Cruise Yangtze River | Difference Between Upstream & Downstream
By Leo
Yangtze River Cruise is not just about sailing — it’s about moving through history, nature, and culture all at once. Most travelers, myself included, sail the famous “golden section” between Chongqing in the west and Yichang near the mighty Three Gorges Dam.
One of the first choices you’ll face is whether to go upstream or downstream. I’ve tried both, and while the scenery remains spectacular in either direction, the pace, feel, and timing of your trip can change a lot depending on your choice. Let me walk you through the differences so you can decide which works best for your own Yangtze adventure.
Downstream of Yangtze River Cruise: Chongqing – Yichang
A Yangtze River downstream cruise means traveling with the current, from Chongqing to Yichang. The journey is usually 4 days and 3 nights, covering about 648 kilometers. Ships here can move at 28–30 km/h (18–19 mph), so you’re covering ground quickly while still enjoying the sights.
From my own experience, the biggest benefit is how efficiently you can see the highlights. You pass through the dramatic Qutang Gorge, the misty Wu Gorge, and the serene Xiling Gorge, often all in daylight because ships tend not to sail at night. This is a dream for photographers or anyone who doesn’t want to miss a single view.
The pace is brisk but comfortable. If you’re on a tight schedule — maybe combining this trip with visits to Beijing, Xi’an, or Shanghai — the downstream option fits neatly without feeling rushed. You get a full taste of the Yangtze without sacrificing time for other destinations.
Upstream of Yangtze River Cruise: Yichang – Chongqing
An upstream Yangtze River cruise goes against the current, from Yichang back to Chongqing. Because the ship moves slower — around 15–18 km/h (about 10 mph) — this route takes 5 days and 4 nights.
I’ve always found the upstream cruise to be more relaxed. That extra day on board makes a big difference. You have more time to enjoy the ship’s facilities, whether that’s sipping tea on the sundeck, joining a dumpling-making class, or listening to talks about the Three Gorges’ history. The slower pace also means the scenery unfolds gradually, and you feel more connected to the river itself.
One thing to note: some sailing happens at night so the ship can reach key excursion sites in daylight. Still, the overall tempo feels more leisurely, and for travelers who enjoy soaking in the journey rather than ticking off a list of sights, upstream is the better match.
Which Direction of Yangtze River Cruise Should You Choose?
The best direction for your Yangtze River cruise depends on your personal preferences and overall travel goals for China.
If you’re short on time – Go downstream. The shorter schedule still delivers all the iconic Yangtze highlights, and you can easily combine it with a broader China tour.
If you want to slow down – Choose upstream. The extra day lets you savor the experience, get to know fellow travelers, and join more onboard activities without feeling hurried.
If photography or cultural depth matters most – I lean toward upstream. The slower pace gives you more control over when and how you capture the scenery, and you can spend more time engaging with local guides during shore excursions.
Practical Tips for Your Yangtze River Cruise
Best time to cruise: Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) offer the most comfortable weather and clearer views.
Pack light but smart: Bring a light jacket, comfortable walking shoes, and a camera with a good zoom lens — you’ll want to capture both sweeping gorge views and small riverside details.
Arrive early in the departure city: Whether starting in Chongqing or Yichang, give yourself a day beforehand. This avoids stress from travel delays and lets you explore the city a bit.
Don’t skip the shore excursions: The Three Gorges Dam tour is fascinating, and smaller stops like Shibaozhai or Fengdu Ghost City give you glimpses into Chinese history and folklore.
Enjoy the onboard culture: Evening shows, calligraphy workshops, and cooking demos can be just as memorable as the scenery outside.
A Table for Making Your Yangtze Adventure Choice
| Aspect | Downstream Cruise Considerations | Upstream Cruise Considerations |
| Duration | 4 Days / 3 Nights | 5 Days / 4 Nights |
| Typical Pace | Faster, more efficient | Slower, more leisurely |
| Night Sailing | Rare; most sailing during daylight for optimal views | Possible for certain stretches to reach excursion sites by day |
| Best for | Time-conscious travelers, families with kids, those seeking efficiency | Slow travelers, photographers, culture enthusiasts, those seeking deeper immersion |
| Shore Excursions | Similar sites (Fengdu, Three Gorges Dam, Lesser Gorges), but with a tighter schedule | Similar sites, but potentially more relaxed pacing and longer visits |
| Cabin Views | Reserve a starboard balcony for best gorge views | Reserve a port-side balcony for best gorge views |