Yangtze River Cruise Tour Ideas

Yangtze River Cruise Tour Ideas

Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or planning your very first river journey, a Yangtze River Cruise offers an unforgettable experience through China’s heartland. Our curated itinerary ideas are a great starting point—each crafted by our travel specialists to highlight the diverse scenery, cultural sites, and unique onboard offerings along the Yangtze.

Every itinerary can be tailored to suit your interests, travel style, and budget. Our experts will handle all the logistics, from selecting the right cruise ship to arranging guided land excursions before or after your voyage.

We regularly sail the Yangtze ourselves, testing new vessels and refining routes, so we can help you choose the perfect cruise for your journey through China.

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4 trip ideas

Summary  |  Detail
  • Yangtze River Cruise

    Chongqing's Urban Charm & Yangtze Wonders

    Chongqing – Yangtze River Cruise
    • Snap photos at Liziba Station, witnessing trains astonishingly passing directly through a building, a unique architectural and engineering marvel.

    • Explore Hongya Cave’s stilted buildings, enjoy scenic riverside views, browse vibrant shops, and soak in the lively cultural atmosphere.

    • Climb Shibaozhai Pagoda’s 12 wooden stories, marvel at its ancient halls, intricate architecture, and panoramic views of the surrounding river.

    • Cruise through the majestic Qutang, Wu, and Xiling Gorges, admiring dramatic cliffs, lush landscapes, and breathtaking river scenery.

    • Visit the world’s largest hydroelectric project, the Three Gorges Dam, exploring its massive structure and learning about its engineering significance.

    4 days

  • Yangtze River Cruise

    China Tour from Beijing: Xian Guilin Yangtze Cruise Shanghai

    beijing – Xian – Guilin – Yangtze River Cruise – Shanghai
    • Visit Beijing’s Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and the imperial gardens of the Summer Palace.

    • Hike the scenic Mutianyu Great Wall with stunning mountain views and fewer tourist crowds.

    • Explore Xian’s Terracotta Army, an awe-inspiring underground army of ancient life-sized warriors.

    • Bike or walk on Xian’s Ancient City Wall and enjoy panoramic city views.

    • Cruise the Li River from Guilin to Yangshuo through dreamy karst mountain landscapes.

    • Discover Yangshuo’s countryside by bike or scooter, passing rice fields and riverside villages.

    • Tour Guilin’s iconic Elephant Trunk Hill and the colorful Reed Flute Cave.

    • Sail through the majestic Three Gorges on a relaxing Yangtze River cruise.

    • Take in panoramic views from Shanghai Tower and stroll along the famous Bund.

    13 days

  • Upstream Yangtze River Cruise

    Upstream Yangtze River Cruise from Yichang to Chongqing

    Chongqing
    • Visit the world-famous Three Gorges Dam, the largest hydropower project on earth.

    • Exploration of the Tribe of the Three Gorges cultural scenic area.

    • Admire Qutang Gorge, the shortest yet most breathtaking of the Three Gorges.

    • Take a boat ride along Shennv Stream or Shennong Stream’s lush valleys.

    • Discover Shibaozhai Pagoda, a 12-story wooden marvel on a steep cliff.

    • Explore Fengdu Ghost City with temples reflecting China’s ancient afterlife beliefs.

    5 days

  • Yangtze River Cruise

    Cities of Legend & the Yangtze: Beijing to Xian Chengdu Shanghai

    Beijing – Xian – Chengdu – Chongqing – Yangtze River Cruise – Shanghai
    • Explore Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and Temple of Heaven with expert insights, learning about China’s rich imperial history and culture.

    • Stroll through the lakes, gardens, and ornate pavilions of the Summer Palace, soaking in beautiful scenery and historic architecture.

    • Discover the awe-inspiring Terracotta Warriors, exploring Emperor Qin’s life-sized army and learning about their historical significance and craftsmanship.

    • Visit the Panda Breeding Center during morning feeding time, watching playful pandas interact, eat, and enjoy their naturalistic environment.

    • Enjoy a captivating Sichuan opera performance, highlighted by the mesmerizing art of rapid face-changing and colorful theatrical costumes.

    • Walk along the viewing decks of the Three Gorges Dam, admiring its massive engineering, river views, and surrounding landscapes.

    • Take a traditional wooden boat ride through ancient Zhujiajiao Water Town, exploring canals, historic bridges, and charming riverside streets.

    14 days

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