Pearl River Night Cruise
2 min read2，129 kilometers in length, the Pearl River is the third longest river in China and the second largest in terms of annual flow capacity. Legend has it that where the Pearl River flowed through Guangzhou sits a gigantic stone island. Gradually washed and eroded by the roaring water, the stone becomes slick and smooth and is shaped like a pearl. Thus is the origin of the name“ Sea Jewel”.
The Pearl River is composed of three river systems including the East River, the West River and the North River. The three river systems converge in Guangzhou, resulting in fascinating vistas. At night, under sparkling lights, the boat carrying passengers departs from the Xidi Wharf near the People’ s Bridge, sailing eastward, passing the Liberation Bridge, Haizhu Bridge, Haiyin Bridge, Guangzhou Bridge and Hedong Bridge, before returning to the wharf. This section of the river offers visitors vistas such as“ the Red Heart of the Pearl River”，“ the Spring Dawning on the East Lake”，“ Wall of Sails at Huangpu” and“ Night Moon over the Goose Pond”， which are among Guangzhou’ s top eight sights； it also provides views of the Southern Building, Aiqun Building, Guangzhou Hotel, Huaxia Hotel, Jiangwan Hotel, Ersha Haizhu Plaza Garden, the White Swan Hotel and Shamian Foreign- style Building Complex. The cruise takes approximately two hours.
The Pearl River night cruise is unique to Guangzhou. For dozens of yuan, you can cruise on a luxury boat along the Pearl River and enjoy the enchanting landscapes on both banks. You can stand on the deck and feel the breeze of the river on your face and hear the sound of water splashing against the side of the ship. The cruise is immensely popular among local residents and tourists alike.
You can enjoy the nightscapes of the Pearl River by boat, by car, or on foot. A boat ride costs between RMB 48 and RMB 188. You can also take Tour Bus No. 2 and views the sights from the bank. Alternatively, you can stroll along the river while taking in the views along the way.
