Location & How to Get There

Jinling East Road Ferry Terminal sits right on the Huangpu River in central Shanghai, just a stone’s throw from iconic spots like The Bund and Nanjing Road. To find it, look for the Zhongshan East Road II area—it’s near Shanghai Jinling Middle School, about a 2-minute walk northeast from the school.

By metro: Jump off at Nanjing Road East Station (Line 2⁄10) and walk 10 minutes. Or take Line 10 to Yuyuan Garden Station and stroll along the river. Buses? Lines 66, 306, or 929 will drop you close by. If you’re already exploring The Bund, just follow the riverwalk south—you’ll spot the ferry terminal easily.

Natural Scenery: River Views Galore

Hang out at Jinling East Road Ferry Terminal, and you’re in for a Huangpu River feast. The water here is wide, busy, and framed by skyscrapers on both sides. On a clear day, the reflections of Pudong’s glimmering towers (like the Oriental Pearl TV Tower) dance on the water. At sunset, the golden light turns the river into liquid gold—perfect for photos! Even on cloudy days, the mist-covered skyline feels like something out of a movie.

Pro tip: Snag a seat on the upper deck of the ferry for the best breeze and views. Morning trips offer calm waters and fewer crowds, while evening rides let you see the city lights come alive.

Cultural Vibes & History

This ferry isn’t just about the river—it’s a gateway to Shanghai’s soul. The Jinling East-Dongchang route connects old Shanghai (Puxi) with new Shanghai (Pudong). From the terminal, you’re steps away from The Bund’s colonial-era buildings. Walk 10 minutes, and you’ll hit 外滩 (The Bund), where百年老建筑 (century-old buildings) tell stories of trade and empire.

The ferry itself is a piece of history. Locals have used this route for decades to commute, making it a real-life glimpse into Shanghai’s daily rhythm. You’ll rub shoulders with office workers, tourists, and elderly couples taking their daily ride—a mix that’s quintessentially Shanghai.

Practical Info: Tickets & Timings

The ferry runs like clockwork: 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM on both Puxi (west bank) and Pudong (east bank) sides. Boats leave every 12-15 minutes, so no long waits. Tickets? Just 2 RMB (less than $0.30) for a quick ride. Cash or scan the QR code—easy peasy.

Busy hours? Weekends and holidays can get packed, especially during golden hour. Arrive 15 minutes early if you’re short on time.

Amenities: Simple but Sweet

No fancy lounges here—just a no-frills terminal with basic charm. You’ll find:

  • A small ticket booth (cash or mobile payments).
  • Covered waiting areas with benches (great for people-watching).
  • Clean restrooms (always a win).
  • Vendingors for snacks and drinks.

Bring: Sunglasses for sunny days, a jacket for windy river breezes, and comfy shoes for exploring nearby attractions.

The Experience: Why You’ll Love It

Riding the ferry from Jinling East Road Ferry Terminal is like hitting the “best of Shanghai” button. For starters, it’s cheaper than a coffee and gives you front-row seats to both modern skyscrapers and historic landmarks. Here’s the scoop:

  1. The ride: A 10-minute crossing that feels like a time machine. On one side: Puxi’s vintage vibes. On the other: Pudong’s futuristic skyline.
  2. The crowds: Mix with locals—they use this ferry to run errands, commute, or just escape the concrete jungle for a few minutes.
  3. The photos: Snap the Lujiazui skyline, the river’s tugboats, or even the light show projected on buildings at night.

After docking, continue your adventure: Walk to Old City God Temple, shop on Nanjing Road, or grab dumplings at a street stall.

Final Tips: Make the Most of It

  • Go early or late: Mornings avoid crowds; evenings catch the lights.
  • Bike around: Rent a bike near the terminal to explore Zhongshan East Road’s hidden lanes.
  • Pair it with The Bund: Walk the riverside promenade before or after your ferry ride.

Jinling East Road Ferry Terminal isn’t just a transport hub—it’s a Shanghai moment. Whether you’re here for the views, the history, or the sheer fun of riding a ferry, it’s a must-do that won’t break the bank. Pack your camera, bring a smile, and get ready to see the city from the river!