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City Ferries in China: A Scenic Guide to Urban Waterways
Tired of subways and buses? Slow down and hop on a ferry. Drift past riverbanks, watch seagulls circle, and feel the rhythm of a city from its waterways. Across China, ferries still connect daily commuters and curious travelers—offering both scenic beauty and a touch of nostalgia.
1. Shanghai: A Time Machine on the Huangpu River
The Experience:
For just ¥2–3, sail between the colonial Bund and futuristic Lujiazui. The skyline unfolds like a living timeline—from old stone banks to glass towers. This ferry remains a vital commuter link for locals, bikes, and e-scooters.
Must-Try Routes:
- Dongjin Line (Jinling East Rd ↔ Dongchang Rd): The “Golden Route,” offering the most iconic views of both riverbanks.
- Nanlu Line (Lujiabang Rd ↔ South Dock): Best at sunset—watch the city glow in soft amber light.
Pro Tips:
Use the Shanghai Public Transportation Card.
Evening rides showcase the city’s dazzling light show.
Bring your camera—or your e-bike—for unique skyline shots.
2. Hong Kong: Vintage Vibes on the Star Ferry
The Experience:
Aboard the century-old Star Ferry, you’ll see Hong Kong as generations have before. The ferry has wooden cabins and green benches. Named one of the “Top 10 Ferry Rides in the World” by Lonely Planet, it’s a floating slice of history.
Must-Try Routes:
- Tsim Sha Tsui ↔ Central: Ten minutes between Kowloon’s neon and the Island’s skyline.
- Tsim Sha Tsui ↔ Wan Chai: Great for reaching the Convention Centre and Golden Bauhinia Square.
Pro Tips:
Use an Octopus card.
Ride at dusk for the sunset and the “Symphony of Lights.”
Sit on the upper deck for the best view.
3. Guangzhou: The “Water Bus” of the Pearl River
The Experience:
Guangzhou’s ferries are true public transport—locals use them daily. Yet for visitors, they reveal the city’s skyline and riverside life from a new angle.
Must-Try Routes:
- S2 (Tianzi Dock → Canton Tower Dock): Pass Beijing Road. Then, cross Haizhu Bridge. Continue past Sun Yat-sen University before reaching the Canton Tower.
- S11 (Canton Tower ↔ Haixinsha Dock): A short hop with great views.
Pro Tips:
Pay via Yangchengtong, WeChat, or Alipay.
Schedules are posted electronically at docks.
Boats vary—some are modern catamarans.
4. Xiamen: Gateway to Gulangyu Island
The Experience:
The only way to reach Gulangyu—the “Garden on the Sea”—is by ferry. As you approach, red-roofed villas and lush greenery slowly emerge, marking the start of an island escape.
Key Route:
- Xiamen International Cruise Center ↔ Gulangyu Sanqiutian/Neicuoao Docks
Pro Tips:
Tourists must depart from the International Cruise Center during the day.
Book tickets in advance via “Xiamen Ferry Co., Ltd.” on WeChat.
Locals use separate docks—check before lining up.
5. Wuhan: Across the River City
The Experience:
Cross the mighty Yangtze beneath the Wuhan Bridge to feel the pulse of “Jiang Cheng.” Ferries link the city’s three historical districts—Wuchang, Hankou, and Hanyang—just as they did a century ago.
Must-Try Routes:
- Wuhanguan ↔ Zhonghualu Docks: Connects Hankou’s colonial district to Wuchang’s landmarks.
- Jizhongmen ↔ Zhonghualu Docks: The best front-facing view of the Yangtze Bridge.
Pro Tips:
Tickets cost ¥1.5–2 and accept the Wuhan Tong card.
Bicycles welcome! Perfect for riverside rides.
Go at sunset for golden reflections.
6. Zhoushan: The Lifeline of the Islands
The Experience:
Zhoushan’s ferries are true sea arteries, linking fishing villages and holy islands across the East China Sea. The views—rolling waves and endless blue—are unforgettable.
Example Routes:
- Zhujiajian ↔ Putuoshan: To the sacred Buddhist mountain.
- Shenjiamen ↔ Dongji Island: The “edge of the sea” journey from The Continent movie.
- Sanjiang ↔ Shengsi: To beaches and bright blue water.
Pro Tips:
Check weather and schedules before travel.
Book via official WeChat accounts (“舟山海星轮船”, “嵊泗客运”).
Prepare motion sickness meds for open-sea routes.
General Ferry Tips
- Payment: Urban ferries accept cards or QR codes; tourist ferries require online booking.
- Safety: Follow crew instructions; wear a life jacket when required.
- Timing: Always confirm the latest schedule.
- Enjoy the ride: Sit by the window, sip your drink, and let the city float by.
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