Across China: Yangtze's "basket ferry" carrying more than just mountain produce

CHONGQING, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- The pre-dawn chill of New Year's Day lingered over the Yangtze River as Captain Qin Dayi blew the whistle of the "Yu Zhong Ke 2180." On the deck, the cargo painted a picture of rural abundance: bright orange citrus, emerald-green vegetables, and plump white geese swaying gently.

"Anyone else coming aboard? We're setting sail," Qin called out into the darkness.

At 7 a.m. on Ja