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Yangtze River

The Yangtze River, Asia’s longest and the world’s third-longest, beckons river cruise enthusiasts with its impressive 6,300-kilometre stretch. Embarking on a journey along its winding waters, travellers are treated to a diverse panorama of landscapes, from the awe-inspiring majesty of its gorges to the tranquil charm of its historic river towns. Each bend of the river unveils a rich tapestry of natural beauty and cultural experiences, promising an unforgettable voyage.

What you’ll love most about the Yangtze River

Enjoy breathtaking views of towering gorges and serene countryside along Asia’s longest river
Cruise through the famous Three Gorges, witnessing their grandeur and beauty
Explore charming towns like Fengjie and Shibaozhai, steeped in history and culture
Experience traditional Chinese customs and lifestyles in riverside villages
Encounter diverse wildlife, including rare species like the Chinese river dolphin
Visit historic sites like the Three Gorges Dam and ancient temples along the riverbanks

Please note that the estimated temperature, rainfall and recommended months of when to go are based on Chengdu’s weather patterns

Holiday Highlights

Average temperature

Information below is based on average highest temperature for each month.

9℃J
12℃F
17℃M
22℃A
26℃M
28℃J
30℃J
30℃A
26℃S
21℃O
16℃N
11℃D

2J
3F
5M
7A
9M
9J
12J
11A
10S
7O
3N
1D

Information above is based on the average number of days which experience some form of rainfall for each month.

Rainfall

When to Visit

Below gives you information and a rating of the best time of year to visit.

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

January

Winter casts a calm over the Yangtze. While major cities like Chongqing or Wuhan stay busy, river cruises tend to quiet down. Misty landscapes and snow-dusted mountains provide haunting beauty, especially around the Three Gorges area. A good time for indoor sightseeing, hotpot dining, and lower travel costs.

February

Still wintry, but festive energy builds with Chinese New Year. Traditional villages near the river come alive with fireworks, lion dances, and red lanterns. In places like Fengdu or Yichang, local customs and temple fairs offer a cultural window rarely seen by tourists.

March

March signals spring’s arrival. Flowers start to bloom along riverbanks, and cruise season begins to pick up. With milder weather (often reaching the mid-teens °C), excursions to scenic sites like the Shibaozhai Pagoda or Lesser Three Gorges become more pleasant and photogenic.

April

A wonderful time to experience the Yangtze. The countryside is green and vibrant, and river travel is in full swing. Temperatures often sit around 20°C in much of the region, and visibility tends to improve - perfect for enjoying panoramic views from onboard decks.

May

Comfortable and popular, May sees highs in the mid-20s. Labour Day holidays can bring crowds to major embarkation points like Chongqing or Shanghai, but river life remains peaceful. Expect lush landscapes, ideal conditions for outdoor excursions, and regional dishes brimming with seasonal produce.

June

Rain increases in June as summer sets in, particularly in the middle and lower stretches of the river. While the mist adds a dramatic atmosphere to the gorges and cliff temples, it’s wise to pack light rain gear. This is also when river cruises feature more indoor programming and storytelling sessions.

July

One of the hottest months, with daytime highs in cities like Wuhan often exceeding 35°C. River breezes offer some relief, but most excursions are best taken early or late in the day. This is a good time for enjoying onboard amenities and air-conditioned museums, especially in larger port cities.

August

Still very warm, though often dotted with festivals. Water levels are high, which can make the gorges feel even more impressive as cliffs rise directly from the current. Despite the heat, many still cruise the Yangtze for its natural drama and cultural richness.

September

The weather begins to ease, with September highs typically around 28°C. Cruise conditions are excellent - fewer storms, good visibility, and a golden tone to the late summer light. Mid-Autumn Festival sometimes falls in this month, adding mooncakes and lanterns to the cultural mix.

October

Often considered one of the best months to visit. With highs in the low-to-mid 20s and low humidity, October offers clear skies and ideal cruising conditions. The Golden Week (early October) brings domestic travellers, so mid-to-late October is a better time for quieter river exploration.

November

As autumn deepens, leaves begin to turn along the riverbanks. Temperatures drop to the low teens °C, creating a cooler but still manageable climate. Historical towns like Fengjie and Wanzhou feel especially atmospheric this time of year, with harvest festivals and fewer crowds.

December

Cold, especially in the interior sections of the river, but beautifully serene. December cruises are less common, but those who go can enjoy a reflective journey through mist-laced gorges and silent villages. Ideal for seasoned travellers seeking quietude and an off-season escape.

Our Ratings

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Where to book

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