huangpu river cruise shanghai

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Notice! 2024 available cruise routes include 4~5 days Chongqing-Yichang(most classic) and 11~12 days Chongqing-Yichang-Shanghai(limited).

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Huangpu River Cruise - Gorgeous West-Meets-East View by the Riverside

About Huangpu River Cruise

Taking the 50-minute Huangpu River cruise is a relaxing way to have panoramic view of Shanghai with the west-meets-east, tradition-hits-modernity feature. Travelers can witness the magic and enjoy “An Exhibition of International Buildings” on its western bank and breathtaking, fabulous skyscrapers of Lujiazui on its eastern bank.

Type: River Cruise; Bodies of Water

Best Seasons: March to May, September to November

Recommended Visiting Time: 11:00~21:30

Ticket: CNY 120 per person; ticket free for children under 13 years old

Boarding Piers: Shiliupu Wharf (1st zone), Shiliupu Wharf (2nd zone), Qinhuangdao Wharf

Huangpu River - “Mother River of Shanghai”

The Huangpu River , known as the Mother River of Shanghai as well as the largest river in Shanghai, is a 113-kilometer long river flowing through Shanghai which is the last tributary of Yangtze River ends into East China Sea.

Huangpu River is known as "the mother river of Shanghai". Puxi (West Bank) and Pudong (East Bank) are bounded by it, forming the world-famous Bund, Lujiazui financial zone and other important landmarks. The western side or Puxi is home to “An Exhibition of International Buildings” with various international architectural styles and most of historical tourist attractions. The eastern side or Pudong is a recent development of the last few decades and is the new business and financial district boasting many awesome glass and steel towers , like Shanghai Oriental TV Pearl, Shanghai Tower, Shanghai World Financial Tower and Jinmao Tower.

It is an unmissable experience for tourists in Shanghai to see the night scenery. No matter in the daytime or at night, taking a cruise ship leisurely sailing on Huangpu River to have a panoramic view of the scenery on both sides of the river is the best choice to enjoy the west meets east, tradition mixs with modernity culture along Huangpu River, to appreciate the breathtaking skyscrapers in relaxing way.

• Popular Shanghai Tours ✔ 2 Days Classic Shanghai City Tour ✔ 3 Days Shanghai Past and Present Contrast Tour

Cruise Ship of Ferry?

There are usually two choices to visit Huangpu River by water: Cruise and Ferry. The cruise ship is the first choice for most tourists to visit Shanghai . The sailing time is about 50 minutes, and the ferry is important for public transportation connecting Pudong and Puxi. If you don't want to spend too much time by cruise ship, the ferry between Pudong and Puxi can also be used as an alternative. Ferry ships run from Jinling East Road Ferry (7:00-22:00) to Dongchang Road Ferry in Pudong. It takes about 10 minutes one way and runs every 15 minutes. There are also ferry ships between Fuxing East Road Ferry (7:00-19:00) and Dongchang Road Ferry (7:00-18:45), with an interval of every half hour. The following is the detailed information about the popular Huangpu River Cruise.

Important Note : Cruise ships, schedules and prices are for reference only and subject to change. Please contact us to learn the real-time information.

Huangpu River Cruise Types, Routes, Schedules & Tickets

There are many cruise options which vary in size, capacity, decoration and amenities, such as Captain 2, Captain 3, Captain 5, Mingren, Mingxin, Mingxin 1, Mingxin 3, Pujiang Sightseeing 6, Pujiang Sightseeing 12, China Unicom. The ships you are going to take depend on when you board the cruise. There are usually two cruise routes, starting from Shiliupu Wharf or Qinhuangdao Wharf.

Cruise Route 1: Shiliupu Wharf - Binjiang Road - Lujiazui - Shanghai Tower - Shanghai World Financial Center - Jinmao Tower - Oriental Pearl TV Tower - Qinhuangdao Wharf - Waibaidu Bridge - Monument to the People's Heroes - The Bund - Shiliupu Wharf

Cruise Route 2: Qinhuangdao Wharf - Waibaidu Bridge - Monument to the People's Heroes - The Bund - Shiliupu Wharf - Binjiang Road - Lujiazui - Shanghai Tower - Shanghai World Financial Center - Jinmao Tower - Oriental Pearl TV Tower - Qinhuangdao Wharf

Cruise Schedules: Huangpu River cruises are available from 11:00 to 21:30 every day. Travelers can choose among the following schedules: 11:00, 12:00, 13:00, 14:00, 14:30, 15:00, 15:30, 16:00, 16:30, 17:00, 18:00, 18:30, 18:45, 19:00, 19:15, 19:30, 19:45, 20:00, 20:15, 20:30, 20:45, 21:00, 21:15, 21:30 (Schedules will do some adjustment based on the season, time, water of level and other factors).

Cruise Duration: about 50 minutes

Price: CNY 120 per person (without dining and snacks onboard)

Cruise Ships: Over 23 cruise ships are put into operation. Tourists can choose their favorite cruise ships according to their own schedule.

Ticket Booking: 1. Tell us your needs and China Discovery can help you book a cruise ticket (please inform us beforehand when booking your Shanghai tour and night activities); 2. You can buy ticket at Huangpu River Cruise Ticket Office of the Shiliupu Wharf and Qinhuangdao Wharf; 3. Many hotels provide ticket booking service and you check it with your hotel.

Service: Free Chinese and English explanation telling about the history and tourist spots of Shanghai.

Travel Notes: 1. Please arrive at the exact wharf at least 30 minutes in advance. 2. Take care of your kids and watch out for your steps. 3.The cruise time is on the ticket. If it is not used at the specified time, the ticket will become invalid. 4. The cruise ticket you purchased does not include many optional services on the cruise ship. Please inquire the staff on the cruise ship for more details. 5. Children under 1.3 meters are free to get on the cruise ship. Children need to get a free child ticket at the ticket office before boarding. One adult can take only one child with a free ticket on board.

Boarding Pier & How to Get There

Usually, there are three wharfs to board a Huangpu River cruise. They are at Shiliupu Wharf (1st zone), Shiliupu Wharf (2nd zone) and Qinghuangdao Wharf. Please check the detailed location and operating time of each wharf and select the suitable one to take a cruise.

Shiliupu Wharf 十六铺码头 (1st zone)

• Location: B1 floor, No.481, Zhongshan East Second Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai (上海市黄浦区中山东二路531号B1层 十六铺码头1区);
• Cruise Operating Hours: 11:00~21:30
• How to Get There: It is about 1.8 kilometers from The Bund Sightseeing Tunnel, which takes 5 minutes by driving and 20 minutes by walking. Buses No.11, 33, 55, 64, 65, 147, 576 and 930 can take you here.

Shiliupu Wharf 十六铺码头 (2nd zone)

• Location: B1 floor, No.551, Zhongshan East Second Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai (上海市黄浦区中山东二路551号B1层 十六铺码头2区);
• Cruise Operating Hours: 18:00~21:30
• How to Get There: It is about 1.9 kilometers from The Bund Sightseeing Tunnel, which takes 5 minutes by driving and 20 minutes by walking. Buses No.11, 33, 55, 64, 65, 147, 576 and 930 can take you here.

Qinghuangdao Road Wharf 秦皇岛码头

• Location: Ticket Office No.32 Qinghuangdao Road, Yangpu District, Shanghai (上海杨浦区秦皇岛路32号 秦皇岛码头);
• Cruise Operating Hours: 18:30~21:30
• How to Get There: It is about 3.8 kilometers from The Bund Sightseeing Tunnel, which takes about 10 minutes by driving. Buses No.28, 37, 853, 135, 134 and 155 can take you here.

Travel with China Discovery (Recommended)

If you want to get rid of hustle of public transportation and troublesome navigation, you can take a private tour package which covers sightseeing and Huangpu River cruise, dining and transfer from us. Our local tour guide and driver will escort you to the exact pier to take Huangpu River cruise with speed and convenience, and take care of all the details. You just need to focus on sightseeing.

What to See with Huangpu River Cruise

The Huangpu River, which is about 113 kilometers long with a width of 300 to 700 meters, flows through Shanghai. It is the symbol and the essence of Shanghai's city landscape. The Bund and Binjiang Avenue beside the Huangpu River are excellent scenic spots. Walking along the riverside, you can see many international architectures rich in exotic color and style lining up on the West Bank of the Huangpu River in sharp contrast to the modern skyscrapers towering into the clouds on the east bank, beautiful bridges, memorial towers, and parks, from which you can get a glimpse of Shanghai's development and its history.

Taking a Huangpu River cruise is the most relaxing way to have a general understanding of the past, present, and future of Shanghai in a very short time.

Waibaidu Bridge

This bridge is situated at the lower reach of Suzhou Creek and the west side of Huangpu Park, linking with Huangpu River. It is the first all-steel bridge, and the only surviving example of camelback truss bridge. Waibaidu Bridge is a component of Shanghai skyline.

Monument to the People's Heroes

Stably standing at the south of Huangpu River, it is built in the stylized shape of three rifles leaning against each other. It symbolizes the Chinese people and armies seek for freedom to fight against the aggression in modern history.

Huangpu Park

Built in 1886, it was the first park in China open to the public which can be called the witness for the changing of Bund. This park is a blending of Monument to People’s Heroes, The Bund Historical Museum, 120-meter long and 3.8-meter high relief, garden scenery, etc.

When you look at the east bank of Huangpu River, you’ll get amazed by the prosperous financial district of Lujiazui with magnificently standing, futuristic buildings and symbolic towers, etc.

• Shanghai Tower

Shanghai Tower is the second tallest building in the whole world, with the total height of 632 meters and 126 floors. This super skyscraper in Lujiazui Financial area in Shanghai has the world’s highest observation deck and world’s fastest elevator. Travelers can take the fast elevator at 18 m/s to reach the 118th Observation Deck to admire the colorful modern buildings of Shanghai.

• Shanghai World Financial Center

Known as a global magnet, Shanghai World Financial Center is at a height of 492 meters and 101 floors, being the third tallest building in China. Travelers can experience the thrilling sky walk at the 100th floor at 474 meters and have panoramic view of Shanghai.

Jinmao Tower

Used to be the tallest building in China, Jinmao Tower is standing at 420.5 meters with 93 floors. It is a multi-functional modern building with offices, five-star hotel, conference and exhibition center, entertainment, restaurants and shopping malls, etc. Travelers can have bird’s eye view of Shanghai at the 88th floor.

Oriental Pearl TV Tower

Oriental Pearl TV Tower is the iconic building located at Lujiazui Financial Area with a height of 468 meters. Travelers can visit Shanghai History Museum at the base, have fun at Game City at lower sphere, experience full transparent glass walk at 259 meters at upper sphere, reach 351 meters at Space Capsule Sightseeing Floor to travel in the vast universe.

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Day Cruise VS Night Cruise: Which One to Choose?

Do you feel a little difficult whether to choose a day cruise or a night cruise? There is no need to worry about the schedules for Huangpu River cruises which are available from 11:00 till 21:30.

The night view of the Pujiang River is unmissable. At night, both sides of the Huangpu River are brilliantly illuminated, and you can start from the Shiliupu Wharf or Qinhuangdao Wharf and travel on the river. The Yangpu Bridge and Nanpu bridge across the Huangpu River, are just like jade belts. The beautiful Pudong Binjiang Avenue and the unique Shanghai International Convention Center, have formed a beautiful scenery line under the gorgeous lighting, which is dazzling. The boat provides Chinese food, Western food, a buffet, and other services. You can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Huangpu River and have delicious food at the same time.

Most of the travelers choose to take a cruise at night to appreciate the spectacular light show with dazzling lights from the skyscrapers. With a delightful mood, you can either stay in the cabin or stand quietly on the sundeck to enjoy the amazing night view. Especially for those who have a short time in Shanghai, taking a night cruise after Shanghai day tour covered highlighted tourist attractions is highly recommended.

Travelers who take a Huangpu River cruise in the daytime can have clear sightseeing along the banks both on the west side and east side. It is suitable for travelers who have flexible time with no hurry to visit other tourist spots that have limited entrance hours. It is recommended to do day cruise in the spring and autumn seasons and try to avoid the hot summertime.

How to Plan Your Travel in Shanghai

The most popular itinerary for Shanghai tour is the 2 Days Classic Shanghai Tour - Day 1 to visit the landmarks of Shanghai, including the Bund , Nanjing Road, Yu Garden & Bazaar , Shanghai Museum and Shanghai World Financial Center ; On the Day 2, you can go to Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center and Jade Buddha Temple in the morning, and depart Shanghai in the afternoon. It time allows, you can have a half day tour to the nearby ancient towns – Zhujiajiao / Fengjing, or enjoy different activities and thrill in the dreamland – Shanghai Disney Resort .

Shanghai is also a popular gateway to Suzhou , Hangzhou and Huangshan which are well linked with each other by high speed trains. Moreover, you can combine Shanghai with Beijing , Xian , Yangtze River, Guilin , Zhangjiajie and Chengdu for a longer China holiday.

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>>2 Days Classic Shanghai City Tour

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How to Plan a Shanghai Tour

How to Get to Shanghai: You can fly to Shanghai directly from Hong Kong, Tokyo, Seoul, London, Los Angeles & many overseas countries (regions) and almost all major Chinese cities, like Beijing, Xian; or take high speed bullet train to Shanghai from domestic cities.

Best Time to Visit Shanghai: March to May (in spring) & September to November (in autumn), because these periods offer beautiful nature scenery and comfortable weather for outdoor sightseeing and activities.

Top Attractions to Visit in Shanghai: The Bund, Lujiazui Skyscrapers, Yu Garden, Shanghai Museum, Wukang Road, Shanghai Disney Resort…

Best known as an international popular tourist destination, Shanghai perfectly preserves mixed culture of the western and eastern. The duration and theme of your Shanghai tour can be flexibly arranged based on your time and interests. Usually, tourists spend 2 days on sightseeing the most famous landmarks, including the Bund , Yu Garden, skyscrapers like Shanghai Tower, World Financial Center, Wukang Road, Shanghai Museum, etc. With one extra day, you can enjoy family fun in Disneyland Park or visit Zhujiajiao Water Town in the suburb. Don't miss the Shanghai Maglev Train, wonderful nightlife and Shanghai Cuisine.

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Travel Shanghai with Hangzhou Suzhou, More Nearby Destinations

Convenient transportation makes it quite efficient and popular to make day trips from Shanghai to Hangzhou , Suzhou , and longer vacation in Huangshan Mountain , Nanjing, Mount Jiuhua and other places in surrounding areas. So you can visit West Lake and learn Chinese tea culture in Hangzhou, marvel at tasteful classical gardens and witness Chinese silk productive process. Splendid rocky mountains with exotic pine trees are highlights in Huangshan Mountain.

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Travel Shanghai with Beijing, Xian & More China Destinations

Beijing Xian Shanghai are golden triangle cities often visited together for a week holiday. You can use 3 days to visit the Great Wall and major iconic spots like Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven in Beijing, and leave 2 days for fulfilling your Terracotta Warriors tour in Xian. With more time, you can extend the trip from Shanghai to Zhangjiajie, Guilin, Chengdu, Yunnan, Silk Road, Tibet and more phenomenal destinations to enrich your China discovery. (more top China tours from Shanghai >> )

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Travel with China Discovery

As a leading travel agency in China which dedicates to offering high-quality China tours, China Discovery has helped thousands of travelers enjoy their trips to Shanghai, Beijing, Xian, etc., in China. Travel with us, you can enjoy worry-free tour services as well as well-organized itineraries, even our assistance of Chinese Visa application, convenient airport/train station pick-up & drop-off and transfer between all scenic spots, knowledgeable tour guide, safe & licensed private vehicle, satisfactory accommodation and dining and so on. You are free to choose from our most popular Shanghai tour packages or contact us to design a memorable holiday in Shanghai, China.

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Shanghai Huangpu River Cruise: Route, Price, Tips

When traveling in Shanghai, you should not miss a cruise tour on the Huangpu River. It is the best way to admire Shanghai's classic skyline views of colonial architecture and modern skyscrapers along the river.

The Huangpu River — "the Mother River of Shanghai"

The Huangpu River, the largest river passing through the city of Shanghai, is honored as the mother river of Shanghai .

It stretches for 113 kilometers (70 miles) with an average width of 400 meters and a depth of 9 meters. It snakes its way through Shanghai and divides the city into two sections : Pudong in the east and Puxi in the west.

It is also the source of most of Shanghai's drinking water, after it goes through a purification process, of course. Today, the Huangpu River is the site of a bustling tourist business in the form of river cruises.

Cruise Route and Price

There are many cruise options which vary in size, capacity, decoration, and amenities. Some boats look very trendy with a modern-style bar, while some are decorated in a traditional Chinese style. The cruises can hold passengers ranging from 80 to 1,000. You can choose a boat based on your interests.

There are several tour lengths you can choose from, from a 30-minute cruise to a 3½-hour cruise. The cruises along the Huangpu River often start from the wharf near the Bund, and head towards Yangpu Bridge or Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal, and back again along the opposite side of the river to the Bund.

At present, the most popular one is the 50-minute classic cruise . The cruises are available during the day and night. It is recommended to take a cruise at night when the river is veiled in the sparkling neon lights on both sides.

• Cruise route: Shiliupu Wharf near the Bund – Shanghai Tower – Shanghai World Financial Center – Jinmao Tower – Oriental Pearl TV Tower – Yangpu Bridge – Waibaidu Bridge – Monument to the People's Heroes – Peace Hotel – Customs House – back to the wharf
• Boarding place: Shiliupu Wharf near the Bund (531 Zhongshan East 2nd Rd)
• Duration: about 50 minutes
• Cruise operating hours: 11am–9:30pm
• Interval: 15–30 minutes
• Price:  around 150 yuan (≈US$22) (for sightseeing only, without dinner or snacks)
• Ticket booking:
• 1) Tickets can be purchased at Shiliupu Wharf ticket office at Wai Ma Lu 80. 2) You can buy your ticket online or through ticket agents. Contact us for details.  3) Many hotels also provide a ticket booking service; you can check with your hotel.

What to See on the Cruise

On the cruise, you will see the distinctive contrasts between the classical European buildings and soaring modern skyscrapers from the two sides of the Huangpu River.

Besides offering a privileged view of the bridges that span the Huangpu River, the cruise boats also offer an excellent view of the famous colonial-era buildings that make up the Bund on the eastern bank as well as buildings such as the Peace Hotel, with its unique pyramid roof in blazing green, and the Customs House, with its large clock tower.

On the western bank, you will see a bustling metropolis full of modern skyscrapers and towering buildings, such as Jinmao Tower , the Oriental Pearl TV Tower , and Shanghai World Financial Center .

The Best Times to Take a Cruise

The best times to take a cruise on the Huangpu River are March–May and September–November when the weather is pleasant. You can enjoy the scenery on the deck of the boat and have a great opportunity to take clear and awesome pictures.

If you decide to go on a cruise on a cold day, remember to take a coat. It can be very chilly when you stand on the deck. Rainy days will be a little foggy so some of the scenery on the Bund may be obscured.

Nearby Attractions

• Yuyuan : It is a classic Chinese garden with rich history and culture. You will see traditional Chinese garden architecture, and exquisite sculptures and carvings.
• The Bund : The architecture along the Bund is a living museum of the colonial history of the 1800s.
• Nanjing Road is Shanghai's busiest shopping street lined with top-end shopping malls, old-brand shops, and traditional eateries.

Enrich Your Experience with a Huangpu River Cruise

It is a great choice to take a relaxing cruise on the Huangpu River after a full day of sightseeing. Stand on the deck to get a feel for the city , and take pictures of the incredible skyline.

• 3-Day Essence of Shanghai and Watertown Tour : You can add a Huangpu River cruise into this tour to enrich your experience.

The above are sample tour and can be modified based on your interests and budget. Feel free to contact us and let us create a tour just for you.

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Huangpu River Cruise

There is no better way to enjoy views of both the towering skyscrapers of Pudong New Area and the Bund ’s characteristic colonial architecture than via a cruise along the Huangpu River, the waterway that cuts through the heart of Shanghai . A popular activity among visitors, this cruise will give you a unique glimpse of Shanghai’s one-of-a-kind mix of old and new.

Highlights and Travel Tips

The Huangpu River Cruise leaves from Shiliupu Wharf, at the southern end of the Bund. Tickets can be purchased in person at the wharf. There are cruises of varying durations, ranging from 30 minutes to 3.5 hours, so you can choose which route and length is best for your schedule. The most popular route, and the one we recommend for most visitors, is the standard 50-minute trip, which takes you past all of Pudong's most impressive skyscrapers , including Shanghai Tower, Shanghai World Financial Center, and Oriental Pearl TV Tower, as well as the Bund’s many famous buildings. This cruise route circles back and ends at its starting point, Shiliupu Wharf.

We recommend taking the Huangpu River Cruise in the evening to make the most of Shanghai's impressive nighttime lights. Cruises usually leave every hour during the day and every 15 minutes at night, although the exact schedule varies by season. Be sure to arrive at least 10 minutes before your departure time to allow enough time for boarding.

Cruise boats vary in terms of size and amenities—some are more modern and are equipped with a bar and restaurant, while others are more basic, although all are perfectly safe and comfortable. Since you’ll likely be spending most of your time on deck taking pictures of the amazing skyline, the amenities inside the boat may not affect your experience too much. If you prefer to sit and dine in comfort during the ride, you can select one of the cruises that includes a meal.

How to Get There

Located directly south of the Bund, Shiliupu Wharf can easily be reached by car, bus, or subway. You may also be able to walk there, depending on where you are heading from. The wharf is just a short 10-minute walk from Yu Garden, for instance.

Opening Hours and Ticket Prices

Opening hours: 11:00am - 9:30pm Ticket price: 120 RMB (sightseeing only, no meal or snacks—prices vary for cruises that offer food) Recommended duration of this activity: 1-2 hours

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Huangpu River Cruise

The Huangpu, with a length of 113 kilometers, is the longest river that passes through the city of Shanghai. The Huangpu River (literally "Yellow Bank River") divides Shanghai into two sections: Pudong in the east, and Puxi in the west . A significant branch of the Huangpu, also in Shanghai, is Suzhou Creek, formerly called the Wusong River.

Almost equally important today, the Huangpu is the site of bustling tourist business in the form of river cruises, which originate at Shiliupu Pier just south of the Bund area (there is a corresponding set of cruises up the Yangtze River that begins near the mouth of the Huangpu, where it empties into the Yangtze), where the Huangpu flows alongside now restored architecture of Shanghai's former British colonial heartland.

Quick Facts About Huangpu River Cruise

• Huangpu River Cruise Address (Boarding Pier): Shiliupu Marina near the Bund (531 Zhongshan East 2nd Rd)
• Regular Price: 120 RMB/person (for sightseeing only)
• Duration : about 1 hour
• Cruise Schedules: from 11:00-13:00 the cruise leaves every hour; from 13:00-21:30 leaves every half an hour.
• Regular Cruise Route: Shiliupu Pier (十六铺码头) near the Bund – Shanghai Tower – Shanghai World Financial Center – Jinmao Tower – Oriental Pearl TV Tower – Yangpu Bridge – Waibaidu Bridge – Monument to the People's Heroes – Peace Hotel – Customs House – back to Shiliupu Pier

Best Time to Visit Huangpu River

The best time to visit for a Huangpu River Cruise is arguably at night, specifically between 6:00 PM and 9:00 PM , when you can witness the fantastic illuminated views of Shanghai’s skyline. This is when the modern skyscrapers of Pudong and the historical buildings of the Bund light up, providing a twinkling spectacle that beautifully reflects onto the river's surface.

In terms of seasons, spring (March - May) and autumn (September - November) provide the most comfortable climate for a river cruise. The weather during these periods is typically mild and pleasant, perfect for enjoying the cruise on the open deck.

However, bear in mind that cruises during national holidays, such as National Day (1st of October) and Labor Day (1st of May), may be crowded due to a high influx of tourists. Booking in advance during these times is strongly recommended.

Huangpu River Cruise Tour

There are several tours that one can sign up for, from a short, 30-minute cruise to a long, 3½-hour cruise. All of the Huangpu River Cruises are round trips.

The 45-minute cruise passes the Bund , then proceeds northward to the area designated as the New Bund, and on to Binjiang Avenue of Pudong, a newly developed economic district, where the cruise boat reverses itself and proceeds back to its point of origin at Shiliupu Pier, south of the Bund.

The 1-hour excursion proceeds beyond Pudong as far as Yangpu Bridge, while the 2-hour excursion ends at Nanpu Bridge farther north, both very graceful suspension bridges (a bridge reveals its beauty more readily when viewed from the side, which is the view provided by a Huangpu River Cruise).

The longest excursion lasts 3½ hours  and ends at Wusongkou Harbor, not far from the mouth of the Huangpu, which empties into the great estuary where the Yangtze meets the East China Sea.

Where to Take the Huangpu River Cruise

There are several docks along the Huangpu River where you can catch a cruise. Be sure to check your ticket or booking for specific details as the departure point may vary depending on the cruise operator or type of cruise you select. Here are two popular points of departure.

Shiliupu Wharf (No.481, Zhongshan East Road)- Recommended

The main wharf for the Huangpu River Cruise. Modern vessels with multiple decks depart from here. This pier is just south of the Bund and is easily accessible.

• Operation Hours : 6:40 PM - 9:30 PM. The cruise operation times may vary with different cruise operators. The timetable might be extended during peak travel seasons.
• Route : Shiliupu Wharf typically - The Bund - the Oriental Pearl Tower - Shanghai Tower - Yangpu Bridge - Nanpu Bridge
• Tickets : Night cruise prices may vary from 130RMB to 180RMB
• How to Get There : Take Metro Line 2, 9, or 10 to Yuyuan Garden Station. From there, it's a 10-minute walk southeast to Shiliupu Wharf. By Taxi or Didi (the Chinese equivalent of Uber): Tell the driver to take you to "Shiliupu Matou" (十六铺码头).

Jinling East Dock (No.141, Zhongshan East 2nd Road)

This is another popular boarding location for the cruise. It's particularly used for river-hop cruises and smaller boat cruises or sightseeing boats with buffet dinners.

• Operation Hours : 5 PM - 9:30 PM. The cruise operation times may vary with different cruise operators. The timetable might be extended during peak travel seasons.
• Route : Jinling East Dock - The Bund - Lujiazui financial district - The Monument to the People's Heroes - Yangpu Bridge - Nanpu Bridge.
• Tickets : Night cruise prices may vary from 180RMB - 380RMB
• How to Get There : Take Metro Line 2 or Line 10 and get off at East Nanjing Road Station. Walk eastward to reach the dock within 10-15 minutes; By Taxi or Didi (Chinese equivalent of Uber): Inform the driver to take you to "Jinling East Dock" or show them the Chinese name: "金陵东路码头".

Tips: Remember to arrive at least 30 minutes before your cruise departure time to allow for boarding procedures. Please note that wharf locations and cruise times might be subject to change, so it is always a good idea to confirm these details in advance.

How to Book Huangpu River Cruise Tickets

Tickets for the Huangpu River Cruise can be purchased in several ways:

On-Site Purchase: Tickets are available for purchase at the ticket office of the wharf, but availability may be limited during peak times.

Online Booking: Tickets can be booked online from various travel websites. Some of these offer instant confirmation, e-tickets, and payment in a variety of currencies.

Travel Agencies: Many travel agencies offer Huangpu River Cruise as part of their Shanghai tour packages. Just contact us

What Can Be Seen Along the Cruise

Old-style shanghai – the bund.

Besides offering a privileged view of the bridges that span the Huangpu, the cruise boats also offer an excellent view of the famous colonial-era buildings that make up the Bund, buildings such as the Peace Hotel with its unique pyramid roof in blazing green and the Customs House with its large clock tower, and though not to everyone's taste, behind the original Bund area now shoot up tall skyscrapers.

Those who defend the modern skyscraper background would claim that though the new buildings dwarf the colonial buildings of the "old" Bund, they do not compete with them - or even mar the view - but rather, they almost seem to highlight the older-period buildings as gentle, rounded "foothills" to the soaring, "jagged peaks" of the skyscraper background.

Modern Metropolis – the New Bund

On the east or Pudong, side of the river, one sees the towering skyscrapers of the New Bund area, which include Shanghai's justly famous Jin Mao Tower, Oriental Pearl TV Tower , Shanghai Tower featuring twin glass domes, a number of Chinese and international hotels, the office buildings that serve as headquarters to a number of Chinese and international - or rather, multinational - enterprises, as well as malls, plazas, and bustling street life.

Some Hidden History along Huangpu River

A Huangpu River Cruise is "history revisited" in the sense that it affords many glimpses of Shanghai's past during the period, the beginning of the 20th century through WWII. This corresponds to the period during which foreign powers had forced trade and territorial concessions upon China (the so-called Unequal Treaties, which also bequeathed Hong Kong to Britain).

Large swaths of the city of Shanghai had once become defaced colonies run by European and North American countries, as well as by Russia and Japan. The Bund is itself a testimony to this period since it belonged to the British settlement before it became a part of the so-called International Settlement, which was mainly a British-American "colony".

It also spans the period leading up to WWII in the Pacific theatre, as Japan had invaded China long before Hitler began to display the hegemonic tendencies in Europe that would culminate in WWII there. The outbreak of WWII in the Pacific theater that drew in the Americans and the Europeans (as well as most, if not all, of the rest of the Anglo-Saxon world) into direct conflict with Japan had its most dramatic and sobering.

Beginning in the city of Shanghai, this event was unforgettably captured in the Steven Spielberg film,  Empire of the Sun , about an aristocratic boy who suddenly finds himself alone on the streets of Shanghai (his parents were rounded up by the Japanese invaders, but the boy managed to keep out of their clutches for a time), and ends up in a concentration camp of sorts surrounded by adults, and where the boy quickly learns the fine art of survival, 'by hook or by crook'.

Waibaidu Bridge

Suzhou Creek near Wusong on the northern outskirts of Shanghai is spanned by Waibaidu Bridge, which links the American concession north of the creek (present-day Hongkou District) with the British concession south of the creek.

During the Japanese occupation of the city, which occurred the day after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, or December 8, 1941 (the Japanese had their own settlement in the city, but they decided to seize all of Shanghai in the wake of the attack on Pearl Harbor), the British and the Americans found themselves unwelcome and were rudely turned out by the Japanese.

While the Japanese maintained at least some degree of civility towards the Westerners at that early stage in the war, this "largesse" did not extend to the Chinese residents of the city, who were compelled to show obeisance to their Japanese occupiers, including obeisance to sentries who guarded the city's bridges. The Chinese residents, on foot or in rickshaws, had to beg and wheedle with their occupiers in order to even cross the bridge.

Yangshupu Water Plant

Yangpu Bridge spans the Huangpu just south of the small island, Fuxing Dao, which briefly divides the Huangpu into two channels (Fuxing Dao is located just beyond Yangpu, where the river turns due north). Beyond the Bridge lies a large castle-like edifice, Yangshupu Water Plant.

The plant was built by the British in 1882 after the respective British and American Settlements in Shanghai had been conglomerated into a single settlement, the so-called International Settlement. Further north still, near the mouth of the Huangpu, lies Wusong Fort, which was attacked by British forces in 1842, at the close of the First Opium War (1839-1842).

On the return trip to Shiliupu Pier, as you pass the Shanghai International Cruise Ship Terminal near Pudong, you might wish to contemplate the fact that the cruise liners of many of China's former foes - including those of Japan (and quite possibly those of your own country) - regularly lay up here and that without their contribution to Shanghai's economy, the city would probably not be the oriental pearl that it is today.

Related Reading

• Top Shanghai Attractions/Landmarks
• Oriental Pearl TV Tower
• The Bund  - known for its historic buildings and breathtaking skyline views

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Huangpu River Cruise in Shanghai

The Huangpu River (Huangpu Jiang) is the city's shipping artery both to the East China Sea and to the mouth of the Yangzi River, which the Huangpu joins 29km (18 miles) north of downtown Shanghai. It has also become a demarcating line between two Shanghais, east and west, past and future. On its western shore, the colonial landmarks of the Bund serve as a reminder of Shanghai's 19th-century struggle to reclaim a waterfront from the bogs of this river (which originates in nearby Dianshan Hu or Lake Dianshan); on the eastern shore, the steel-and-glass skyscrapers of the Pudong New Area point to a burgeoning financial empire of the future.

The Huangpu's wharves are the most fascinating in China. The port handles the cargo coming out of the interior from Nanjing, Wuhan, and other Yangzi River ports, including Chongqing, 2,415km (1,500 miles) deep into Sichuan Province. From Shanghai, which produces plenty of industrial and commercial products in its own right, as much as a third of China's trade with the rest of the world is conducted each year. A boat ride on the Huangpu is highly recommended: Not only does it provide unrivaled postcard views of Shanghai past and future, but it will also afford you a closer look at this dynamic waterway that makes Shanghai flow.

There are several ways to tour the Huangpu River. If you have time, a 3-hour (60km/37-mile) voyage along the Huangpu to the mouth of the Yangzi River and back allows for the most leisurely and complete appreciation of the river. There are also shorter river cruises (1 hr.) that ply the main waterfront area between the two suspension bridges, Nanpu Qiao in the south, and Yangpu Qiao in the north, and an even shorter (30-min.) cruise from Pudong (see "Quick Cruise from Pudong").

Many boat companies offer cruises; one of the main ones is the Shanghai Huangpu River Cruise Company (Shanghai Pujiang Youlan Youxian Gongsi) (tel. 021/6318-8888 or 021/6374-0091; www.pjrivercruise.com). They typically have a daily, full 3-hour afternoon cruise (2-5pm) to Wusong Kou and back. Cost is ¥150. As well, there are hour-long cruises (¥100) every day departing at 30-minute to 1-hour intervals between 9:30am and 4:30pm from the Bund to the Yangpu Bridge. This company also offers a nightly cruise (45-60 min.; ¥100) every half-hour between 7pm and 8:30pm. Cruise schedules vary depending on the season, and on Saturday and Sunday, additional cruises are sometimes added, so check ahead. During the World Expo, authorities commandeered for Expo use a number of boats from different boat companies, resulting in a disruption to regular sailing schedules. Although regular sailings should be restored by the time you read this, check ahead for the latest accurate sailing times. Boats all depart from the Shiliupu Wharf (Shiliupu Lüyou Jishan Zhongxin) at Wai Ma Lu 19, 1 block east of Zhongshan Nan Lu 171, and just north of Fuxing Dong Lu. Tickets can be purchased through your hotel desk or at the Shiliupu Wharf ticket office at Wai Ma Lu 80.

Cruising the Huangpu

Between the stately colonial edifices along the Bund, the glittering skyscrapers on the eastern shore of Pudong, and the unceasing river traffic, there is plenty to keep your eyes from ever resting. From the dock, the boat will usually head south first, past the Cool Docks (a dining, shopping, and entertainment complex) on the South Bund to the 3.7km-long (2 1/3-mile), harp string-shaped Nanpu Daqiao (Nanpu Cable Bridge) built in 1991. As the boat turns around and heads back up north, you'll see everywhere signs of the Huangpu River Restoration Project, whereby 20km (12 miles) of downtown waterfront on both shores (especially on the Puxi) are being turned into marinas, riverside parks, and housing and shopping complexes. Even on overcast days (the norm in Shanghai), the single greatest pieces of eye candy as you head north are still the granite offices, banks, consulates, and hotels of the Bund. Sadly for purists these days, however, the Peace Hotel with its stunning green pyramid roof and the Customs House with its big clock tower no longer have your undivided attention, but have to compete with the towering, 21st-century space-age skyscrapers that have sprouted in the background. Up close, though, the grandeur of the Bund, especially now with the restored Bund Promenade, is still undeniable.

As the ship heads north, on the Pudong shore is the architectural perfection of the Jin Mao Tower, now flanked in the back by the even taller World Financial Center. Also on the Pudong shore is the can't-miss Oriental Pearl Tower, the Shanghai International Convention Center with its twin glass globes, and a slew of hotels, offices, and malls of the Lujiazui Financial Area.

Back on the western shore, north of the obelisk that is the Monument to the People's Heroes is Suzhou Creek (Suzhou He), formerly called the Wusong River. Originating in Tai Hu (Lake Tai), the 120km-long (75-mile) river was once much busier than the Huangpu, but silt in the lower reaches eventually diminished water traffic. The creek is spanned by Waibaidu Bridge, which once linked the American Concession in the north (today's Hongkou District) and the British Concession south of the creek. At 18m (59 ft.) wide, with two 51m-long (167-ft.) spans, this bridge has seen all forms of traffic, from rickshaws to trams to motorcars. Elderly Shanghainese still recall the days of the Japanese occupation when they had to bow to Japanese sentries guarding the bridge and seek special permission to cross.

North of the Suzhou Creek hugging the west shore are the old "go-downs" or warehouses of the many foreign trading firms. This area, known as Hongkou District, and the district to the east, Yangpu District, have been marked for rapid development after Pudong, though new modern towers (all no more than 3 years old) have already started to stake out the skyline. Less than a mile farther on is the International Passenger Terminal, where international cruise ships tie up. The Huangpu River jogs east at this point on its way to the Shanghai shipyards, where cranes and derricks load and unload the daily logjam of freighters from the world's other shipping giants (United States, Japan, Russia, Norway). Eventually, all of this waterfront will be developed into a series of marinas and a combination of industrial and recreational areas, including a section that will be Shanghai's answer to "Fisherman's Wharf."

Before the Huangpu slowly begins to curve northward again, you'll pass the English castle-style Yangshupu Water Plant originally built by the British in 1882. The Yangpu Cable Bridge, like the Nanpu Cable Bridge to the south, is one of the largest such structures in the world. With quite a long span, some 602m (1,975 ft.), the Yangpu Bridge is considered the world's first "slant-stretched" bridge. Its total length is about 7.6km (4 3/4 miles), and 50,000 vehicles pass over its six lanes daily.

What impresses river passengers even more than the long industrial shoreline is the traffic slinking up and down the waterway, from the flotilla of river barges to the large rusting hulls of cargo ships. The Huangpu is, on the average, just 183m (600 ft.) wide, but more than 2,000 oceangoing ships compete with the 20,000 barges, fishing junks, and rowboats that ply the Huangpu every year. As the river curves north, you'll pass the small island, Fuxing Dao, which is to be developed into an ecological and recreational theme park.

The Huangpu eventually empties into the mighty Yangzi River at Wusong Kou, where the water during high tide turns three distinct colors, marking the confluence of the Yangzi (yellow), the Huangpu (gray), and the South China Sea (green). Before this, there's an ancient Wusong Fort, from which the Chinese fought the British in 1842. The passenger terminal ( Wusong Passenger Terminal; tel. 021/5657-5500 ) for Yangzi River cruises is also here. This marks the end of Shanghai's little river and the beginning of China's largest one. As your tour boat pivots slowly back into the narrowing passageway of the Huangpu, you can look forward to a return trip that should be more relaxed.

Quick Cruise from Pudong

A brief (40-min.), but dramatic cruise along the Huangpu can also be picked up on the Pudong side of the river. The cityscapes on both sides will give you a sweeping perspective of Shanghai old and new.

Tickets for the Pudong cruise can be purchased at the Oriental Pearl TV Tower ticket booth or at a kiosk near the dock (Dongfang Mingzhu Youlan Matou; tel. 021/5879-1888 ) on Fenghe Lu. To reach the dock, walk along the northwest side of the TV Tower grounds on Fenghe Lu, past the Insect Museum and the twin-globed Convention Center, straight on to the right-hand side of the sail-shaped pavilion on the river shore. Departures take place nearly every hour at 10am, 11am, noon, 2pm, 3pm, and 4pm (more may be added during peak times); tickets are ¥50 to ¥70. Night cruises depart from May to October at 7 and 8pm.

Note : This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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Cruising on the Huangpu River in Shanghai

Cruising on the Huangpu River in Shanghai is a popular way to experience the city’s skyline and its blend of historical and modern architecture. Before planning your trip to Shanghai, here’s what you can expect from these cruises:

1. The Bund Sightseeing Cruise

The most common type of cruise on the Huangpu River is the Bund Sightseeing Cruise.

Route: Cruises typically run between the Shiliupu Pier near the Bund and the Yangpu Bridge in Pudong.

Duration: The cruise usually lasts around 1 to 1.5 hours.

Views: This cruise provides stunning views of the iconic skyline, including historic buildings on the Bund and the futuristic skyscrapers of Pudong.

2. Evening and Night Cruises

Evening and night cruises are especially popular, as the city’s skyline lights up, creating a mesmerizing scene.

Lights and Reflections: The illuminated buildings and their reflections on the river’s surface make for a picturesque sight.

3. Dinner Cruises

Some cruises offer dining options, allowing you to enjoy a meal as you cruise along the river.

Dining Choices: You can find various options, from buffet-style dinners to more upscale dining experiences.

4. Private Charters

If you’re looking for a more personalized experience, you can also consider chartering a private boat for your group.

5. Landmarks

Along the cruise route, you’ll pass by landmarks like the Oriental Pearl Tower, Jin Mao Tower, Shanghai World Financial Center, and more.

6. Historical and Cultural Insights

Some cruises offer commentary in multiple languages, providing insights into the history and significance of the buildings and landmarks you’ll see.

The Huangpu River cruises offer a unique perspective of Shanghai’s transformation over the years and showcase the harmonious coexistence of its historical past and its modern aspirations. When planning your cruise, consider the time of day you’d like to go, whether you prefer a guided experience, and any additional amenities you’d like to have on board.

As always, it’s a good idea to check for the most up-to-date information and offerings before booking your cruise.

If you have any questions or queries, then please feel free to drop us a line .

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Now, book Huangpu River cruise tickets on smartphone

Visitors wanting to take a one-hour tour of the Huangpu River on cruise can now book tickets on smartphones and use QR codes for admission.

It takes less than five minutes to scan the code, check luggage and get onboard the cruise ships for the tour, which makes it convenient for visitors.

Generally visitors have to buy tickets at the ticket office of the East Jinling Road Harbor terminal, or book tickets online and get the paper tickets at the window of the office. During holidays or weekends it takes long time to queue for the tickets at the window.

With an admission of 60 yuan (US$9.23), the one-hour tour of the Huangpu River starts from the East Jinling Road Harbor, through Shiliupu Harbor, Old Harbor and Dongchang Road Harbor, then returns to the East Jinling Road Harbor.

The whole trip covers several landmarks on both banks of the Huangpu River, including the Bund, Oriental Pearl TV Tower, Shanghai Tower and Old Harbor commercial center.

The iconic Huangpu River cruise tours will get more diversified this year to create a popular moving tourist destination and make cruises on the landmark river a world-class attraction.

Several new itineraries have been planned this year. On May 21, a cruise route serving the 10th China Flower Expo on Chongming Island will kick into gear. Ships will depart from the Shiliupu Dock in Huangpu District for the one-day tour, ferrying passengers along the river during the day and at night, with Shanghai delicacies and beautiful landscapes of blossoming flowers.

The tour will combine both water and land tours with riverbank sightseeing and flower appreciation. The flower expo will take place in Chongming from May 21 to July 2, and is the first to take place on an island.

Three water routes taking passengers on a journey to learn about the city's revolutionary past will soon be launched to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China, featuring a number of "red" culture venues along the river.

The tours will also include a visit to the National Anthem Museum in Yangpu District and a walking tour along the riverfront. People will see the industrial relics of Hongkou and Yangpu districts during the trip. Onboard, they will learn about the history of the Communist Party of China.

Tailored cruises for wedding ceremonies and conferences will also be launched soon.

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Huangpu River Cruise

Chinese name: 黄浦江游览 (Huangpu Jiang You Lan) Feature: a cruise trip on Huangpu River for the city view of Shanghai Classic cruise route: round trip along the Huangpu River New Shi Liu Pu—Lujiazui—Shanghai Jinmao Mansion—Oriental Pearl TV Tower—Waibaidu Bridge—Monument of the People's Heroes in Shanghai—The Bund Duration: about 50 minutes Boarding places and service time: 1) Shi Liu Pu Wharf No.1 District:  Floor B1, No. 481 Zhongshan East Second Road;     Service Time: 11:00-21:30 2) Shi Liu Pu Wharf No.2 District:  Floor B1, No. 551 Zhongshan East Second Road;     Service Time: 18:00-21:30 3) Qinghuangdao Road Wharf: No.32 Qinhuangdao Road;     Service Time: 18:30-21:30 Huangpu River Cruise ships: numerous and various Ticket price: CNY120 (sightseeing only, without dinner or snacks) 

About Huangpu River & Cruise- a window of Shanghai

Huangpu River, the symbol as well as the mother river of Shanghai, is famous for a marvelous collection of the quintessence of the city scenes along the river, where the past, present and prospects for a brilliant future of Shanghai are expressed incisively. Contrasting to the very traditional river traffic of barges and ferries, sailing under the futuristic Yangpu Bridge and down the Huangpu River towards the East Sea, the views of the full sweep of the Bund (the exotic architecture museum), cityscape of Pudong (the miniature of Shanghai) as well as the typical scene "two dragons are playing with a pearl" (双龙戏珠, the Yangpu Bridge and Nanpu Bridge embraces the Oriental Pearl TV Tower in the middle) can be well enjoyed. Huangpu River Cruise is just one of the best ways to have a look of both traditional and modern Shanghai.

More about Huangpu River Cruise

The main ticket office for Huangpu River Cruise is opened daily. The excursion is a 60km round trip, northwards up Huangpu River to the junction with Yangtze River and back again along the inverse route. A night Huangpu River Cruise is kindly a great appreciation for the most dramatic and splendid views of Shanghai. Cruise schedule usually is arranged according to the season, and additional cruises might be added on weekends sometimes. Different types of boats are provided for choice, where you may get a comfortable seat with a fine view on the top deck, as well as a small buffet with drinks and local snacks during the cruise.

As one of the largest ports in the world, the tour boat passes an enormous variety of craft freighters, bulk carriers, sculling sampans, the occasional junk and Chinese navy vessels. And it is definitely an unforgettable experience to have a Huangpu River Cruise of Shanghai.

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5 Days Luxury Tours of Shanghai-Suzhou-Zhouzhuang-Shanghai

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