A complete Yangtze cruise to Chongqing
The journey “Along the Yangtze, from Yichang to the Mountain City” offers a week‑long exploration of the major landmarks along the Three Gorges and the impressive metropolis of Chongqing. The trip starts in Yichang, traditional gateway to the region, where you’ll enjoy an immersive show dedicated to the legends of the Three Gorges before embarking in Maoping on your cruise ship.
As the voyage unfolds, you’ll visit the monumental Three Gorges Dam and sail upriver through the Xiling, Wu, and Qutang Gorges — among China’s most renowned river landscapes. Included shore excursions take you to the scenic Lesser Three Gorges and the Ghost City of Fengdu, while optional tours such as the ship elevator, Wuyuan Cave, or Wuling Canyon allow you to tailor the experience to your interests.
The cruise ends in Chongqing, nicknamed the “Mountain City” for its dramatic topography, steep hills, and breathtaking bridges spanning the Yangtze and Jialing rivers. You’ll spend two full days exploring — from panoramic viewpoints and historic districts like Ciqikou to the Three Gorges Museum, sampling the city’s famous hot pot, and admiring the dizzying perspectives that define this unique urban landscape. Altogether, it’s a well‑balanced itinerary ideal for travelers seeking a structured yet relaxed discovery of the Yangtze — accessible to all levels of fitness.
Daily program: Yangtze Cruise – Three Gorges & the Mountain City of Chongqing
Day 1: Arrrive in Yichang
Upon arriving in Yichang, the ‘Capital of Hydropower,’ Transfer to your comfortable downtown hotel and settle in. After check-in, enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. You may choose to stroll along the Yangtze River promenade or try some local snacks in the city center. Relax and prepare for tomorrow’s journey into the heart of the Three Gorges. Dinner on your own. Overnight at Ji Hotel (Yichang East Railway Station)
Day 2: Three Gorges Show & Embarkation (BD)
Begin your day with a visit to the “Sanxia Qian Gu Qing” immersive theatre performance. Through stunning stage effects, dynamic choreography, the show brings to life the 8,000-year history and legends of the Three Gorges region. After lunch, transfer to Maoping Port to board the “Chonglun · Yangtze Cloud Sail”, your elegant floating home for the next four nights. Settle into your comfortable cabin, attend the welcome briefing, and enjoy your first dinner on board as the ship sets sail into the evening. Lunch on your own
Day 3: Three Gorges Dam & Badong (BLD)
This morning, visit the monumental Three Gorges Dam, one of the largest hydroelectric projects in the world. Stand on the observation platform to take in the views of the dam and the vast reservoir it created. An optional Ship Lift Experience allows you to ride through the dam’s unique boat elevator. Return to the ship for lunch. In the evening, the ship docks at Badong, where you may choose to join an optional night tour of the illuminated Wuyuan Cave, a serene limestone grotto with flowing underground streams.
Day 4: Wu Gorge & Qutang Gorge (BLD)
Wake up early to witness the ship entering the poetic Wu Gorge, famed for its deep, winding channel and mist-shrouded peaks. After breakfast, transfer to a smaller sightseeing vessel to explore the pristine Lesser Three Gorges. Glide along emerald waters flanked by steep cliffs, watch for monkeys in the trees, and see ancient hanging coffins and plank roads carved into the rock. Return to the ship for lunch. In the afternoon, sail into the dramatic Qutang Gorge, the shortest but most imposing of the Three Gorges. An optional shore excursion visits White Emperor City; a historic temple complex linked to the Three Kingdoms period. In the evening, enjoy the Captain’s Welcome Cocktail and a special dinner on board.
Day 5: Fengdu Ghost City & Wuling Canyon (BLD)
Today’s shore excursion takes you to Fengdu Ghost City, a hillside complex of temples and shrines that illustrates traditional Chinese beliefs about the afterlife. It’s not scary—rather, it’s a fascinating cultural site blending Taoist, Buddhist, and Confucian folklore. In the afternoon, you can choose a trip to the Wuling Mountain Grand Canyon, where suspended walkways offer thrilling views over deep gorges and cascading waterfalls. Return to the ship for farewell banquet and evening entertainment.
Day 6: Disembark in Chongqing & City Highlights (B)
After breakfast on board, disembark in Chongqing at Chaotianmen Port. Meet your local guide and begin your exploration of this vibrant “mountain city.” First, ascend to the WFC Observatory for breathtaking panoramic views of Chongqing’s layered cityscape, where skyscrapers, rivers, and hills merge. Then visit the iconic Hongya Cave, a stunning complex of stilted houses built into the cliffside, especially magical when lit up at night. Walk across the Qiansimen Bridge for panoramic river views, and feel the energy of Liberation Monument, the city’s bustling commercial heart. Conclude your day with a classic Chongqing hot pot dinner—spicy, aromatic, and unforgettable. Lunch and dinner on your own. Overnight at Asiam International hotel (Chonhqing jiefangbei hongya cave )
Day 7: Chongqing's Urban Charms (B)
After breakfast at the hotel, visit the Liziba MetroPlatform to witness the train passing through a residential building—a unique feature of Chongqing’s terrain.Explore CiqiKou Ancient Town, a historic area with cobblestone lanes, traditional houses, and local shops. Enjoy tea in an old tea house, and watch Sichuan opera performances. Head to Eling No. 2 Factory, a creative park set in a renovated factory. Discover art galleries, trendy shops, and photo spots. From the observation deck, enjoy sweeping views of Chongqing’s skyline and rivers. Lunch and dinner on your own. Overnight at Overnight at Asiam International hotel (Chonhqing jiefangbei hongya cave )
Day 8: Cultural Insights & Departure (B)
Visit Chongqing China Three Gorges Museum to delve into the region’s history and the dam project. Relax in the classical Eling Park and enjoy panoramic city views from its tower. Experience the youthful vibe of Jiujie (9th Street). Transfer to the airport/station for your departure.
