Yangtze

The Yangtze River, known as Chang Jiang or Yangzi in China, is the longest river in Asia. Springing from the glaciers of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau Yangtze makes its way into the East China Sea across Southwest, Central and Eastern China covering (a staggering) almost 4000 miles. Dwarfing any European river, the Yangtze reaches many ecosystems along its flow and the river itself is home to quite a few endemic species such as the Chinese alligator, the Yangtze dolphin, the finless porpoise and the Yangtze sturgeon, some of which are sadly now endangered.

This life-giving river and its basin is home to a third of the entire population of China. Dividing the country into North and South, the Yangtze offers a wide range of attractions, culture and unforgettable scenery along its course. Apart from its transport, agricultural and economic importance, the Yangtze winds through some of the most scenic parts of China, making the river itself a very popular holiday destination.

The landscape changes from arid mountains in Tibet in the Upper Reaches to steep and green gorges in the Middle Reaches. The Three Gorges Dam – the largest hydro-electric power station in the world - is located in this area. Then as the Yangtze approaches the sea, the scenery gradually changes to plains dotted with ancient garden cities in the lower reaches. And finally, this mighty river finds its way into the East China Sea among the skyscrapers of Shanghai.

Although the Yangtze offers endless inspirations for tourists including UNESCO World Heritage sights, it is difficult to include all the sights in one trip, so most travellers prefer to explore this magnificent river from aboard a cruise ship.

China Travel Map

Travel Destinations
Beijing
Beijing Beijing
Beijing is the capital of the most populous country in the world, the People's Republic of China, and it is also the second largest city after Shanghai. Beijing literally means... Read more
Chengdu
Chengdu Chengdu
The capital city of Sichuan region, Chengdu has dominated this area for almost 2500 years. A major trading and cultural centre in the past, it holds the status of being one of the ... Read more
Guilin
Guilin Guilin
Guilin is located in the north of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region on the west bank of the Li River. It is one of the most popular travel destinations in China for its beautiful la... Read more
Shanghai
Shanghai Shanghai
Shanghai is the largest city in China’s and it is an important economic, financial, international and cultural centre. It is a very modern city by Chinese standards - althoug... Read more
Suzhou
Suzhou Suzhou
Suzhou is mostly known for its refined garden design. Since nearly half of the city’s area is covered by water - including a vast number of ponds, streams and Taihu Lake one ... Read more
Tibet
Tibet Tibet
Situated in the south-western part of China, the Autonomous Region of Tibet is one of the largest provinces in China covering over 460,000 square miles, however due to the harsh cl... Read more
Xian
Xian Xian
Xian is one of the Four Great Ancient Capitals of China and it has held that position under several of the most important dynasties in Chinese history. Xian is located in the no... Read more
Yangtze
Yangtze Yangtze
The Yangtze River, known as Chang Jiang or Yangzi in China, is the longest river in Asia. Springing from the glaciers of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau Yangtze makes its way into the Ea... Read more

Relevant tours
Visa-free Beijing: Acquaintance in 3 Days (CN-01) Transiting through China? This is your opportunity to make the most of your holiday by taking a short stopover to explore the Chinese capital en-route to your final destination. No entry visa is required and we will take care of airport transfers, accommodation and will offer a guided programme.

3 days, from £395
Beijing Explorer - Discover the Chinese Capital in 6 Days (CN-02) This tour looks at the Chinese capital Beijing in-depth, exploring its varied and fascinating landmarks. There will also be free time to explore the city on your own – perhaps for shopping or to discover its various restaurants and districts - or to add on another city before or after your tour.

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Golden Triangle of China: Discover Beijing, Xian, Shanghai - 8 Days (CN-03) China encapsulated – this tour is a ‘best of’ tour where you will experience the very finest sights in China’s most fascinating cities. A great introductory tour, or perfect for those who are interested in seeing how China’s race towards the future impacts on its past.

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Golden Triangle & Gardens of China: Beijing, Xian, Shanghai, Suzhou - 9 Days (CN-04) This fantastic tour is a great way to discover the highlights of China and to get under the skin of some of its finest cities. China is huge and its enormous cities offer the traveller a hub on which to focus - excellent museums, galleries & architecture. You will also visit famous gardens of Suzhou.

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Best of China: Beijing, Xian, Guillin & Li River, Shanghai, Suzhou - 11 Days (CN-05) China’s cities dominate the eastern coast and are what most people think of when they think of China. But the country also excels in natural beauty. After the excitement and buzz of China’s mega-cities it is refreshing to see another, quieter side. This tour has all this, the best cities, a cruise on the majestic Li River & a visit to the garden city of Suzhou.

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Great China Discovery with Majestic Yangtze River Cruise - 12 Days (CN-06) China's mega cities are just one side of this great land. The Yangtze River is also a highlight. One of the world’s largest waterways, it flows through China’s varied scenery from its source in Qinghai Province slicing the country neatly into north and south. This tour is a fun-filled and enlightening way to see many of China's highlights.

12 days, from £3,095