Your Yangtze River adventure starts in the historic city of Yichang. In the evening, you will be transferred to Maoping Port to begin your embarkation. As you step on board your luxury cruise ship, you will be welcomed by the hospitable crew and checked into your comfortable cabin.

Take a moment to step out onto your private balcony and feel the gentle river breeze. This evening is yours to settle in, explore the ship's amenities, and enjoy the glittering lights reflecting off the water as you prepare for the spectacular journey upstream through the heart of China.

Accommodation: Cruise Ship

Meals: /

Professional Suggestions:
Yichang has two main ports, but most luxury cruises now depart from Maoping Port, which is about an hour's drive from the city center or Yichang East Railway Station. We recommend arriving at the meeting point designated by the cruise line before 6:00 PM to ensure a smooth shuttle transfer. Once on board, keep an eye on the "Daily Itinerary" delivered to your cabin or displayed in the lobby—it will be your bible for all meal times and shore excursion schedules for the coming days.

After your first breakfast on the river, you will disembark for a shore excursion to the Three Gorges Dam, the largest and most sophisticated hydropower project in the world. From the elevated viewing platforms, you can witness the sheer scale of this engineering giant and learn how it serves as a vital tool for flood control, power generation, and navigation.

In the late afternoon, retreat to the ship's sun deck as you sail through the western section of Xiling Gorge. As the longest of the three gorges, Xiling is legendary for its dramatic zigzag channels, jagged rock formations, and the swirling waters that have inspired poets for centuries. Enjoy the Captain's Welcome Reception this evening as the sun sets behind the towering cliffs.

Accommodation: Cruise Ship

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Professional Suggestions:
As the Three Gorges Dam is a high-security site, please remember to carry your original passport for security checks at the entrance. To get the best panoramic view of the entire ship lock system, head to Tanzi Ridge, the highest point in the scenic area. If the weather is clear, this is a prime spot for photography. Also, keep your camera ready during the transit through Xiling Gorge, as the lighting in the late afternoon creates beautiful shadows against the "strange rocks" along the riverbanks.

Today marks the most scenic highlight of your Yangtze journey. In the morning, you will board a smaller boat to explore the hidden wonders of the Lesser Three Gorges (or Shennong Stream/Goddess Stream, depending on your ship's route). These narrow tributaries offer a more intimate look at the river's beauty, featuring sheer cliffs, emerald waters, and the chance to spot ancient hanging coffins nestled high in the limestone caves.

Back on the main ship, prepare for the grand transit through Wu Gorge and Qutang Gorge. Wu Gorge is celebrated for its deep, serene beauty and the "Twelve Peaks" that often disappear into the rising mists. Finally, you will enter the dramatic Qutang Gorge. Though only 8 kilometers long, it is the narrowest and most awe-inspiring stretch, where the mountains seem to squeeze the river, creating the famous "Kui Gate" scene featured on the 10-yuan Chinese banknote.

Accommodation: Cruise Ship

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Professional Suggestions:
For the best viewing experience today, we recommend spending your time on the Sun Deck with a pair of binoculars. As the ship enters Qutang Gorge, have a 10-yuan note ready in your hand—matching the real-life "Kui Gate" with the image on the bill is a classic Yangtze photo opportunity! Also, the weather in the gorges can change quickly; even on a sunny day, the wind on the deck can be quite chilly, so keeping a light windbreaker or scarf with you is a smart move.

Today's adventure takes you to one of the Yangtze's legendary cultural landmarks. Depending on your specific cruise line, you will visit either the architectural marvel of Shibaozhai or the mystical realm of Fengdu.

Shibaozhai Pagoda is a stunning 12-story crimson pavilion built against a sheer rectangular cliff. This 400-year-old masterpiece was constructed without the use of nails and is celebrated as one of the "World's Eight Strangest Buildings." Climbing its internal staircase offers a unique perspective on ancient Chinese engineering and rewarded with a panoramic view of the river.

Alternatively, you may explore Fengdu Ghost City, a sprawling temple complex on Ming Hill. This site offers a fascinating window into the Chinese concept of the afterlife, blending the teachings of Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism. Through its intricate statues and vivid frescoes, you will learn about the legends of the "Trial of the Dead" and the cultural traditions of ancient China.

Accommodation: Cruise Ship

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Professional Suggestions:
If your excursion is to Shibaozhai, please wear sturdy walking shoes, as the climb up the wooden stairs inside the pagoda can be steep and narrow. For those visiting Fengdu Ghost City, be prepared for a bit of a hike up the hill; there is an optional cable car available for a small fee if you prefer to save your energy. Also, this is your last full day on the ship—we recommend checking your onboard account and settling any incidental bills (like drinks or spa services) this evening to avoid long queues during tomorrow's disembarkation.

Your Yangtze journey concludes as the ship glides into the spectacular port of Chongqing in the morning. After a final breakfast on board, you will witness the dramatic skyline of this "Mountain City," where skyscrapers cling to steep hillsides. Around 9:00 AM, you will disembark at Chaotianmen Dock, the majestic confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers.

From here, you can continue your exploration of Chongqing's famous "cyberpunk" architecture and spicy cuisine, or head to the airport or railway station for your onward travel. Though the cruise has ended, the memories of the misty gorges and ancient temples will remain with you.

Accommodation: /

Meals: Breakfast

Professional Suggestions:
Chongqing is famously known as a "3D city" where your GPS might get confused due to the multi-layered roads and buildings. If you are heading to the airport or train station, we recommend booking a private transfer or using the Metro, as finding a taxi at the busy Chaotianmen Dock can be challenging with luggage. If you have a few hours before your departure, don't miss the nearby Hongya Cave or a ride on the Liziba "Train through the building" Metro line for a quintessential Chongqing experience!