Live Your Best Lives
Visit the historic Guazhou Ancient Ferry, explore the nearby canals, and take a boat ride to experience the region’s ancient waterways. The ferry has significant historical value, offering insights into the past transportation systems of Yangzhou. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and scenic surroundings, perfect for photography.
Guazhou Ancient Ferry is a small island located at the intersection of the lower reaches of the ancient Grand Canal and the Yangtze River in Guazhou Town, Hanjiang District . The Tang Dynasty poet Bai Juyi's poem "Longing": " The Bian River flows, the Si River flows, and they flow to the ancient Guazhou Ferry ." The Song Dynasty poet Wang Anshi's poem "Mooring the Boat at Guazhou" says: " There is a river between Jingkou and Guazhou, and Zhongshan is only separated by several mountains . " Both refer to this place.
This was the starting point for the Tang Dynasty monk Jianzhen's voyage to Japan. Legend has it that Du Shiniang sank her treasure chest in anger . The ruins of the ancient ferry, the Imperial Stele Pavilion, and the Caisson Pavilion evoke a sense of wonder. New attractions within the scenic area include the Yinling Pagoda, Jinchun Garden, the Reflecting Pond, and the Garden within the Garden, all connecting to the ancient canal scenic belt.
Suitable for all seasons
Suggested playing time: about half an hour
Currently closed, opening hours to be determined
All day
Guazhou Ancient Ferry is a historically significant site, once a vital part of the ancient transport network in Yangzhou. The ferry served as a major crossing point for trade and travel, linking the north and south regions of China. It showcases the historical use of water transportation in the region.
Guazhou Ancient Ferry is located in the eastern part of Yangzhou, Jiangsu Province. It can be easily accessed by taxi or bus from the city center. The nearest bus station is just a short walk from the ferry site. There is no direct metro access.
Guazhou Ancient Ferry is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the spring or autumn months when the weather is pleasant, and the ferry ride is most enjoyable. Weekdays are typically less crowded than weekends.
The entrance fee for Guazhou Ancient Ferry is approximately 30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance. It is also possible to buy tickets online through local travel platforms.
Booking tickets in advance is not required, but it is recommended during peak seasons or holidays. Booking a day or two in advance should be sufficient to secure your spot.
A visit to Guazhou Ancient Ferry typically takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on whether you want to take the boat ride and explore the surrounding area at a relaxed pace.
Highlights include the historic ferry itself, the surrounding canals, and the old ferry station, which offers a glimpse into ancient transportation methods. The views from the ferry are also spectacular and offer great photo opportunities.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides may be available in Chinese, but options for other languages such as English may be limited. It is advisable to check in advance.
The best viewpoints are from the ferry, where you can capture the beautiful canals and the surrounding greenery. The old ferry station also provides excellent opportunities for historical and architectural photography.
Start by visiting the ferry station to learn about the history, then take a boat ride along the canals to appreciate the serene environment. Afterward, walk around the area to explore the historical structures and nearby nature spots.
Night visits and light shows are not available at Guazhou Ancient Ferry. It is primarily a daytime attraction, best experienced in natural daylight to enjoy the peaceful waters and historical surroundings.
The ferry can get crowded on weekends and holidays. The least crowded times are during weekdays, especially early mornings or late afternoons, when you can enjoy the site more peacefully.
There are basic facilities available including toilets, rest areas, and small food stalls offering local snacks. There are no large restaurants, but nearby areas in Yangzhou offer a variety of dining options.
The ferry area is moderately accessible for elderly visitors and children, but the terrain can be uneven in some parts. For disabled visitors, it may be challenging to navigate some areas, especially on the boat rides.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used at the ferry. Credit cards may be accepted at the ticket counter and some shops.
There are small food stalls near the ferry entrance, offering local snacks. For more extensive dining options, head to the city center where you can find various restaurants serving traditional Yangzhou cuisine.
Vegetarian options are available at the food stalls near the ferry, but vegan and halal options may be limited. You may find more variety in the city center.
Several budget hotels and guesthouses are located near Yangzhou city center, around 20-30 minutes away by taxi. It's recommended to stay in the city center for convenience and easy access to other attractions.
Nearby attractions include the Slender West Lake, Daming Temple, and the Yangzhou Museum. These can be easily combined in a day trip for a full Yangzhou experience.
There are souvenir shops selling local crafts and snacks near the ferry entrance. Typical souvenirs include tea sets, local snacks like Yangzhou fried rice, and traditional Chinese handicrafts.
After visiting Guazhou Ancient Ferry, the best transportation options are taxis or private cars to continue your trip. The city center is easily accessible by taxi, and buses are available to other parts of Yangzhou.
