4D3N Yangtze River Cruise: Chongqing to Yichang by Century Cruise

Experience the Yangtze River in Style: A 4-Day Cruise from Chongqing to Yichang

Imagine floating along one of the world’s most iconic waterways, passing through majestic gorges, ancient cultural sites, and modern engineering marvels—all from the comfort of a well-appointed, 5-star cruise ship. For those seeking a blend of natural beauty and cultural insight, the 4D3N Yangtze River cruise offered by Century Cruises provides an engaging way to explore China’s towering Three Gorges and beyond.

Starting in Chongqing, this journey takes you downstream on one of three luxury ships—Century Oasis, Century Victory, or Century Glory—each offering a comfortable and refined experience. For about $768 per person, you’ll enjoy three nights of accommodation, all meals, guided shore excursions, and spectacular views. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or simply looking for a scenic escape, this cruise offers a well-rounded itinerary.

Two aspects we particularly appreciate are the well-organized shore excursions—notably Fengdu Ghost City and the Shennong Stream—and the professional bilingual guides that help bring the experience to life. These guided stops add depth and context that you might miss exploring on your own. A third highlight is the stunning scenery of the gorges, which can often be even more impressive from the deck than on land.

A small consideration is that the excursions may vary depending on river conditions or schedule adjustments, so you might not see exactly the same sites as others. Also, the group size is limited to 15, which keeps things intimate but may mean you need to book early if you want a spot on a specific ship.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate a combination of comfortable accommodations, cultural insights, and spectacular scenery. It’s ideal for those who want a relaxed, well-organized trip with plenty of opportunities for sightseeing without the hassle of planning logistics themselves.

Key Points

• Luxury Comfort: The cruise ships are equipped with modern amenities, spacious cabins, and offer meals onboard, making for a relaxing experience.
• Cultural Immersion: Shore excursions like Fengdu Ghost City and Shennong Stream deepen your understanding of local traditions and history.
• Spectacular Views: Passing through the Three Gorges—Qutang, Wu, and Xiling—delivers some of the most breathtaking scenery along the river.
• Expert Guidance: Bilingual guides help interpret sites and share stories, making the journey both informative and engaging.
• Flexible Schedule: Optional tours, like the White Emperor City or Ship Lift, give you extra opportunities to explore.
• Limited Group Size: With a maximum of 15 travelers, expect a more personalized experience, but book early as spots fill quickly.

A Detailed Look at the Yangtze River Cruise Experience

Starting Point: Chongqing Chaotianmen

Your adventure begins at Chongqing Chaotianmen, the bustling port where your ship awaits. The tour organizer provides precise boarding details in Chinese and English, helping you navigate the busy city docks with ease. We liked the included luggage handling service, which takes a load off your shoulders after a long day of travel.

Boarding happens between 18:30 and 21:00, with the ship departing promptly at 21:30. Expect a safety briefing and a chance to mingle at the Captain’s Welcome Reception. If you prefer a smooth start, the tour offers private transfer options from the airport or hotel, though these come at an extra cost.

Day 2: Fengdu Ghost City and Relaxation

The first stop after a restful night on the water is Fengdu Ghost City, a site with a history stretching back 1,900 years. The complex is rich in traditional Chinese mythological themes, showcasing statues and scenes that depict the afterlife and moral judgments. As one reviewer noted, “it’s interesting and meaningful to know Chinese beliefs about spirits and the afterlife.”

The guided tour here is included, giving you a chance to explore this fascinating, slightly spooky site with the expertise of guides who can explain its cultural significance. Afterward, you’re free to relax on deck or join optional activities—like the Three Kingdoms Open Air Show, which some travelers find adds a lively cultural touch.

Day 3: The Gorges and Shennong Stream

This is the day when the scenery truly shines. The ship first enters Qutang Gorge, the shortest but most visually dramatic of the Three Gorges. Its towering cliffs and narrow channels are a dramatic start to your day. Following that, you’ll cruise through Wu Gorge, renowned for steep, mist-shrouded peaks and a natural gallery of craggy rocks—an experience many describe as awe-inspiring.

Later, you’ll disembark at Badong for a Shennong Stream excursion. Here, you’ll take a small boat—referred to as a pea boat—along this crystal-clear tributary. The crossing offers close-up views of moss-laden rocks, ancient plank roads, and even hanging coffins, which remind you of the river’s long history of human habitation. The local Tujia songs add a musical touch that’s both pleasant and authentic.

For those interested, an optional visit to White Emperor City is available, a site famed for its literary connections and scenic views, often worth the CNY290 fee.

Day 4: The Three Gorges Dam and Yichang

Your final morning begins with a visit to the Three Gorges Dam, the world’s largest hydroelectric project. The guide will help you understand its massive scale and engineering marvel. Afterward, you’ll transfer by shuttle bus to Yichang for your onward journey.

A popular optional add-on is the Ship Lift experience, which showcases another impressive piece of engineering. While not included, it offers a chance to see the dam in action from a different perspective.

The Value of This Cruise

While $768 per person might seem like a lot at first glance, it covers a luxurious three-night cruise, all meals, shore excursions, and professional guides. The all-inclusive nature means no hidden costs to worry about, and the small group size enhances the personal touch.

Many reviews highlight the quality of accommodations—notably the spacious rooms, comfortable beds, and the availability of balconies in some cabins. Passengers also frequently praise the knowledgeable guides who make the cultural sites accessible and interesting, a key reason many consider this experience worthwhile.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for travelers seeking a relaxed yet immersive experience of China’s scenic and cultural highlights along the Yangtze. It appeals to those who value comfortable cabins, guided tours, and the chance to see iconic sights without the hassle of continuous planning. If you’re interested in natural landscapes, historic sites, and engineering marvels, this cruise fits perfectly.

Final Thoughts

A 4-day Yangtze River cruise offers a rare mix: awe-inspiring scenery, cultural depth, and comfortable travel. You’ll enjoy passing through the stunning Three Gorges—Qutang, Wu, and Xiling—while learning about Chinese beliefs and history from guides who bring the sites to life.

The included shore excursions add value, giving you meaningful insights into local traditions and history. The small, intimate group size means you’re not just another face in the crowd but part of a more personal journey. Plus, the onboard amenities and meals make the whole experience feel like a floating hotel, allowing you to relax and soak in the views.

If you’re after a scenic, cultural adventure with a dash of engineering marvels, this cruise is an excellent choice. It’s particularly suitable for those who want to combine comfort with authentic experiences, all while enjoying one of the world’s most impressive river landscapes.

FAQs

What ships are used for this cruise?
The tour features three luxury ships: Century Oasis, Century Victory, and Century Glory. The specific ship may vary depending on the schedule.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, travelers book about 85 days ahead, reflecting the popularity and limited availability of the small groups.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers 3 nights of cruise accommodation, all onboard meals, guided shore excursions, luggage handling, and bilingual guides.

Are the shore excursions optional?
Yes, excursions such as Fengdu Ghost City and Shennong Stream are included, but other optional tours like White Emperor City are extra.

Can I book a single room?
Yes, there’s a single room supplement, which costs about 75% more than a shared twin cabin. If you want a suite, contact the tour provider ahead of time.

What are the departure days?
Every Wednesday is with Century Victory, Saturday with Century Oasis, and Sunday with Century Glory.

Is there a dress code?
For the Captain’s Welcome Reception, smart casual attire is recommended.

What are the group size limits?
The group is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, making it intimate and ideal for those who prefer smaller groups.

Can the excursions be changed?
Yes, depending on river conditions or scheduling, the specific sites visited may vary, and the final itinerary will be confirmed before departure.

In navigating this journey, you’ll find that this cruise balances natural beauty, cultural insight, and comfort—making for a memorable adventure along China’s legendary river. Whether you’re soaking in the views from your balcony, exploring ancient sites, or marveling at engineering feats, this cruise offers a thoughtful way to experience the Yangtze.