Come to the Three Gorges! Listen to the river waves crashing against the shore! A three-day, two-night travel guide

In the golden autumn of October, it is the best season to take a boat downstream and pass through the Yangtze River Three Gorges—forests dyed in layers of color, clear river water, and the monkeys’ calls echoing on both banks. You don’t need a luxury cruise to enjoy a poetic Three Gorges experience! 🚤🍁

📍Day 1: Arrive in Yichang, night tour along Xiling Gorge
Take the high-speed train to Yichang (round trip about 800 RMB, cheaper from Wuhan/Chongqing), stay at a riverside guesthouse in the city (500 RMB for two nights). In the evening, check in at the Three Gorges Visitor Center, stroll along Riverside Park, and enjoy the distant lights of Gezhouba Dam. For dinner, try authentic Yichang dishes: fatty fish hotpot, cold shrimp, and Hezha, about 50 RMB per person for a satisfying meal.

📍Day 2: Essence tour of high gorges and calm lakes, see the beauty of the Three Gorges in one day
Early morning sign up for the “Two Dams and One Gorge One-Day Tour” (about 380 RMB/person): take a sightseeing boat past Gezhouba Dam, experience the “ship lift” as the water rises; pass through the eastern section of Xiling Gorge, see cliffs like carved sculptures and colorful leaves reflected in the water; end at the Three Gorges Dam (including tickets + shuttle bus), overlook the world’s largest hydropower project—truly breathtaking! Return to the city in the afternoon, relaxed and stress-free.

📍Day 3: Light hike at Shennong Stream or autumn search at Qu Yuan’s hometown
If you prefer nature, head to Shennong Stream (ticket + small wooden boat 175 RMB), take a pea pod-shaped boat downstream, with red leaves hanging over the riverbanks and boatmen’s songs echoing in the valley; if you prefer culture, visit Qu Yuan’s Hometown (ticket 80 RMB), where the ancient shrine is quiet and autumn colors soak in the Chu culture’s lingering charm. Return in the afternoon to end this poetic journey.

💰Budget details (per person):
- High-speed train round trip: 800 RMB
- Local transportation + scenic area shuttle: 300 RMB
- Accommodation: 500 RMB
- Tickets + meals: 900 RMB
✅ Total: about 2500 RMB, with leftover money to buy navel oranges or tea!

🌟Tips:
📌 Autumn and winter river winds are chilly, be sure to bring a windproof jacket + scarf;
📌 Food on the boat is expensive, bring your own snacks and hot water;
📌 The Three Gorges Dam requires real-name reservation, buy tickets in advance!

This autumn, come to the Three Gorges, listen to the river waves crashing, see the mountains dyed red, and take a journey through a magnificent scroll spanning a thousand years.