Yangtze River Cruise 2025/2026
As the longest river in Asia, and the third-longest in the world after Nile and Amazon, Yangtze River (also know as Chang Jiang) flows for 6,300 kilometers (3,915 mi) from the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau eastward to the east part of China, finally emptying itself into the East China Sea at Shanghai. It has long been regarded at one cradle of Chinese civilization.
Mostly running between Chongqing and Yichang, the Yangtze River cruises unlock China’s most intriguing waterways, and offer fascinating highlights: beauty of Three Gorges, colorful shore excursions, and the mammoth Three Gorges Dam. Moor up to explore isolated riverside villages, travel back in time by way of hanging coffins and ancient pagoda, and spot endangered species in their natural habitat.
Choose from 10+ selected all-inclusive luxury Yangtze River cruise ships with varied itineraries, seamlessly paired with ETC local private guides on land before and after your cruise. On board, you’ll experience five-star dinning, accommodation and unique Chinese cultural activities to make your voyage as enjoyable as possible. At Easy Tour China, we can also create your Yangtze cruise tour to iconic destinations in China with fully bespoke itineraries.
Best Yangtze River Cruise Deals 2025/2026
Travel with Easy Tour China, we offer great options for expats in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Hangzhou, Chengdu, Hong Kong, etc. We can take you nearly anywhere in China, whether you want to visit the cities or the untouched places. Explore our curated trip itineraries below - from weekend trips to short breaks and longer holiday getaways. They are meant to meet the needs and interests of different travelers and all can be customized.
Explore Popular Yangtze Cruise Companies
Looking for an immersive cruise adventure in China that doesn't compromise little luxuries on life? You can travel in maximum comfort with China Yangtze River cruises, which offer all the facilities and service standards of a five-star hotel. Partner with the best Yangtze Cruise lines, we’re here to hand-pick your favorite feet that suits your schedule and preferences, unveiling you the many facets of China from a new perspective.
Top 8 Yangtze River Cruise Tours
Along with the one-of-a-kind Yangtze cruise trip, you can travel to China’s most popular or off-the-beaten-path destinations, from the golden triangle cities of Beijing, Xi’an, and Shanghai to the sacred Tibet on the roof of the world. Embark on one of the customized, private China tours with Yangtze River Cruise with ETC, complete with expert local guides, insider accesses and real life experiences you won't never forget. Let’s discuss these details on how to plan your trip!
Featured China Tours with Yangtze Cruise
Whether you wish to explore the pristine minority culture in the far-flung places, travel in China on a bullet train, or enjoy a China holiday with your senior partner or female friends, we are able to adopt a personalized approach to planning your China Yangtze River cruise tour.
Yangtze River Cruises & Hop Destinations
Easy Tour China experts will help you combine one or two destinations with Yangtze River cruises in a shorter trip from 7 to 14 days, so you can explore the places fully, showing you the best nature, culture, traditions, and local people.
Useful China Yangtze River Cruise Guide
Yangtze River Cruise Reviews
FAQs on Yangtze River Cruise
What dining experience can I expect on a Yangtze cruise ship?
Generally, Yangtze River cruise ships offer a combination of Chinese and Western buffet and à la carte dining (with daily changing menus). You can enjoy authentic Chinese cuisine, including Sichuan, Hubei, and Cantonese dishes. Don’t miss the specialty dishes, such as the Three Gorges Fish Feast and Chongqing Hot Pot.
Craving Western cuisine? No worries—luxury five-star cruise ships (such as the Victoria Series and President Series) feature Western chefs who can prepare Western-style dinners.
If you require vegetarian or halal meals, please inform your travel consultant in advance, and we will notify the cruise company.
What are their accommodations like?
Whether you choose a standard room (20-25 m²) or a presidential suite (50-80 m²), you will have a private balcony with a view. Basic amenities such as sofas, bathrooms, televisions, and air conditioning are all provided.
How many days to stay on a Yangtze cruise journey?
The Chongqing-Yichang route is the most classic Yangtze River cruise route, covering the essence of the Three Gorges, and is recommended for most tourists. The itinerary is generally 4 days and 3 nights (downstream) or 5 days and 4 nights (upstream). The Chongqing-Wuhan route takes 6-7 days, and the Chongqing-Shanghai route takes 11-12 days, which is suitable for in-depth travelers.
Are the shore excursions included?
Most shore excursions, such as White Emperor City, Goddess Stream, Three Gorges Dam, Shibao Tower, and Fengdu Ghost City, are included in the ticket price. You can expect 1-2 shore excursions per day during the cruise trip. However, all Yangtze cruise line has their own itineraries with different included shore excursions.
When is the best time for a Yangtze River Cruise?
Spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) with mild weather, moderate water levels, and beautiful scenery, are widely considered the best times to cruise on the Yangtze River. It is recommended to avoid the hot and rainy season from July to August, the dry winter months from December to February, and the “Golden Week” holiday from October 1-7 (when domestic tourists flock to the area).
Can you offer the Chongqing to Shanghai Yangtze River cruise?
Yes. Although there are fewer Yangtze River cruise ships operating on the Chongqing to Shanghai route, and the number of scheduled trips is limited, the high-end cruise company of Century Cruise we partner with offer this itinerary. We recommend booking at least 3-6 months in advance.
How to plan a China trip including Yangtze Cruise?
We recommend combining your trip to China with a leisurely cruise and experiences of nature and culture. Beijing, Xi'an, Chengdu, Chongqing, Shanghai, and a Yangtze River cruise make for a perfect itinerary. You may also consider adding Guilin, Zhangjiajie, Yunnan, or Tibet.