Why Take a Pearl River Cruise?
The Pearl River (Zhūjiāng, 珠江) is the picturesque heart of Guangzhou, adorned with charming views along its winding waterways.
The Pearl River, Guangzhou’s “mother river,” is the soul of the city where history meets modernity. A cruise here—whether by day or night—has become a must for visitors, promising to be a highlight of any trip to the city. As dusk falls, watch modern skyscrapers and centuries-old landmarks transform into a glittering spectacle of lights, blending Guangzhou’s vibrant past and present.
Key Highlights:
See Guangzhou Tower’s dynamic light show (the 2nd tallest tower globally)
Pass under Haixin Bridge with its harp-like cables
Admire European-style architecture on Shamian Island
Cruise past Tianzi Dock (imperial-era greeting site for officials)
Enjoy 360° views from climate-controlled boats
Where to Board? (Piers & Transport Guide)
Guangzhou Tower Wharf (Best for Modern Views)
📍 Address: 222 Yuejiang West Road, Haizhu District
🚇 Metro: APM/Line 3 to “Guangzhou Tower” Station (Exit A)
🚗 Parking: Guangzhou Tower underground lot (¥16/hour)
Tianzi Wharf (Best for History Lovers)
📍 Address: Yanjiang Middle Rd & Beijing South Rd
🚇 Metro: Line 2 to “Haizhu Square” (Exit A)
Alternative Route to Tianzi Wharf:
After exploring Guangzhou Beijing Road Pedestrian Street, visitors can enjoy a pleasant 15-20 minute walk directly to Tianzi Wharf. This route offers a wonderful opportunity to experience Guangzhou’s vibrant street life and historical atmosphere along the way. The walking path passes by several cultural landmarks, making it an excellent choice for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with convenient wharf access. Look for the iconic ‘Tianzi 天字’ memorial archway near the pier entrance the wharf’s unmistakable landmark.The entire route is flat and well-signposted in both Chinese and English.
Haixinsha East Pier (Best for Photography)
📍 Address: Linjiang Avenue, Tianhe District
🚇 Metro: APM Line to “Haixinsha” Station
🚌 Bus: 293/499 to Haixinsha Park Station
Pro Tips for Travelers
✔ Price Range: ¥98-588 (varies by deck/season)
✔ Best Time to Board: 19:30–20:30 (Peak light displays)
✔ Frequency: Boats depart every 15-30 mins (Summer 19:00-23:00 / Winter 18:30-22:00)
✔ Dinner Cruises: Some operators offer Cantonese buffet dinners (¥268–¥588/person)
✔ Wheelchair Accessible: Major piers have ramps
✔ Avoid Scams: Only buy tickets from official counters
Final Advice
Prices and schedules may change—always confirm at the pier before booking. For a hassle-free experience, arrive 30 mins early to secure the best seats!
| 🛂 Passport Notice International travelers must show original passports (no copies). Children require birth certificates or family travel documents. |
For a smooth boarding experience, international guests will need to present their original passport when purchasing tickets. This quick verification helps us ensure everyone’s safety while matching your ticket information perfectly. We appreciate your understanding that copies cannot be accepted, and recommend keeping your passport handy until boarding is complete.
