Contact us
Search
Home >> Destination >> Chongqing >> 5-Day Chongqing & Yangtze River Cruise Journey

5-Day Chongqing & Yangtze River Cruise Journey

Mountain City Chongqing and the Magnificent Three Gorges

The Yangtze River, along with the Yellow River, is revered as one of China's two great mother rivers of civilization. The spectacular Three Gorges, the millennia-old cultural heritage along its banks, and the world-renowned hydroelectric project all attract travelers from around the globe to experience a journey on the Yangtze.

As the primary gateway for Yangtze River cruises, Chongqing stands out as China's distinctive "Mountain City." Its complex multi-level transportation, bold and flavorful local cuisine, and seamless blend of tradition and modernity allow visitors to feel both the pace of China's development and the pulse of its history and everyday life.

We have designed a five-day exploration tour to help you delve into the charm of Chongqing before embarking on your Yangtze River voyage.

Tour Highlights​​
Discover the Legendary Three Gorges

Cruise the now-tranquil middle Yangtze, where once-treacherous waters flow past magnificent, timeless landscapes. Experience the beauty in relaxed comfort.

Discover China's Mountain Metropolis

Explore Chongqing, where skyscrapers meet mountain slopes. Witness a city balancing timeless tradition with bold modernity. Feel its vibrant energy, taste its creative cuisine, and immerse yourself in its unique spirit.

Savor Chongqing's Fiery Spirit

Dive into the city’s culinary soul with authentic hot pot in its birthplace, and linger over a Chongqing-style afternoon tea—where bold flavors meet laid-back rhythm.

Itinerary Overview​​

This is a sample itinerary. We specialize in creating fully customized tours to match your personal travel style.

Your personal guide and driver will welcome you at the airport or train station entrance.

Your half-day city tour—a voyage across centuries—includes:

  • Visiting Arhat Temple to uncover medieval serenity amidst the modern downtown.
  • Exploring Longmenhao Old Street to glimpse Chongqing’s Republic of China–era character.
  • Ascending a landmark skyscraper for breathtaking panoramic night views of the city.

Prepare for your cruise by exploring the history of the Yangtze River and the Three Gorges Dam at the Three Gorges Museum. The exhibits showcase the river’s ecology, ancient civilizations, and cultural artifacts unearthed along its banks.

In the afternoon, take a walk along a quiet ancient trail. Climb Nanshan Mountain to enjoy peaceful views, discover traces of old Chongqing life, and find forgotten historical sites hidden in the forest.

In the late afternoon, your driver will take you to the cruise pier, where your guide will assist you with a smooth boarding process.

Begin your day with an optional Tai Chi session on deck to welcome the morning in serenity.

In the morning, go ashore to explore Fengdu Ghost City, known for its temples and statues that illustrate traditional Chinese beliefs about the afterlife. The architecture and artwork here reflect ancient folk visions of the underworld and its moral tales.

The afternoon offers cultural activities onboard, followed by an optional evening performance after dinner — War Fires of the Three Kingdoms, bringing legendary history to life on stage.

For those interested in Chinese calligraphy and history, an optional shore excursion to White Emperor City is highly recommended. Visit the fortress that has inspired poets for centuries, admire ancient stone inscriptions, and take in the iconic landscape featured on the back of the 10-yuan banknote.

At midday, sail through the dramatic Qutang Gorge and the majestic Wu Gorge, two of the Yangtze's most celebrated natural wonders.

In the afternoon, disembark for a journey to Shennv Stream. Drift along this clear tributary in a small boat, winding through deep, narrow gorges untouched by time.

After dinner, enjoy onboard entertainment with the Crew Cabaret and Talent Show.

In the morning, disembark at Maoping Pier and take a shore excursion to the Three Gorges Dam. From a dedicated viewing platform, marvel at the monumental scale of this super project and its commanding presence on the Yangtze River.

Afterward, transfer to the Yichang tourist center, where your personal guide and driver will meet you and ensure a timely transfer to the airport or railway station for your onward journey.

Please note: Shore excursions included in this itinerary are arranged by Century Cruises and may vary depending on the specific cruise selected.