River Cruise Tours & Trips in China
Ever dreamed of gliding past misty karsts and emerald rice paddies along old rivers? Visit the historic Tiananmen Square and the grand Forbidden City, walk on the famous Great Wall, and enjoy real local food. Relax on your cruise while watching China's many different landscapes with en-route visits to beautiful villages. Adventures are waiting for you in China!
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- Choose from 11 China tours
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10 best River Cruise China tour packages
Compiled by
NadineChina travel expert at TourRadar
- 11 Days Yangtze River Group Tour
- Classic China With Yangtze - 12 days
- Yangtze River Cruise from Yichang to Chongqing Upstream in 5 Days 4 Nights
- Giant Panda & Yangtze River Group Tour 14D
- Yangtze River Deluxe Cruise 5D/4N from Yichang to Chongqing
- Yangtze River Deluxe Cruise 4D/3N from Chongqing to Yichang
- River Cruise- Yangtze Panorama
- 14-Day Glory of China, Yangtze River Cruise & Bullet Train
- 14 Days Zhangjiajie Avatar Mountains & Yangtze River Cruise Small Group Tour
- Yangtze River Cruise from Chongqing to Yichang Downstream in 4 Days 3 Nights
Duration 11 days Destinations Beijing, Xi'an, Chongqing, Qutang Gorge, Three Gorges, Yichang, Shanghai, Wuzhen Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Top China Travel From
- US$1,982
Duration 12 days Destinations Beijing, Xi'an, Chongqing, Yichang, Qutang Gorge, Three Gorges, Shanghai Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator On The Go Tours From
- US$3,490
Yangtze River Cruise from Yichang to Chongqing Upstream in 5 Days 4 Nights
“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 Ages 18+ Operator Silk Road Trips From
- US$599
Duration 14 days Destinations Beijing, Xi'an, Chengdu, Leshan, Chongqing, Yangtze, Three Gorges, Qutang Gorge, Yichang, Shanghai Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Top China Travel From
- US$2,879
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, Maopingzhen, Three Gorges, Qutang Gorge, Shibaozhai Pagoda, Chongqing Age Range Ages 18+ Operator Silk Road Trips From
- US$599
The mighty Yangtze flows from Chongqing to Yichang aboard a luxury vessel. Expert commentary enhances views of Qutang, Wu, and Xiling Gorges. Shore tours include Fengdu Ghost City, Small Three Gorges excursion, and the impressive Three Gorges Dam.
Duration 4 days Destinations Chongqing, Wanzhou, Qutang Gorge, Three Gorges, Yichang Age Range Ages 18+ Operator Silk Road Trips From
- US$999
Duration 18 days Destinations Beijing, Chongqing, Dazu, Yangtze, Three Gorges, Qutang Gorge, Yichang, Wuhan, Jingdezhen, NanjingSee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in Only: German Operator Bavaria Fernreisen From
- US$5,432
What our customers ask about River Cruise Tours & Trips in China
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."