Huangpu River (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Huangpu River?
What makes it 88% Solo-Friendly: A solo visitor can roam the Bund and greenways, hop ¥2 ferries, or join a 50-min cruise; walks are safe, lit, and photographable, so spending a relaxed hour or two is easy and cheap.
Positives:
- Easy Access: Multiple metro stops and ferry piers along the river make it simple to start or end your visit.
- Safe Paths: Well-lit promenades and dedicated bike lanes offer safe routes day and night.
Challenges:
- Crowds at Peak Times: The Bund promenade fills up at sunset and weekends, which may slow your pace.
- Seasonal Weather: Summer heat and winter wind can be intense along the open riverbank.
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 solo trip?
- Riverside strolls with Puxi and Pudong skyline views
- Inexpensive local ferry ride for authentic river crossing
- Short daytime cruise ideal for solo photography
- Accessible bike paths for an active riverside loop
- Safe, well-connected promenades for day or night visits
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Enough time for a riverside walk and a short cruise without rushing
Solo-Friendly Activities in Huangpu River
Bund Promenade Walk:
Walk from Waibaidu Bridge to Jinling East Road along the Puxi riverside path.
Tip: Start at sunrise or before sunset to avoid crowds and capture soft light.
Local Ferry Ride:
Take the Dongchang Road Ferry for a quick crossing between Puxi and Pudong.
Tip: Pay with a transport card for a ¥2 fare and stand on deck for skyline views.
Daytime Sightseeing Cruise:
Join a 50-minute cruise from Shiliupu Wharf to see both riverbanks.
Tip: Book off-peak tickets (¥100) before midday for clearer river conditions.
Riverside Bike:
Rent a bike along the Shanghai Greenway on the Pudong riverbank.
Tip: Use a shared-bike app to unlock and plan a 1-hour loop to match your schedule.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Huangpu River
- Book Cruises Online: Secure lower fares and skip the ticket line by reserving your daytime cruise on travel apps.
- Use a Transport Card: Pay the ferry fare and metro rides with a single card to move smoothly without cash.
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)?
Visit in spring or autumn for mild weather. In summer bring sun protection and water. In winter wear layers to guard against riverside wind.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Local Ferry Ride | CNY 2 |
| Daytime Sightseeing Cruise | CNY 120 |
| Bike Rental (1h) | CNY 30 |
| Total Estimated | CNY 152 |
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 Huangpu River
Address: Huangpu River, China
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides Huangpu River (Shanghai)?
About Huangpu River
10 BEST nearby Activities
Explore Popular Things to Do
🇨🇳 China, solo trip
🇺🇸 United States, solo trip
🇬🇧 United Kingdom, solo trip
How You Can Support Us
If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!
It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!
10 BEST nearby Activities