The Huangpu River is a major river in China, flowing through the city of Shanghai before emptying into the East China Sea. With a length of 113 kilometers, it is an important waterway for shipping and transportation in the region and divides Shanghai into two parts: Pudong and Puxi.
The Huangpu River has played a significant role in the history and development of Shanghai, serving as a trading hub for goods and connecting Shanghai to other parts of China and the world. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction, offering scenic views of the city’s skyline and historic buildings. The river is also home to several ports, including the Port of Shanghai, one of the busiest ports in the world.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Routes and Activities
- Highlights of Huangpu River Cruise
- Vlog about Huangpu River Boat Cruise
- Tour Tips
- Related Facts
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 1 – 2hours |
| Opening Hours | Most cruises operate from 18.30 – 20.30 (The landscape light will be turned on at 18.00) |
| Ticket Price | The Huangpu River Cruise is operated by different companies, but the ticket price generally ranges from 100 to 200 RMB, depending on the length of the tour, the scale of the cruise ship, and the additional service. |
Location and Transportation
Most of the cruises set off from Shiliupu Dock (十六铺码头), which is located in the Huangpu District of Shanghai, China, at the intersection of Zhonghua Road and Songpu Road. The specific address is No. 551, Zhonghua East Second Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai, and you can get there in various ways.
Bus:
- Take tourist line 1 or 2, get off at Pujiang Youchuan Matou (浦江游船码头 Huangpu River Cruise Dock), and the dock will be right in front of you.
- Take bus 33, 64, 304, 307, 317, 805, 866, 868, or 926, get off at Zhongshan Dongerlu Xinkaihe Lu (中山东二路新开河路), and walk about 100 meters along the road to the southeast to reach the dock.
Subway: Take subway line 10 or 14, get off at Yuyuan Station, and then walk about 1 kilometer (0.62 miles) to the east to reach the dock.
Walk: If you are touring the bund right now, just walk along the road to the south, and you will see the dock about 1 kilometer away.
Routes and Activities
The Huangpu River Cruise usually begins at the Bund, a historic waterfront area on the west bank of the Huangpu River that is famous for its colonial-era buildings and architecture. From there, the boat travels along the river, passing under numerous bridges and through various districts of the city, including Pudong, which is home to many of Shanghai’s modern skyscrapers.
During the cruise, passengers can admire the spectacular views of Shanghai’s skyline, which includes the Oriental Pearl Tower, the Shanghai World Financial Center, and the Shanghai Tower, which is currently the tallest building in China.
The cruise also provides an opportunity to learn about the history and culture of Shanghai. Passengers can listen to a guide’s commentary, which is usually available in multiple languages, and learn about the river’s importance to the city’s development and growth over the years.
Some of the river cruise options also include dining experiences, such as dinner cruises that offer a selection of Chinese dishes and a unique atmosphere.
Highlights of Huangpu River Cruise
Panoramic Views
The Huangpu River cruise provides a stunning panoramic view of Shanghai’s iconic landmarks, modern skyscrapers, and historic buildings. On one side of the river lies the Bund, a row of early 20th-century buildings that feature various architectural styles, including Gothic, Baroque, and Romanesque. On the other side of the river, visitors can see the futuristic skyline of Lujiazui, including the Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai Tower, and Shanghai World Financial Center. The cruise also passes under numerous bridges, providing a unique perspective of these engineering marvels. The combination of old and new architecture and the play of lights at night creates a breathtaking and unforgettable experience for visitors.
Historical Significance
The Huangpu River is a significant waterway in Shanghai. Historically, the river was an essential trade route, facilitating commerce and transportation of goods within and beyond the city. It was also a center for international trade, attracting merchants from around the world. Today, the Huangpu River remains an important economic hub, connecting Shanghai to the Yangtze River Delta and beyond.
Entertainment and Activities
The Huangpu River cruise offers a range of entertainment and activities that enhance the overall experience for visitors. Onboard, visitors can enjoy music performances, traditional Chinese dance shows, and other cultural performances that showcase Shanghai’s rich cultural heritage. Additionally, there are various dining options available on the cruise, including traditional Chinese cuisine and international dishes. Some cruises also offer onboard bars where visitors can enjoy a drink while taking in the stunning views. These activities provide visitors with an opportunity to engage with Shanghai’s culture and history while enjoying the scenic views of the city from the river.
Vlog about Huangpu River Boat Cruise
Tour Tips
Book in Advance: Huangpu River cruises can get busy, especially during peak tourist season, so it’s advisable to book tickets in advance to secure a spot on the cruise.
Dress appropriately: Huangpu River cruise is a casual affair, but you should dress appropriately for the weather. Bring a jacket or coat if it’s chilly outside.
Be Respectful: Remember that the Huangpu River is a significant waterway in Shanghai, so it’s important to be respectful and not litter or disturb the environment in any way.
Choose the right time: The best time to take a Huangpu River cruise is in the evening, so you can enjoy the spectacular night view of the Shanghai skyline.
Plan your route: There are different routes available for the Huangpu River cruise, so make sure to plan your route in advance and choose the one that suits your interests best.
