CONTACT USGrandest China Rivers
If you’re seeking a leisurely exploration of China’s natural beauty, this tour is an ideal choice.
Experience the contrasting landscapes of China’s two grandest rivers: the Yangtze and the Li River. The former, robust and powerful, mirrors the strength of a man, while the latter, charming and enchanting, reflects a woman’s grace. Absorb the rustic beauty of the Li River’s hills and the awe-inspiring force of the Yangtze.
Before embarking on the Yangtze River cruise, allocate 1.5 days to explore Chongqing City’s highlights, including the Ciqikou Ancient Town and Hongya Cave.
Our expert private tour team is dedicated to crafting a comfortable and delightful journey across the two rivers for you.
Tour Map
Tour ‘Wow’ Points
Enjoy the Epitome of Chinese Landscape Paintings
Experience the world-famous karst formations of Guilin — Chinese painters’ classic muse. Cruising along the Li River is just like sailing in a painting gallery.
Explore the Most Beautiful Countryside in China
Enjoy a bike ride in the idyllic Yangshuo countryside with the peaceful rivers, rice paddies, and limestone hills.
Explore Chongqing’s Past and Present in Multiple Dimensions
From ancient towns and old streets to a museum and modern urban developments, immerse yourself in the evolution of Chongqing’s cityscape.
Witness the Magnificent Gorges and Super Projects of China
Tour the once-treacherous-and-taxing-but-now-tamed-and-tranquil middle reaches of the Yangtze River. Admire the multi-record-breaking Three Gorges Dam.
Itinerary Quick Look
Here is a suggested itinerary. We are happy to customize a tour according to your interests.
Day 1Guilin Arrival
On your arrival in Guilin, your personal guide and driver will meet you at the airport.
Explore an amazing limestone cave in the afternoon. Enjoy the amazing stalactite and stalagmite shapes dissolved by water for millions of years.
Take a picture of the landmark of Guilin, Elephant Trunk Hill, before checking into your hotel on the shore of a pretty lake with two pagodas on it.
Day 2Guilin | Li River Cruise to Yangshuo
Enjoy a 4-hour cruise on the Li to Yangshuo. The limestone hills, bamboo trees, water buffalos, and fishermen on their rafts will make you feel like you are sailing in a traditional Chinese painting.
Check in to your hotel in the peaceful countryside of Yangshuo after the cruise. Your guide will show you around by bike to enjoy the beautiful Yulong River and the rice paddies with backed by the charming limestone hills.
Day 3Guilin to Chongqing | Half Day in Chongqing
Take the morning bullet train from Guilin to Chongqing (approximately 4.5 hours). Upon arrival, your local Chongqing guide will meet you at the train station.
Climb the steps of the Shancheng Alley and encounter numerous historical sites such as the old city walls and foreign consulates. A unique feature of this trail is the cliff-side walkway that offers panoramic views of the Yangtze River and a glimpse into the lives of local residents.
Visit one of Chongqing’s current hot spots, the magical Kuixing Building. When you think you’re on the first floor, a glance downward reveals you’re actually on the 22nd floor.
End your day at Hongya Cave, celebrated for its stunning night views. This beautiful, historically inspired building is adorned with colorful lights after dark, offering a sight rarely seen elsewhere.
Day 4Chongqing | History of Chongqing
Begin your day in the well-preserved Ciqikou Ancient Town, strolling through streets lined with buildings of Ming and Qing Dynasty architectural styles. Indulge in some shopping and taste local snacks.
Next, marvel at the unique sight of a light rail train passing through a building at Liziba Station, then visit the Great Hall of the People, a landmark of Chongqing that blends traditional Chinese palace architecture with Western styles.
Before embarking on the Three Gorges cruise, visit the Three Gorges Museum to deepen your understanding of the natural ecology, cultural history of the Three Gorges region, and the impressive evolution of the Three Gorges Project from its initial conception to completion.
Day 5Yangtze Cruise | Ghost City and Gorges Gateway
Take a shore excursion to Fengdu Ghost City in the morning. There are many buildings built according to traditional Chinese geomancy and statues and artwork reflecting Chinese people’s imaginations of the netherworld.
Enjoy the cultural activities on the ship in the afternoon and a night show — War Fires of the Three Kingdoms after dinner.
Day 6Yangtze Cruise | Majestic and Intimate Gorges
If you are interested in Chinese calligraphy and history, the optional excursion to White Emperor City is a nice choice. There you can see the scenery that is printed on the back of a 10-yuan banknote and appreciate stones with calligraphy inscriptions dating back centuries.
Cruise through the spectacular Qutang Gorge and the magnificent Wu Gorge at noon. In the afternoon, enjoy a shore excursion to Shennv Stream. There, you will take a boat to discover this tributary of the Yangtze River, with its clear water running southwards through deep and narrow gorges.
Enjoy the Crew Cabaret and Talent Show after dinner on the ship.
Day 7Yangtze Cruise Meets Colossal Dam | Yichang Departure
Disembark in the morning, and then join the shore excursion to the Three Gorges Dam. Getting access to a platform by the dam, you will enjoy the magnificent scenery of this super project and the Yangtze River.
You will be transferred to the Yichang Cruise Terminal in Yichang city. Your private guide and driver will wait for you there and will transfer you to the airport or railway station.
Note: The shore excursions in the itinerary are arranged by Century Cruises. They could vary depending on the cruise you choose.
Hotel Selection
—the Icing on the Cake
Boutique hotels are recommended to enrich your travel experience.
