Huangpu River

Introducing Huangpu River

The Huangpu River, a landmark river in Shanghai, flows through downtown Shanghai, dividing the city into Puxi and Pudong. After joining the Wusong River (Suzhou Creek) at Waibaidu Bridge in downtown Shanghai, it flows into the Yangtze River at Wusongkou, becoming the last tributary of the Yangtze River before it flows into the East China Sea.

During the tour, you'll see the Yangpu and Nanpu Bridges, and the Shanghai Oriental Pearl TV Tower, spanning the Huangpu River. Like two giant dragons, the bridges stretch across the river, with the Oriental Pearl TV Tower nestled between them, creating a magnificent scene of two dragons playing with a pearl .

The west bank of the Huangpu River is lined with international buildings of varying styles and rich exotic colors, while the east bank of the Huangpu River is lined with modern buildings that rise from the ground and tower into the clouds.

Wusong Water Gate, Tower Shadows at Jiangwan, Fishing Lights on Maple Island, Rainbow on the Waves, Castle Dripping with Green, Dripping Water Reflecting the Sun, Spring and Autumn at the Bund, Oriental Water City, and Longhua Evening Bell will constitute the new " Ten Scenic Spots " that cannot be missed along the Huangpu River .

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1-3 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Huangpu River

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

The Huangpu River is Shanghai's main river and holds immense historical and cultural significance. It has been a major transportation route and a dividing line between the historic city of Puxi and the modern district of Pudong, which houses some of the tallest skyscrapers in the world.

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

The Huangpu River flows through central Shanghai. It is easily accessible by metro, with stations like East Nanjing Road (Line 2) near the Bund or Lujiazui (Line 2) near Pudong. You can also take a taxi or walk along the riverbanks for stunning views.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Huangpu River is open year-round as it is a natural waterway, but river cruises typically operate from 9 AM to 10 PM. The best time to visit is in the late afternoon or evening for sunset and the iconic night views of the skyline.

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

There is no entrance fee for visiting the riverbanks. However, river cruise tickets typically range from CNY 70 to CNY 150, depending on the type of cruise. Tickets can be bought at ticket booths near the Bund or booked online in advance.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for visiting the riverbanks but is recommended for river cruises, especially during peak seasons. Booking 1-2 days in advance is generally sufficient.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Exploring the riverbanks and the Bund area can take 2-3 hours. A river cruise typically lasts 1 hour, but if you plan to explore other nearby attractions, such as the Nanjing Road or Pudong district, you may need 3-4 hours in total.

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

The must-see highlights include the Bund, the skyline view of Pudong, the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower, the historic buildings along the Bund, and the river cruise offering views of both sides of the river.

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

Guided tours are available for both walking tours along the Bund and river cruises. English-speaking guides are available for most tours. Audio guides are available on river cruises in multiple languages, including English.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints are along the Bund, where you can capture the skyline of Pudong. Other great photography spots include from the decks of a river cruise and the viewing platforms at the Oriental Pearl Tower.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by walking along the Bund to admire the historic architecture. Then take a river cruise to get a panoramic view of the city’s skyline. For a deeper experience, visit the Lujiazui area in Pudong to view the modern skyscrapers.

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

Yes, night visits are highly recommended. The light show along the river is a major attraction, especially at night when the city’s skyscrapers are illuminated. River cruises also provide a spectacular view of the lit-up skyline.

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

The Huangpu River, especially around the Bund, can get crowded during weekends and holidays. The least crowded times are early mornings or late evenings during weekdays, particularly outside major Chinese holidays.

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

There are plenty of facilities along the riverbanks, including toilets, food stalls, cafes, and shops. The Bund area has many restaurants offering local and international cuisine. There are also rest areas to relax while enjoying the view.

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

The riverbanks and nearby attractions are accessible for elderly and disabled visitors. The walking paths are paved and relatively flat, making it easy to explore with a stroller or wheelchair.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted. Credit cards are also accepted in most establishments, but it's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller vendors along the riverbanks.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are many cafes and restaurants around the Bund and Lujiazui areas, offering a variety of cuisines, from local Shanghainese dishes to international options.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

There are vegetarian and vegan options in many restaurants along the Bund, especially in the international dining establishments. Halal food can be found in the nearby Muslim Quarter and other parts of Shanghai.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Nearby hotels include the Bund Hotel, Waldorf Astoria, and The Peninsula Shanghai, all of which offer luxury accommodations with great views of the river and easy access to the Bund.

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

Nearby attractions include the Oriental Pearl Tower, Nanjing Road for shopping, the Shanghai Tower, and the Jin Mao Tower in the Pudong area. All these can be easily combined in a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops along the Bund and in the Lujiazui area. Typical souvenirs include Shanghai-themed items such as silk products, tea, and Chinese paintings.

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

After visiting, you can continue your trip by taking a taxi or metro (Line 2 from East Nanjing Road or Lujiazui). Alternatively, you can take a ferry or river cruise to enjoy another view of the city.