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A night cruise on the Pearl River is a major tourist attraction in Guangzhou, a southern city. Its beauty rivals that of Hong Kong's Victoria Harbor. The scenic stretch stretches from Baietan Lake in the east to Guangzhou Bridge and south to Baihedong. The enchanting scenery, with its shimmering clear waters and twinkling lights, resembles a dazzling rainbow of multicolored pearls studded across the river.
Along the river, you can enjoy the night views of Guangzhou, including the Haizhu Bridge, Jiefang Bridge, Xidi Bar Street, Aiqun Building, Nanfang Building, White Swan Hotel, and Fangcun Music Square. There are also broadcasts detailing more than 30 cultural and historical attractions on both sides of the Pearl River, allowing you to fully appreciate the customs and culture of southern China.
Suitable for all seasons, with the clearest nights in summer
Recommended play time: 2-3 hours
58-108 yuan
18:00-22:00
The Pearl River has been a central feature of Guangzhou for centuries, playing a vital role in the city’s commerce, transportation, and cultural exchange. The night cruise offers a unique way to experience the river’s history while taking in the modern skyline of Guangzhou.
The night cruise departs from several locations along the Pearl River, such as the Tianzi Wharf or the Shuqiao Wharf. It is easily accessible by taxi or metro; the nearest metro stations are Line 2 (Tianzi Wharf Station) or Line 5 (Shuqiao Station). You can also walk from many nearby landmarks in Guangzhou’s city center.
The cruise operates in the evenings, with departures generally starting from 7:00 PM until around 9:00 PM. The best time to visit is during sunset or just after dusk when the city lights reflect on the river, offering spectacular views of Guangzhou’s skyline.
The ticket prices for the night cruise vary depending on the type of boat and class chosen, generally ranging from ¥100 to ¥300 per person. Tickets can be purchased online via travel websites or at the wharf on the day of the cruise.
It is recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons or weekends. Booking 1-2 days in advance is generally sufficient, but it's a good idea to secure your tickets ahead of time to avoid missing out.
The night cruise typically lasts 1-1.5 hours, providing ample time to enjoy the views and take photos along the way. Additional time can be spent at the embarkation point for further exploration of the area.
Audio guides are available on some cruises and are typically in Chinese and English. Some premium tours may also include a live guide in multiple languages, including Mandarin and English.
The cruise generally takes you along a route that passes key landmarks like the Canton Tower, Haizhu Bridge, and Shamian Island, allowing you to see both the modern and historic sides of Guangzhou’s riverfront.
Yes, the cruise is a night visit that includes the spectacular city lights. Some cruises may offer light shows or themed events, depending on the time of year or special occasions.
The night cruise can be crowded during weekends and holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit on weekdays, particularly on Monday through Thursday evenings.
The cruise boats generally offer restrooms, a small selection of food and drinks, and sometimes a small shop for souvenirs. On some premium cruises, there may be a buffet or full-service dining option.
Yes, the cruises are accessible for elderly visitors and children. However, it is advisable to check with the cruise company for specific accessibility arrangements for disabled visitors.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely accepted for ticket purchases, onboard purchases, and souvenirs. Some places may accept credit cards, but it’s safer to have mobile payment options ready.
Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and halal options are available at various restaurants and food stalls along the riverfront and in the city center near the cruise departure points.
Yes, souvenir shops are available on the cruise and along the riverfront. Typical souvenirs include local handicrafts, Pearl River-themed items, and Cantonese tea sets.
