7 Days Shanghai and Yangtze River Cruise Tour

Day-by-day Itinerary

1. Day 1: Shanghai Arrival

   Welcome to our Shanghai and Yangtze River cruise tour of 7 days! Upon your arrival in Shanghai, the most prosperous city in China, your Chinese-speaking local driver will pick you up and transfer you to your well-selected hotel. The rest of the day is left for you to explore this metropolis on your own.

   You can experience the Shanghai Maglev train, the fastest land transportation in the world. The total length of the route is 30 kilometers, with a one-way travel time of only 8 minutes. The train is equipped with soft seats and a stable 5G commercial terminal inside the carriage, allowing passengers to engage in mobile office, video conferencing, high-definition video, interactive gaming and other services on the train. Running time: from 06:45 to 21:42.

   Meal: N/A

   Accommodation: in Shanghai

   

2. Day 2: Shanghai City Tour
   Discover the History and Prosperity of the Metropolis

   After breakfast, enjoy a guided Shanghai tour beginning at the Shanghai Museum. This museum is home to a collection of over 120,000 fine artifacts from all dynasties, featuring ancient bronzes, ceramics, calligraphy and paintings.

   Next, head to Yu Garden, a famous classical garden in Jiangnan (the south of the Yangtze River). Covering an area of 2 hectares, Yuyuan Garden has been in existence for more than 450 years. It was originally built by the owner as a place for his parents to enjoy a tranquil and happy time in their old age. Adjacent to the garden is the Yuyuan Bazaar. You can taste local snacks and appreciate some traditional handicrafts

   

   Then, transfer you to ascend the fourth tallest building in China - Shanghai World Financial Center. You will see the breathtaking skyline and a panoramic view of the city.

   Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street is one of Shanghai's calling cards and a must-see for tourists. Here you can experience the bustling commercial atmosphere, explore the rich history and culture, and sample the culinary delights. Last, take a stroll along the Bund, enjoying the architectural diversity and the night view of the Huangpu River. You can experience an optional activity - relaxing Huangpu River night cruise.

   Meal: Breakfast + Lunch

   Accommodation: in Shanghai

3. Day 3: Shanghai to Yichang Tour
   Explore Artistic Alleys & Creative Spaces

   After breakfast, you will visit the Jade Buddha Temple first, which is named after the Jade Buddha that is mainly enshrined in the temple. As one of the top ten attractions for Shanghai tours, it is described as a piece of pure land in the busy downtown. We mainly visit the Main Hall and the Jade Buddha Building. Next, head to Tianzifang, a creative industry park converted from a Shikumen complex, where studios, galleries and cafes of artists and designers are gathered. Strolling through the alleys of Tianzifang, you can enjoy various art exhibitions, handicrafts and creative decorations.

   

   After your China tour package in Shanghai, you'll be escorted to the airport for a flight to Yichang. Upon arrival, a local driver will meet you and take you to Yichang Three Gorges Center Cruise Terminal. From there, a bus arranged by the cruise company will transfer you to Maoping Port to board on the cruise ship.

   Meal: Breakfast + Lunch

   Accommodation: On board

4. Day 4: Yangtze River Cruise
   Marvel at the Largest Hydropower Station in the World

   In the morning, your Yangtze River cruise tour starts with a Tai Chi class on the deck. Tai Chi is a traditional Chinese martial arts program. People can exercise their bodies and hearts through slow, continuous movements and breathing exercises. Then, take a cultural lecture to understand the development of this area. Following that, enjoy a leisurely morning coffee while appreciating the beautiful scenery on both sides of the river.

   

   After lunch on board, you will be guided to marvel at the Three Gorges Dam. The world's largest water control project, the Dam, has a total length of 2308 meters and a height of 185 meters. Tanziling, with an altitude of 262.48 meters, is the best location to see the Three Gorges Dam. The Commemorating Park is located in the lower reaches of the Yangtze River where you can capture a panoramic view of the Three Gorges Dam at the park.

   Optional: If you want a deeper experience, you can choose to visit the Three Gorges Tribe in Xiling Gorge (for an additional fee). Here, you can gain an understanding of the life and customs of the Bai people. After that, return to the ship and enjoy dinner onboard.

   Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner

   Accommodation: On board

   

5. Day 5: Yangtze River Cruise
   Take a Smaller Boat to the Primitive Shennv Stream

   At dawn, the cruise ship passes through the magnificent Three Gorges. The Three Gorges include Qutang Gorge, Wu Gorge and Xiling Gorge, a highlight of your Yangtze River cruise tour.

   Along the way, you will see towering mountains and cliffs on both sides of the gorge. The steep and continuous peaks can usually rise about 700-800 meters above the river surface, which is quite spectacular. You will switch to a smaller boat to explore the primitive Shennv Stream. Shoot the sheer cliffs and lush greenery and experience the culture of the local Tujia ethnic minority. They are good at music and dance.

   

   Optional Activity:

   If you want a historical tour, consider a visit to White Emperor City. This scenic spot is famous for the story of Liu Bei entrusting his son to Zhuge Liang (a symbol of resourcefulness and wisdom in Chinese folklore). In addition, you can also learn about interesting things that happened in past dynasties in China. Due to its advantageous location, you can enjoy the magnificent scenery of Kuimen at the entrance of Qutang Gorge in White Emperor City, which is printed on RMB 10 banknote.

   Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner

   Accommodation: On board

6. Day 6: Yangtze River Cruise
   Learn Chinese Legends of Ghost and God

   After breakfast on board, take a guided shore excursion to Shibaozhai Pagoda. Known as one of the "Eight Strange Constructions of the World", the Shibaozhai is a wooden pagoda built on a cliff, dating back to the Qing Dynasty. It has 12 floors and is 56 meters high, without using a single nail. Climbing up to the top, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the rivers.

   If you are interested in ancient Chinese legends, you can choose to visit Fengdu Ghost City (for an additional fee). With a history of nearly 2000 years, this is one of the popular cultural landscapes on Yangtze River cruise tours. You will learn about many Chinese ghost and god legends. Every year on the third day of the third lunar month, the temple fair here holds unique folk performances.‌

   In the evening, enjoy a Captain's Farewell Party. It features music, dance and farewell toasts for celebrating the end of your Yangtze River cruise.

   Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner

   Accommodation: On board

   

7. Day 7: Departure from Chongqing

   Today is your final day of this 7 days Shanghai Yangtze River Cruise tour. The ship will anchor at Chaotianmen Dock at around 9:00. Check out and disembark.

   A driver will then escort you to the airport or railway station for your onward journey to your next destination. Thank you for choosing China Xian Tour. We are always here serving you and hope to see you again!

   Meal: Breakfast

   Accommodation: N/A