Liangma River Night Cruise, Beijing: Map, Piers, Routes & Tickets

Written and updated by Ruqin
Last updated: March 22, 2026

I still remember stepping onto the Liangma River Night Cruise just after sunset, when Beijing begins to soften. The traffic noise fades, and the river quietly takes over. As the boat drifted forward, glass buildings lit up in reflections, and small bridges glowed overhead. It felt surprisingly calm for a city this big—almost like seeing a different version of Beijing that most travelers miss.

If you’re considering the Liangma River Cruise, I’ll walk you through what actually matters: which pier is easiest to find, how the routes differ, when to go, and how to buy tickets without confusion. It’s not complicated once you understand the layout—but getting that clarity before you go makes the experience much smoother.

1. Why Take a Liangma River Night Cruise?

What struck me most wasn’t the lights—it was the contrast. Just minutes before boarding the Liangma River Night Cruise, I was standing in traffic near the embassy district, surrounded by noise and headlights. Then suddenly, I was on the water, gliding past softly lit bridges with only the hum of the boat and the ripple of reflections around me. Beijing felt quieter, almost intimate.

buildings along the Liangma river and bridges light up in dreamlike colors, — Buildings along the river and bridges light up in dreamlike colors

That’s really why I recommend the Liangma River Cruise. It’s not just about seeing illuminated buildings—it’s about stepping out of the city’s intensity without actually leaving it. The pace slows, the air feels lighter, and you get a perspective that walking or driving simply can’t offer. If your days are packed with sights, this becomes the moment where everything finally settles.

2. Main Cruise Piers: Solana Pier and Yansha Pier

There are two primary departure points for the Liangma River Night Cruise: Solana Pier and Yansha Pier. These piers serve as the starting points for different routes along the river. Each has its own unique offerings and is accessible by public transportation, making them convenient for tourists.

We highly recommend you use the Solana Pier for a loop night cruise since the boats from Solana Pier tend to be regular and on time ( see the blue line cruise route below).

The Tourist Map of Liangma River Cruise Routes and Piers ( Baidu Map)

Solana Pier 蓝港码头

Location: Solana Pier is located near the Solana Shopping Mall, a popular shopping and dining spot in Chaoyang District.
How to Get There: Take Subway Line 14 to Zaoying Station （枣营站）, exit at A, and follow signs to Solana Pier.
Nearby Attractions: Solana Shopping Mall offers dining, shopping, and a beautiful light show at night, perfect for pre- or post-cruise activities.

Yansha Pier 燕莎码头

Location: Situated close to the Yansha Friendship Mall, Yansha Pier provides easy access for travelers staying near Chaoyang Park.
How to Get There: Take Subway Line 10 to Liangmaqiao Station, exit at C, and walk south for about two minutes.
Nearby Attractions: Yansha Friendship Mall is an excellent spot for shopping, with various international and local stores.

4. Cruise Routes and Ticket Prices

The Liangma River Night Cruise offers two main routes, each with beautiful sights and exciting experiences. Here’s an overview of the popular routes and pricing information:

**Solana Pier to Solana Pier Loop Cruise**

1) Solana Pier to Solana Pier ( the Blue Loop Line)

This is the most popular route, especially recommended for first-time visitors. The boat departs from Solana Pier, takes a scenic loop along the Liangma River, and returns to the same spot. This route showcases the best riverside views, including landmark bridges and dazzling light displays.

Duration: Approximately 45-60 minutes ( see the blue line cruise Route on the map above )
Ticket Price: 90-180 RMB for night cruises, with children’s tickets available at half price

2) Solana Pier to Yansha Pier Route

This route is a longer cruise along the river, allowing visitors to explore more of the scenic riverside. It’s ideal for those looking to extend their sightseeing.

Duration: Approximately 70-80 minutes ( See the orange line cruise route on the map above )
Ticket Price: Same as the Solana Pier loop, with additional seating options

5. Boat Types and Options

Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or a special someone, the Liangma River Night Cruise offers boat types to suit different needs and preferences:

Covered Boats (18 seats) Liangma River Cruise — **Covered Boats (18 seats)**

Open-Air Boats (12 to 34 seats): These boats provide a breezy experience with unobstructed views, perfect for those who want a closer connection to the river and fresh night air.

Open-Air Boats (12 Persons) — **Open-Air Boats** (12 Persons)

Covered Boats (18 seats): Ideal for couples or small groups, these boats offer a cozy setting with shelter, creating a romantic atmosphere.

Luxury Boats (10 seats): For a premium experience, these boats come with a dinner table setup, offering exclusive comfort and services. Note that these boats have a higher price due to added amenities.

6. Cruise Timings: Day and Night Cruises

Liangma River Night cruises operate from Mid-March to Mid-November, with distinct schedules for day and night tours. Here’s a quick rundown

Day Cruise: Operates from 15:00 to 18:30. Ideal for daytime sightseeing.
Night Cruise: Runs from 18:30 to 22:00, with the last departure at 21:30. Night cruises offer the best views of Beijing’s illuminated skyline, and many recommend this option for its unique ambiance.

Note: The Liangma Night Cruise ends on Mid-November.

7. How to Book Liangma River Cruise Tickets

Booking your tickets for the Liangma River Night Cruise is simple and can be done online or at the pier:

Online Booking: Tickets can be purchased through local travel sites or apps, as well as through official ticketing platforms. Online booking often provides the best availability, especially during peak times.
On-Site Booking: If you prefer to purchase tickets in person, scan the QR codes displayed at the pier. Note that the cruise does not offer paper tickets, so your confirmation will be digital.

For a smooth experience, we recommend booking in advance, especially for night cruises, which are the most popular.

8. What to See on the Liangma River Night Cruise

The Liangma River cruise takes you past some of the city’s most beautiful night views. Here are a few highlights along the route:

Friendship Bridge: Known for its elegant lighting, this bridge offers a picturesque view as you glide beneath it.

The Bolong Lock (3D Art Display): This modern art installation projects dynamic, 3D effects on the water, adding an immersive artistic touch to the journey.

Good Fortune Bridge: Admire the beautiful bridge decorated with lights that resemble Van Gogh’s “Starry Night.”

**Van Gogh’s “Starry Night.” under Good Fortune Bridge**

Rainbow Reflections on the River: The reflections of colored lights on the river surface create a stunning “rainbow” effect, making the cruise feel surreal.

The cruise gives you ample time to enjoy and photograph these sights, creating lasting memories of your Beijing adventure.

9. Practical Tips for the Liangma River Night Cruise

Taking the Liangma River Night Cruise is a memorable experience, but a few practical tips can help you make the most of it:

Arrive Early: Arriving 20 minutes before your scheduled departure gives you time to find your boat and settle in.
Dress Comfortably: Evening temperatures can vary, so bring a light jacket, especially in early spring or autumn.
Bring a Camera: With the stunning night views and lights, you’ll want to capture these moments.
Consider the Weather: While the cruise operates rain or shine, the experience is best enjoyed on clear nights for unobstructed views.
Plan a Meal Nearby: Both Solana Shopping Mall and Yansha Friendship Mall offer a wide selection of restaurants, making it easy to enjoy a meal before or after your cruise.

10. Nearby Attractions and Dining Options

After your cruise, there are plenty of things to do around the Solana and Yansha areas:

Solana Shopping Mall: Located next to Lanwan Pier, Solana Shopping Mall offers a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops. The mall itself features beautiful lights at night, making it a great spot to explore.

Chaoyang Park: Just a short walk from the pier, Chaoyang Park is a popular spot for outdoor activities, including boating, fishing, and even a small amusement park.

Yansha Friendship Mall: Near Yansha Pier, this mall has a selection of international and local brands, as well as dining options.

These nearby attractions make it easy to extend your evening outing after the cruise.

Frequently Asked Questions: Liangma River Night Cruise

1. When do daytime and night cruises operate?

Liangma River Daytime cruises run 3:00 PM–6:30 PM, and night cruises 7:00 PM–11:00 PM. In summer, the last boat sails until 9:30 PM.

2. How long does the cruise last, and what will I see?

Expect a 40–45 minute ride passing ten illuminated viewing spots. Highlights include the Platinum Palace Lock light show and reflections at Lucky Bridge.

3. How much do tickets cost, and where can I buy them?

Standard night cruise tickets cost around ¥80 on weekdays, rising to ¥120+ on weekends or holidays. Booking online at least one day ahead gives up to 15% off.

4. Where do I board the boat?

There are two main docks:

Blue Harbor Wharf near Zaoying Station (Line 14, Exit A)
Yansha Wharf near Liangmaqiao Station (Line 10, Exit C)

Both are easy walks from the subway.

5. What about language—are there guides or audio commentaries?

Yes! Boats offer audio guides in English with a Beijing-style narration. Alternatively, mute it for a peaceful ride. Crew members also highlight photo points along the route.

6. What should I wear or bring?

Evening river breezes can feel cool. Bring a light jacket, especially in early or late season. Most boats offer less-warming facilities—layer up if you feel the chill.

7. Any known issues or tips from travelers?

Expect some queue time at peak hours—ticket checks may be slow or disorganized. Liangma River Boats don’t have onboard restrooms, so plan accordingly.

8. Are there dining or photo opportunities nearby?

Yes! Both docks sit near international dining malls like Blue Harbor and Solana. Make time before or after your cruise for a stroll or rooftop photo ops.

9. Can I book special cruises, like dinner or private sails?

Yes—luxury options exist, such as a 100-minute private dinner cruise including a meal, priced around ¥8,000 for 8–10 people (advance booking required).

10. Why take Liangma River cruise instead of other Beijing boat rides?

Liangma River offers a unique blend of modern design and cultural history, with high-quality lighting, embassy-district scenery, and modern architecture. It’s a favorite among expats and locals alike.

By the time my Liangma River Night Cruise ended, I wasn’t rushing off to the next stop. I lingered by the pier, watching the lights ripple across the water, noticing how different Beijing felt compared to earlier in the day. It’s one of those rare experiences that doesn’t demand energy from you—it gently gives it back.

So is the Liangma River Night Cruise worth it? I’d say yes, especially if your itinerary feels full and fast. This is where you slow down without missing out. It’s easy to plan, easy to enjoy, and often becomes the moment people remember most clearly after leaving Beijing.

About the Author

Ruqin is the founder of Ruqintravel.com and has spent more than four decades working in China’s travel industry. Drawing on hands-on experience in cities like Beijing and Hangzhou, he personally researches and updates each guide to help international travelers navigate China with confidence.