China River Cruises
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10 best river cruises through China
Compiled by
NadineChina travel expert at TourRadar
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Yangtze River Cruise from Yichang to Chongqing Upstream in 5 Days 4 Nights
2 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The shore excursions were great, the local tour guides were excellent, great English and very knowledgable.”
Claire, traveled in July
The upstream journey from Yichang to Chongqing showcases China's most spectacular gorges. Marvel at the Three Gorges Dam's engineering, choose between Lesser Three Gorges or Shennong Stream, and visit the sacred Jade Emperor Sanctuary. Regional cuisine and cultural performances highlight the Captain's Welcome Party.
Duration 5 days Destinations Yichang, Three Gorges, Chongqing Age Range up to 80 year olds Operator Silk Road Trips From
- US$599
Duration 11 days Destinations Beijing, Xi'an, Chongqing, Three Gorges, Qutang Gorge, Shanghai Age Range 1 to 85 year olds Operator UME Travel Co. Ltd From
- US$3,146
Victoria Cruises' route from Chongqing winds through the spectacular Three Gorges. The itinerary features Fengdu Ghost City and Goddess Stream, complemented by onboard entertainment, before concluding at Three Gorges Dam and continuing to Shanghai via high-speed rail.
Duration 7 days Destinations Shanghai, Chengdu, Yangtze Age Range 1 to 85 year olds Operator UME Travel Co. Ltd From
- US$2,165
The Yangtze River cruise through China's dramatic Three Gorges aboard Victoria vessels reveals stunning river views. Shore excursions lead to Shibaozhai temple and Fengdu Ghost City, while comfortable onboard amenities enhance the journey.
Duration 15 days Destinations Beijing, Xi'an, Chengdu, Chongqing, Yangtze, Shanghai Age Range up to 99 year olds Operator Trafalgar From
- US$6,526+$760 upfront costs
Victoria Cruises' passage through the Three Gorges showcases the magnificent Three Gorges Dam. The route through Qutang and Wu Gorges includes shore excursions to Goddess Stream and Fengdu Ghost City, while traditional performances celebrate local culture aboard.
Duration 11 days Destinations Beijing, Xi'an, Chongqing, Three Gorges, Shanghai Age Range 1 to 85 year olds Operator UME Travel Co. Ltd From
- US$3,450
China's most scenic river journey flows from Yichang's Maoping Wharf to Chongqing's Chaotianmen Dock. This 5-star cruise features the Three Gorges Dam, dramatic Wu and Qutang Gorges, and the mysterious Fengdu Ghost City. A balcony cabin, 10 meals, and morning Taiji sessions complete the 4-night adventure.
Duration 5 days Destinations Yichang, Three Gorges, Chongqing Age Range up to 80 year olds Operator Silk Road Trips From
- US$799
The upstream voyage from Yichang through the Three Gorges aboard Victoria Cruises reveals the impressive Three Gorges Dam and serene Goddess Stream. Local culture comes alive at Fengdu's Snow Jade Cave, while nightly cabaret shows and farewell dinners entertain guests.
Duration 15 days Destinations Beijing, Xi'an, Yichang, Three Gorges, Qutang Gorge, Chongqing, Guilin, Yangshuo, Shanghai Age Range 1 to 85 year olds Operator UME Travel Co. Ltd From
- US$4,820
Victoria Cruises' route through the Three Gorges showcases Goddess Stream and Fengdu Ghost City. The Li River's karst landscapes unfold from Guilin to Yangshuo, while Three Gorges Dam's engineering marvel precedes the final stop in Shanghai.
Duration 14 days Destinations Beijing, Xi'an, Chongqing, Guilin, Yangshuo, Three Gorges, Qutang Gorge, Yichang, Shanghai Age Range 1 to 85 year olds Operator UME Travel Co. Ltd From
- US$4,885
The Yangtze River voyage from Chongqing through Three Gorges highlights Fengdu's Ghost City and Goddess Stream excursions. White Emperor City and Three Gorges Dam round out this waterway adventure.
Duration 14 days Destinations Beijing, Xi'an, Guilin, Yangshuo, Chongqing, Yangtze, Shanghai Age Range 1 to 85 year olds Operator UME Travel Co. Ltd From
- US$4,952
Duration 15 days Destinations Beijing, Xi'an, Yichang, Three Gorges, Chongqing, Guilin, Yangshuo, Shanghai Age Range 1 to 85 year olds Operator UME Travel Co. Ltd From
- US$4,085
What our customers ask about China River Cruises
When is the best time to take a Yangtze River cruise in China?
Plan your Yangtze River cruise during spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October) to experience moderate temperatures and manageable rainfall. These seasons are ideal for outdoor activities on deck and shore excursions. The spring months bring flowering landscapes along the riverbanks while autumn offers clear visibility. Summer cruises (June-August) face temperatures up to 35°C (95°F) and high humidity. Winter journeys (November-March) see cooler weather around 10°C (50°F). A TourRadar traveler notes "We traveled in October and the weather was perfect - clear skies and comfortable temperatures made the deck activities and shore excursions very enjoyable."
What is the typical duration of a Yangtze River cruise in China?
The core cruise experience runs 3-5 days though extended packages lasting 11-15 days include visits to Beijing Xi'an and Shanghai. Downstream routes from Chongqing to Yichang take 3-4 days while upstream journeys require 4-5 days. The Three Gorges passage a central highlight needs 1-2 days to traverse. One TourRadar traveler shared "Our 4-day downstream cruise from Chongqing was the perfect length to see all the major highlights while maintaining a relaxed pace."
What are the most scenic sections of the Yangtze River cruise in China?
The Three Gorges stand out as the river's most remarkable stretches. These include Qutang Gorge Wu Gorge and Xiling Gorge each offering distinct views. Qutang presents narrow passages between towering cliffs while Wu Gorge reveals quiet mountain landscapes wrapped in forest. Xiling Gorge combines unique rock formations with views of the Three Gorges Dam. A TourRadar traveler noted "The Three Gorges scenery was absolutely magnificent especially sailing through the dramatic Qutang Gorge at sunrise."
What shore excursions are typically included in China river cruises?
Standard packages include visits to the Three Gorges Dam explorations of Goddess Stream or Shennong Stream and tours of the Shibaozhai Pagoda or Fengdu Ghost City. Cultural programs often feature local village visits and temple tours. Additional options include White Emperor City and Ship Lift experiences. A TourRadar traveler notes "The shore excursions were well-organized and provided fascinating insights into local culture and history especially the Goddess Stream tour with its stunning scenery."
How do embarkation and disembarkation work for China river cruises?
Boarding starts late afternoon between 4-6 PM at main ports such as Chongqing's Chaotianmen Wharf or Yichang's Maoping Wharf. Cruise operators send dock details 24 hours before departure. Morning departure times run from 8:30-9:30 AM. Airport transfers can be arranged through cruise services. A TourRadar traveler shared "The embarkation process at Chongqing was very organized - staff helped with luggage and check-in was efficient. Just make sure to arrive at the specified dock as locations can change based on river conditions."