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Yangtze River Cruises

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A Journey China With Yangtze River Cruise in 11 days- Private Tour

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• In-depth Cultural
• Christmas & New Year
• Embark on a three-day cruise down the Yangtze River, one of the longest rivers in the world, and marvel at the stunning scenery of the gorges and cliffs.
• Visit ancient temples and villages along the Yangtze River.
• Explore the modern metropolis of Shanghai.

“The shore excursions were great, the local tour guides were excellent, great English and very knowledgable.” Claire Hammond, traveled in July 2021

• River Cruise
• Sail through the breathtaking Three Gorges
• Attend the Captain's Welcome and Farewell parties
• Embark on a 5-star Chinese boat at Yichang

“Great experience in general. Would recommend to friends and family!” Borislav Dimitrov, traveled in November 2019

• Explore Jade Emperor Sanctuary or Shibao Village
• Visit the impressive Three Gorges Dam
• Start your journey from Chongqing Wharf

“Cruising down the river is super relaxing. The guides are really friendly and knowledgeable.” Ashley Flanagan, traveled in October 2016

• See the Giant Panda and pioneers of panda research and conservation
• Cruise along the mighty Yangtze and through the stunning Three Gorges
• Visit the most famous wall in the world at its UNESCO listed sites

“Excellent choices of places to go. Easy way to get an excellent overview of China.” Glenys, traveled in October 2019

• Sightseeing
• Cruise the Yangtze River and Three Gorges
• Visit the Three Gorges Dam and cave dining
• Discover the Terracotta Army in Xi'an

• Climb the historic Mutianyu Great Wall
• Explore the Temple of Heaven in Beijing
• Discover Xi'an and the Terracotta Warriors

• Admire the haunting rows of Xi’an’s Terracotta Warriors
• Take in the impressive skylines of Shanghai
• Embark on a cruise of the Li River to rural Yangshuo

“This was a great customized vacation. Odynovo is an exceptional travel company.” GLORIA ANN BYLEDBAL, traveled in October 2019

• See the Terracotta Army in Xi'an
• Hike the Great Wall at Mutianyu
• Visit Chengdu's Giant Panda Base

“Logistics were handled very efficiently, and the tours could be flexibly managed based on personal preference.” Leah McFarland, traveled in October 2020

• Explore the majestic Forbidden City
• Discover the Terracotta Warriors
• Cruise along the picturesque Li River

• Visit the iconic Tiananmen Square in Beijing
• Hike the scenic Great Wall at Huanghuacheng
• Meet giant pandas at Chengdu's breeding center

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• 3 Nights Cruises
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Damei Cruises boasts three luxurious cruise ships featuring with both Chinese culture and modern elements. We are proud to offer you the unforgettable Yangtze River cruises with all the comfort and elegance.

Year Built: 2021 Tonnage: 16,000T Length: 492 ft (149.9 m) Beam: 76 ft (23.2 m) Decks: 7 Capacity: 650

Year Built: 2014 Tonnage: 9,530T Length: 390 ft (119 m) Beam: 62 ft (18.8 m) Decks: 6 Capacity: 400

Year Built: 2012 Tonnage: 7,800T Length: 305 ft (92.93 m) Beam: 62 ft (18.8 m) Decks: 6 Capacity: 234

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Yangtze Cruises

About the yangtze river.

A Yangtze cruise is the only way to experience the legendary Yangtze River. The heart of China and the third longest river in the world (after the Nile and Amazon), the 3,915-mile Yangtze plunges from the Tibetan plateau to flow through the exquisitely beautiful and dramatic Three Gorges region on its way to Shanghai and the East China Sea. Your river cruise will take you through a variety of beautiful areas in the region, giving you a closer look at the many faces of China. As will be explained on your cruise, the Yangtze has long supported—and sometimes threatened—the people who live along its banks. Find itineraries for our Yangtze river cruises.

Yangtze River cruise travelers will be happy to learn that the Yangtze’s Three Gorges region boasts some of the world’s most spectacular landscapes, with misty mountains, breathtaking gorges, lush green bamboo groves and serene riverbanks. Along its long and winding course lie some of China’s greatest cultural treasures and natural wonders—unforgettable destinations on any Yangtze cruise.

The great Yangtze River rises in the Tibet Plateau and flows east across the entire width of China until it empties into the East China Sea near Shanghai, one of the many destinations on your China cruise tour. It bisects the country and has historically marked the division between north and south China.

The most dramatic part of the River is the Three Gorges region; all Viking’s Yangtze cruise itineraries include a cruise along this 150-mile stretch. The three larger gorges on the Yangtze are the Qutang Gorge, the shortest and narrowest of the three with the most spectacular scenery; the Wu (Witches) Gorge, noted for its magnificent lush green mountains frequently shrouded in mist, and the Xiling Gorge, at 47 miles the longest of the three, with narrow, precipitous cliffs. In addition to the three large gorges, you will take a special cruise boat up the Daning through the Lesser Three Gorges. Narrower than the great gorges, the canyon scenery is even more dramatic, and Yangtze River cruise travelers can see a number of historical sites along the way like hanging coffins and the ancient plank road carved into the cliffside. The Three Gorges experience on your Yangtze cruise also includes a visit to the dramatic 12-story red Shibaozhai Temple perched alongside the Yangtze, and a tour of the immense Three Gorges Dam project site and museum.

The Three Gorges Dam, originally envisioned by China’s first president Sun Yat-sen, will help control flooding along the Yangtze River, which has been a major problem for people living nearby. The rainy season in China is May and June south of the Yangtze River and July and August north of it, creating a four-month flooding season. Disastrous flood seasons in 1911 killed around 100,000; in 1931, 145,000; in 1935, 142,000; and in 1954, 33,000—this last flood covered the city of Wuhan for over 3 months. In 1998, flooding resulted in several thousand deaths, 14 million left homeless and $24 billion in economic losses. Touring the Three Gorges Dam is one of the highlights of any Yangtze River cruise; because of the monumental scale and ambitious nature of the project. In addition to flood control, the Dam is expected to produce 22,500 MW of hydroelectric power and to facilitate shipping by raising the water level. The specifics of the dam will be furthered explained by your knowledgeable local guide as you cruise through the dam’s five-level locks and tour its museum.

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Yangtze River Cruise Guide

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Planning or coming to the Yangtze River? Or still wondering whether it is worthwhile to do a Yangtze River cruise? This useful Yangtze River cruise guide is just prepared for you!

As the longest river in China and the third-longest river in the world, the beautiful scenery of Yangtze River never disappoint you. The Three Gorges area, including Qutang Gorge, Wu Gorge, Xiling Gorge, is the highlight of the Yangtze River, enhanced by the picturesque views.

• Yangtze River Introduction
• Qutang Gorge , Wu Gorge , Xiling Gorge
• Three Gorges’ Mosts and Leasts
• The First Steamer to Pass the Three Gorges
• Kui Gate & Whitewashed Wall
• Yangtze River Cruise Map
• Yangtze River Wildlife & Animals
• Monkey Cries in Three Gorges
• Yangtze Three Gorges Savages
• Hanging Coffins in Three Gorges

Is it hard to make a decision among all these luxury Yangtze River cruise ships? Concerned about the reasons to take a Yangtze River cruise? Or looking for our professional recommendations? Don’t worry anymore, you will find the perfect answers here.

• Advantages of taking Yangtze Cruises
• Best Time to Cruise
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• Cruise Itineraries : 3 Nights & 4 Nights
• Cruise FAQs
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Looking for the transportation to the cruise port? The choose of cruise departing city is vital if the Yangtze River cruise is only part of your China tour, and the right option could make your trip more smooth and money-saving.

3 Nights Cruises from Chongqing to Yichang

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Shore Excursions

Expecting what to visit during your Yangtze River cruises? Your cruise ship will take you to the fascinating “Heart of China” – the Three Gorges, including Qutang Gorge, Wu Gorge, and Xiling Gorge, which are the highlights of the Yangtze River.

• Fengdu “Ghost City”
• Fengdu “Jade Emperor”
• Shibaozhai Pagoda
• White Emperor City
• Lesser Three Gorges
• Goddess Stream
• Shennong Stream
• Mt. Shuanggui & Xiaoguanshan Park
• Three Gorges Dam
• Three Gorges Dam Ship Lift
• Tribe of the Three Gorges
• Quyuan Temple
• Mt. Wuling Great Rift Valley
• “Romance of the Three Kingdoms” Show
• “Return to the Three Gorges” Show

Are you wondering what the cruise life like on a Yangtze River cruise ship? Besides the shore excursions daily, is there any other activies onboard? What about the meals onboard, and whether the laundry service is porovided?

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Leading Culture and Adventure Travel Blog by Becki Enright. Looking at the world with a different angle to change perceptions of misunderstood places, for the best in travel.

Adventure Travel , China

What to Expect on a Local Yangtze River Cruise in China

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links to handpicked partners, including tours, gear and booking sites. If you click through or buy something via one of them, I may receive a small commission. This is at no extra cost to you and allows this site to keep running.

What to expect of a three-day Yangtze River cruise – a means of overland local travel in China, which is not a luxury experience.

For three nights and two days, I journeyed down the world’s third-largest river, which houses a third of China’s population on a local Yangtze River Cruise.

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. 

What to Expect on a Yangtze River Cruise in China – Local not Luxury Travel

How Long is a Yangtze River Cruise?

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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.

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 Hote l, the mid-range Zou Qu Ye Travel Hotel or the Fangorn Hostel , which has private rooms and dorms. 

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. However, this can lead to some cloudy and foggy days, as I experienced in October. 

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

While I don’t mind roughing my way through a country on a budget, I tire of people who moan about something without researching beforehand, like some people on my boat.

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.

A standard class Yangtze River Cruise boat.

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.

Yangtze River Cruise boat cabin with bunk beds.

Regardless, we were there for the daily excursions and the views, not for the comfort. That should be at the forefront of your mind when undertaking this trip.

Preparing for a Chinese River Cruise

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.

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

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. 

While my view was clouded with a fine coating of Chinese smog (which slightly ruined the experience) the high cliff faces that jutted out, the rock faces that lined the coastline and the pretty scattered towns that emerged from nowhere created a sporadic picturesque scene. Although the scenery becomes somewhat repetitive as time goes on.

At times I was transfixed, but overall I can’t wax lyrical about a romantic and astoundingly scenic route. The sheer size of the river and its strong flowing current becomes the more dominant and fascinating view of all, and the fact you are travelling on a world-renowned river.

Serene parts of the Yangtze River in China.

The Yangtze River, shrouded in fog.

Life on the Yangtze River in China.

The daily organised stops and day trips from the boat provided me with the beauty and history fix I craved so it was worth jumping off when I could. Getting off at every stop on the Yangtze River Cruise isn’t compulsory, but I was often eager to stretch my legs and get out into the local towns.

All announcements are in Chinese with instrumental interludes, but timings for each excursion and later departures were listed on the board in the reception area. Do your research on each place or have a Lonely Planet at the ready since all cruise guides recite only in Chinese via annoyingly loud megaphones.

See the Yangtze River by wooden paddle boat.

Small boat excursions on a Yangtze River Cruise in the Three Gorges area.

Boarding a local hand-paddled boat, my group visited the Three Little Gorges where we got up close to the magnificent and enclosed green surroundings. We drifted peacefully through the murky waters, past the misty wetlands and waded under draw-bridges that connected to hidden hilltop villages.

Yangtze River Cruise views.

A bridge connecting the green Gorges on the Yangtze River.

We also docked the following day at Fengdu Ghost City, nicknamed the City of Ghosts not because it’s abandoned, but because of the spiritual legends that exist here.

More so as you leisurely ascent the Ming Shan mountain. The legends include walking along a corridor without looking behind you, balancing on one foot for three seconds while looking straight ahead at a Buddha in a temple and being able to walk over a small bridge in either five or ten steps without stumbling over. If you fail in any of them, you are a terrible person.

Hilltop pagaodas on the Yangtze River.

Visiting Fengdu ghost city.

Temple pagoda in Fengdu Ghost City in China.

The mighty Three Gorges Dam is at the Yichang end of the Yangtze River Cruise – the likely endpoint as many boats float downstream from Chongqing.

It’s impressive, even if you have to squint through the smog, but it’s one of those must-see things that you spend about five minutes marvelling at as it’s supposedly one of the largest hydroelectric power stations in the world.

Trying to see the Three Gorges Dam in China.

I particularly liked the description etched in stone: “The construction of the Three Gorges project has made the long-cherished dream of the Chinese people come true.” I’m sure the Chinese people have been dreaming of much more than that, but at least it produces energy, prevents disastrous flooding and allows for safe travel along its wide-reaching waters.

Overall, a Yangtze River Cruise feels more like a rite of passage than an exceptional experience.

Sadly, much of the river is polluted, and the locals on board don’t help—I saw a few happily throwing their rubbish into the water. Also, swaths of the Yangtze are off-limits due to preservation measures in place. Therefore, you don’t get on land that much.

You hardly see local life from the boat as the towns are hilltop high and out of reach. With much of China, substantial construction is also in constant view, including high-rises and massive half-built bridges.

Cruising towards the modern town constructions along the Yangtze River.

The Yangtze River Cruise may not be the most exciting and spectacular thing you ever do, but it’s certainly a relaxing break from the chaos of the mainland. If you love travelling on local transport, the cruise is a great way to travel through a stretch of China alongside its extensive train system and other overland routes.

The trip is a convenient source to get you from one major travel hub to another, whether going downstream from Chongqing to Yichang or the other way around.

You won’t be disappointed if you don’t raise your expectations too high. You will enjoy the peaceful surroundings and the time to recharge your batteries. Just don’t expect the service you receive from a cruise liner at home.

For more insight into travel in China, see my full list of articles here , including time spent in  Beijing , Shanghai and Dali. 

About Becki

Becki Enright is a British Travel Press Award-winning writer whose work focuses on changing perceptions about misunderstood aspects of destinations. Her writing combines storytelling with insight into the social, historical, political and economic factors that shape the country or place in relation to tourism. Becki has appeared live on Sky News and CNN and has contributed to high profile media including National Geographic, Time.com, Guardian online, New York Times, Grazia and Buzzfeed.

Bentley'sBigDayOut says

8 July 2016 at 8:20 am

I read that you booked this cruise as part of a larger tour. My question is if I can expect there to be other western people aboard the ship. I do not speak Mandarin and am traveling solo. I would hope to have a few people to chat with over the time of the cruise. Cheers!

9 July 2016 at 3:35 pm

It’s like anything – you take the change of who is around depending also what time of the year you go also. In this case, this is more of a ‘local’ way to cruise and therefore you will undoubtably be outnumbered. However, it may well be worth you checking with local travel agencies regarding bookings and how many tourists have booked or to go through a hostel which might have a separate trip. Good luck!

Amaury says

23 April 2016 at 1:00 pm

How to book this kind of boats? The people from the hostel we booked seem to offer only the luxury ones, and that is not our target. We arrive in few days in Chongqing.Any help? Thanks, Amaury

26 April 2016 at 2:41 pm

I would go out on the hunt for local tour operators and travel agents who can advise you on all the options. The hostels may be working on commission with one company only, which is obviously limiting.

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• Yangtze Cruise

Yellow Crane

First Navigation: 1997

Last Refurbished: 2007

Capacity: 153

Length: 91.30m

Width: 17.00m

Cabin Area: 16.40m 2

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The President No.2 cruiser, also called "Yellow Crane cruise", is a pre-5-star deluxe ship. She offers overseas tourists excellent onboard services between the cities of Yichang and Chongqing along the Yangtze River, which is rich in natural sceneries and historical sites. The President No.2 is 91.3 meters long and 16.4 meters wide with its speed of 32km per hour in still water. She has 2 presidential suites, 1 deluxe suite, 2 deluxe single rooms and 72 standard rooms. The cruise ship has all-around services and facilities with lobby, dinning halls, coffee house, a multi-functional hall, clinic, gym, chess and cards playing rooms, sauna and massage room, beauty salon, observation lounge to ensure passengers full enjoyment on the ship. It is equipped with the advanced satellite TV system and international satellite communication system, available for guests to enjoy in-cabin TV and stereo programs. To enjoy all the wonders, this cruise liner is the best choice.

Cruise Itinerary

Sailing schedule, facilities onboard, downstream: chongqing → yichang (4 days), downstream: yichang → chongqing (5 days), prices & sailing schedule table (2024), itinerary: chongqing - yichang, itinerary: yichang - chongqing.

The Prices above are for Standard Cabin only. If you want to book other room type(e.g.Deluxe Cabin, Suite), Please Contact Us directly.

Price includes

• 1. Accommodation: One bed in a standard twin cabin during the cruise, the pre-boarding included an overnight
• 2. Meals: All meals onboard as specified in the itinerary.
• 3. Land excursions: All the land excursions specific on the itinerary.
• 4. Service Charge & Government Taxes.

Price excludes:

• 1. Transfer: Between Airports / Railway station / Hotel and Dock.
• 2. Personal Expenses: All incidental charges, including room service, mini bar,laundry, and drinks and bar charges, tipping, etc.are not included.
• 3. Excess Baggage Charges.
• Satelite Telecom
• Money exchange
• Service Desk with Safety Deposit
• Central Air Conditioning
• Bar / Café
• Business Center
• Conference Room
• Health Clinic
• Beauty Salon
• Multipurpose Rooms
• Chinese and Western Dining Room

Each standard cabin is equipped with one bedroom and a private bathroom.

Cabin Facilities:

Active Window, TV, Mini Bar, Weight Balance, Life Jacket, Memo Pad, Tea Bags, Bath Foam, Bath Towel, Face Towel, Comb, Toothpaste, Tooth Mug, Toothbrush, Shoe Sponge, Telephone Directory, Mini Refrigerator, Hair Dryer, Cloth Line, Ball-Pen, Coffee Bags, Shampoo, Shower Cap, Bath Robe, Hand Towel, Soap, Slippers, Laundry Bag.

Standard Cabins

Deluxe Suite

Coffee room

Dining Room

Other recommended ships

Victoria Grace

Chongqing ↔ Yichang

President No. 1 Cruises

President Prime

Yangtze river (changjiang).

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• Yellow River Estuary Cruise

The Yellow River Cruise Boat

4 thoughts on “ The Yellow River Cruise Boat ”

Do you know how long it took to travel from the Bohai Sea up to Lake Eling/Lake Ngoring? In the old days before advances boats?

Hello voodooqueen126,

What does it mean by “In the old days before advances boats”?

i would like to take a yellow river cruise (not fancy) the week of june 20-27th. i live in hangzhou and can travel on these dates. how would i go about doing this? i am used to traveling in china so prefer chinese cruises vs. foreign. please advise, thanks, kay

The the Yellow River Estuary Wharf is about one hour’s drive to the northeast of Dongying City. Ticket selling time: 09:00 – 17:00 Cruising Time: 40 minutes Hello Rutherford,

At the moment, we don’t offer the travel service regarding the Yellow River cruise. Please contact the administration of the Yellow River Delta National Natural Reserve for more travel information:

Cruising distance: 20km round trip Ticket Price: CNY100

The Administration of The Yellow River Delta National Natural Reserve Add: 58 Yihe Road, Dongying City, Shandong Province 257091 Tel: 0546-8381988 Fax： 0546-8305828

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$2799—Save up to $3135 on 5-star China tour w/air & cruise

See China's iconic attractions in 5-star style and cruise down the breathtaking Yangtze River

Why We Love This Deal

This 14-day, 5-star China tour from Inspiring Vacations is packed with unforgettable experiences. You'll explore futuristic Shanghai and eclectic Beijing, where you'll visit Tiananmen Square, the Lama Temple, one of the largest Tibetan Buddhist Monasteries in the world, and you'll enjoy a traditional Chinese tea ceremony at a tea house. You'll step back in time as you encounter the UNESCO-listed Forbidden City, the Terracotta Warriors and walk the legendary Great Wall of China. The stand-out of this itinerary is the 4-night luxury cruise down the iconic Yangtze River, taking you to the unmissable Three Gorges Dam, Shnnong Stream and the Fengdu Snow Jade Cave. While cruising, you'll also encounter the fascinating cliff-side hanging coffins and the ancient Plank Road. This itinerary includes 5-star stays throughout, return international flights and a one-way flight from Xi’an to Yichang.

Starting at just $2799 per person,  Travelzoo members enjoy exclusive savings of $196 to $346 off Inspiring Vacations' usual prices. We also found that compared to similar China tour itineraries, this offer saves up to $3135 per person.

What's included

• Return international flights from Australia* to Shanghai, return from Chongqing 
• 8 nights in 5-star hotels throughout China
• Flight from Xi’an to Yichang
• Breakfast daily, 7 lunches, 5 dinners
• All onboard meals (excluding day one)
• Shore excursions to Three Gorges Dam, Shnnong Stream, Wu Gorge, Qutang Gorge and Fengdu Snow Jade Cave
• Airport transfers are included on the first and last day 
• Fully escorted by a dedicated tour leader 
• High-speed rail & dedicated coach transportation
• Shanghai – Sightseeing tour including The Bund and Xintiandi
• Suzhou – Garden and silk factory visit
• Sightseeing tour of Tiananmen Square and Lama Temple
• Forbidden City and Temple of Heaven visit
• Juyongguan Pass - Visit the Great Wall of China
• Walking tour of the Muslim Food Street
• Visit the Terracotta Warriors
• Explore the Small Wild Goose Pagoda

The featured $2799 price is valid for travel on 11 March and 13 & 27 May 2025. There are eight other departures from 8 April to 25 November 2025.

Book by 9 October 2024.

To find out more, see our partner's website.

Travelzoo tip:  If you'd like to spend a little longer exploring China, Travelzoo members also enjoy exclusive savings of $300 to $398 on this extended  21-day itinerary that's just $3399 per person . You'll visit all the above destinations, and then, post-cruise, you'll head to Chengdu to get up close to the adorable residents of the Chengdu Panda Conservation Centre. You'll also enjoy the stunning scenery of Yangshuo with a relaxing Li River cruise and discover the breathtaking Reed Flute Cave in Guilin.

Holiday snapshot

Australia - Shanghai - Suzhou - Beijing - Juyongguan Pass - Beijing - Xi’an - Yichang - Yangtze River Cruise - Chongqing - Australia

About the itinerary

Day 1: Welcome to Shanghai! You'll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel upon arrival.

Day 2: Begin your exploration of Shanghai with a visit to the historic Bund and the charming shikumen architecture of Xintiandi. Enjoy free time to explore or join optional afternoon activities, such as a Maglev train ride to Pudong or a Huangpu River cruise.

Day 3: Travel by bus to Suzhou to visit the UNESCO-listed Master of the Nets Garden, home to a Ming Dynasty-era cypress tree. Afterwards, tour a silk factory to learn about the ancient craft of silk making.

Day 4: Visit Tiananmen Square, the world's largest public square and a symbol of Chinese national pride. Next, explore the Lama Temple (Yonghe Temple), one of the largest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries and still an active place of worship. Enjoy a traditional Chinese tea ceremony at a local tea house. Spend the afternoon exploring Beijing on your own or join an optional tour arranged by your Tour Leader.

Day 5: Continue your Beijing tour with visits to two UNESCO sites: the Forbidden City, the vast imperial palace complex, and the Temple of Heaven, where emperors prayed for a good harvest. In the evening, dine out at your leisure or opt for a Peking duck banquet dinner.

Day 6: Take a 1.5-hour bus ride to the Great Wall, focusing on the well-preserved Juyongguan Pass. This section, built between 770 and 476 BC, features a closed loop and two watchtowers ideal for photos. Return to the hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.

Day 7: Board a high-speed train to Xi'an and, upon arrival, embark on a 2-3 hour walking tour of the Muslim Quarter's food street, sampling local delicacies and learning about the market's vibrant history. Enjoy an optional dumpling feast and Tang Dynasty performance in the evening, or explore Xi'an on your own.

Day 8: Visit Xi'an's main attraction, the Terracotta Warriors, a remarkable archaeological discovery with around 2,000 unique, life-size sculptures of Qin Shi Huang's armies. Next, explore the Small Wild Goose Pagoda, an ancient Buddhist site built in 652 that offers insight into Tang Dynasty architecture.

Day 9: Transfer to Xi'an airport for your flight to Yichang. Upon arrival, proceed to the embarkation point for your Yangtze River cruise. Enjoy scenic views as you travel, board your ship, settle into your accommodation, and join a welcome briefing to learn about the exciting itinerary and activities ahead.

Day 10: Enjoy your first shore excursion to the Three Gorges Dam Site, the largest and most expensive dam project globally. Explore this engineering marvel and its regional effects. In the evening, attend the Captain's Welcome Banquet, a culinary feast and a chance to connect with fellow travellers.

Day 11: Today, explore Shennong Stream and experience the stunning beauty of the Yangtze River, surrounded by the impressive Qutang and Wu gorges. Discover the ancient Plank Road, Mangling Stairway, and hanging coffins on limestone cliffs, remnants of the Tujia people's ancient traditions. The landscape highlights the region's remarkable natural wonders.

Day 12: Discover Snow Jade Cave in Fengdu, a newly found natural wonder with stunning stalactites. This underground labyrinth, formed 50,000 years ago, is the youngest karst cave in China.

Day 13: Your Yangtze Cruise and China tour conclude today. After a final morning on the river, transfer to the airport for your flight.

*Subject to availability and some restrictions may apply. All prices are in AUD and based on twin share.  Featured prices are based on departures from Melbourne & Sydney. Depart from Brisbane, Perth or Adelaide for an additional $300-$400 per person.

When You Can Go

11 March and 13 & 27 May 2025

Up to $3135 per person

How to Book

Call Inspiring Vacations at 1300 88 66 88 .

Please mention 'Travelzoo' at time of booking.

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• Expeditions

Press Release

Viking celebrates historic return to china, the viking yi dun explores china’s coast in first-of-its-kind voyage with international travelers.

LOS ANGELES (September 19, 2024) – Viking® ( www.viking.com ) (NYSE: VIK) today is celebrating its historic return to China as the Viking Yi Dun completed her first voyage from Shanghai to Hong Kong (Shenzhen). Viking’s new itineraries include a domestic sailing of China’s coast that highlights rarely visited destinations and ports to which only Viking has access—something that has never been offered for international visitors. The itineraries operate from September to November on the 930-guest Viking Yi Dun —formerly the Viking Sun —a sister ship featuring the same award-winning design and service as all other ocean ships in Viking’s fleet.

“With its ancient history and rich culture, China is a phenomenal destination that many curious travelers have not yet had the opportunity to experience,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman and CEO of Viking. “For 15 years, we introduced China to guests on our Yangtze River itineraries. Now, we are proud to offer these exclusive domestic sailings in China, and we look forward to welcoming people to this part of the world in the Viking way.”

The launch of Viking’s new China itineraries was commemorated in Shanghai, where a celebration was held with local officials. Guests were treated to cultural performances, both shoreside and on board the ship, offering an introduction to the country’s rich traditions. Given the historic nature of the inaugural voyage, the Viking Yi Dun was welcomed to port with fanfare from local partners and residents in Zhoushan, Dongtou, Pingtan, Xiamen and Shenzhen. And, at the end of the voyage, guests provided enthusiastic feedback about their time in China. Examples include:

• “To be able to have admission into this country that you hear so much about and see so many treasures and interact with people, in a guided way…it’s been extraordinary in every way. I’m going to go home and want to read and learn more. I want to come again.”   —Cheryl W.
• “It is the support of the Viking team that has enabled us to move through this door into China and experience it. The experience has been so wonderful both on and off [the ship]. I feel really privileged, and I’m going back more curious in many ways.” —Paul S.
• “What I’ve enjoyed most about this voyage is the people—not only our fellow travelers, but the people of China and the staff. I don’t think I’ve met nicer people in the entire world. I think the people of China have been so gracious and kind; it has really shown me the humanity of China.” —Marion D.
• “I’ve always been fascinated with China. It’s so easy to see a lot of interesting areas and places because [Viking] makes it so easy for you. All the experiences we’ve had have been wonderful. I will definitely recommend this trip to my friends.” —Donald M.

New Asia Voyages in 2025

Viking has also recently announced the company will expand the Asia program in 2025, with new itineraries that include Japan. Sailing September through November, Viking’s 2025 Asia voyages include:

• NEW Jewels of Japan & China (15 days; Beijing to Tokyo) — Embark on a 15-day voyage to discover the history, culture and cuisine of the Far East. Immerse yourself in the German heritage of Qingdao and marvel at Shanghai, a city that perfectly blends tradition and modernity. Admire the natural beauty of Jeju and Miyazaki and take in majestic views of Mt. Fuji in Shimizu. Overnight stays in vibrant Hiroshima and Osaka offer you more opportunities to explore the intriguing cities of the Far East.
• NEW   Classic China Discovery   (20 days; Hong Kong to Beijing) — Join us for a fully escorted sojourn as you deepen your understanding of China’s culture, customs and traditions. Explore classic treasures, tracing timeworn steps along the Great Wall of China, and marvel at Xi’an’s Terra Cotta Warriors, each distinctly carved. Admire unique architecture, presenting a world of ancient times and forward-thinking modernity, and immerse yourself in local life during calls to quaint locales, with meaningful encounters along the way.
• NEW Pearls of Japan & China (22 days; Tokyo to Beijing) — Set sail with Viking, delving into the vibrant history, multifaceted cultures and delectable cuisine of the Far East and beyond during a fully guided journey. Gaze upon majestic Mt. Fuji from Shimizu and enjoy overnight stays in Osaka and Hiroshima. Relax in the natural splendor of Miyazaki and Jeju and immerse yourself in the dynamic cityscape of Shanghai. Cap your memorable voyage discovering the legendary wonders of Tibet (Xizang), Xi’an and Beijing.
• NEW Gems of China & Japan (22 days; Beijing to Tokyo) — Join Viking for a fully guided exploration of the rich history, diverse cultures and enticing cuisine of the Far East and beyond. See the influence of German settlers in Qingdao and take in the bustling metropolis of Shanghai. Revel in the beauty of Jeju and Miyazaki and admire Mt. Fuji looming grandly over Shimizu. An included land package reveals the iconic treasures of Xi’an, Tibet (Xizang) and Chengdu, immersing you further into the captivating Eastern world.
• NEW 2025 Wonders of China (22 days; Beijing roundtrip) — Embark on a grand voyage to China on a fully guided sojourn. Be captivated by bustling Shanghai and delve into diverse landscapes, from the isles of Pingtan to modern Shenzhen, with overnight stays that allow you to fully explore. Immerse yourself in nature in the mountains of Tibet (Xizang) and view the impressive Potala Palace. Discover Beijing and visit one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, the Great Wall of China.
• NEW 2025 Best of China (22 days; Hong Kong to Beijing) — Immerse yourself in a fully guided cruisetour to see all the highlights China has to offer. Sail China’s scenic eastern coast and delve into the diverse cultures, cuisines and landscapes of this unique nation. View the iconic giant panda and journey into the Himalayas, where ancient traditions infuse every aspect of life in mountainous Tibet (Xizang). Admire the Terra Cotta Warriors and explore the Forbidden City and the Great Wall of China during your memorable sojourn.

The Viking Yi Dun

Dedicated specifically to exploring destinations in China, with an onboard experience that complements guests’ discoveries ashore, the Viking Yi Dun is a sister ship in Viking’s award-winning ocean fleet. Classified by Cruise Critic as “small ships,” Viking’s ocean vessels have a gross tonnage of 47,800 tons, with 465 staterooms that host 930 guests; the ships feature all veranda staterooms, Scandinavian design, light-filled public spaces and abundant al fresco dining options.

Media Assets

For more information about Viking, or for images and b-roll, please contact [email protected] .

About Viking

Viking (NYSE: VIK) was founded in 1997 and provides destination-focused journeys on rivers, oceans and lakes around the world. Designed for curious travelers with interests in science, history, culture and cuisine, Chairman Torstein Hagen often says Viking offers experiences for The Thinking Person™. Viking has more than 450 awards to its name, including being rated #1 for Rivers, #1 for Oceans and #1 for Expeditions by Condé Nast Traveler in the 2023 Readers’ Choice Awards. Viking is also rated a “World’s Best” for rivers, oceans and expeditions by Travel + Leisure . No other travel company has simultaneously received the same honors by both publications. For additional information, contact Viking at 1-800-2-VIKING (1-800-284-5464) or visit www.viking.com . For Viking’s award-winning enrichment channel, visit www.viking.tv .

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Why a Yangtze River Cruise is Special

Yangtze River , together with the Yellow River, is the cradle of Chinese civilization. Flowing from the holy Qinghai-Tibet Plateau to the dynamic Shanghai city, the Yangtze River is the mother river for the large area of southern China.

Taking a cruise through the most essential part of Yangtze from Chongqing to Yichang, is absolutely the best way of exploring the nature, history and culture of China first-hand! Without traffic jams and any hassle about accommodation, your Yangtze Three Gorges cruise can be a completely worry-free vacation .

Three Gorges

Three Gorges Dam

Shore Excursions

On Board Experience

The marvelous Three Gorges, the interesting shore excursions, the world largest Three Gorges Dam as well as various colorful on board experiences are recommended as the four highlights of a Yangtze cruise.

Whether you prefer to sail across the natural wonder, Three Gorges , to witness the world-largest dam- Three Gorges Dam , to take interesting shore excursions and experience the authentic lives of local people; or to attend various onboard activities on Chinese culture or just relax on the sun deck, you will be surprised by how much you will experience!

Come to experience the four highlights and enjoy a lifetime Yangtze cruise!

Keep Reading

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Recommended Tours

Top 3 tours chosen by most customers to explore in the best way. Check the detailed itinerary, or tailor your own trip now with us.

7 Days Shanghai & Yangtze Cruise Tour (Upstream)

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Beijing / Xian / Guilin / Yangshuo / Yangtze Cruise / Shanghai

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Yellow Water Cruise

Time Out says

A ten-minute drive from Cooinda Lodge, this incredible river cruise on the Yellow Water Billabong along the heritage-listed South Alligator River takes dreamy adventure to a whole new level. There are six departures per day, and the most popular times are sunrise and sunset, this being the best time to see wildlife. We recommend going at dawn when the air is soft and oceanic and all the animals are starting their day. See colossal crocs swimming through fields of pink water lilies, sea eagles diving for fish, and tiny bird lovers hopping across gigantic floating lily pads. With one of the dynamic and hilarious Yellow Water guides driving the boat, you can be confident that not a single animal fact, sneaky croc or colourful story will pass by unaccounted for.

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

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Xi stresses ecological protection, high-quality development in Yellow River Basin

LANZHOU, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- On the afternoon of September 12, Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, Chinese president, and chairman of the Central Military Commission, chaired a symposium in Lanzhou, Gansu Province on comprehensively promoting ecological protection and high-quality development in the Yellow River Basin and delivered an important speech. He emphasized the need to earnestly implement the guiding principles from the 20th CPC National Congress and the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, firmly grasp the strategic requirements of prioritizing protection and governance, use further comprehensive reform as a driving force, adhere to ecological priority and green development, implement water-based planning and prioritize water conservation, adapt measures to local conditions and implement targeted policies, plan comprehensively and promote coordination, so as to promote new progress in ecological protection across the basin, green transformation, high-quality development, and improvement in the people's livelihood, opening new grounds for ecological protection and high-quality development in the Yellow River Basin.

Cai Qi, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and director of the General Office of the CPC Central Committee, and Ding Xuexiang, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and vice premier of the State Council, attended the symposium.

At the symposium, Zheng Shanjie, head of the National Development and Reform Commission, Hu Changsheng, secretary of the CPC Gansu Provincial Committee, Zhao Yide, secretary of the CPC Shaanxi Provincial Committee, and Lou Yangsheng, secretary of the CPC Henan Provincial Committee, delivered speeches in turn, reporting on the progress of promoting ecological protection and high-quality development in the Yellow River Basin and offering opinions and suggestions. Leaders of other provincial-level regions attending the symposium submitted written speeches.

After listening to the speeches, Xi delivered an important speech. He pointed out that since the CPC Central Committee proposed the strategy for ecological protection and high-quality development in the Yellow River Basin, the ecological environment quality of the basin has steadily improved, water safety has been continuously strengthened, the foundation for energy and food security has been reinforced, and there have been many highlights in high-quality development. The ecological protection and high-quality development of the Yellow River Basin have reached a higher starting point. However, there are still many challenges that need to be further addressed.

Xi emphasized the need to continuously improve the holistic framework of ecological protection and collaboration in the Yellow River Basin and strengthen the national ecological security barrier. The approach to river governance should be more systematic, holistic, and coordinated, promoting the construction of an integrated ecological environment governance system for upstream and downstream, deeply implementing major projects for the protection and restoration of important ecosystems, and enhancing the stability of the basin's ecological system. It is necessary to strengthen the joint prevention and control of the "Three-North" (northern, northeastern, and northwestern) Shelterbelt Forest Program to enhance overall effectiveness. The comprehensive management of subsidence coal mining areas should be enhanced and new pathways for the transformation and development of resource-dependent regions should be actively explored. Progress in the fight against pollution should be made. The management of important tributaries and key lakes and reservoirs should be strengthened, and environmental infrastructure in river and lake areas should be improved. Xi urged efforts to enhance comprehensive air pollution control, accelerate the transformation to ultra-low emissions in key industries, and vigorously promote the clean and efficient use of coal. He called for efforts to implement legal regulations on "scattered, disorderly, and polluting" enterprises and effectively manage risk sources. He urged efforts to implement fiscal, tax, financial, investment, and pricing policies and standards to support green and low-carbon development. He called for efforts to improve the mechanism for realizing the value of ecological products and explore the establishment of a basin-wide, market-oriented, and diversified ecological protection compensation mechanism.

Xi stressed the need to implement the strictest water resource protection and utilization systems to improve the level of water resource conservation and intensive use. He urged efforts to strictly adhere to the upper limits of water resource development and utilization, refine measures for determining city planning, land use, population, and production based on water availability, establish a total water use control system covering the entire basin, and scientifically allocate water resources of the Yellow River and its tributaries. He urged efforts to strengthen groundwater level management and increase efforts to address groundwater over-extraction in the middle and lower reaches. He called for efforts to enhance the protection of drinking water sources, steadily optimize and adjust the water distribution plan of 1987, and actively explore and standardize the advancement of water rights trading and fully implement the water resource fee-to-tax reform. He urged efforts to implement water-saving actions and accelerate the construction of a water-saving society.

Xi emphasized the need to improve the disaster prevention and mitigation system and keep the Yellow River harnessed. He urged efforts to improve the water-sand regulation mechanism and enhance the regulation system centered around major water conservancy projects such as key reservoirs, adhere to unified prevention and control of the Yellow River and its tributaries, advance the governance of key river sections and hazardous areas, and ensure the safety of important dikes, reservoirs, and infrastructure. He called for coordinated efforts to advance major water conservancy projects of the Yellow River, strengthen disaster monitoring and warning, and enhance emergency response coordination. He called for ramping up efforts to identify and eliminate risks, strengthen public communication and education on disaster prevention and mitigation, and conduct regular and practical joint drills.

Xi highlighted the need to push for a full transition to a green development model and to build a modern industrial system with distinctive advantages. He urged sparing no effort in ensuring the production of grain and important agricultural products, strengthening the support of agricultural sci-tech and equipment, developing appropriately scaled agricultural operations and promoting specialty and advantageous agriculture based on local conditions. He stressed building high-standard farmland that can withstand both droughts and floods, securing results in the comprehensive transformation and utilization of saline-alkali land and improving the quality of arable land. He urged optimizing the layout of major project construction to minimize the impact on surface runoff and groundwater. He called for vigorous efforts to develop green and low-carbon economy, orderly advance the planning and construction of large wind and solar power bases and power transmission corridors, and accelerate the substitution of clean energy for fossil fuels in key industries. He stressed efforts to beef up industrial technological innovation capabilities, promote upgrades for energy conservation and carbon reduction and equipment renewal in key industries, strengthen strategic emerging industries and advanced manufacturing clusters, and develop new quality productive forces based on local conditions. He stressed encouraging universities and research institutions in the region to plan and establish technology transfer and industrialization service mechanisms to enhance the coordination of the industrial and innovation chains.

Xi emphasized the need to comprehensively deepen reform and expand opening up to boost high-quality development, deeply participate in the development of a unified national market, resolutely break various forms of local protectionism, deepen the reform of state-owned assets and enterprises, and fully implement policies to promote the development and growth of the private economy. He called for developing a regional economic layout and a territorial space system characterized by complementarity between different regions and territorial spaces, with megacities pursuing connotative development and cities along the Yellow River focusing on enhancing population concentration and industrial coordination. He stressed improving major cross-provincial infrastructure systems in transportation, energy and water conservancy, advancing the construction of new infrastructure, strengthening coordination with other regional strategies, promoting the coordinated development of free trade pilot zones, actively participating in high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, and creating greater development opportunities through high-level opening up.

Xi said that it is necessary to coordinate the new urbanization and rural revitalization, and to steadily improve people's well-being. He urged guiding the coordinated development of large, medium and small cities and small towns, adopting an intensive and compact layout, enhancing the industrial and population carrying capacity of county towns, and alleviating the pressure on ecologically fragile areas. He called for better playing the role of county towns in connecting cities and driving rural development, and taking the lead in achieving integrated urban-rural development within the county. He stressed promoting the construction of villages on a categorized basis, and building a beautiful and harmonious countryside that is desirable to live and work in. He stressed strengthening the inclusive, basic, and bottom-line protection of livelihoods. He urged giving prominence to employment, and said both urban industrial development and rural industrial cultivation should focus on expanding employment capacity. He stressed consolidating and expanding the achievements in poverty alleviation, and forestalling any large-scale relapse into poverty. He urged fully implementing the Party's major principles and policies for work on ethnic affairs in the new era, deepening the promotion of ethnic unity and progress, administering ethnic and religious affairs in accordance with the law, and forging a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation.

Xi emphasized that the Yellow River Basin is a crucial birthplace of the Chinese nation and Chinese civilization. Efforts should be made to protect and promote Yellow River culture, preserve historical and ethnic heritage, enhance the holistic and systematic protection of cultural and natural heritage, advance archaeological and other work, protect revolutionary culture resources, promote revolutionary culture, develop advanced socialist culture, fully tap the contemporary value of Yellow River culture, showcase the enterprising and tenacious spirit of the Chinese nation, integrate culture with tourism and build a Yellow River cultural tourism belt with international influence.

Xi pointed out that under the centralized and unified leadership of the CPC Central Committee, the Central Leading Group for Coordinated Regional Development should strengthen overall planning and guidance, relevant central departments should take the initiative and strengthen support, and the provincial and regional Party committees and governments along the Yellow River should assume primary responsibility, give full play to the initiative of all sectors of society, work together to perform the Yellow River Cantata of the new era, and make greater contributions to advancing Chinese modernization.

Xi emphasized that all regions and departments should earnestly implement the CPC Central Committee's economic work plans and major measures, focus on economic work for the rest of the third quarter as well as the fourth quarter, and strive to achieve the annual economic and social development goals.

Ding Xuexiang stated in his speech that the guiding principles of the 20th National Congress of the CPC, the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee and Xi's important speeches should be thoroughly studied and implemented. Ding called for adhering to ecological protection as a priority and green development, and continuously advancing the ecological protection and high-quality development of the Yellow River basin to new levels. He urged regarding well-coordinated environmental conservation as a key task, advancing environmental pollution control, and accelerating the construction of a solid and strong national ecological security barrier. He also called for carefully addressing the relationship between people and water resources, fully implementing the principle of planning urban development, land use, population, and production around water resources, and scientifically allocating water resources across the basin. He stressed leveraging respective comparative advantages based on functional zoning, enhancing industrial scientific and technological innovation capabilities, and developing new quality productive forces suited to local conditions. Ding also called for efforts in comprehensively deepening reform, better participating in the construction of a unified national market, and expanding the breadth and depth of both domestic and international opening up to inject strong impetus and vitality into ecological protection and high-quality development of the Yellow River basin.

He Lifeng, Wu Zhenglong, Mu Hong and Jiang Xinzhi attended the symposium, and officials from relevant central departments and provincial-level regions also participated.

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Yellow River (Huang He River): World's Muddiest River

The Yellow River (Huang He in Mandarin or Huang Ho in defunct Wade-Giles or Hwang Ho) is the second longest river in China (after the Yangtze), and fifth longest in the world, with a length of 5,464 km (3,395 miles).

The Yellow River originates on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and flows through nine provinces from west to east, flowing into Bohai Sea. It is the "mother river of China": its basin was the center of Chinese politics, economy, and culture for over 2,000 years.

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• Quick Facts
• Where Is the Yellow River

Where the Name "Yellow River" Came From

• Why Is the Yellow River Yellow

Yellow River Geography

• Yellow River Civilization
• Scenery along the Yellow River
• What Troubles is the Yellow River Facing

Quick Facts about the Yellow River

• Chinese name : 黄河 Huánghé /hwung-her/ 'Yellow River'
• Source : the Bayankala Mountains on the Plateau of Tibet in western central China
• Mouth : southern Bohai Sea
• Claims to fame : world's muddiest major river, "China's cradle (of civilization)"
• Length : 5,464 kilometers (3,398 miles)
• Provinces flowed through : Qinghai, Sichuan, Gansu, Ningxia, Inner Mongolia, Shaanxi, Shanxi, Henan, and Shandong
• Tributaries : Black River, White River, Tao River, Huangshui, Fen River, Luo River, Wei River…

Learn more on Yellow River Facts .

Where Is the Yellow River?

The Yellow River is in northern China , stretching west–east 1,900 km (1,180 miles), and meandering north–south 1,100 km (684 miles).

The source of the Yellow River is in the Bayankhara Mountain on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau in Qinghai Province. It flows through Qinghai, Sichuan, Gansu, Ningxia, Inner Mongolia, Shaanxi, Shanxi, Henan, and Shandong (provincial level regions) from west to east, and finally flows into the Bohai Sea, (roughly) in the shape of the Chinese character of "几".

The name "Yellow River" comes from the huge amounts of "yellow" loess sediment it carries , which are eroded when it flows through the Loess Plateau. It is the world's major river with the most excessive siltation.

More than two thousand years ago, the Yellow River was only called 'The River' or 'Big River' without the 'Yellow'. At that time, the water of the Yellow River was very clear.

From the Western Han Dynasty (206 BC – 9 AD), the silt in the river increased, so many people called it Zhuo He (Muddy River) or 'Yellow River'. But the name was not widely used until the Tang (618–907) and Song (960–1279) dynasties.

Why Is the Yellow River Yellow?

The Yellow River is yellow because of the great amount of yellow silt suspended in the river . The yellow silt (loess) mainly comes from China's Loess Plateau.

The destruction of forests has turned many grasslands and woodlands into deserts, with the result that the thick loess is exposed. Loess is very loose fine soil, and after long-term erosion by runoff and river water, sediment is carried into the Yellow River, turning its water yellow.

It can be said that this is the price of development from a hunter-gatherer civilization to a farming civilization with a growing population.

The Yellow River carries an average of 1.6 billion tons of sediment a year . If the sediment were built into a wall one meter wide and one meter high, it would be three times as long as the distance between the Earth and the moon and 27 times as long as the equator.

The Yellow River's basin area is 752,443 km 2 (290,520 mi 2 ), containing about 200,000 km 2 (77,000 mi 2 ) of arable land and over 100 million people.

The average flow rate of the Yellow River is 1,800 cubic meters per second. Its biggest tributary is the Wei River, which flows past Xi'an.

The Upper Reaches of the Yellow River

The Yellow River's upper reaches, about 3,500 km (2,000 mi), include the upland swamps and pastures of the Tibetan Plateau in Qinghai Province and gorges in foothill country up until it leaves the valleys for the Gobi Desert in Inner Mongolia .

In Qinghai Province, the Yellow River mostly flows over the "roof of the world" plateau of three or four kilometers (2 miles) high. By its banks are mostly lakes, marshes, and grassy meadows, and its water is relatively clear .

In the section from Qinghai to Ningxia, the Yellow River flows through steep valleys and cliffs. The river is fast flowing and treacherous. Most of the Huang He's hydropower stations are built on this section of the river.

When the Yellow River navigates Inner Mongolia, it mostly crosses grassy plains.

The Middle Reaches

The Yellow River's middle reaches are about 1,200 km (700 mi) long from Inner Mongolia to Zhengzhou, negotiating plains and hills on China's Loess Plateau region, where huge amounts of sediment are eroded and suspended .

There can be found the yellowest (the most sedimented) waterfall in the world — Hukou ('Kettle's Mouth') Waterfall.

The Lower Reaches

The Yellow River's lower reaches, from Zhengzhou to the Bohai Sea, stretch about 800 km (500 mi). Due to sediment accumulation, the riverbed is several meters above the cities and farmlands around it, forming the world-famous " above ground river "!

The Yellow River carries 1.6 billion tons of sediment each year, 1.2 billion tons of which flow into the sea and 400 million tons of which remain in the lower reaches of the Yellow River, forming an alluvial plain conducive to farming.

Read more on Yellow River Geography .

Yellow River Civilization — China's Cradle

Almost all Chinese agree that the Yellow River Basin was the cradle of Chinese civilization. A great amount of archeological information proves that the Yellow River was the most prosperous region in early Chinese history (2100–1046 BC).

The Yellow River is not just an iconic river of China, but also the symbol of the Chinese spirit : bearing burdens (its sedimentation), adaptation (its course changes), and perseverance (its continual flow).

For thousands of years, the Yellow River has been admired by great poets, artists, and common people. Many poems and songs tell of the spirit of the Yellow River and Chinese people, including Defend the Yellow River (保卫黄河), and Ode to The Yellow River (黄河颂).

Learn more on Yellow River Civilization .

The Yellow River Floods — China's Sorrow

The Yellow River is also called "China's Sorrow". Each year, over 1.6 billion tons of soil flow into the Yellow River, which causes the continual rise and shift of its riverbed. Before damming, it was extremely prone to flooding, and caused millions of deaths , including the deadliest disaster in human history.

Between 608 BC and 1938 AD, the Yellow River changed course 26 times, and flooded over 1,500 times !

What to See along the Yellow River?

Along the Yellow River, there are numerous historical and ancient attractions and stunning scenery.

Sanjiangyuan Natural Reserve

Sanjiangyuan ('Three Rivers' Origins') Natural Reserve is in southern Qinghai. The three rivers are the Yellow River, the Yangtze River , and the Lancang River (which becomes the Mekong in SE Asia).

It enjoys the moniker 'China's Water Tower' and a richness of landscapes including mountains, glaciers, lakes, and valleys. See 5-Day Northern Sichuan Tour .

Tangke Town

Tangke Town lies on the border of Gansu and Sichuan provinces. There you can see the First Bend of Yellow River. The Yellow River is surrounded by a vast prairie .

Endless wetlands are dotted with beautiful lakes . An abundance of birds fly over the rose willows there. See 6-Day Xiahe, Langmusi, and Zhagana Tour .

Hukou Waterfall

Hukou Waterfall is the second largest waterfall in China and the muddiest large waterfall in the world.

The water upstream of the falls is 300 meters wide and is compressed to a width of 20–30 meters over a distance of less than 500 meters. The Yellow River pours 1,000 cubic meters per second over a steep cliff more than 20 meters (65 feet) high.

Qinghai Lake

Qinghai Lake is China's biggest lake and one of the most beautiful lakes. The pure blue lake is surrounded by fields of rape flowers in spring. Beyond are snow-capped mountains as far as you can see and white clouds in the sky. Qinghai Lake is also a sacred lake for Tibetans and Tibetan Buddhists. By traveling to Qinghai Lake, you can get close to the devoted Tibetans and appreciate Tibetan culture. See 8-Day Qinghai Lake, Zhangye, and Dunhuang Tour .

Shapotou Desert

Shapotou in Zhongwei has "the first Yellow River ropeway" across the Yellow River and has the experience of sheepskin rafting — the oldest ferry method for crossing the river.

There are all kinds of exciting activities available, including sand sledding, camel trekking, dune buggying, and more. You can also explore further northwest into the Tengger Desert, the fourth largest desert in China.

Read more on Yellow River Attractions .

What Troubles is the Yellow River Facing?

The first one is drought . With global warming leading to decrease in rainfall in the Yellow River Basin, and increasing water demands for irrigation, industry, etc., the Yellow River has been used up by its lower reaches since 1972, when it ran dry for the first time in recorded history. The longest dry period lasted 226 days in 1997.

Drought in the Yellow River region has brought serious challenges to agricultural development and the cities near the Yellow River.

The second one is pollution . The Yellow River has become so polluted in some reaches that it is unfit for agricultural and industrial use, because of the huge increase in factory and sewage discharges from China's fast-expanding cities.

China's government is taking measures to deal with Yellow River pollution, such as setting limits on the volume of major pollutants discharged into rivers and lakes and controlling overuse of water resources.

Touring the Cities along the Yellow River

Along the Yellow River, there are many worthwhile attractions and many tourist cities, such as Lanzhou , Zhongwei, Yinchuan , Baotou, Yan'an, Luoyang , Zhengzhou , and Kaifeng . See these popular itineraries for inspiration:

• 8-Day Qinghai Lake, Zhangye, and Dunhuang Tour
• 3-Day Zhongwei Desert Tour with Winery Experience
• 6-Day Xiahe, Langmusi, and Zhagana Tour

Or contact us to create a trip based on your needs.

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• Going Green

Green embankments help conserve Yellow River

Constructions control sediment, allow natural environment to thrive.

Editor's note: As protection of the planet's flora, fauna and resources becomes increasingly important, China Daily is publishing a series of stories to illustrate the country's commitment to safeguarding the natural world.

Living near the meandering watercourse of the Jiaqu, a tributary of the Yellow River, residents in Pema Lhade village in Aba county, Sichuan province, used to suffer a lot during the rainy season.

When the watercourse swelled with rainwater, floods would often erode its earthen banks, leading to substantial breaches. Consequently, the village area would swiftly become a vast expanse of water, hindering residents' ability to transport cattle or milk to the market, villager Tsetanpal said.

However, that scenario has become a thing of the past after a 5-kilometer embankment was built in 2010. What made the embankment special, however, was that it was built without the use of concrete.

Tsetanpal, 39, said he was relieved to finally be rid of the havoc caused by flooding.

As the country forges ahead with ecological protection and high-quality development in the Yellow River Basin, the "ecological embankment" built in Pema Lhade stands as an example of a series of environmentally friendly approaches governments have used to help conserve the mother river of the Chinese nation.

The country's central leadership has attached great importance to the conservation of the Yellow River.

President Xi Jinping has chaired three symposiums on the ecological protection and high-quality development of the Yellow River, with the first one taking place in Zhengzhou, capital of Henan province, on Sept 18, 2019. Wednesday marked its five-year anniversary.

"The protection of the Yellow River is critical to the great rejuvenation and sustainable development of the Chinese nation," Xi said, adding that it is a major national strategy.

In another symposium in Shandong provincial capital Jinan in 2021, Xi stressed that provincial-level regions along the Yellow River should stick to putting the environment first and being committed to green development.

In the third such meeting, which was held on Thursday in Gansu provincial capital Lanzhou, Xi called for implementing the strictest system for water resources protection and utilization.

It is important to promote a comprehensive green transformation of the development mode in the basin and to build a modern industrial system with distinctive advantages, the president said.

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