Huangpu River (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Huangpu River?
What makes it 81% Kids-Friendly: Children ride cruises free or half price, love the LED tunnel and West Bund playground, and railings line most paths, but vigilant supervision is vital near deep water and dense night crowds.
Positives:
- Engaging Water Views: Kids thrill at spotting cargo ships and landmarks like the Oriental Pearl Tower from the boat.
- Accessible Facilities: Stroller-friendly docks and wide promenades ease navigation with young children.
Challenges:
- Crowds at Peak Times: The Bund gets busy at sunset and weekends, making it harder to watch over children.
- Limited Shade: Promenades have few covered spots; bring sun protection in summer.
What is Huangpu River?
- A 113-kilometre tributary of the Yangtze River that bisects Shanghai, flowing from Wusong inland to the East China Sea
- A commercial waterway that has served as the city’s economic artery since the 19th century, linking China’s interior to international shipping lanes
- A fluvial divide separating the colonial-era Bund in Puxi from Pudong’s modern skyline, traversed by a series of landmark bridges
What is so special about Huangpu River for with kids?
- Take a family-friendly 50-minute cruise for close-up river and skyline views.
- Enjoy a short, playful ride through the LED-lit Bund Sightseeing Tunnel.
- Hop on a local ferry for a budget-friendly river crossing.
- Let kids run in playgrounds and open lawns at Xuhui Riverside and Expo Park.
- Benefit from stroller-accessible docks and wide promenades for easy walking.
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A 50-minute cruise plus a short riverside walk fits within this time and keeps kids engaged without tiring them.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Huangpu River
Daytime River Cruise:
Board a 50-minute cruise from Shiliupu Wharf to see bridges and skyscrapers up close.
Tip: Buy tickets online early; children under 1.3 m ride free. Sit on the upper deck for best views.
Bund Sightseeing Tunnel:
Ride the LED-lit car under the river in 3–5 minutes between Puxi and Pudong.
Tip: Start at the Chen Yi Square entrance. A round-trip ticket adds fun for kids on the return.
Local Ferry Ride:
Take a 10-minute crossing from Jinling East Road to Dongchang Road for a budget tour.
Tip: Pay cash at boarding. Let kids stand on deck (hold hands) to watch water splashes.
Xuhui Riverside City Walk:
Explore playgrounds, vintage train cars, and climbing walls on the West Bund.
Tip: Go early to avoid crowds. Pack a small snack so kids can rest between play zones.
Expo Park Riverside:
Picnic on open lawns and lotus ponds near Mercedes-Benz Arena.
Tip: Bring a picnic blanket and toss a ball on the grass. Check wind—riverside can be breezy.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Huangpu River
- Book Cruise in Advance: Reserve morning departures online to avoid lines and secure seats together.
- Combine Ferry and Tunnel: Cross by ferry and return via the Sightseeing Tunnel to add variety and keep kids interested.
Reviews of Huangpu River
Ganesh Laxmi
Nigh view from the River. The Huangpu River is the lifeblood of Shanghai—both geographically and culturally. Stretching approximately 113 kilometers (70 miles), it divides the city into two iconic halves: Puxi (west of the river), the historic heart of Shanghai, and Pudong (east of the river), the modern financial hub. With a width ranging from 300 to 770 meters and an average depth of 9 meters, ...
Jamie Higgs-Dey
A walk along the rivers embankment is certainly something you should do when in Shanghai, on one side you have the ultra modern financial district with the skyscrapers and on the other you have all the old architecture, seeing so many boats go along the river with people enjoying the views. The cruise is a must as well.
Lim Kar Hong
Best go in the evening to enjoy the city lights from Shanghai buildings and also The Bund. Lights turn on at 6pm during winter. Also a good place for night photography.
Rajendra Sanjelchhetri
The Huangpu River flows through the heart of city & divides Shanghai in older Puxi & newer Pudong area. River at near The Bund was popular tourist destination in Shanghai. East side was Pudong with modern high-rise skyscrapers along with iconic Pearl tower & 600-meter-high Shanghai tower whereas at north side was huge classical western buildings. River offered medium side cruise, especially during...
Yingying
This place is really beautiful at night. Went for the river cruise tour (About 100+ RMB i think). Can see shanghai oriental pearl tower here as well. Chill vibes. Relaxing river cruise. Would recommend for families.
When is the best time to visit Huangpu River (Shanghai, China)?
Spring and autumn offer mild weather and clear skies. Summer is hot and humid—bring hats, sunscreen and water. Winter evenings are windy—dress in layers.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Daytime River Cruise (2 adults + 1 child) | CNY 360 |
| Bund Sightseeing Tunnel round-trip | CNY 210 |
| Local Ferry rides | CNY 6 |
| Drinks and snacks | CNY 80 |
| Total Estimated | CNY 656 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Huangpu River
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