Experience the Magic of Shanghai from the Water: Huangpu River Evening Cruise

Imagine gliding along the mighty Huangpu River, watching the city’s skyline transform as night falls. For just $25 per person, you can enjoy a 45-minute cruise that takes you past some of Shanghai’s most famous sights, from the historic Bund to the futuristic Oriental Pearl Tower. The cruise departs in the evening, after 6:00 PM, giving you a perfect opportunity to see Shanghai’s dazzling lights reflecting off the water—an experience that’s as visually striking as it is relaxing.

What we love about this cruise? First, the spectacular cityscape views that are perfectly suited for your social media feed—think towering skyscrapers lit up against a darkening sky. Second, the flexible evening schedule means you can choose a sunset or post-sunset departure, making it adaptable to your sightseeing plan. That said, one consideration is the ticket collection process, which requires arriving early to pick up your physical tickets; it’s a small inconvenience that’s worth noting if you’re on a tight schedule.

This cruise is ideal for photography lovers, couples seeking a romantic outing, families, or anyone wanting a different perspective on Shanghai’s rapid evolution. If you’re curious about the city’s architectural journey—from colonial-era buildings to cutting-edge skyscrapers—this ride offers a front-row seat.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Spectacular skyline views perfect for photography and memories
45-minute cruise offering a relaxed way to see iconic landmarks
Flexible evening departure times after 6:00 PM
Ticket collection in advance at the wharf, recommended to avoid delays
Multiple decks with options for enclosed or open-air viewing
Cost-effective experience with added value in sightseeing

While in Shanghai, here are other experiences we've covered

A Detailed Look at Shanghai’s Huangpu River Night Cruise

The Route and What You’ll See

Starting from the Shiliupu Tourist Wharf, your cruise takes you along a route packed with Shanghai’s most recognizable sights. As we learned from many travelers, the cruise offers a scenic journey that captures the city’s dramatic transformation over the past century.

You’ll pass the historic Bund, famous for its colonial-era buildings that tell stories of Shanghai’s international past. The view from the water highlights the elegant facades, which glow beautifully at night. Just across the river, the skyline is dominated by futuristic skyscrapers like the Oriental Pearl Tower, the Shanghai World Financial Center, and the Jin Mao Tower—all illuminated in a way that makes for perfect photos.

The route also includes landmarks like the Shanghai International Convention Center, Nanpu Bridge, Waibaidu Bridge, and the Peace Hotel. As one enthusiastic reviewer noted, “It was an amazing experience from start to end. Really enjoyed the beautiful buildings on both sides of Huangpu River at night. Just a smooth ride.” The cruise is a journey through Shanghai’s architectural evolution, from old colonial buildings to gleaming modern structures.

Onboard Experience and Deck Options

The boat itself has three decks, providing multiple ways to enjoy the view. The first deck is enclosed with glass, which is good if you prefer staying out of the elements but might slightly obstruct some views. The second deck is open, offering unobstructed views, and some ships offer paid seats here. The third deck is a spacious open-air area, ideal for catching the full splendor of the skyline.

Reviewers have appreciated the seating options, especially those who paid a little extra for a reserved seat or better vantage point. “Totally worth paying the extra $15 for the seated area on the third floor,” said one traveler, echoing a common sentiment about the value of comfortable viewing spots. If you’re a photographer or romantic, the upper deck is the best spot, especially at sunset or twilight when the city’s lights sparkle.

More Great Tours Nearby

Ticketing and Boarding: Practical Details

A key practical note is the ticket collection process. Tickets must be picked up in person at the wharf before boarding, ideally 30-45 minutes earlier than departure. For instance, if you want to set sail at 6:30 PM, arriving around 5:50 PM is recommended to avoid queues. The process involves presenting your QR code—though some reviews mention that the QR code received might be invalid, so always double-check your email and the instructions.

Boarding is smooth but can involve lines during peak times or holidays. One traveler shared that “the lines to get to the boat were long, but orderly and everything was efficient.” During busy periods, be prepared for some waiting, but the overall experience remains very positive.

Planning evening activities? Here are other after-dark options we've examined in Shanghai

Timing and Flexibility

The cruise runs twice daily: a daytime version (11 AM to 5 PM) and the night cruise (after 6 PM). The night cruise is especially popular for its magical lighting effects. It departs every 30 minutes or so, giving you some flexibility to align with your sightseeing schedule.

For those wanting to include the cruise as part of an evening out, the 6:00 PM departure is ideal for catching sunset views, while later departures allow you to enjoy the city’s illuminated skyline. Just remember, if you want a good spot, arriving early is key.

Value and Cost

At $25 per person, this cruise offers good value considering the iconic sights and the relaxing atmosphere. For just under half an hour, you get a panoramic snapshot of one of the world’s most dynamic cities. Many reviews highlight the value: “It’s more expensive than in person but you jump the queue at the pier,” mentioned one traveler who also upgraded to a private seat.

Optional upgrades, such as reserving a better seat or buying beverages, are available but not included in the standard ticket. These extras can enhance the experience if you want a more comfortable or leisurely cruise.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cruise is perfect for photography enthusiasts eager to capture Shanghai’s skyline. It’s also well-suited for romantic couples looking for a peaceful, scenic moment. Families and friends will appreciate the relaxed pace and the chance to see the city from a new angle. If you’re curious about the architecture and history, the route offers plenty to see and discuss.

Final Thoughts

A Huangpu River evening cruise offers a relaxing and visually stunning way to appreciate Shanghai’s spectacular skyline. It’s a chance to see both historical buildings and modern skyscrapers in one swoop, best enjoyed as the city lights come on.

The experience’s strength lies in its captivating views and easy accessibility, especially if you arrive early for tickets and choose a higher deck for the best photos. While the ticketing process might involve some logistical planning, the overall reward of seeing Shanghai lit up at night makes it worthwhile.

If you’re after a memorable, scenic, and reasonably priced activity that combines the city’s history with its modern glow, this cruise will serve you well. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy urban photography, romantic outings, or simply want a different perspective on Shanghai’s rapid development.

FAQ

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended, especially during peak times or holidays, to ensure you get a spot and avoid long lines.

Where do I pick up my tickets?
Tickets must be collected in person at the Shiliupu Tourist Wharf. Arriving about 30-45 minutes early helps avoid queues and secures your preferred departure time.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, especially if upgrading or collecting tickets. Dress warmly if you’re outside, as it can be cool in the evening.

Can I upgrade my seat?
Yes, some options allow for paid upgrades for better seats, especially on the open decks, which many reviewers find worthwhile.

What is the typical duration of the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 45 minutes, providing ample time to enjoy the views without feeling rushed.

Are there different viewing options?
Yes, the ship has three decks—enclosed, open, and upper open-air—each offering different perspectives, with the upper deck being the most popular for photos and sunset views.

Is the cruise suitable for families?
Absolutely. It’s a relaxed activity that can be enjoyed by travelers of all ages, offering a memorable way to see Shanghai from the water.

This Huangpu River cruise is a straightforward, enjoyable way to add a scenic highlight to your Shanghai visit. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveler, the skyline views at night are sure to leave a lasting impression.