Pearl River

Hours & Admission Price Peak Season
Jan.-Dec.
0:00-24:00
Free Low Season
Jan.-Dec.
0:00-24:00
Free Address & Phone Transportation Take bus No.1, 57, 64, 183, 194, 219, 281 or 544 to Tianzi Shipside. Take bus No. 31, 38, 381, 181, 186, 202, 281 or 823 to Xidi Shipside. Take bus No.7,& Notes

The Pearl River, form one of the most developed economic centers Pearl River Delta, looks like a silk ribbon that links historical sites with the beautiful scenery and witnesses the modern development of Guangzhou City.

Pearl River, used to be called Yue River, is the largest river in South China and the third longest river in China with a total length of 2,320 kilometers. Consisting of four rivers - West River, North River, East River and Liuxi River, the Pearl River connects six provinces. The four rivers meet in Guangzhou and flow into the South China Sea through eight gates at estuary.

The river form the famous Pearl River Delta, which is the most developed and prosperous group of metropolises in China as well as the third largest one around the world. Apart from magnificent beauty, it also boasts of fertile soil, abundant natural resources and convenient transportation.

History

The Pearl River is so named because of a huge rock in the river bed. With river washing year after year, the rock becomes round and smooth that looks like a large, shining pearl, hence the name “Sea Pearl”.

Legend has it that a Persian trader stole an invaluable pearl from his country and came to Guangzhou to sell it. The pearl is so precious that Persian King sent his men bought it with a stupendous sum. Unfortunately, the pearl fell into the river when they wanted to appreciate it on the ship back to their country. Later the pear became a huge shinning rock, so the river was called Pearl River.

Pearl River Night Cruise

Night cruise is a must-try experience in Guangzhou when one visiting here. The cruise starts from Xidi Shipside, traveling to east through Jiefang Bridge, Haizhu Bridge, Haiyin Bridge, Guangzhou Bridge, Hedong Bridge, and then returns back. This section is the most magnificent and charming part on the river when night falls. Historical sites and unique architecture scattered along the Pearl River reveals Guangzhou culture and locals’ nightlife. The whole journey takes you two hours that could be enjoyable. On the boat, you can ancient architectures from various countries in Shamian, ten characteristic bridges and one of the eight most famous scenes in Guangzhou- the White Goose Pool.

Moreover, the river looks like a silk ribbon that links historical sites with the beautiful scenery and witnesses the modern development of Guangzhou City. When night falls, the river reflects the colorful shining neon lights along the river. Enjoy the gorgeous night scene while floating on the river as if put your foot into a fantastic wonderland.

White Goose Pool

The White Goose Pool, on the junction of Zhiwan District, Haizhu District and Fangcun District, is regarded as one of the eight famous attractions in Guangzhou. The pool is famous for a beautiful legend and its charming landscape. Huang Xiaoyang, a well-known leader in peasant uprising during Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), is said to be saved by two white gooses when he was fail. During some important festivals many celebrated activities are held on the White Goose Pool.

Architecture in Shamian

Shamian, built in the Qing Dynasty (1644 - 1912), is a small island flanked by the Pearl River with the White Goose Pool to the south. There are more than 150 European style architectures on the island, including Baroque, Gothic, Classic and combination of China and West. It used to be a foreign settlement that covers consulates, churches, banks, hospitals, hotels and residences.

Guangzhou Culture