Chongqing is the traditional starting point for a Yangtze River cruise through the Three Gorges. The downstream voyage runs from the pier at Chaotianmen to Yichang over about four days and three nights, passing some of China's most famous river landscapes: the Qutang, Wu and Xiling Gorges, the Daning River and the Shennong Stream tributaries, and the Three Gorges Dam. Along the way ships usually stop for shore excursions, which may include places such as Fengdu Ghost City, Shibaozhai pagoda and the dam, depending on the ship and the season. The voyage is a slower, more relaxed way to travel through central China, with meals, entertainment and cabin comfort onboard. The product we link is a four-day cruise from Chongqing to Yichang, and many similar departures run on different ships, so compare itineraries, cabin categories and included excursions. Ships range from large, comfortable vessels with balconies to more basic boats, so choose according to your budget and how much you value onboard facilities.
How to visit
You board in Chongqing, usually in the afternoon or evening, and disembark in Yichang, from where you can continue by train or flight. Check the cruise details for the departure date, cabin type, meal plan, the shore excursions included and the transfer arrangements at each end. Passport details are usually required at booking.
What to expect
A floating hotel with a dining room, a lounge, a deck and a programme of lectures, shows and activities in the evenings. Shore excursions are timed and led by guides, and some may involve climbing stairs or walking on uneven ground. The gorges themselves are dramatic walls of rock, with misty mountains and small riverside settlements. The scenery changes with the light and the weather.
Making the most of it
Be on deck in the early morning or late afternoon, when the light on the gorges is at its best. Pack layers, because the deck is breezy, and bring binoculars and a camera. Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable weather, while summer can be hot and the river high and brown, and winter is cool and misty. Ask about onboard rules for shopping stops and optional extras before you book.
Combine it sensibly
Add a few days in Chongqing before the cruise to explore Hongyadong, the old town and the food scene. After disembarking, many travellers continue to Wuhan, Shanghai or Beijing by train or fly onward from Yichang.
What to expect
The experience
A four-day, three-night downstream cruise from Chongqing to Yichang with meals onboard and timed shore excursions.
Best time
Spring and autumn for comfortable weather; summer is hot, winter cool and misty.
How long
Four days and three nights.
Tips
Compare ships, cabins and included excursions, pack layers and keep your passport handy.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers who want a slow, scenic route through central China.
- Families
- Some ships suit families, though the programme is aimed at adults. Check onboard facilities.
- Couples
- A cabin with a balcony and an evening deck stroll.
- Pair with
- Several days in Chongqing before boarding.
- Time needed
- Four days.
Good questions
Where does the cruise start and end?+
The downstream cruise starts in Chongqing and ends in Yichang after about four days and three nights.
What will I see?+
You see the Qutang, Wu and Xiling Gorges, and shore excursions may include Fengdu, Shibaozhai and the Three Gorges Dam.
Which season is best?+
Spring and autumn are the most comfortable. Summer is hot and humid, while winter is cool and often misty.
How do I choose a ship?+
Compare cabin types, meals, excursions and the age and condition of the vessel. Larger ships offer more facilities.
Can I continue travelling after Yichang?+
Yes, many travellers take a train or flight onward to places such as Wuhan, Shanghai or Beijing.