The Huangpu River in Shanghai

The Huangpu River in Shanghai

• Shanghai’s iconic river; take an evening stroll along the banks to admire the dazzling nightscape on both sides.

Attraction Introduction

The Huangpu River is known as the “Mother River of Shanghai.” It separates Pudong and Puxi, with globally renowned landmarks such as the Bund and the Lujiazui Financial Center located on either side. Viewing the glowing nightscape along the river is an essential experience for visitors to Shanghai. You can also take a cruise to enjoy the panoramic views of both banks.

Stretching approximately 113 kilometers with a width of 300 to 700 meters, the Huangpu River flows through various districts of Shanghai, serving as the city’s symbol and showcase of its urban landscape at its finest. The Bund and Binjiang Avenue along the riverbanks are excellent vantage points, with Binjiang Avenue being relatively less crowded than the Bund. Strolling along the river, you’ll see the expanse of the Bund’s historic Western-style buildings on the west bank, characterized by rich international flair, contrasted with the soaring modern skyscrapers on the east bank—a vivid illustration of Shanghai’s century-long development.

The night view of the river is also not to be missed. When night falls, the banks of the Huangpu River light up brilliantly. You can depart from Shiliupu Dock on Zhongshan East Second Road in Huangpu District and take a Huangpu River cruise to take in the scenic views along the way. The Yangpu Bridge and Nanpu Bridge spanning the Huangpu River, the classic Waibaidu Bridge resembling a jade belt, the scenic Binjiang Avenue in Pudong, the uniquely designed Shanghai International Convention Center, and the solemn Chen Yi Square are all illuminated by dazzling lights, creating a breathtaking sight. Meals are available onboard, including Chinese, Western, and buffet options, allowing you to enjoy fine dining while admiring the river views. Cruises operate daily from 11:00 to 21:30, with departures every hour from 11:00 to 13:00, and every half hour from 13:00 to 21:30, with each trip lasting about 60 minutes.

If you prefer not to spend too much time on a cruise, taking the economical ferry between Pudong and Puxi is another great way to experience the charm of the Huangpu River, with a more nostalgic vibe. Ferries run between Jinling East Road Ferry Terminal near the Bund and Dongchang Road Ferry Terminal in Pudong, operating from 7:00 to 22:00, with trips taking about ten minutes and departing every 15 minutes. There are also ferries between Fuxing East Road Ferry Terminal and Dongchang Road Ferry Terminal; Fuxing East Road operates from 7:00 to 19:00, and Dongchang Road from 7:00 to 18:45, with departures every half hour.

Address: Within Shanghai’s urban area, originating from Dianshan Lake at Dianfeng in Zhujiajiao Town, Qingpu District, Shanghai, and flowing into the Yangtze River

Transportation

Public Transport

1. People’s Square: Take bus 930 and get off at Xinbeimen Station, or take Metro Line 8 to Dashijie Station, transfer to bus 926 and get off at Zhongshan East Second Road Xinkaihe Road Station, or take bus 64 to Xinbeimen Station

2. The Bund: Take buses 868 or 55 and get off at Zhongshan East Second Road Jinling East Road Station, or take bus 42 to Yan’an East Road Zhongshan East First Road Station

3. Shanghai Hongqiao Airport: Take Metro Line 10 to Yuyuan Station, Exit 1

Type: River

Recommended Visit Duration: 1–2 hours

Opening Hours:

Open all day

Ticket Information:

Free entry; night cruise: 168 RMB per person