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15 Day Amazing China with 3 Day Yangtze River Cruise Saturday Departure

From Beijing, China to Shanghai, China
Length: 15 Days - Departs: Sat, Apr 11, 2026
Operator
Departure
Apr 11, 2026
Arrival
Apr 25, 2026

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Price does not include airfare, departure or arrival transfers, airline taxes and fuel surcharges.

This river cruise qualifies for unpublished pricing. Please call us or Click Here To Get Our Low Price

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River Cruise Itinerary

  1. Day 1
    DAY 1, Saturday - Depart for China
    Sat, Apr 11, 2026
    Depart for China
  2. Day 2
    DAY 2, Sunday - Arrive in Beijing
    Sun, Apr 12, 2026
    Arrive in Beijing, sprawling capital of modern China and transfer to your hotel. Remainder of the day is at leisure
    Overnight: Beijing
  3. Day 3
    DAY 3, Monday - The Great Wall & Ming Tombs
    Mon, Apr 13, 2026
    Travel to the extraordinary 2000-year-old Great Wall of China, spanning nearly 4,000 miles of China's northern frontier. Mount the ramparts of this ancient wonder to view beautiful mountain passes, plateaus, and grasslands from this 7th century defensive fortification. Stop at a local jade shop to admire wares crafted with one of China's most famous materials. After lunch at a local restaurant, continue to the Sacred Way lined with mythical stone beasts and statues. Originally built to lead to the mausoleum, it was thought to be the "road leading to heaven." Walk through the huge Memorial Stone Arch guarding its entrance continuing along the road to the 13 Ming Dynasty Tombs. Visit the Dingling Tomb, also known as the Underground Palace, the first Imperial tomb excavated in China, housing the remains of Emperor Wan Li and two of his wives. In the exhibition, you'll also see many of the precious golden crowns and glittering jewels that were uncovered. This evening, join your Tour Manager for an orientation meeting, followed by dinner, featuring China's world-famous Peking duck
    Overnight: Beijing
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  4. Day 4
    DAY 4, Tuesday - Forbidden City, Home Hosted Lunch in Hutong
    Tue, Apr 14, 2026
    Begin at huge Tiananmen Square, the largest public square in the world, built at the height of the Ming Dynasty. The square's Gate of Heavenly Peace was once used as a staging ground for imperial edicts and by Mao Zedong himself to declare the founding of the People's Republic in 1949. Enter the Forbidden City, once the residence of Chinese emperors from the Ming to the Qing dynasties. This extraordinary walled complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is truly a masterpiece of Chinese architecture, consisting of 800 buildings with more than 9,000 rooms. Then, continue to a typical Hutong neighborhood. Beijing's Hutongs, a community of small residences centered around alleyways and courtyards, are dwindling in number as the city is modernized, but some have been preserved as "protected areas." Special arrangements just for you to meet a local family and share lunch together in their home - they will be delighted to share their secret family recipe for dumplings, complete with demonstration. Next, visit a local pearl shop
    Overnight: Beijing
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
  5. Day 5
    DAY 5, Wednesday - Flight to Xian, Small Wild Goose Pagoda & Market Visit
    Wed, Apr 15, 2026
    This morning, transfer to the airport for your flight to Xian. Arrive in Xian, the ancient capital of eleven dynasties and an archaeological treasure trove. Have lunch at a local restaurant. Later, visit the Small Wild Goose Pagoda, one of the most famous Buddhist pagodas in China constructed during the Tang Dynasty. This brick and wood structure was only moderately damaged during the major earthquake in 1556 and still stands today as a compelling symbol of Xian. Then, on to the Muslim Quarter, a hub of the Muslim community in Xian. At the bustling Beiyuanmen Market, you'll find a unique blend of Chinese and Islamic stalls with food and crafts. Tonight, dinner is at a local restaurant featuring Paomo, a local specialty
    Overnight: Xian
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  6. Day 6
    DAY 6, Thursday - Xian Antiquities with Terracotta Army
    Thu, Apr 16, 2026

    Morning visit to Xingqing Park, a hub of activity and join the residents of Xian in their morning exercise. Next, view the bronze chariot and horses, part of the Terracotta Army Museum. Afterward, visit an arts and crafts workshop gallery. Highlights include finely crafted terracotta figurines inspired by the Terracotta Army and beautifully polished lacquer furniture. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Then, a truly unforgettable experience! Arrive at the archaeological site of the magnificent Terracotta Warriors, a vast collection of more than 7,000 finely sculpted, life-size soldiers, horses and chariots that were entombed with Qin Shi Huang, China's first emperor. This world-famous site discovered by farmers in 1974 is still being excavated today. This evening, attend an optional Tang Dynasty 6-course dinner, followed by a historical dance performance by the Tang Dynasty troupe
    Optional: Tang Dynasty Show with Dinner (PM)
    Overnight: Xian
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
  7. Day 7
    DAY 7, Friday - Xian City Wall, High-Speed Train to Chengdu
    Fri, Apr 17, 2026

    Begin the day with a visit to the ancient Xian city wall, which was started in 194 B.C. This is the most complete city wall that has survived in China, as well as being one of the largest ancient military defense systems in the world. Lunch is at a local restaurant. Afterward, board a high-speed train to Chengdu. Arrive and transfer to your hotel in this capital city of Sichuan Province. Tonight, try the famous China "Hot Pot" for dinner. Created over 1,000 years ago, this dish varies by region and is popular all over the country
    Overnight: Chengdu
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  8. Day 8
    DAY 8, Saturday - View Giant Pandas, Visit Mahjong Parlor
    Sat, Apr 18, 2026

    This morning you'll get to visit some of Chengdu's most relaxed local celebrities, giant panda bears. You'll travel to the Chengdu Panda Research Center which houses more than 80 giant pandas. The center is one of the largest panda breeding facilities in the world. Their livelihood in the wild is under threat from deforestation. After lunch at a local restaurant, join some residents in a local Mahjong parlor to watch this ancient Chinese game and have a few lessons from the experts. Later, attend the optional Sichuan Opera Show and be swept away and mesmerized by this exciting Sichuan show as artists take the stage in elaborate costumes to enact various performances
    Optional: Sichuan Opera Show (PM)
    Overnight: Chengdu
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
  9. Day 9
    DAY 9, Sunday - Chongqing, Cruise Embarkation
    Sun, Apr 19, 2026

    Depart Chengdu and travel to Chongqing, gateway to the Yangtze River. Continue to Eling Park, located on a hill near the heart of the city. The park was established at the end of the Qing Dynasty in 1909 by a wealthy businessman. Discover hundreds of plant species during a stroll through the different parts of the well-tended gardens. Ascend to the lookout tower for stunning views of the Chongqing skyline. This evening, have dinner on your cruise ship and begin the scenic journey on the Yangtze River
    Overnight: Yangtze River
    Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
  10. Day 10
    DAY 10, Monday - Cruise to Fengdu
    Mon, Apr 20, 2026

    Awake this morning to the beautiful vistas on the river. Today, head to Fendu Ghost City, located on the northern bank of the river. Explore the complex consisting of temples, shrines, and statues. Gain insight into Chinese ghost culture and afterlife. Later, return back to the ship
    Overnight: Yangtze River
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  11. Day 11
    DAY 11, Tuesday - Qutang and Wuxia Gorges
    Tue, Apr 21, 2026

    Wondrous views await you today. Sail through Qutang Gorge, the smallest of the three Yangtze Gorges followed by spectacular views of the surrounding mountain passes as you sail through the 25-mile-long Wuxia (Witches) Gorge, famous for its fabled Twelve Peaks. According to legend, the peaks are believed to be the spirits of 12 fairies, the most famous of them being the Shennu Feng (Goddess) Peak, topped by a huge rock resembling a kneeling maiden. The shore excursion takes you to visit the natural scenic wonders of the Shennv or Shennong Stream*. Finally, begin sailing downstream through Xiling Gorge. The longest and deepest section of the Three Gorges system, it comprises the Xietan, Qintan, and Kongling rapids in what is known as the Three Rapids of Xiling
    *The visit of Shennong or Shennv stream is dependent upon water levels.
    Overnight: Yangtze River
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  12. Day 12
    DAY 12, Wednesday - Three Gorges Dam, Disembarkation, Train to Shanghai
    Wed, Apr 22, 2026

    After breakfast, this morning's excursion provides you with impressive panoramic views of the Three Gorges Dam, the world's largest and most ambitious hydroelectric project ever undertaken by man, nearly six times the size of the Hoover Dam. This project has forever changed the landscape surrounding the Yangtze River. After disembarkation, have lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, transfer to the train station to board the train to cosmopolitan Shanghai, the fastest growing city in Asia, with its dramatic ever-changing skyline. Box dinner will be provided onboard the train
    Overnight: Shanghai
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  13. Day 13
    DAY 13, Thursday - Yuyuan Gardens
    Thu, Apr 23, 2026

    Stroll this morning along the famous Bund walkway, with its gorgeous vistas of old and new Shanghai. Stop at a local silk carpet & embroidery shop and see how the fabric is woven into stunning designs by local craftspeople. Afterward, visit the classical YuYuan Gardens (Garden of Happiness) in the Old Quarter, built during the Ming Dynasty. This beautiful and serene sanctuary features pagodas, lakes, and magnificent pavilions. Next, proceed to the splendid Jade Buddha Temple, known for its impressive jade Buddha statues imported from Myanmar. Time at leisure for lunch and shopping in Shanghai. Tonight perhaps, explore some of the city's world-class restaurants on your own
    Overnight: Shanghai
    Meals: Breakfast
  14. Day 14
    DAY 14, Friday - Explore Fengjing Ancient Town
    Fri, Apr 24, 2026

    This morning, travel to Fengjing Ancient Town, one of Shanghai's most charming water towns. Wander around town with its charming black and white houses and ancient bridges. Visit the wedding museum and learn about the local people's wedding traditions. Following lunch, visit the site of People's Commune from 1958 to 1984. Next, take a relaxing gondola ride along the small canals and admire the picturesque scenery. Conclude the tour with a visit to a local rice wine factory. Tonight, bid goodbye to China and to your Tour Manager during dinner at a local restaurant
    Overnight: Shanghai
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  15. Day 15
    DAY 15, Saturday - Depart China
    Sat, Apr 25, 2026

    Transfer to the airport for your departure flight
    Meals: Breakfast

Countries Visited

China

Rivers Visited

Yangtze

OR Call Us For a Free Quote 1-800-342-0019

Inclusions

Price does not include airfare, departure or arrival transfers, airline taxes and fuel surcharges.

Package Includes

  • Small groups of maximum 22 travelers guaranteed
  • Flights San Francisco-Beijing, Shanghai-San Francisco
    Other departure cities available.
  • Intra-flight: Beijing-Xian
  • 13 nights First Class accommodations
  • 3 nights Beijing
  • 2 nights Xian
  • 2 nights Chengdu
  • 3 nights cruise downstream on or , Yangtze River
  • 3 nights Shanghai
  • Hotel & cruise porterage
  • All transfers included only with airfare purchase on package arrival & departure dates†
  • High-speed bullet train Xian-Chengdu
  • Train from Yichang to Shanghai
  • 31 meals: 13 breakfasts, 10 lunches, 8 dinners
  • Sightseeing per itinerary in modern air-conditioned vehicles
  • Services of local English-speaking tour manager throughout
  • Comprehensive, guided sightseeing and entrance fees per itinerary
  • Active itinerary with unique cultural features
  • Comfortable wireless earphones for enhanced touring
  •  

    Tour Highlights

    Thanks to our small group size, we can get to the heart of our destination, visit places that other tours miss, and get to know the locals.

  • Exploration of Tiananmen Square, the largest public square in the world, and the Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Have lunch with a local family in Beijing's Hutong community
  • Travel to the extraordinary 2000-year-old Great Wall of China, one of the most spectacular structures ever built by man
  • Join the residents of Xian in Xingqing Park in their morning exercise
  • Visit the unforgettable archaeological site of the magnificent Terracotta Warriors entombed with China's first Emperor Qin Shi Huang
  • Meet the famous Giant Panda bears at the Chengdu Panda Research Center
  • Embark on a 3-night Yangtze River Cruise that journeys through some of the greatest scenery in the world
  • Explore Yuyuan Gardens in the Old Quarter of Shanghai, built during the Ming Dynasty
  • Discover Fengjing Ancient Town, one of Shanghai's most charming water towns
  • †Transfers are available for purchase for land only or on alternative flight dates


    Additional Information:
    Land only prices do not include arrival/departure transfers, but do include flights Beijing-Xian.

    High-speed trains in China - Due to limited storage space on high-speed trains in China, only one small piece of luggage (44 lbs) per passenger is permitted onboard for your personal belongings.

    Passport information must be submitted to us Travel at least 60 days prior to departure.

    Cruise itineraries are subject to change. Alternative sites may be visited depending upon water levels and hours of daylight.

    While sailing with Century Cruises, passengers are subject to the cruise line’s Terms & Conditions which can be viewed at: While sailing with Victoria Cruises, passengers are subject to the cruise line’s Terms & Conditions which can be viewed at:


    Accommodation Details:

    Triple rooms cannot be accommodated on this program.

    Monday departures are scheduled to sail on Century Paragon. Tuesday departures except Sep 22, are scheduled on the Century Victory; the Sep 22 departure will sail on the Victoria Anna. Thursday departures are set for the Century Voyage, Friday on the Century Oasis, and Saturday on the Century Glory. Sunday departures will sail on Victoria Jenna. Please note: all ship assignments are subject to change based on local conditions.

    Please note that the following inclusions may contain items that are only applicable when you purchase Land & Air. The brochure prices below are for Land Only - call us for our best deal.

    OR Call Us For a Free Quote 1-800-342-0019

    Ship Information

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    Cabins

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    Life on Board

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    Questions & Answers
      Ask A Question

    Question: Will the day-by-day itinerary change?

    Yes, the river cruise itineraries may change due to reasons such as inclement weather or unforeseen events. Your safety is the number one concern aboard and all precautions necessary will be taken in order to ensure passenger safety, including changing itineraries. Please note that when itineraries do change, the ship staff will do their best to substitute any missed port with an alternative destination.

    Question: In what language is the river cruise conducted?

    The river cruise will be conducted in English only.

    Gate1 Tours Customer Reviews

    Overall Rating
    4.4
    Accommodations
    4.4
    Itinerary
    4.4
    Professional Staff
    4.6
    Repeat with Operator
    4.4
    Value for Money
    4.4

    Ratings based off 263 reviews about Gate1 Tours - currently showing 15 reviews with comments only

    Excellent trip - a little of everything. We've used Gate1 for land tours - this was our first river cruise - and we thoroughly enjoyed it. Staff was great, including the highly touted executive chef. Very good selection of gourmet dishes, including presentation. Could use a few more gluten-free items for those who are intolerant.

    The guide was very helpful and a happy person. Expect stops in small charming towns. Normandy and Giverney were highlights

    This was the first time I went on a river cruise. it was fabulous! I loved Gate 1, they were so professional and the room accomodations were excellent. food also very good and the tour guides were very experienced.

    The staff on this river cruise were amazing so very accommodating. The cruise director was able to handle an issue with my departure time( many phone calls later) and all went as scheduled.

    The water level was not high enough to sail so we had tp complete the last few days via land travel. Gate 1 went out of their way to make the experience comfortable.

    The tour director for the Amsterdam and Brugge part of this tour was wonderful: friendly, knowledgable, organized. The entire staff of the Monarch Countess, on the France portion of this tour was outstanding.

    My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed our trip with Affordable Tours/Gate 1. Having a direct flight as opposed to one stop over would have been welcomed as we arrived at Warsaw thoroughly exhausted. Also I would have welcomed the tours starting a little later in the morning. Overall the food, staff and accommodations were great.

    The trip was beyond expectations. This is the 2nd time we have used Gate 1 as our tour operator and we will continue to use them in future trips……very memorable experiences on both occasions.

    The river cruise was superb. I can't think of anything to suggest improvements because everything and everybody was wonderful.

    Great price with friendly staff and luscious food. All the tour guides were very knowledgeable on the areas we visited

    The tour exceeded our expectations.

    The cruise was great and so were all the staff, friendly and helpful. . Accommodations were very nice throughout. Food was delicious. Terrible weather (not just drizzle, but heavy downpour the entire time) ruined a couple of our optional excursions. Of course this is no one’s fault, but it is a caution for operator when determining pricing that it can turn out to be an awful day for which people have paid a lot of money, and they are told they should pay ahead. There should be plenty of good sized strong umbrellas for all who have paid for the excursion. (Little travel umbrellas are too small). The excursions when weather was nice were very informative and enjoyable and the guides were wonderful. Tour director was excellent, as was the activities director.

    The staff on the Monarch Baroness was exceptionally pleasant and service-oriented. The cruise director had everything on and off the boat extremely well organized.

    Was pleasantly surprised. Probably one of my best river cruises. The staff was amazing.

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    AffordableTours.com is a travel agent for Gate1. Brochure Price is based on the itinerary's highest brochure price. Our price reflects our base price for the same departure as Brochure Price. All prices, itineraries, accommodations and dates are subject to change without notice and at any time. All prices are USD per person and based on double occupancy. Availability is limited and must be reconfirmed at time of booking. All prices change frequently and our website prices are not guaranteed until a deposit has been received by us. The prices on our website are intended to serve as a guide only and may not accurately reflect current prices. We are not responsible for errors, omissions, or changes in these prices until a booking has been confirmed by one of our agents. Please call us toll free at 1-800-342-0019 to confirm current prices and availability. Prices listed are per person, cruise only, and based on double occupancy.

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