You can ride the Yangtze all the way from Chongqing to Shanghai, cutting across nearly 2000km of China and seeing major sites along the way. You hit Three Gorges Dam of course, Wuhan, and Fendu, among others. Really gives you a sense for the country.
The country and river is changing overnight, probably best to see it while it still exists.
Victoria Cruises is the premier cruise line for Westerners if you want to cruise the Yangtze River and take your time about it:
www.ruba.com/tour/angelavictoriacruises/14_Day_China_Exploration_the_Magnificent_Yangtze