Nina's 2026 Three Gorges Guide

the right money strategy makes your trip smooth—and the wrong one leaves you stuck on a dock without a cold drink.

You step off your shore excursion at the Shennong Stream. A local woman holds up a hand-embroidered pouch—beautiful, genuine, and only 20 RMB. Your credit card? Useless here. Your phone? No signal. Your wallet? Empty because you “just use cards.” That’s the moment you learn why small-denomination cash is still essential along the Three Gorges.

I always recommend carrying 500–800 RMB in bills of 5, 10, and 20 yuan during shore excursions. Most local markets, small restaurants, and taxi drivers in towns like Zigui or Fengdu accept only cash—or at best, Alipay (which you probably haven’t set up yet). ATMs are available at major pier cities like Chongqing and Yichang, but they occasionally run out of cash on busy cruise days.On my last trip, a couple from Australia tried to pay for a ferry ticket with a 100 RMB note. The ticket seller had no change, and they nearly missed their boat. Break your larger notes at the cruise reception desk before you go ashore—they’re happy to help.

If you prefer cards, bring one that has no foreign transaction fees and works in China. Visa and Mastercard are accepted at larger hotels, cruise cashiers, and some tourist shops, but don’t count on them everywhere. A backup plan matters more than a premium card.

You’ve seen the QR codes everywhere—on noodle carts, temple entrances, even the little floating gift shop on your cruise. China runs on mobile payments, but as a foreign visitor, setting them up can feel like a puzzle. Alipay is your best bet because it now allows international credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex) and has an English interface.

The trick is to install the app before you leave home, while you still have access to your home Wi-Fi and SMS. The registration process asks for your passport number and a video of your face—time-consuming on a cramped plane seat. I did mine at the airport lounge, and it took 15 minutes. Once set up, you can scan to pay at most cruise gift shops, local convenience stores, and even the noodle stand at Fengdu Ghost City.One thing to note: WeChat Pay is also popular, but linking a foreign card still requires a Chinese bank account for full functionality. Stick to Alipay for daily payments, and use your cruise’s onboard account for bigger expenses like cabin upgrades or spa treatments.

On my 2025 Yangtze trip, I used Alipay to buy a bottle of water at a tiny dock kiosk. The seller smiled, scanned my phone, and I was back on the gangway in 10 seconds. That convenience is unbeatable—but only if you’ve set up before you board.

Now for the part that surprises many first-time cruisers: how much extra you’ll actually spend on the ship. Your ticket covers the cabin, meals, and basic guided tours. But shore excursions, drinks (except tap water and standard tea), laundry, and gratuities add up fast.

Let’s talk tipping. On most Three Gorges cruises, the suggested gratuity for the crew is around 150–300 RMB per person for the entire trip (about $20–$40 USD). You’ll usually get an envelope at the end, or you can add it to your onboard account. Some high-end ships include tips in the fare—check your booking confirmation. If you’re unsure, ask the cruise director on day one.

Your cabin deposit is another thing. Most cruises require a refundable deposit of 500–1,000 RMB or $100–$150 USD (cash or card hold) when you check in. That covers minibar, phone calls, or any damage. You’ll get it back at the end, but if you’ve run out of cash, don’t worry—cards work fine for this.

One hidden cost? The optional shore excursions. A night cruise through the Three Gorges Dam or a guided hike into the Lesser Three Gorges usually costs 200–400 RMB extra. Book them on the first day, because they fill up fast. I always put 500 RMB aside specifically for these add-ons—they’re worth it.

You probably already know you need a visa, but when you pay matters. Chinese tourist visas (L-visa) cost roughly $140 USD for US citizens, less for others, and payment is usually done at the consulate or through a visa agency. Don’t pay with a credit card at the consulate—many only accept cash or money orders.

Also, cruise deposits to secure your cabin are often paid online via wire transfer or credit card. I’ve found that using a card with no foreign exchange fee saves about 3%. Book through a reputable agent who accepts PayPal or Alipay—that way your payment is protected.One last tip: bring $200–$300 in crisp US dollars as a backup. Some cruise lines accept USD for onboard accounts, and you can exchange them at a better rate in China than at home. But don’t rely on it—RMB is king.

Currency can feel overwhelming when you’re switching between cash, apps, and cards. But with a little prep, you’ll breeze through. Make a small checklist:

• Apply for a no-fee travel credit card.
• Download Alipay and link your card.
• Get 800 RMB in small bills.
• Bring $200 in USD.
• Set aside 500 RMB for optional excursions and tips.

I’ve seen too many travelers spend their first day on the Yangtze worrying about money instead of watching the mist rise over the gorges. Don’t be that person. Sort your payments before you board, and the only thing you’ll need to handle is your camera.

— Nina, international travel blogger with a suitcase full of lessons