Pearl River Night Cruise Guide: Experience Guangzhou's Most Beautiful Night Scenery and Romance!

The night view of the Pearl River is dazzling beyond belief!✨

Coming to Guangzhou without cruising the Pearl River is like not coming to Guangzhou at all!🌉

✅Recommended route: Canton Tower Pier - Haixinsha - Ersha Island - Zhujiang New Town
⏰Departure time: Every night from 19:00 to 21:00 (additional trips on holidays depending on demand)
📍Departure pier: Canton Tower Pier (Metro Line 3, Canton Tower Station, Exit B)

🌠Must-see highlights:
- The colorful light show of the Canton Tower "Slim Waist"
- The "Architectural Light Symphony" of Zhujiang New Town
- The musical fountain show on Ersha Island

🎫Ticket prices:
- Basic route starting at ¥68
- Buffet route starting at ¥138
- VIP viewing seats starting at ¥198
🔥It is recommended to book tickets one day in advance on
📸Photo tips:
1️⃣Board at 19:30 to capture the "Blue Hour"
2️⃣Best photo spots are at the bow of the boat or the second-floor terrace
3️⃣Bring a tripod for stunning night shots!

⚠️Notes:
- Bring mosquito repellent in summer
- Light snacks and drinks are available on board
- Choose a clear night for better visibility

❤️Core experience: The interplay of light, shadow, and history

The cruise travels west to east through the core section of the Pearl River, offering dual scenic views. On one side is a dazzling light panorama: the skyscrapers of Zhujiang New Town, the colorful lights of Canton Tower (Slim Waist) reflecting on the river, and more than ten illuminated bridges including Liede Bridge and Haiyin Bridge, combined with the Baigetang light show, creating a spectacular visual feast. On the other side are historical imprints: starting from the Qing Dynasty’s official Tianzi Pier, passing by the European-style buildings on Shamian Island, the Republic of China’s tallest building Aiqun Mansion, and the Sha Ji Massacre Memorial commemorating anti-imperialist events—each site carries Guangzhou’s past. With the river breeze, modern prosperity and century-old stories blend in the night, delivering a unique sensory impact.

👍Key practical points

1. Pier and route selection: Prioritize Tianzi Pier, Dashatou Pier, or Xiti Pier. These old piers offer classic and longer routes covering core attractions like Canton Tower and Xinghai Concert Hall. Tianzi Pier is near Beijing Road, Dashatou Pier has the most complete facilities, and is the largest "home port" for tourists.

2. Timing and ticketing tips: The prime time is 19:00-21:00 when lights are brightest and still on. In summer, choose trips after 19:30 for a better dark atmosphere. Purchase tickets in advance through official platforms or authorized channels to avoid scalpers, especially during holidays when tickets are scarce.

3. Cruise and gear tips: Some cruises restrict access to open decks for indoor ticket holders, so confirm when buying tickets. Bring a light jacket to resist the river breeze, prepare a camera to capture light reflections, and use slow shutter speeds for dreamy flowing effects.

✨Overall evaluation

The approximately 60-70 minute cruise is not only a visual delight but also a deep experience of Guangzhou’s "daytime Pearl River, nighttime lights" charm. From historic piers to modern landmarks, from architectural styles to light art, the Pearl River night cruise condenses Guangzhou’s urban evolution and cultural atmosphere from a unique "water perspective." It is a classic must-do for visitors to Guangzhou.

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