge views. Famous for inspiring countless poems about its commanding position above the river.
- Shennv Stream: Drift through hidden valleys on traditional sampan boats. Watch for ancient hanging coffins and listen to local boatmen's folk songs echoing off canyon walls.
- Lesser Three Gorges: A pristine sanctuary of emerald waters and untouched cliffs. Spot rare wildlife and witness traditional river life in these secluded waterways.
- Shennv Sky Road: Soar above Wu Gorge in modern cable cars for breathtaking aerial views. Experience the majesty of the Three Gorges from an entirely new perspective.
This is the highlight of your Yangtze River cruise, featuring the breathtaking Qutang and Wu Gorges. Most ships stop at the historic White Emperor City and the picturesque Shennv Stream. Some cruises offer unique alternatives like the Shennv Sky Road or Lesser Three Gorges, each providing distinctive perspectives of the region's natural beauty. The dramatic limestone cliffs and emerald waters make this day particularly photogenic.
Day 4 - Three Gorges Dam
Highlights
- Three Gorges Dam: World's largest hydroelectric marvel. The 185 Platform offers the best views of this modern engineering wonder.
- Three Gorges Dam Ship Lift: A massive "elevator" lifting 3,000-ton ships. Watch vessels rise 113 meters in minutes - pure engineering magic!
- River Closure Memorial Park: Historic site commemorating the Yangtze's closure. Peaceful grounds with excellent dam views and informative exhibits.
- Three Gorges Dam Project Museum: Interactive displays and 3D models tell the dam's story. Perfect for understanding this mega-project's scale.
Your final morning is dedicated to exploring the Three Gorges Dam, one of humanity's most impressive engineering achievements. Whether you choose to visit the Dam Site, Project Museum, or take an optional Ship Lift tour, you'll gain fascinating insights into this massive project's impact on the region. The cruise concludes in Yichang, leaving you with unforgettable memories of China's mighty Yangtze.
No.2 5D/4N Yichang to Chongqing Yangtze River Cruise Itinerary (Upstreams)
Just like the cruise from Chongqing to Yichang, the upstream journey from Yichang to Chongqing is also very popular. You will begin your trip in Yichang. While it takes a bit longer than the downstream route, you'll get more time to soak in those incredible views and really experience the Yangtze's magic. Most major cruise lines run this route, each adding their own special touch while hitting all the must-see spots.
Chongqing to Yichang Cruise: 4 Days Yangtze River Cruise from Chongqing
| Day | Highlights |
|---|---|
| 1 | Check-in at Yichang Port, Board cruise ship, Welcome dinner, Evening departure |
| 2 | Three Gorges Dam Museum visit, Dam Construction Memorial Park, Qu Yuan Memorial Temple Three Gorges Dam tour, Three Gorges Tribe Village (Optional), Ship Lift experience (Optional) |
| 3 | Cruise through Wu Gorge, Shennv Stream or Shennong Stream excursion White Emperor City visit (Optional), Pass through Qutang Gorge |
| 4 | Fengdu Ghost City tour, Shuanggui Mountain visit |
| 5 | Arrive in Chongqing, Disembarkation, Journey ends |
Day 1: All Aboard in Yichang
Your Yangtze adventure kicks off in Yichang! After checking in at the port and settling into your cabin, take time to explore your floating home.
Day 2: Three Gorges Dam Discovery
- Highlights: Three Gorges Dam, Ship Lift Experience (Optional), Three Gorges Tribe Village (Optional) Three Gorges Dam Museum, Dam Construction Memorial Park, Qu Yuan Memorial Temple
- Three Gorges Tribe Village: An immersive peek into Tujia minority culture along the Yangtze. Watch colorful folk performances, explore traditional stilt houses, and sample local delicacies in this recreated village setting.
Today's all about the world's largest hydroelectric project! Start your travel at the Three Gorges Dam Museum, learning about this engineering marvel through interactive exhibits. Visit the Construction Memorial Park for amazing dam views, then explore the cultural side at Qu Yuan Memorial Temple. Tour the massive dam itself. For extra excitement, opt for the Ship Lift experience or visit the Three Gorges Tribe Village for local culture.
Day 3: Three Gorges Adventure
Highlights: Wu Gorge, Shennv Stream, Shennong Stream, White Emperor City, Qutang Gorge
Get ready for the most scenic day of your trip! Cruise through the mystical Wu Gorge, where peaks pierce the morning mist. Take a side trip down either Shennv or Shennong Stream in traditional sampan boats - both offer stunning views and glimpses of ancient hanging coffins. Visit the historic White Emperor City before passing through the magnificent Qutang Gorge, the shortest but most dramatic of the Three Gorges.
Day 4: Fengdu Exploration
Highlights: Fengdu Ghost City, Shuangui Mountain Parks
After a relaxing morning onboard, your afternoon is dedicated to exploring the fascinating Fengdu Ghost City. This unique attraction combines Chinese mythology and folklore in an eerily entertaining way. If you're up for more adventure, hike up Shuanggui Mountain for panoramic river views and peaceful gardens. The evening's free for relaxing on deck or joining ship activities.
Day 5: Mountain City Arrival
Your journey concludes in Chongqing, China's mountain city. After breakfast, bid farewell to your crew and fellow travelers. If time permits before your departure, consider exploring some of Chongqing's highlights or treating yourself to some famous local hot pot.
No.3 11-12 Days Chongqing Shanghai Yangtze River Cruise Itinerary (Panoramic Tour)
Want to experience the longest cruise on the Yangtze? This epic 11-12 day journey between Chongqing and Shanghai covers way more than your typical Three Gorges trip. You'll hit up 11 amazing Chinese cities, checking out everything from the stunning Three Gorges to ancient Buddhist mountains and traditional pottery workshops. Plus, you'll get to taste five different styles of Chinese food and explore seven unique cultural zones along the way. The Century Legend is the only cruise ship doing this full route.
Chongqing Shanghai Cruise: 11-12 Days Chongqing Shanghai Cruise
| Day | Destinations | Attractions |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chongqing | Embarkation at Chaotianmen Dock |
| 2 | Fengdu | Fengdu Ghost City, Three Kingdoms Show |
| 3 | Fengjie | White Emperor City / Three Gorges Summit, Pass through Qutang Gorge, Wu Gorge |
| 4 | Yichang | Three Gorges Dam Site, River Closure Memorial Park, Three Gorges Dam Project Museum, Pass through Gezhouba Dam |
| 5 | Jingzhou | King Chu's Horse, Chariot Array / Jingzhou Museum and Jingzhou Ancient City Wall |
| 6 | Wuhan | Yellow Crane Tower, Hubei Provincial Museum |
| 7 | Jingdezhen | Jingdezhen Ancient Kiln Folk Museum + Jingdezhen Ceramic City or Mount Lu |
| 8 | Chizhou | Mount Jiuhua and Baisui Palace / Jin Dizang Temple |
| 9 | Nanjing | Niushou Mountain |
| 10 | Yangzhou | Slender West Lake |
| 11 | Shanghai | Disembark at Shanghai International Cruise Terminal |
Day 1: Gateway to the Yangtze - Chongqing
Start your river adventure in mountain-ringed Chongqing. After exploring the city at your leisure, board your cruise ship at Chaotianmen Dock in the evening. Don't miss trying local hot pot before departure.
Day 2: Mystical Myths – Fengdu
Highlights: Fengdu Ghost City, Three Kingdoms Show
Venture into the legendary Fengdu Ghost City, where ancient Chinese mythology springs to life. End your day watching the spectacular Three Kingdoms performance, combining history with stunning special effects.
Day 3: Three Gorges Spectacular – Fengjie
Highlights: Wu Gorge, Shennv Stream, Emperor City, Qutang Gorge
Cruise through the majestic Qutang and Wu Gorges, marveling at towering cliffs and misty peaks. Visit the historic White Emperor City, perched dramatically above the river.
Day 4: Engineering Wonder – Yichang
Highlights: Three Gorges Dam Site: River Closure Memorial Park, Three Gorges Dam Project Museum, Pass through Gezhouba Dam
Explore the world's largest hydroelectric project at Three Gorges Dam. Tour the Project Museum and Memorial Park, witnessing this modern engineering marvel up close.
Day 5: Ancient City – Jingzhou
Highlights:
- King Chu's Horse and Chariot Array: A stunning archaeological site featuring ancient bronze chariots and horses from the Chu Kingdom. This incredible underground discovery shows off the sophistication of ancient Chinese military might.
- Jingzhou Museum: Home to fascinating artifacts including the famous 2,000-year-old preserved male corpse. The museum houses impressive collections of bronze, jade, and silk items from the Chu State era.
- Jingzhou Ancient City Wall: One of China's best-preserved ancient city walls, stretching over 11km. Take a leisurely walk atop these Ming Dynasty fortifications for great views and a glimpse into historical military architecture.
Discover Jingzhou's rich history through its well-preserved city walls and fascinating museum. Optional visits include the impressive King Chu's Horse and Chariot Array exhibition.
Day 6: Poetic Heritage – Wuhan
Highlights:
- Yellow Crane Tower: A legendary pavilion overlooking the Yangtze River, famous in Chinese poetry. This modern reconstruction offers spectacular city views and cultural performances.
- Hubei Provincial Museum: Known for its stunning bronze bells and ancient musical instruments. Highlights include the tomb treasures from Marquis Yi and regular classical music performances.
Visit the iconic Yellow Crane Tower, immortalized in classical Chinese poetry. Explore the Hubei Provincial Museum's impressive collection of ancient artifacts and instruments.
Day 7: Porcelain Capital – Jingdezhen
- Jingdezhen Ancient Kiln Folk Museum: Watch master potters at work and explore thousand-year-old ceramic making techniques in action.
- Jingdezhen Ceramic City: China's largest pottery market - shop everything from daily-use ceramics to high-end art pieces.
- Mount Lu: Stunning mountain views, historic villas, and waterfalls. A UNESCO site famous for cloud-shrouded peaks.
- Yellow Crane Tower: Ancient poetry comes alive in this iconic tower overlooking the mighty Yangtze.
- Hubei Provincial Museum: Home to ancient bronze bells and incredible artifacts from China's State of Chu.
Immerse yourself in China's ceramic heritage at the Ancient Kiln Folk Museum. Browse the vast selection at Ceramic City or opt for a scenic trip to Mount Lu.
Day 8: Sacred Mountain – Chizhou
Highlights:
- Mount Jiuhua: One of China's four sacred Buddhist mountains, known for misty peaks and ancient temples.
- Baisui Palace: Historic temple complex famous for its golden halls and stunning mountain backdrop.
- Jin Dizang Temple: Ancient Buddhist sanctuary with elaborate architecture and peaceful meditation halls.
Experience Buddhist culture at Mount Jiuhua's temples and shrines. Visit the historic Baisui Palace and Jin Dizang Temple, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery.
Day 9: Mountain Serenity – Nanjing
- Niushou Mountain: Modern Buddhist cultural park featuring a massive underground palace and stunning hilltop views of Nanjing.
Explore the peaceful Niushou Mountain, where natural beauty meets Buddhist architecture. Enjoy panoramic views and tranquil moments in this spiritual setting.
Day 10: Garden Paradise – Yangzhou
- Slender West Lake: This winding lake park showcases classical Chinese garden design at its finest. Known for the White Pagoda, Five-Pavilion Bridge, and traditional boats gliding under ancient willows. Perfect for peaceful afternoon strolls.
Stroll through the elegant Slender West Lake, admiring classical Chinese gardens, bridges, and pavilions in this perfectly designed landscape.
Day 11: Modern Metropolis - Shanghai
Your journey concludes at Shanghai's International Cruise Terminal. Bid farewell to your floating home and consider extending your stay in this vibrant metropolis.
No.4 10-11 Days Chongqing Nanjing Yangtze River Cruise Itinerary (Highlights Tour)
If you're looking for an alternative to the popular Chongqing to Shanghai route, the 10-11 day Yangtze River cruise from Chongqing to Nanjing is a fantastic option. This itinerary, operated by the Yangtze No.2, offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty, cultural landmarks, and historical sites, all while showcasing the rich diversity of the Yangtze River region. It’s an exciting, immersive journey you won’t want to miss!
| Day | Destinations & Highlights |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Chongqing Embarkation, Evening Departure |
| Day 2 | 816 Nuclear Military Plant, Fuling Pickle Museum |
| Day 3 | White Emperor City, Qutang Gorge, Wu Gorge & Goddess Peak Shennü Stream |
| Day 4 | Shennongjia Nature Reserve: Shennong Altar, Three Natural Bridges, Three Gorges Dam Ship Locks |
| Day 5 | Three Gorges Dam, East Xiling Gorge, Gezhouba Dam |
| Day 6 | Choice of: King Chu's Horse and Chariot Array, Jingzhou Museum & Ancient City Wall |
| Day 7 | Yellow Crane Tower, Hubei Provincial Museum |
| Day 8 | Mount Lu Scenic Area OR Jingdezhen Imperial Porcelain Museum |
| Day 9 | Yellow Mountain OR Mount Jiuhua |
| Day 10 | Nanjing Arrival |
Day 1: Embark at Chongqing
Board the cruise ship at Chaotianmen Port in Chongqing from 6:00 PM. Enjoy a complimentary welcome dinner while settling into your cabin. The ship departs at 9:00 PM, beginning your Yangtze adventure.
Day 2: Fuling Port
Dock at Fuling to explore the fascinating 816 Nuclear Military Plant, a former secret nuclear facility. Visit the Fuling Pickle Museum to learn about the region's famous preserved vegetable culture.
Day 3: Three Gorges Scenic Day
Visit White Emperor City in Fengjie, then cruise through Qutang Gorge and Wu Gorge. Pass by the famous Goddess Peak and explore the mystical Shennü Stream, known for its pristine beauty.
Day 4: Shennongjia Forest
Full-day excursion to Shennongjia Nature Reserve, featuring Shennong Altar and Three Natural Bridges. Evening passage through the Five-Stage Ship Locks of Three Gorges Dam, anchoring at Huangling Temple Port.
Day 5: Three Gorges Dam
Morning visit to the Three Gorges Dam, the world's largest hydroelectric project. Afternoon cruise through the eastern section of Xiling Gorge and passage through Gezhouba Dam ship lock.
Day 6: Jingzhou Heritage
Choose between King Chu's Horse and Chariot Array archaeological site or Jingzhou Museum and Ancient City Wall, exploring the region's rich Three Kingdoms period history.
Day 7: Wuhan Highlights
Stop at Wuhan to visit the iconic Yellow Crane Tower and Hubei Provincial Museum, showcasing the city's cultural heritage and historical artifacts.
Day 8: Jiujiang Options
Choose between Mount Lu scenic area with its dramatic landscapes or Jingdezhen's Imperial Porcelain Museum, exploring China's porcelain-making heritage.
Day 9: Mountain Excursion
Optional tours to either the majestic Yellow Mountain or Mount Jiuhua, both offering stunning natural scenery and cultural significance.
Day 10: Nanjing Arrival
Disembark at Nanjing's Wumadu Port, concluding your journey through China's historical and natural wonders along the Yangtze River.
Which Yangtze River Cruise Ships to Choose
Looking to pick the perfect Yangtze cruise ship? For longer journeys between Chongqing-Shanghai or Chongqing-Nanjing, your choices are simple: Century Legend or Yangtze 2. But for the popular Chongqing-Yichang route, you've got over 40 ships to choose from! Here's a quick guide to help you decide:
- Best Value: Victoria Sabrina and Century Oasis lead the pack, with Yangtze 1, Century Paragon, and Yangtze Gold 7/8 offering great bang for your buck
- Luxury Experience: Treat yourself on the Yangzi Explorer, Century Voyage, Victoria Sabrina, or Yangtze 3
- Budget-Friendly: Check out Victoria Katarina, Century Paragon, or Yangtze 1
- Newest Fleet: Sail on the fresh Yangzi Explorer, Century Voyage, Century Oasis, or Yangtze 3
- Largest Ships: Go big with Victoria Sabrina, Yangtze 3, or Century Voyage
- Family-Friendly: Keep everyone happy on Yangtze 3, Yangzi Explorer, Century Glory/Victory/Oasis, Victoria Sabrina, or Yangtze Miracle
Top 7 Family-friendly Yangtze River Cruises (2025/2026)
Best Yangtze River Cruises: 5 Best-Value Cruise Ships (2025)
Top 4 Most Luxury Yangtze River Cruises (2025 Price)
Top 6 Largest Cruise Ships on Yangtze River (2025 Price)
Top 6 Cheap Yangtze River Cruise Ships 2025/2026
Top 5 New Yangtze River Cruise Ships (2025/2026)
Extend Your Yangtze River Itinerary with Top China Destinations
Make the most of your China trip by combining your Yangtze cruise with these amazing destinations! While most travelers choose the classic 4-5 day cruise between Chongqing and Yichang, why not extend your adventure? Here's your perfect 6-15 day add-on guide:
Chengdu (2-3 days)
Start your day watching adorable giant pandas at the Research Base, then dive into the city's famous food scene at Jin Li Ancient Street. Don't miss the spicy hotpot, visit the serene Wenshu Monastery, and join locals in People's Park for traditional tea and ear cleaning! End your days exploring the vibrant Taikoo Li district.
Chongqing (2 days)
Begin at the Three Gorges Museum to understand the region's history, then head to Ciqikou Ancient Town for traditional architecture and street snacks. Experience the magical nighttime views from Hongya Cave, a stunning stilt house complex. Don't forget to try the famous hot pot and visit Arhat Temple for some peaceful moments.
Guilin (3 days)
Take the breathtaking Li River cruise through limestone karsts to Yangshuo, where you can bike through peaceful countryside and bamboo groves. Explore the Reed Flute Cave's illuminated rock formations, climb Elephant Trunk Hill for sunset views, and wander through the bustling night markets for local delicacies.
Zhangjiajie (3 days)
Get ready for jaw-dropping views in the National Forest Park, home to the towering peaks that inspired Avatar's floating mountains. Take the world's tallest outdoor elevator, brave the Grand Canyon Glass Bridge, and explore Tianmen Mountain's cliff-hanging walkways. End your days in the charming Wulingyuan old town.
Beijing (3-4 days)
Start with the magnificent Great Wall at Mutianyu, then dive into history at the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square. Explore traditional hutongs by rickshaw, feast on authentic Peking duck, and find peace at the Temple of Heaven. Don't miss the Summer Palace's stunning gardens and the modern 798 Art District.
Xi'an (2-3 days)
Marvel at the incredible Terracotta Warriors, then bike or walk the massive ancient city wall for great city views. Explore the vibrant Muslim Quarter's food stalls and Great Mosque, climb Wild Goose Pagoda, and experience the spectacular Tang Dynasty dinner show. End with a morning visit to Mount Huashan.
Shanghai (2-3 days)
Begin at the historic Bund for classic Shanghai views, then lose yourself in Yu Garden's traditional pavilions and rock gardens. Experience the future in Pudong's skyscrapers, shop till you drop on Nanjing Road, and explore the artsy former French Concession. Don't miss an evening river cruise for the city's dazzling lights.
How to Plan a Yangtze River Cruise: 10 Steps (2025)
Yangtze River Cruise Itinerary: 4-12 Days Yangtze River Cruise Routes
Cruise Yangtze River with Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT)
Set sail on an unforgettable adventure along China's legendary Yangtze River with Asia Odyssey Travel. From the stunning Three Gorges to ancient riverside towns, our cruises let you discover China's heartland in style and comfort. Whether you're into amazing views, local culture, or just want to relax on deck, AOT's expert team will help plan your perfect river journey. With years of experience showing travelers the best of Asia, we know all the secret spots and must-see sights along this mighty waterway. Contact us Now!
Asia Odyssey Travel Benefits for Your Journey:
Tour Packages: Yangtze River Tours, Beijing Yangtze Tours, Shanghai Yangtze Tours, China Cruise Tours
Our Yangtze Cruise Partners & Ships: Century Cruises, Victoria Cruises, Changjiang Cruises, Yangtze Gold Cruises, 20+Yangtze River Cruise Ships
How to Chosse a Ship: Family-friendly, Luxury, Largest, Best-value, New, Cheap
Cruise Lines: Yichang to Chongqing, Chongqing to Yichang, Chongqing to Shanghai, Upsteam or Downstream
Attractions: Yangtze River Attractions, Three Gorges, Three Gorges Dam
Travel Guide: Yangtze River Facts, How to Plan, Itinerary, Cost, How to Book, Best Time to Visit, Reviews
Transportation: Cruise Ports, Chaotianmen Dock, Chongqing Airport, Chongqing Train Stations, Yichang Airport, Yichang East Station
Data in submission...
