Yangzhou Royal Wharf

Introducing Yangzhou Royal Wharf

In 1753, the 18th year of Emperor Qianlong's reign, a salt merchant from Yangzhou built a temporary palace in the western garden of Tianning Temple. The construction took three years. An imperial pier was built in front of the palace, where Emperor Qianlong boarded a ship for his cruises around Slender West Lake. Constructed of bluestone, the pier has withstood over 200 years of wind and rain, remaining intact and sturdy. It now serves as the starting point for the famous "Qianlong Water Tour Route."

The stone tablet at Yumatou records the glory of the past and bears the vicissitudes of time. The vigorous "Imperial Horse Head" exudes the glory of Wuxi before Chinese and foreign guests. It's as if we can once again see Emperor Qianlong disembarking from Yumatou and entering the Tianning Temple Palace surrounded by a large crowd. Today, the Imperial Pier still seems to reflect the grandeur of the past, but this grandeur has been reduced to the homes of ordinary people.

Interestingly, the stele at the Imperial Pier reads "Imperial Horse Head," because the emperor's feet could not be obstructed by anything. Therefore, the character "马" (horse) was removed from the character for "石" (stone). Emperor Qianlong even inscribed a poem here: "The small boat paddles lightly along the stream, the bells and chimes of Deer Garden linger. The Han Canal stretches before the gate, its gentle currents filled with eternal love."

Climate and best time to travel

The subtropical monsoon climate, the ancient Grand Canal, and the ancient docks have witnessed countless historical events, evoking a nostalgic feeling. It is a good place to visit in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Take a dragon boat at the Imperial Wharf, and you will see beautiful scenery on both sides of the river, with quaint Jiangnan architecture and the flavor of small bridges, flowing water and people's homes.

It is recommended to play for about 30 minutes.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

Open all day

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Most Popular FAQs for Yangzhou Royal Wharf

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Yangzhou Royal Wharf was an important port during the Qing Dynasty. It was strategically located for trade and transportation along the Grand Canal. The wharf was a hub for merchants and travelers, contributing significantly to Yangzhou's prosperity during that time.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The Yangzhou Royal Wharf is located near the Grand Canal in Yangzhou, Jiangsu Province. It is accessible by taxi or bus from the city center. Walking from nearby attractions, like Slender West Lake, is also a pleasant option.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Yangzhou Royal Wharf is open year-round, with no specific hours as it is primarily an outdoor attraction. The best times to visit are early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the cooler weather.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is no entrance fee for the Yangzhou Royal Wharf. It is a public area that is free to visit, though donations may be accepted at the site.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

No tickets are required, so booking in advance is not necessary. Simply visit during your preferred time.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You can fully explore the Yangzhou Royal Wharf in about 1–2 hours. This allows time to enjoy the views, take photos, and appreciate the historical significance of the site.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The must-see highlight is the riverside view, where you can see traditional Chinese architecture and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. The historic buildings along the wharf, such as warehouses and merchant houses, are also interesting to explore.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours may be available upon request, typically in Mandarin. Audio guides are not commonly provided, so it's best to explore the area on your own or hire a local guide if you prefer detailed historical explanations.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots include the riverbank with views of the old wharf, especially during sunrise or sunset. The traditional architecture of the buildings against the backdrop of the water makes for a perfect shot.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by walking along the riverbank to take in the views of the wharf. Explore the nearby structures and merchant houses, then finish by walking around the area to capture different perspectives of the historical site.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are possible, and the area is beautifully lit up in the evening. However, light shows or special tours are not typically available.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The Yangzhou Royal Wharf can be crowded on weekends and during holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit during weekdays or early morning hours.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic facilities like toilets and rest areas are available. There are also small shops nearby selling local snacks and drinks, but there are no major restaurants directly on the site.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The attraction is mostly accessible for elderly, children, and disabled visitors, with flat walking paths along the river. However, the area may be challenging for those with mobility issues due to the uneven ground in certain parts.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash, as well as mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay, are commonly accepted. Credit cards may not be widely accepted at smaller shops or vendors.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several local restaurants and cafes nearby, offering traditional Yangzhou cuisine like Yangzhou fried rice and dumplings. Many of these are located along the nearby streets or within walking distance from the wharf.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are widely available in Yangzhou's local cuisine. Halal food options may be found at specific restaurants catering to Muslim visitors, although they are less common in this area.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels near the city center, including mid-range and luxury options. Accommodations near Slender West Lake are also convenient for visiting the Royal Wharf.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Other nearby attractions include Slender West Lake, the Daming Temple, and the Yangzhou Museum. All these sites are within a short distance and can be easily combined into a full day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are souvenir shops near the site selling traditional items like embroidered textiles, Chinese teas, and porcelain figurines. You can also find locally made crafts and paintings depicting Yangzhou’s scenic views.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

Taxis and buses are readily available to continue your trip to other nearby attractions. Yangzhou's public transportation system is well-connected, making it easy to move around the city.