Chongqing and the Three Gorges: A 5-Day Itinerary

Few destinations in China blend urban energy with natural grandeur as dramatically as Chongqing and the Yangtze River’s Three Gorges. This 5-day itinerary balances fiery hotpot, neon-lit skylines, and serene river cruises—perfect for travelers craving both adventure and relaxation.

Day 1: Arrival & Chongqing’s Urban Pulse

Morning: Explore Ciqikou Ancient Town

Start your trip in Ciqikou, a Ming-era riverside village turned artsy enclave. Cobbled lanes wind past teahouses, souvenir stalls, and street-food vendors. Don’t miss:
- Chen Mahua (peanut candy) workshops
- Shu Embroidery demonstrations
- A Buddhist prayer session at Bao’en Temple

Afternoon: Hongya Cave & Jiefangbei

Head to Hongya Cave, an 11-story stilted complex glowing at night. Pro tips:
- Photograph the Qiansimen Bridge backdrop
- Sip local craft beer at Chongqing 1980s bar
- Try spicy crayfish at a riverside eatery

Next, dive into Jiefangbei, Chongqing’s Times Square. Highlights:
- The People’s Liberation Monument
- Luxury malls like WFC (with a 73rd-floor skydeck)

Evening: Hotpot Immersion

Dinner at Liuyishou Hotpot (or Xiaolongkan for daredevils). Order:
- Mala broth (numbing peppercorns + chili)
- Fresh duck blood and huanghou (yellow throat) fish

Day 2: Yangtze River Cruise Departure

Morning: Chongqing’s Hidden Gems

Before boarding, visit:
- E’ling Park for panoramic city views
- Three Gorges Museum (free entry; focus on the Yangtze Eco-Exhibit)

Afternoon: Board Your Cruise

Most ships depart from Chaotianmen Pier around 4 PM. Key choices:
- Luxury: Victoria Cruises (Western-style cabins)
- Budget: President Cruises (authentic Chinese vibe)

Evening: Sail Past Fengdu’s “Ghost City”

As dusk falls, spot the Ming Mountain temples—a sacred Taoist site shrouded in afterlife legends.

Day 3: Qutang & Wu Gorges

Sunrise: Qutang Gorge

Wake early for the 8-km Qutang Gorge, the shortest but most dramatic passage. Look for:
- Kui Men (a cliff-face poem carved in 1228)
- Ancient plank roads etched into cliffs

Midday: Wu Gorge & Shennong Stream

After breakfast, glide through Wu Gorge’s 44-km misty peaks. Optional:
- Sampan ride up Shennong Stream (watch for monkeys!)
- Visit Badong’s Tujia minority villages

Night: Crew Talent Show

Most ships host performances—expect face-changing opera (Bian Lian) and folk dances.

Day 4: Three Gorges Dam & Xiling Gorge

Morning: Ship Locks Experience

Arrive at the Three Gorges Dam by 7 AM. Must-dos:
- Tour the observation deck (bring your passport)
- Learn about ship locks lifting vessels 113 meters

Afternoon: Xiling Gorge Scenery

Sail through Xiling, the longest gorge (76 km). Highlights:
- Huangling Temple’s 1,200-year-old shrines
- Sandouping’s orange orchards

Evening: Farewell Banquet

Indulge in a captain’s dinner featuring:
- Steamed river fish
- Chongqing xiaomian (spicy noodles)

Day 5: Yichang Disembark & Flight Home

Morning: Yichang Highlights

Before your flight, squeeze in:
- China’s sturgeon aquarium (giant endangered fish)
- Sanxia Folk Customs Park (relics from submerged towns)

Travel Tip: Extend Your Trip

Add Zhangjiajie (3-hr train from Yichang) or Wuhan’s Yellow Crane Tower.

This itinerary packs Chongqing’s urban thrills and the Yangtze’s timeless beauty into five unforgettable days. Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, or nature lover, this journey delivers.