Your China & Yunnan Travel Experts
Ask a QuestionIf you're planning a trip to Xiamen, be sure to set aside one evening for Lujiang River. This isn't just a boat ride to see lights—it's a soul-stirring experience that reveals Xiamen's unique charm: “the sea within the city, the city upon the sea.” This guide will take you from itinerary planning to practical details, helping you make the most of this maritime night.
Cruise on Lujiang River
Project Highlights: Unique nighttime views from the sea; buffet dinner and live band or immersive performances are typically offered on board.
Reference Information: Sailing time is approximately 1-2 hours; adult tickets usually start from 198 RMB per person.
1. Departure from Heping Wharf
The cruise starts at Heping Wharf on Xiamen Island. As the boat departs, you immediately get a full view of the city's western coastline. You can see the Zhongshan Road area with its lit-up historical buildings and the modern skyline of Xiamen Island in the distance.
2. View of Gulangyu Island
Shortly after departure, the boat sails along the channel facing Gulangyu Island. You will see the island's western side. Key landmarks like Sunlight Rock and the historic villas are softly illuminated at night, offering a quiet and different perspective compared to the daytime.
3. Shuangzi Tower (Twin Towers) Light Show
The boat then turns, bringing the modern Shimen Shuangzi Tower (Xiamen World Financial Center) into full view. This is a highlight. The two skyscrapers function as giant screens for a colorful light show, with patterns reflecting onto the water below.
4. Yanwu Bridge
Passing close to the Yanwu Bridge, you get a low-angle view from the sea. The bridge's curved structure is outlined in lights, and the moving cars create continuous streams of red and white light, making it look like a glowing ribbon.
5. Return Journey and Other Sights
On the return leg towards Heping Wharf, you will see other sights like the outline of Hulishan Fortress and buildings of Xiamen University from the water. You get a second chance to view the Gulangyu Island skyline from a slightly different angle.
Cruise on Lujiang River
Lujiang River in Xiamen is a narrow strait separating the main island from Gulangyu Island. It is essentially part of Xiamen Port rather than an independent river. Beyond serving as a vital maritime passage, it embodies the very soul and character of Xiamen.
Geographically, Lujiang connects the open sea with the inner bay on Xiamen's western side, forming the core of the city's “Garden on the Sea” layout. It is this stretch of water that defines Gulangyu's character as an offshore island and creates the unique vistas enjoyed from the mainland or during sea tours.
Regarding its name, “Egret River” carries poetic resonance. Xiamen Island has long been known as the “Egret Island” due to the white egrets that once frequented its shores. Consequently, the waters encircling the island were gracefully named “Egret River,” evoking the serene imagery of egrets soaring above.
Historically and functionally, Lujiang is a vibrant “golden waterway.” It has witnessed Xiamen's prosperity as a major trading port, bustling for centuries with cargo ships, passenger vessels, and fishing boats. Today, it serves as a vital artery for tourism and sightseeing. The “Lujiang Night Cruise” we experience and the ferries shuttling to Gulangyu Island all navigate this very waterway.
An efficient itinerary maximizes the value of Lujiang's night cruise. I've designed a golden route that seamlessly blends nature and urban life, covering both daytime and evening highlights.
►Afternoon 4:30 PM - Evening 6:30 PM: Artistic Stroll in Shapowei
Don't rush to the pier. Start your journey at Shapo West Art District. This former fishing port now bustles with creative boutiques, cafes, and micro-museums. Frame traditional fishing boats alongside modern skyscrapers by the shelter harbor for perfect pre-cruise photos. When you're ready for a break, find a dessert shop with a terrace and watch the sunset cast a golden glow over Gulangyu Island across the water.
►Evening 6:45 PM - 7:15 PM: Head to the Pier and Board the Ferry
Walking from Shapo'wei to He Ping Pier takes only 15-20 minutes, passing through a pleasant riverside promenade. This is the most recommended way to travel, allowing you to experience the transition from the artsy district to the historic pier.
Arrive at the pier at least 30-45 minutes before departure. You'll need time for ticket exchange, security checks, and boarding. Arriving early gives you priority in selecting seats with better views onboard.
►Night 19:30 - 21:00: Evening Cruise Experience (based on a typical itinerary)
Early Departure (7:30–8:00 PM): The sky often retains the “blue hour” glow, creating a golden window for photography. We recommend grabbing a quick meal at the buffet area (try local specialties like satay seafood and five-spice rolls) before heading straight to the top-deck open-air area. As the ship slowly departs, the panoramic view of Zhongshan Road's arcade buildings illuminated at night is truly breathtaking.
Core Voyage (8:00 PM - 8:45 PM): The ship heads toward Gulangyu Island and Yanshu Bridge. Focus on the scenery: piano melodies from Gulangyu (if performances occur), the Twin Towers light show, and the flowing stream of vehicles on Yanshu Bridge. Onboard bands or themed performances typically begin during this period—feel free to move between indoor and outdoor venues.
Return Journey (8:45 PM–9:00 PM): The light show reaches its climax. Find a window seat to quietly reflect, or head to the deck for a final photo with the city lights and sea breeze.
After 9:15 PM: Late-Night Dining Options After Disembarking
From $ 512
From on request
English
