Yangtze River

 Yangtze River (Chang Jiang) is the longest river in Asia and the third longest river in the world, as second to the Nile River and the Amazon River.

With 6397 km long, it originated in the southwest side Mt. Geladandong of Tanggula Mountains and runs into the East China Sea, by passing through 11 provinces and cities, including Qinghai, Tibet, Sichuan, Yunnan, Chongqing, Hubei, Hunan, Jiangxi, Anhui, Jiangsu and Shanghai. Having hundreds of tributaries including Min River, Jinsha River, Jialing River, Huangpu River and more, Yangtze River covers an area of 1,8 million sq km and is called the cradle of Chinese civilization.

The Yangtze River took importance for Chinese history in 2 million years ago when human lived and evolved in Three Gorges region. Since then, it was a significant area of human life. And the Yangtze River culture was derived and varied from different regions of river sides. Presently, the Yangtze history and culture can be found partially though those historical sites along Yangtze River and the local tribes.

Why visit Yangtze River:

Three Gorges Dam - as a symbol of China, the Three Gorges Dam project made China rush into modernization. Once built to provide electricity and reduce floods, the dam now is open to public to reveal its magnificent structure and huge power.

Scenery & Attractions - Yangtze River is the best witness of ancient China, though the traditional way of life along the river is disappearing, the beautiful natural scenery and historical attractions remain timeless for you to enjoy its magical sights and explore local culture of that period.

Yangtze River Cruise - the mature cruise destination, Yangtze River Cruise is a relaxing scenic cruise with everything offered onboard-great food, well-equipped facilities, high-quality services, types of cabins, night performance and various kinds of activities.

Within its winding gorges and cliffs on its 6,300km stretch, the Yangtze is a flowing history book. As a key focus of China’s heritage and a lifeline of its economy,  taking to the “Golden River” has become an established attraction on the travel trail.

The Yangtze River Cruise is an alternative means of travel to the train and overland routes a local would typically take. Most travellers will traverse the waters of Asia’s largest river the same way on one of the 60 or so Chinese and Western vessels on the waterways. 

Since only around a third of those are deemed luxury cruise liners, it is wise not to set your expectations too high. The term cruise, in this instance, does not denote high comfort unless you specifically pay hundreds of pounds for a more upper-class version of this route.

However, a local boat’s different levels of service, standards and basic amenities shouldn’t put you off going on a Yangtze River Cruise and experiencing China’s waterways. 

Planning a Yangtze River Cruise

How Long is a Yangtze River Cruise?

The full 2,253 km journey between Chongqing and Shanghai takes up to 11 days, but the most popular Yangtze River Cruise is the three to six-day option from Chongqing to Wuhan to visit the Three Gorges.

Where to Stay in Chongquing 

If you need to stay in Chongquing before boarding day, there are a few accommodation options. Opt for a little luxury in the Sheraton Chongqing Hotel, the mid-range Zou Qu Ye Travel Hotel or the Fangorn Hostel, which has private rooms and dorms. 

When is the Best Time to Take the Yangtze River Cruise?

The best time to take a Yangtze river cruise is in May and June, skipping July’s sweltering heat and humidity. The next best season is August, September and October, to catch even milder temperatures. 

What to Expect On Board a Chinese Cruise Liner

A standard Yangtze River Cruise boat requires stepping out of your comfort zone for a few days.

                                    

You are travelling in China and they things differently to an average westerner. That includes the expectation of first-class service and extreme cleanliness. You won’t get this here since ‘clean’ by Chinese standards has a different meaning.

Our cabins were basic (if somewhat a little dirty) but bearable, and the toilet in the tiny bathroom was the squat kind with the showerhead hanging above it. The bar was simple and played host to China’s worst karaoke singers summoned for entertainment, and the food was overpriced and unexciting.

Preparing for a Chinese River Cruise

Stay Occupied

The basic set-up of any Chinese River Cruise, let alone a popular one like Yangtze River Cruise, can be difficult to deal with. Especially since you will spend a lot of time on the boat. Be sure to bring reading materials, Netflix downloads, snacks and other means to occupy yourself.

Make Your Fun

Long, life chats became the critical highlight in my cabin and beer was the evening saviour.

Pack Those Travel Essentials

For those who squeal at the sight of a slightly off-white bed sheet or old towels, bring a silk sleeping liner or a sleeping bag and microfibre travel towel. And pack the mosquito spray and hand sanitiser.