Yangtze Cruises 8 to 13 Days 2023/2024

Yangtze Travel Guide

Yangtze River Cruises Things To Do

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  Chongqing Zoo

  The Chongqing Zoo opened in 1955 and covers a total of 111 acres. One of the things that sets this zoo apart from others is that while it is a place to visit and view animals, the zoo also promotes the protection of wild animals and supports research as well. Throughout the zoo, guests will find many types of animals to look at from birds and fish to giraffes and pandas. Within the zoo, there is an outdoor stage area, restaurants to eat at, a skating area, and a park.   

  Best Time To Visit

  Guests can visit any time of the year within the operating hours of the zoo. Guests should know that animals may not be as active in the winter. Also, it is recommended that guests do not visit the zoo while it is raining out.   

   

  You Should Know

  Feeding the animals is strictly prohibited. If you wear bright colors, the zoo recommends that you do not make loud noises or randomly approach the wild animals.
• 
  Three Gorges Dam

  The Three Gorges Dam is located on the Yangtze River and construction of it originally started in 1994. This project was considered the largest in all of China and the dam was finished in 2006. The dam itself is 7,660 feet in length and was a maximum height of about 607 feet. Being the largest hydroelectric dam in the world, many guests flock to the area to see it. Visitors can take tours and learn more about the dam itself, how it is powered, and its use.   

  Best Time To Visit

  The best time to travel to the dam is during either the spring or fall. The reason is because summers and winters in Yichang are not as pleasant as the other months. For the best experience, you want to be comfortable when you visit.   

   

  You Should Know

  To view the water being discharged from the dam, you want to visit the dam during rainy season, which is in the summer.  
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  Lesser Three Gorges

  The Lesser Three Gorges are considered to be three valleys and are one of the popular destination spots on a Yangtze River Cruise. Guests can take boats through the river and look at the landscape around them. The gorges are filled with steep hillsides, wildlife, and cliffs to observe.   

  Best Time To Visit

  It is best to visit the Lesser Three Gorges in the spring and autumn months due to the nice weather.   

   

  You Should Know

  You can see many wildlife while on a tour including monkeys. Shore excursions are available for purchase  
• 
  Fengdu

  Fengdu is a smaller city that is located on the Yangtze River and it is well known for its Ghost City. This city is a great way to explore the local area and take in some history while you are at it. The ghost culture of the city has made this area a popular attraction. While many people come for the possibility of a ghost sighting, there are nice parks and areas to explore while here including the Tao and Buddha temples.   

  Best Time To Visit

  You can visit Fengdu anytime between April until November. The city is said to have mild climates and the weather is welcoming to those who do visit.    

   

  You Should Know

  Depending on when you visit, the locals often hold magic and spirit shows.  
• 
  Shibaozhai

  The word Shibaozhai means stone treasure fortress and is another popular attraction along the Yangtze River. There is a legend that follows the fortress that says a goddess from a Chinese myth is the one who left behind the stone. The tower sits 12 stories high, but it is said that it is not difficult to climb due to the time it will take you to look around at the paintings and artwork inside. Guests can climb the tower and look around at the architecture and take in the views.   

  Best Time To Visit

  The best time to travel is from April through September due to the climate.   

   

  You Should Know

  The stairs outside the temple are steep. It is recommended that those individuals who do not feel comfortable with steep stairs take the inside stairs, which are more comfortable.  
• 
  Yellow Crane Tower

  Built in the 1980s, the Yellow Crane Tower is a must-see attraction. Visitors who come to the location will be pleased with what the tower has to offer. Inside, each floor has its own theme and exhibit, which helps to keep guests entertained. On the wall inside, guests will find a 30-foot long and 20-foot wide porcelain picture which shows cranes, clouds, and rivers. If you make it up to the top of the tower, you will be able to take in some spectacular views.   

  Best Time To Visit

  The Yellow Crane Tower is open March through November but the best time to see it is in the fall and spring months due to the weather.   

   

  You Should Know

  There is a souvenir shop on the site and a park outside, which allows you to relax and take in the scenery. You should avoid holidays if you do not want to be around large crowds.  
• 
  Hongcun Ancient Village

  Hongcun is an ancient village in China that holds a lot of history and appears in many different paintings. The area is beautiful, quiet, and considered peaceful and that is why many will head here. While visiting the city, there are some activities and places to see such as the crescent-shaped moon pond, south lake, and the Chengzhi Hall. Some of the most popular activities that draw people here are the hot springs, hiking, and opportunities for excellent photos.   

  Best Time To Visit

  Visit during the spring and fall months, as the weather permits a lot of outdoor activity. In general, the area is open to visitors from 7:30 am standard time until 5:30 pm standard time.   

   

  You Should Know

  It is recommended that guests plan to spend about a half-day here. It does cost a fee to enter and the pass is valid for three days.
• 
  Hangzhou National Silk Museum

  The Hangzhou National Silk Museum is a unique experience located on the Yangtze River. Within the walls of the museum are textiles from both the Tang and Han dynasties. Guests who travel to this museum will be able to explore historical silk relics and learn more about the culture and history of silk. The museum has three buildings associated with it, which include the first building which is the museum itself, the second building which introduces you to silk worms, and the third building which talks about how silk was made early on.   

  Best Time To Visit

  Visitors can stop by the museum throughout the year within the operating hours of the museum. While guests can visit any time, spring and fall are usually the recommended times due to ideal weather conditions.   

   

  You Should Know

  The museum is free to visit. There is a coffee shop on site for guests to relax and enjoy themselves.

Yangtze River Cruise Packages

• Spring/Summer

  Spring is considered March, April, and May and is the best time to visit due to the climate. You can expect mild weather during these months. The summer months are July, August, and September and are considered hot and humid. There are some cities that are considered furnaces because they become so hot. Chongqing is considered one of the three furnaces within China, which means that it gets really hot and can be quite foggy too. Wuhan is also a furnace city and experiences very hot summers, which can make it uncomfortable to explore the cities outdoors. If you do visit in the summer, it is vital that you keep yourself hydrated.

• Fall/Winter

  Fall is another good season to visit the area and these months include September until November. The weather is nice, cool, and can be breezy. There may be days that you need a light jacket, but overall, the climate is ideal. Winter can be quite cold, and the water levels of the river shrink back a bit during this time as well. If you are someone who can bear the cold weather, the area is beautiful and breathtaking. 

Yangtze River Cruises Frequently Asked Questions

• What is a Cruise to Yangtze River?

  A cruise to Yangtze River is all-inclusive and one of the most affordable ways for you to experience several different excursions and cities along the way. The local hot spots are not only breathtaking but fun and can keep you entertained all day. A cruise to the Yangtze River is a wonderful way for you to explore a new place, meet the locals, and enjoy the culture around you.

• What Comes with a Yangtze River Cruise?

  A Yangtze River Cruise is all-inclusive, which means that everything is included for you. You can expect to receive food, simple drinks, activities on the boat, and room and board for no additional fee. These things are all included in the cost of your vacation package. Alcoholic drinks and excursions are available for a nominal fee. 

• How Much Does a Yangtze River Cruise Cost?

  The cost to go on a Yangtze River Cruise will vary depending on the length of cruise you want, the destinations, and any excursions or amenities you want to add. In general, you can expect the price of your vacation package to cost anywhere from $5,600 to $8,800 per person. Remember, this is an all-inclusive cruise, which makes the price more than affordable. 

• What is the Best Cruise to Take to Yangtze River?

  The best cruise to take to Yangtze River will vary depending on what your needs are, the length you want your cruise to be, additional amenities, and the cost. As you do look through your options, you will be able to narrow down your choices. If you need any assistance, do not hesitate to reach out to our team today!