Yangtze Three Gorges Cruise - Image 1
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Yangtze River Three Gorges Cruise

4.8
·5 reviews·, China

Embark on a breathtaking journey through China's iconic Three Gorges, witnessing natural wonders and engineering marvels along the Yangtze River.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring (March-May)

Pleasant temperatures, lush scenery

CrowdMedium
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Yangtze Three Gorges Cruise - Image 1

Yangtze River Three Gorges Cruise

Best Time

Spring (March-May)

Pleasant temperatures, lush scenery

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Embark on a breathtaking journey through China's iconic Three Gorges, witnessing natural wonders and engineering marvels along the Yangtze River.

4.8
(5 reviews)

"Amazing natural scenery with views of the Yangtze River, truly magnificent."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚢 Book a 3-Night Cruise

Most travelers opt for a 3-night cruise from Chongqing. Excursions are typically during the day, with sailing often at night.

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

Essential for exploring ancient towns and shore excursions. You'll be doing a lot of walking!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Three Gorges

The Three Gorges

Yangtze River

Towering cliffs and misty waters create a breathtaking natural spectacle. A true journey through nature's masterpiece.

Three Gorges Dam

Three Gorges Dam

Sandouping, Hubei

Witness one of the world's largest engineering marvels. An awe-inspiring feat of human ingenuity.

Goddess Stream (Shennv Stream)

Goddess Stream (Shennv Stream)

Tributary of Yangtze River

A serene journey through a quiet tributary surrounded by majestic mountains. Peaceful and picturesque.

Ciqikou Ancient Town

Ciqikou Ancient Town

Chongqing

Step back in time in this historic town with traditional architecture and bustling teahouses. A charming cultural immersion.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Cruise in Advance

Popular Yangtze River Three Gorges cruises, especially those departing from Chongqing, can book up quickly. Consider booking several months ahead, particularly if you're traveling during peak seasons or holidays. This ensures you get your preferred dates and cabin type for this unforgettable journey.

Pack for All Types of Weather

The weather along the Yangtze River can be unpredictable. Pack layers, including rain gear, as you might experience sunshine, fog, and rain. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for shore excursions to explore ancient towns and natural wonders.

Best Times

When
Spring (March-May)
Why
Pleasant temperatures, lush scenery
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn (September-November)
Why
Clear skies, comfortable weather
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

NewsDaddy world tour kicks off in the craziest city on earth Chongqing, China!📍
@dylan.page
7.1M likes • 74.6M views

🚢 Book a 3-Night Cruise

Most travelers opt for a 3-night cruise from Chongqing. Excursions are typically during the day, with sailing often at night. Instagram+1

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

Essential for exploring ancient towns and shore excursions. You'll be doing a lot of walking! TikTok

🇨🇳>>>🇯🇵🇰🇷 #japan #korea #china #chongqing #cyberpunk
@jinfromjapan
6.2M likes • 40.4M views
The Three Gorges of the Yangtze River captivate with towering cliffs and misty waters 🌊🌊 A cruise here is a journey through nature’s masterpiece 🥰 🎥:credit to XHS @ 尚哪儿旅行燕子 #china #yangtzeriver
hichinatravel
281 likes • 5.4K views

🧥 Pack Layers & Rain Gear

Weather can change quickly. Be prepared for sunshine, fog, and rain. TikTok

📱 Download Offline Maps

Useful for navigating when you disembark for excursions, especially in areas with spotty service. TikTok

Cruise through the massive green gorges of China’s Yangtze River. 🩵 The Goddess Stream, or Shen’nv Stream, takes travelers on a journey down a quiet tributary surrounded by mountainous gorges on both sides. 🌿 It was once a tiny stream, but the water levels raised significantly after the construction of the Three Gorges Dam. 🇨🇳 Our guide told us stories of growing up in the area, and sang us fol...
girlwithbluesails
68 likes • 1.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚢 Book a 3-Night Cruise

Most travelers opt for a 3-night cruise from Chongqing. Excursions are typically during the day, with sailing often at night. Instagram+1

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

Essential for exploring ancient towns and shore excursions. You'll be doing a lot of walking! TikTok

🧥 Pack Layers & Rain Gear

Weather can change quickly. Be prepared for sunshine, fog, and rain. TikTok

📱 Download Offline Maps

Useful for navigating when you disembark for excursions, especially in areas with spotty service. TikTok

🥢 Try Local Hotpot

Don't miss Chongqing's famous fiery hotpot! A culinary adventure. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.8
(5 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Travelers consistently praise the magnificent natural scenery of the Yangtze River and the Three Gorges, often describing it as breathtaking. The impressive scale of the Three Gorges Dam is another major highlight, leaving visitors in awe of its engineering. Some find the cruise experience relaxing, while others note that shore excursions are essential to avoid boredom.

"Amazing natural scenery with views of the Yangatze River"

Harry Gondo

"magnificent scenery"

烏薩奇

""

Ayesh Photogrphy

What People Like

Magnificent natural scenery
Impressive Three Gorges Dam
Unique Chongqing cityscape

What People Dislike

Can be expensive
Some find it slow

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Chongqing is a major city with an international airport (CKG). From the airport, you can take a taxi, airport shuttle bus, or metro to reach your cruise terminal. Many travelers also arrive in Chongqing via high-speed train. TikTok+1

The most popular and scenic way is by a multi-day cruise ship. Alternatively, you can take a high-speed train between Chongqing and Yichang, which takes around 3-4 hours. Reddit

Yes, Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport (CKG) has numerous domestic and international flights, making it easily accessible for starting your Yangtze River cruise. TikTok

If your cruise ends in Yichang, you can take a taxi or local bus to the Three Gorges Dam. Many cruises also include guided tours to the dam from Yichang. Instagram

Yes, taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available at the cruise terminals in Chongqing. Public transport options like the metro are also accessible. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Prices vary significantly based on the cruise line, duration, cabin type, and time of year. Expect to pay anywhere from $300 to over $1000 per person for a 3-night cruise. Booking in advance can sometimes secure better rates. Instagram

It is highly recommended to book your Yangtze River Three Gorges cruise tickets well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability and get your preferred cabin. Instagram

Most cruise tickets include accommodation, meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), and guided shore excursions to key attractions like the Three Gorges Dam and ancient towns. Drinks and optional activities may incur extra charges. Instagram

Yes, there are various cruise lines offering different levels of luxury and amenities, from standard to deluxe. Some ships, like the Century Legend, are known for unique features like lock systems. Instagram

The Three Gorges Dam is a working hydroelectric facility and is accessible to visitors year-round. Specific viewing areas and tour times may vary, so it's best to check with your cruise operator. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) offer the most pleasant weather with comfortable temperatures and clear skies, making them ideal for enjoying the scenery. Instagram

Prepare for dramatic landscapes with towering, steep cliffs, lush green mountains, and the vast Yangtze River. The mist often adds an ethereal quality to the views. Instagram+1

It's a balance. While the cruise itself is relaxing, shore excursions offer opportunities for exploration. Many cruises sail at night to maximize daytime sightseeing. Instagram+1

Key highlights include the Three Gorges Dam, the Goddess Stream, Qutang Gorge, Wu Gorge, Xiling Gorge, and often visits to ancient towns like Ciqikou. Instagram+2

You can only disembark at designated ports for organized shore excursions. Spontaneous stops are not possible due to the nature of river travel and dam operations. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Most cruises offer a mix of Chinese and Western cuisine. Expect buffet-style meals with a variety of dishes, often featuring local specialties. Instagram

While hotpot is a Chongqing specialty, it's not always a standard inclusion on all cruise meals. You might have opportunities to try it during shore excursions or at specialty restaurants on board. Instagram

Generally, cruise lines are accommodating of dietary restrictions. It's best to inform your cruise operator of any special needs when booking to ensure they can cater to you. Instagram

Yes, most cruise ships have bars and lounges where you can purchase snacks, beverages, and alcoholic drinks. These are typically not included in the base fare. Instagram

Besides hotpot, try Chongqing noodles (Xiaomian), Mapo Tofu, and Kung Pao Chicken. The food is known for its bold, spicy flavors. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The dramatic cliffs of the gorges, the immense scale of the Three Gorges Dam, ancient towns like Ciqikou, and the misty river landscapes offer endless photographic potential. Instagram+1

Yes, cruise ships provide excellent vantage points for photographing the Three Gorges Dam. You'll have opportunities to capture its immense size and engineering. Instagram

Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and golden hues. The mist can also create unique photographic opportunities. Instagram

A standard digital camera or smartphone is sufficient. However, a wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the vastness of the gorges. TikTok

Generally, photography is allowed in designated visitor areas. However, it's always wise to be aware of any specific signage or instructions from guides regarding sensitive areas. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

A Yangtze River cruise can be a fantastic family adventure, offering a unique blend of education and entertainment. The sheer scale of the Three Gorges Dam is awe-inspiring for all ages, and the Goddess Stream offers a gentler, more picturesque experience. Many cruise ships have family-friendly amenities, and the daily shore excursions provide opportunities to explore ancient towns and learn about Chinese culture. Instagram

Consider booking a cruise with a reputable company that offers engaging activities for children. The novelty of life on a ship, combined with the stunning scenery and historical insights, can make for a memorable trip. Ensure your chosen cruise has options for varied dietary needs, as children can be particular eaters. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

While luxury cruises can be expensive, budget-friendly options for the Yangtze River Three Gorges cruise do exist. Look for standard cabins on less opulent ships or consider traveling during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) when prices may be lower. Booking directly with Chinese cruise lines or through local travel agents might also yield better deals than international booking platforms. Instagram

To save money, opt for cruises that include basic meals and essential excursions. You can supplement meals with snacks purchased in port towns. Researching different cruise lines and comparing itineraries and inclusions is key to finding a value-for-money option. Instagram

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The Yangtze River Three Gorges cruise is a photographer's dream. The dramatic cliffs of the gorges, the imposing Three Gorges Dam, and the atmospheric misty landscapes offer endless opportunities for stunning shots. Early mornings and late afternoons provide the best light, with golden hour casting a magical glow over the scenery. Instagram+1

Don't forget to capture the unique urban landscape of Chongqing, the 'cyberpunk city,' before or after your cruise. The multi-layered architecture and vibrant street life provide a fascinating contrast to the natural beauty of the gorges. A wide-angle lens will be invaluable for capturing the vastness of the gorges and the scale of the dam. TikTokInstagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Three Gorges Dam

The Three Gorges Dam is a monumental feat of engineering, the largest hydroelectric dam in the world. It spans the Yangtze River, creating a massive reservoir and significantly altering the river's flow. For cruise passengers, the dam is a major highlight, offering a chance to witness its sheer scale and understand its impact on China's energy production and flood control. Instagram

Many cruises utilize a lock system to navigate the significant change in water level. This process can take several hours and is a fascinating spectacle in itself. Ships are raised or lowered through a series of chambers, providing a unique perspective on the dam's operational complexity. Some ships, like the Century Legend, are noted for their specific lock passage experiences. Instagram

While the dam is an engineering marvel, its construction also led to the relocation of millions of people and submerged historical and archaeological sites. Understanding this context adds depth to the experience of visiting this iconic landmark. Instagram

Chongqing: The Cyberpunk Gateway

Chongqing is often described as a cyberpunk city, and for good reason. Its unique geography, built on steep hillsides, has led to a multi-layered urban landscape with buildings seemingly stacked upon each other. This creates a futuristic, almost surreal atmosphere, with elevated highways, sky bridges, and metro lines weaving through the city at various levels. TikTok+2

Exploring Chongqing before or after your cruise offers a stark contrast to the natural beauty of the gorges. Wander through areas like Baixingju, a residential complex that exemplifies the city's verticality and futuristic aesthetic. The city's vibrant nightlife and unique architecture have captured the imagination of travelers worldwide, making it a compelling starting point for any Yangtze River journey. TikTok

Don't miss the chance to experience Chongqing's famous hotpot, a culinary tradition that perfectly embodies the city's bold and spicy character. The city's blend of modern marvels and traditional charm makes it an unforgettable introduction to the wonders of Southwest China. Instagram

The Serenity of Goddess Stream

A highlight for many on a Three Gorges cruise is a visit to the Goddess Stream (Shennv Stream). This tranquil tributary offers a peaceful escape from the grandeur of the main Yangtze River. Here, smaller boats, often punted by locals, navigate the clear waters, surrounded by lush, verdant mountains that rise dramatically on either side. Instagram

The experience on Goddess Stream is one of quiet contemplation and natural beauty. The towering cliffs, often shrouded in mist, create an ethereal and almost mystical atmosphere. It's a chance to connect with a more intimate side of the region's landscape, a stark contrast to the immense scale of the Three Gorges Dam. Instagram

Historically, the water levels of Goddess Stream were significantly lower. The construction of the Three Gorges Dam led to a rise in water levels, making it more accessible for these smaller boat tours. This journey provides a serene counterpoint to the more dramatic sights of the main cruise, offering a moment of calm and natural immersion. Instagram

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