Yichang develops Yangtze cruise hub with strong first-half growth
2026-08-08 19:08:09
By Chen Zai
In the first half of the year, Yichang's "Two Dams and One Gorge" scenic area welcomed 8.77 percent more visitors year on year and generated nearly 500 million yuan (US$74.08 million) in tourism revenue.
In the first half of the year, Yichang's "Two Dams and One Gorge" scenic area welcomed 8.77 percent more visitors year on year and generated nearly 500 million yuan (US$74.08 million) in tourism revenue.
Visitors gather at Tanziling in the Three Gorges Dam Scenic Area.
The strong performance reflects Yichang's transition from traditional sightseeing to immersive cruise vacations, supported by upgraded port infrastructure, closer integration of port, vessel and shore facilities, and a broader range of cultural and tourism experiences.
The city has also entered a new phase in high-end cruise tourism. Vista Harmony is now in regular operation, while Vista Aurora has completed sea trials ahead of commercial service.
Vista Aurora, the second flagship high-end cruise ship operated by Three Gorges Tourism Group, arrives at Yichang Port on July 24 after completing sea trials.
Meanwhile, construction of the Three Gorges International Cruise Center, a project with a total investment of 1.2 billion yuan, has delivered 10 passenger berths. The Huangbai River waterway is also being upgraded to Class I navigation standards, enabling it to accommodate vessels of 5,000 tons or more.
To encourage longer stays, local authorities have introduced combined cruise-and-sightseeing ticket packages, alongside riverside night markets and experiences featuring the intangible cultural heritage of the Three Gorges region.
With continued improvements to cruise infrastructure and tourism offerings, Yichang is strengthening its position as a major cruise home port on the upper reaches of the Yangtze River.
