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River Cruises in China

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China Travel Guide

River Cruises in China

From the iconic Li River to the mighty Yangtze — China's river cruises offer some of the world's most spectacular natural and historical scenery.

China's river journeys are distinct from ocean cruising — they're immersive, landscape-focused, and often cultural. The Li River cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo is one of the world's most photographed boat journeys. The Yangtze passes through three gorges carved over millions of years.

Li River — Guilin to Yangshuo

Duration: 4–5 hours (83km, one-way)
Scenery: karst pinnacles rising from flat water — unmistakeable
Vessels: state cruise boats (book in advance) or private craft
Best months: April–October (water level sufficient)
Highlights: Elephant Trunk Hill, Nine Horse Fresco Hill, Yellow Cloth Shoal
After arrival: Yangshuo's West Street, cycling to Moon Hill

Yangtze River — Three Gorges

Qutang, Wu, and Xiling Gorges — centuries of cultural history
Cruise duration: 3–5 days Chongqing to Yichang (or reverse)
Operators: Yangtze Gold, Victoria Cruises, Sanctuary Retreats (luxury)
Lesser Three Gorges excursion: smaller boat, dramatic scenery
Three Gorges Dam: largest hydroelectric structure in the world
Best months: September–October and April–May

Other Notable Routes

Grand Canal cruise: Suzhou to Hangzhou (UNESCO heritage waterway)
Lijiang River tributaries: private boat, fewer tourists
West Lake, Hangzhou: electric boat for evening cruising
Huangpu River, Shanghai: Bund by night river cruise
Guilin night river: neon-lit karst reflections, theatrical
Yulong River: bamboo raft, slower and more peaceful than Li

Private Charter Option

ChinaTourly can arrange private boat charters for the Li River and select Yangtze tributaries — allowing you to depart at your own time, stop wherever you choose, and carry a guide on board. The experience is incomparably better than a public cruise.