For a unique perspective of Guangzhou, take a Pearl River night cruise. Unlike rivers known for natural scenery, the Pearl River flows through the city center, offering a journey through its illuminated modern skyline.
Pearl River Facts
The Pearl River, stretching for more than 2,000 kilometers, is China’s third-longest river and a vital commercial artery in the south. Its delta is one of the most densely urbanized and economically significant regions in the country. The river’s name is poetically linked to a legendary pearl-like rock that once lay in its bed. For any visitor to Guangzhou, experiencing this historic and dynamic waterway is an essential part of the journey, whether by day or by night.
Experience Pearl River Night Cruise
A Pearl River cruise offers a stunning perspective on Guangzhou’s captivating blend of history and modernity. The beautiful route provides sweeping views of the city’s skyline, passing by iconic landmarks like the Canton Tower and several grand bridges.
The journey becomes truly magical at night. When the city lights illuminate, the skyline transforms into a brilliant display. The Canton Tower puts on a spectacular light show, while bridges like the Hedde Bridge glow with radiant brilliance, creating a mesmerizing scene reflected on the water.
To suit different preferences, a variety of cruise options are available. You can find everything from simple sightseeing boats to magnificent larger vessels with beautifully decorated decks and onboard dining.
Wharfs for Pearl River Cruise
Buy Your Night Cruise TicketTianzi Wharf (天字码头)
Tianzi Wharf is located near the bustling Beijing Road shopping area, making it convenient for visitors to access a wide range of dining and retail options. As one of Guangzhou’s oldest piers, it features traditional Lingnan architectural style, characterized by its classical and elegant design. The cruise boats departing from here vary in size, including both two-level and three-level vessels.
- Address: Yanjiang Middle Road, Taikang Street
- Metro: Take metro Line 2 or Line 6, get off at Haizhu Square Station and get out from Exit A.
- Nearby attractions: Beijing Road Pedestrian Street, Dafo Temple
- Cruise duration: 70 – 80 minutes
- Cruise Frequency: Every 10-20 minutes
- Operating Hours: The first cruise departs at 18:40, and the final departure is at 20:00
- Ticket Price: CNY 98 – CNY 128
- Recommended cruises: Guangzhou Fortune Account, Pearl River Centennial, Guangzhou Welfare Lottery·Pearl Water Information
- Cruise Route: Tianzi Pier → Jiangwan Bridge → Haiyin Bridge → North Gate of Sun Yat-sen University → Xinghai Concert Hall → Ersha Island → Guangzhou Bridge → Canton Tower → Haixinsha Asian Games Stadium → Haixinsha Bridge → Hedde Bridge → Pati, a vibrant waterfront dining and entertainment district.
Dashatou Wharf (大沙头游船码头)
Dashatou Pier is the largest Pearl River cruise terminal in Guangzhou. With a history as a nationally renowned inland river passenger terminal once known as the “Waterfront Baiyun Airport,” it has now transformed into a comprehensive complex integrating tourism, entertainment, shopping, and dining.
The pier features a prime waterfront capable of berthing 10 cruise ships simultaneously. It is equipped with extensive facilities including a large parking lot, an underground commercial area, and a modern terminal building, making it the most fully equipped home port for Pearl River cruises in Guangzhou.
- Address: 466, Yanjiang East Road, Yuexiu District
- Metro: Take metro Line 6, get off at Donghu Station and get out from Exit B2.
- Nearby attractions: Haiyin Bridge, Ersha Island Art Park, Lin Zexu Memorial Garden
- Cruise duration: 60 minutes
- Cruise Frequency: Every 20-60 minutes
- Operating Hours: The first cruise departs at 18:40, and the final departure is at 21:20
- Ticket Price: CNY 98
- Recommended cruises: Honghualang, China Everbright Bank Account, Guangdong ICBC numberhui Ba 26)
- Cruise Route: Dashatou Pier → Haiyin Bridge → North Gate of Sun Yat-sen University → Xinghai Concert Hall → Ersha Island → Guangzhou Bridge → Canton Tower → Haixinsha Asian Games Stadium → Haixinsha Bridge → Hedde Bridge → Pati
Xidi Wharf (西堤码头)
Xidi Pier features a distinctive modern design with its translucent white membrane structure, creating an open and airy atmosphere. The surrounding area showcases a remarkable blend of architectural styles, from traditional Lingnan buildings to prominent European-style structures along the waterfront. With the historic Canton Customs House as its backdrop, the pier area has become a popular spot for photography, offering a charming European-inspired ambiance in the heart of Guangzhou.
- Address: No. 41, Yanjiang West Road, Liwan District
- Metro: Take metro Line 6, get off at Cultural Park Station and get out from Exit B.
- Nearby attractions: Shamian Island (European-style buildings), Canton Customs, Yongqing Fang
- Cruise duration: 90 minutes
- Cruise Frequency: Every 40-50 minutes
- Operating Hours: The first cruise departs at 19:10, and the final departure is at 21:40
- Ticket Price: CNY 108
- Recommended cruises: Huangpu Theme Ship, Wang Laoji Theme Boat (Sui Shui Ba 26), Coca-Cola themed ship
- Cruise Route: Xidi Pier → Shamian → Jiefang Bridge → Haizhu Bridge → Haiyin Bridge → North Gate of Sun Yat-sen University → Xinghai Concert Hall → Guangzhou Bridge → Haixinsha Bridge → Haixinsha → Canton Tower → Hedde Bridge
Haixinsha Wharf (海心沙码头)
Haixinsha Pier is widely regarded as Guangzhou’s most picturesque cruise terminal, located directly opposite the Canton Tower across the river. This prime position in the heart of the CBD provides breathtaking views of the city’s modern skyline, making it an ideal location for photography, particularly at sunset. The pier also features a unique floating theater show and Pearl River Red Boat in the eastern zone, offering passengers additional cultural entertainment during their visit.
The pier mainly operates smaller, theme-based boats rather than large vessels. Given its premium location and specialized experience, prices here are generally higher than at other piers.
- Address: Inside the Haixinsha Asian Games Park in Zhujiang New Town
- Metro: Take metro APM Line, get off at Haixinsha Station and get out from Exit A.
- Nearby attractions: Canton Tower, Guangdong Museum, Guangzhou Opera House
- Cruise duration: 60 – 70 minutes
- Cruise Frequency: Every 10-15 minutes
- Operating Hours: The first cruise departs at 19:00, and the final departure is at 22:10
- Ticket Price: CNY 108 – CNY 118
- Recommended cruises: Pearls and gold. GAC, China Life Cruise (Etan Impression)
- Cruise Route: Haixinsha Pier → Canton Tower → Haixinsha Asian Games Stadium → Hedde Bridge → Party Pier (Pati) → Haixinsha Bridge → Guangzhou Bridge → Ersha Island → Xinghai Concert Hall → North Gate Arch of Sun Yat-sen University → Haiyin Bridge
Guangzhou Tower Wharf (广州塔财富码头)
Located directly beneath the iconic Canton Tower, this modern pier offers newer vessels and convenient combined river-and-tower tickets. Unique morning tea and late-night dining cruises are available here. While easily accessible by metro, passengers should note this pier tends to have the highest ticket prices while offering the shortest cruise routes. Due to its popular location, passengers may encounter long queues, especially during peak hours.
- Address: No. 222, Yuejiang West Road, Haizhu District
- Metro: Take metro APM Line or Line 3 and get off at Canton Tower Station.
- Nearby attractions: Canton Tower, Guangzhou Art Museum (New Museum)
- Cruise duration: 50 minutes
- Cruise Frequency: Every 20-35 minutes
- Operating Hours: The first cruise departs at 18:30, and the final departure is at 22:00
- Ticket Price: CNY 198 – CNY 218
- Recommended cruises: Pearl River Prince, Pearl River Princess
- Cruise Route: Guangzhou Tower Pier → Canton Tower → Haixinsha Asian Games Stadium → Haixinsha Bridge → Guangzhou Bridge → Ersha Island → Xinghai Concert Hall → North Gate Arch of Sun Yat-sen University
Zhongda Wharf (中大码头)
Located at the North Gate Plaza of Sun Yat-sen University in Haizhu District, Zhongda Pier holds significant historical value as the site where Dr. Sun Yat-sen disembarked three times. Visitors can admire the university’s classical architecture and immerse themselves in the area’s rich cultural atmosphere. The pier mainly operates two-level cruise boats and theme ships, with the latter being particularly suitable for children. The tranquil and elegant environment makes it ideal for those seeking a blend of history and culture.
- Address: No. 163 Binjiang East Road, Haizhu District
- Metro: Take metro Line 8, get off at Lujiang Station and get out from Exit B. walk about 1700 meters to get there.
- Nearby attractions: Sun Yat-sen University
- Cruise duration: 60 minutes
- Cruise Frequency: Every 15-30 minutes
- Operating Hours: The first cruise departs at 19:25, and the final departure is at 21:45
- Ticket Price: CNY 98 – CNY 108
- Recommended cruises: Wang Laoji Theme Boat (Sui Shui Ba 26), National Games theme ship – Prosperous Lotus
- Cruise Route: Zhongda Pier → Hedde Bridge → Haixinsha → Canton Tower → Haixinsha Bridge → Guangzhou Bridge → Xinghai Concert Hall → North Gate of Sun Yat-sen University → Haiyin Bridge
Guangdong Provincial Trade Unions Wharf (省总码头)
The pier’s name originates from its former location opposite the Guangdong Provincial Trade Union Council building, which has since been relocated. This pier primarily operates two-level cruise boats and sees relatively lower passenger traffic compared to other terminals, making it an ideal choice for visitors seeking a quieter and more peaceful night cruise experience.
- Address: No. 150 Yanjiang West Road, Yuexiu District
- Metro: Take metro Line 2, get off at Haizhuguangchang Station and get out from Exit D. walk about 500 meters to get there.
- Nearby attractions: Sacred Heart Cathedral
- Cruise duration: 70-90 minutes
- Cruise Frequency: Every 50-60 minutes
- Operating Hours: The first cruise departs at 19:20, and the final departure is at 21:50
- Ticket Price: CNY 108
- Recommended cruises: Coca-Cola themed ship
- Cruise Route: Provincial Union Pier → Haizhu Bridge → Tianzi Pier → River View Hotel → Haiyin Bridge → Ersha Island → Xinghai Concert Hall → North Gate Arch of Sun Yat-sen University → Guangzhou Bridge → Canton Tower → Haixinsha Asian Games Stadium → Haixinsha Bridge → Hedde Bridge
Essential Tips for Your Cruise
- Seating & Decks: Ticket prices vary by deck, with higher levels costing more. The first deck is typically enclosed, while the second (and sometimes third) deck offers an open-air top with unobstructed views, which is highly recommended for the best experience. Note that even with an indoor ticket at piers like Tianzi, you can usually access public outdoor viewing areas.
- Dining Options: While some boats offer buffets or snacks for an additional fee, the food quality is often average. For most visitors, a sightseeing-only ticket provides better value.
- Timing & Reservations: For the ideal views, choose a departure between 19:00 and 20:30 to enjoy both the sunset and the fully illuminated skyline. As building lights along the river begin to turn off after 22:30, later cruises may miss the complete spectacle. Popular time slots can have long queues, so it’s advisable to book in advance and arrive at the pier at least 30 minutes before departure.
- Ticketing & Fees: Children under 6 years old or 1.2 meters in height cruise for free. Those over 6 but under 14 are eligible for half-price tickets.
Exploring the Pearl River by Day
For daytime visitors, the Pearl River offers a different charm along its scenic embankment. This “scenic corridor” stretches approximately 23 kilometers (14 miles), functioning as a dedicated pathway for enjoying waterside views and the city’s architectural heritage. Key landmarks along the way include the Whampoa Military Academy (the first of its kind in modern Chinese history), the elegantly designed Xinghai Concert Hall, the Shamian historical area with its diverse architecture, and the historic Tianzi Pier, which once received imperial officials centuries ago.
While daytime boat tours are available, they are generally less recommended as the city’s iconic skyline and modern bridges are best appreciated when illuminated after dark.