Qiantang River (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Qiantang River?
What makes it 79% Kids-Friendly: Kids can ride a mini steam train, watch colorful fountain shows, scooter on car-free paths, and cruise free if under 1.2 m; toilets exist every 1–2 km, but parents must guard low railings by water.
Positives:
- Free Entertainment: The Qianjiang New City fountain and light show costs nothing and runs daily, so kids can enjoy it without spending.
- Accessible Paths: Wide, smooth walkways along the river are stroller-friendly and have benches and toilets every 1–2 km.
Challenges:
- Weekend Crowds: Friday and Saturday evening shows and cruises fill up quickly; arriving early or booking in advance helps.
- Weather Dependent: Rain or strong winds can disrupt cruises and light shows; check weather forecasts and tide schedules.
What is Qiantang River?
- A tidal river that courses through Hangzhou, famed for its powerful tidal bore
- A 688-kilometer waterway originating in Anhui province and emptying into Hangzhou Bay on the East China Sea
- A historic watercourse that has shaped regional agriculture, commerce, and urban development for centuries
What is so special about Qiantang River for with kids?
- Enjoy a one-hour night cruise past illuminated bridges.
- Ride a mini steam train through historic White Pagoda Park.
- Watch the free 15-minute fountain and light show by the river.
- Cycle or scooter along stroller-friendly riverside paths.
Recommended visit duration: 2–3 hours
Why 2–3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: This allows time for the night cruise, light show and a quick park visit without rushing younger children.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Qiantang River
Qiantang River Night Cruise:
Board a family-friendly evening cruise and float past illuminated bridges and the city skyline.
Tip: Book the 19:00 departure online. Collect free no-seat tickets for children under 1.2 m at the dock.
White Pagoda Park & Mini Steam Train:
Explore riverside railway relics and ride a 5-minute steam train through shady groves.
Tip: Buy train tickets onsite. Wide paths make it easy to push a stroller or walk with kids.
Qianjiang New City Fountain & Light Show:
Watch a 15-minute water and light performance set to music on fountains and nearby skyscrapers.
Tip: Arrive 15 minutes early on the City Balcony. Shows at 20:30 daily and an extra 19:30 show Fri–Sat.
Binjiang Riverside Greenway:
Cycle or scooter along a 16 km paved path with river views, benches and restrooms every 1–2 km.
Tip: Rent bikes with child seats near Binjiang Wharf. Keep kids on the dedicated cycle lane.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Qiantang River
- Pre-book the Night Cruise: Reserve tickets online to guarantee seats on the preferred departure and skip the ticket queue.
- Plan Around Tide Times: Use a tide schedule app to catch the tidal bore if visiting between August and October.
- Bundle Activities: After the light show, stroll or bike along the Greenway to burn off energy and see more sights.
Reviews of Qiantang River
vipin dua
Great place to jog.....Awesome.
Yousef Behbehani
As the area is called city of heaven
Mikko Tienhaara
Running route along the riverside has recently been extended towards bridge number 2.
Marco Polo
From the Ocean Sea also come daily supplies of fish in great quantity, brought 25 miles up the river, and there is also great store of fish from the lake, which is the constant resort of fishermen, who have no other business. Their fish is of sundry kinds, changing with the season; and, owing to the impurities of the city which pass into the lake, it is remarkably fat and savoury. Any one who shou...
Jim Fisher
Go to the Pagoda of six Harmonies, go behind that pagoda for some awesome day hikes up to some tea farms
When is the best time to visit Qiantang River (Hangzhou, China)?
Summer (Jun–Aug): bring sunscreen, hats and water. Autumn (Sep–Nov): milder evenings and chance to see the tidal bore in the morning. Winter nights can be chilly—pack jackets. Spring may bring light rain—carry a raincoat.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Night cruise (2 adults) | CNY 240 |
| Mini steam train rides (4 persons) | CNY 80 |
| Café snacks and drinks | CNY 100 |
| Metro rides | CNY 40 |
| Total Estimated | CNY 460 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Qiantang River
Address: Qiantang River, China
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