Yangtze River Cruise from Yichang to Chongqing Upstream in 5 Days 4 Nights

A comprehensive look at the 5-day Yangtze River cruise from Yichang to Chongqing

Imagine floating along the world’s third-longest river, passing through iconic Three Gorges—Qutang, Wu, and Xiling—without the hassle of carrying your bags or planning each stop. This five-day cruise offers an excellent blend of breathtaking scenery, cultural highlights, and relaxing onboard comfort for roughly $599 per person. Led by knowledgeable guides, the journey is a favorite among those seeking an authentic experience that balances natural beauty with cultural insights.

What we especially like about this cruise? First, the well-organized shore excursions—visits to the Three Gorges Dam and Fengdu Ghost City are genuinely memorable. Second, the delicious meals served onboard, featuring a variety of Chinese dishes and plenty of options, truly add to the value. That said, a possible caveat is the fixed itinerary, which might change slightly based on river conditions. Still, this cruise caters well to travelers eager to explore the impressive landscapes and local sites comfortably.

If you’re someone who appreciates scenic river views combined with cultural visits, this trip could be perfect. It’s especially suitable for nature lovers, first-time river cruisers, or those with limited time who want a comprehensive experience. The cruise is also great for travelers who prefer all-inclusive packages that include excursions, meals, and accommodations, with the added comfort of a guide to help navigate the language barrier.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery of the Three Gorges including Qutang, Wu, and Xiling.
• Inclusive shore excursions to highlights like the Three Gorges Dam and Fengdu Ghost City.
• Comfortable onboard experience with good food, friendly staff, and guiding support.
• Excellent value for a 5-day, all-included river adventure.
• Potential itinerary changes depending on river conditions.
• Ideal for travelers seeking scenic beauty combined with cultural exploration.

In-Depth Review of the Yangtze River Cruise Experience

Location, Duration, and Cost

This 5-day cruise departs from Yichang, a city known for the impressive Three Gorges Dam, and winds its way upstream to Chongqing, a vibrant metropolis with a rich history. The ticket price of $599 per person includes accommodations in shared cabins, all meals, three shore excursions, and a dedicated guide. Booking is typically made about 24 days in advance, reflecting solid demand and a perception of good value among travelers.

The cruise lasts approximately five days and four nights, making it manageable for those with limited time but eager for a comprehensive experience. The mobile ticket system simplifies check-in, and the entire package feels designed for ease—no hidden fees or complicated arrangements.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: Embarkation in Yichang
You start at Yichang Maoping Wharf around 7:00 pm. The process is straightforward, with a free shuttle from the Yichang Sanxia Tourist Center available from 5 pm, which many travelers find convenient. Once on board, you’ll be greeted by courteous staff and settle into your cabin, which many reviewers praise as comfortable and well-maintained.

Day 2: Three Gorges Dam and Xiling Gorge
This day is packed with highlights. The tour includes a visit to the Three Gorges Dam, the world’s largest hydroelectric project, offering both impressive engineering marvels and a chance to learn about modern China’s infrastructure. The included excursion is a highlight, but keep in mind it might be subject to change depending on river conditions.

Later, the cruise enters Xiling Gorge, famous for its dramatic cliffs and fast currents. Many guests mention the Xiling Gorge Scenic Resort as a peaceful spot to enjoy the views, and the buffet lunch onboard offers a chance to sample local cuisine.

Day 3: Wu Gorge and Qutang Gorge
This day is the centerpiece for many. Sailing through Wu Gorge, you’ll see towering peaks and lush scenery, often described as spectacular by travelers. The cruise includes optional excursions to The Lesser Three Gorges or Shennong Stream, which are praised for their scenic beauty and tranquility. The White Emperor City remains an optional stop, adding a layer of cultural richness.

Reviewers frequently mention the delicious buffet meals and the top deck bar, where you can enjoy the river views with a drink in hand. The day’s journey, about 13 hours long, keeps you immersed in some of the most iconic vistas of the Yangtze.

Day 4: Fengdu Ghost City and Shibao Village
Fengdu offers a fascinating look at Chinese ghost and mythological culture. Visitors often choose to visit Yuhuang Shengdi, the Jade Emperor Sanctuary, or explore Shibao Village with its traditional architecture. The optional Ghost City tour is a unique experience, though it incurs an extra cost.

The evening features the Captain’s Farewell Dinner, a festive moment where guests often praise the friendly service and delicious food. Many mention that the crew makes an effort to communicate in English, which adds to the comfort for international travelers.

Day 5: Disembarkation in Chongqing
The cruise concludes at Chongqing Chaotianmen around 8:30 am. Leaving early allows travelers to catch flights or trains departing after 3 pm. The docking site might change to Wanzhou Harbour during rainy or dry seasons, but the cruise arranges bus transfers to Chongqing.

What We Love About the Experience

The scenic vistas of the Three Gorges, described as spectacular and breathtaking in reviews, make this cruise stand out. Whether sailing through Wu Gorge or admiring the cliffs from the deck, you’ll find yourself constantly impressed. The shore excursions are thoughtfully chosen, providing insights into both engineering marvels like the dam and cultural sites like Fengdu Ghost City.

Another highlight is the onboard hospitality. Guests consistently praise the friendly staff, delicious meals, and comfortable cabins. The guides are knowledgeable and helpful, often making non-Chinese speakers feel welcome and included.

Considerations and Possible Downsides

While the itinerary is packed and well-organized, it may change slightly depending on river conditions—something worth knowing, especially if you’re a meticulous planner. The fixed schedule might mean missing certain excursions or the itinerary shifting unexpectedly. Also, the cost of drinks and optional tours is not included, so budget accordingly if you want to indulge or explore more.

Travelers should also note that most of the experience is on the water, so if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer land-based travel, this might not be ideal. However, for those who love scenic water journeys, this cruise offers excellent value.

Who Would Enjoy This Cruise?

This trip is perfect if you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic experience with plenty of opportunities for cultural and natural exploration. It suits first-time river cruisers, nature lovers, and history enthusiasts alike. It’s also a good choice for travelers who want an all-in-one package—meals, excursions, and guides—all included. The positive reviews from diverse travelers highlight its broad appeal.

Final Thoughts

This Yangtze River cruise from Yichang to Chongqing offers an enriching mix of stunning scenery, cultural highlights, and comfortable onboard amenities. The inclusion of shore excursions and the support of helpful guides make it stand out, especially at this price point. If you’re after a balanced, authentic experience that showcases one of China’s most iconic rivers, this cruise delivers.

While it’s not a luxury voyage, the value for money and quality of the sights far outweigh the minor limitations. It’s particularly well-suited for those seeking a comprehensive, manageable introduction to the Yangtze’s beauty and culture in just five days.

FAQs

• How do I get to the cruise dock in Yichang?
  You can take a free shuttle bus from the Yichang Sanxia Tourist Center between 5 pm and 7 pm, or arrive directly at the Maoping Wharf for embarkation around 7 pm.

• What should I bring onboard?
  While most things are provided, bringing comfortable clothes, especially layers for different weather conditions, and perhaps a hat or sunglasses for sun protection, can enhance your experience.

• Are meals included?
  Yes, the cruise includes breakfast (4), lunch (3), and dinner (3), featuring a variety of Chinese dishes. Drinks are not included, so plan for that if you want beverages beyond water.

• Is there Wi-Fi onboard?
  The provided information doesn’t specify Wi-Fi availability. It’s best to assume limited or no Wi-Fi, so plan accordingly.

• What happens if river conditions delay the cruise?
  The itinerary may experience changes or delays based on river regulation. The cruise advises booking flights or trains departing after 3 pm on disembarkation day as compensation if you miss transport due to delays isn’t offered.

• Are shore excursions included?
  Yes, three excursions are included, but they may sometimes change based on the schedule. Extra excursions, like the Ghost City, cost extra.

• Is this cruise suitable for non-Chinese speakers?
  Absolutely. Many reviews mention the crew’s efforts to communicate in English, making this cruise accessible for international travelers.

This Yangtze River cruise offers an engaging, scenic, and memorable way to experience one of China’s most famous waterways. Its combination of natural beauty, cultural sites, and onboard comfort makes it a journey worth considering for your China itinerary.