What Are the Shore Excursions on a Three Gorges Cruise?

A Three Gorges cruise itinerary typically combines natural wonders, cultural heritage, and modern engineering marvels. Below are common stops (varies by cruise route):

I. Iconic Natural & Cultural Sites

1. Fengdu Ghost City
   • Highlights: A historic site famed for its "Underworld" folklore. Offers panoramic views of the Yangtze River.
   • Access: Hike or take a cable car up the hill. Some cruises include guided shore tours.
2. Baidicheng (White Emperor City, Fengjie, Chongqing)
   • Highlights: Inspiration for the poetic line "Departing Baidicheng amid dawn’s rosy clouds." A Three Kingdoms-era relic overlooking Kuimen Gate, the entrance to Qutang Gorge.
   • Must-see: Kuimen Gate featured on the 10 RMB banknote (5th edition).
3. Lesser Three Gorges / Shennong Stream
   • Highlights: Transfer to smaller boats to explore tributary gorges with emerald waters, hanging coffins, and wild macaques.
   • Note: Routes may alternate between Lesser Three Gorges (Wushan) and Shennong Stream (Badong) depending on water levels.
4. Wu Gorge & Goddess Peak
   • Experience: Cruise slowly through the gorge while admiring the Twelve Peaks from the deck. Onboard guides share myths about the Goddess Peak.
5. Three Gorges Dam (Yichang, Hubei)
   • Highlights: The world’s largest hydroelectric project. Visit the Tanziling Observation Deck for a full dam and lock view.
   • Tips: Mandatory shuttle bus transfer; strict security (drones prohibited).

II. Additional Potential Stops

6. Shibao Village (Stone Treasure Fortress, Zhongxian, Chongqing)
   • Highlights: A crimson wooden fortress perched on a riverside cliff, dubbed the "Pearl of the Yangtze."
7. Zhang Fei Temple (Yunyang, Chongqing)
   • Highlights: Ancient temple honoring the Three Kingdoms general Zhang Fei, housing historic stone inscriptions.
8. Qu Yuan’s Hometown (Zigui, Hubei)
   • Cultural link: Learn about the legendary poet Qu Yuan. Some cruises host Dragon Boat Festival activities.
9. Yueyang Tower/Yueyang Chenglingji (Extended Wuhan Routes)
   • Note: A few extended itineraries include this stop to visit the iconic tower overlooking Dongting Lake.

III. Key Considerations

• Route variations: Chongqing→Yichang (4D3N) covers the most highlights; longer routes (e.g., Wuhan/Shanghai) have fewer stops.
• Optional excursions: Some sites (e.g., Baidicheng, Shibao Village) may require extra fees. Confirm inclusions with your cruise ticket.
• Seasonal adjustments: Low water (winter) or floods may alter stops (e.g., Maoping Port replaces Chongqing’s Chaotianmen Dock).
• Shore logistics: Transfers via bus/boat are common. Seniors should opt for flatter walking routes.

IV. Choosing Your Cruise

• Luxury cruises (e.g., Yangzi Explorer, Century Cruises): Access lesser-known sites with in-depth guided tours.
• Budget-friendly cruises: Focus on classic sights with faster-paced itineraries.
• Themed cruises: Specialized routes (e.g., "Poetry & Painting of the Three Gorges" or Three Kingdoms history) feature culturally linked stops.

Always check your cruise company’s detailed itinerary and select a route matching your interests!

Shore Excursions for Some Cruises