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.

Beijing
Chengdu
Guilin
Shanghai
Suzhou
Tibet
Xian
Yangtze