Zhejiang No.1 Wharf reopened on the evening of May 19 after eight years of inactivity. Under the city’s shimmering lights, Qingxizi sailed along the Qiantang River and became the first cruise ship to dock at the newly revitalized wharf.
Dating back to 1928, Zhejiang No.1 Wharf has stood as a testament to nearly a century of Hangzhou’s history of waterborne transportation. Once the city’s main gateway for both goods and passengers, it served as the departure point for countless journeys along the city’s waterways. At its peak, the wharf saw as many as 20,000 passengers crossing the river each day. While passenger ferries eventually stopped operating at the wharf, it continued to serve as a departure point for sightseeing cruises until it closed eight years ago. According to Shen Xiangxin, General Manager of Zhejiang Foreign Affairs Sightseeing Boat Company, the closure was due to the wharf’s proximity to a water treatment plant intake and the need to comply with environmental protection standards. Now that the water intake has been relocated, the wharf is able to reopen.
The revitalized wharf welcomes visitors with cooling mist and picture-perfect views. Han Xiaomin, Party Secretary and Chairman of Zhejiang Foreign Affairs Travel, explained that the renovation of the tourist route from the boardwalk to the wharf went beyond basic infrastructure upgrades—it was redesigned to provide a multifaceted experience that showcases the city’s culture and character. The mix of cultural experiences, nighttime views, onboard dining, drone shows, and shopping brings new life to the century-old wharf.
As night descends, tourists embark on Qingxizi for a mesmerizing night cruise along the Qiantang River. Setting sail from Zhejiang No. 1 Wharf, the 70-minute journey glides past iconic landmarks including Qianwang Shechao, Xixing Bridge, the Hangzhou Olympic Sports Center, and the Hangzhou Internation Expo Center. Adding to the enchantment are spectacular drone shows and interactive AR lighting displays that illuminate the route, creating an unforgettable nighttime experience.
What sets Qingxizi apart is its innovative “cruise + drone” model, which seamlessly integrates low-altitude drone shows and scenic river cruise. It is the only large cruise ship on the Qiantang River that offers a combination of sightseeing, onboard dining, branded events, wedding ceremonies, and drone performances. Passengers can enjoy high-end dining with river views—a feast for both the eyes and the palate. This popular night tour is now available for booking, with daily departures and increased sailings on holidays. Ticket prices start at 128 yuan.
The relaunch of Zhejiang No. 1 Wharf and the revitalized Qiantang River Northern Night Cruise are poised to breathe new life into Hangzhou’s night-time economy. The transportation authority of Hangzhou is actively advancing the Three Rivers and Two Banks Tourism Program and proactively promoting the integration of water transportation and tourism. A representative from the Water Transportation Department at the Hangzhou Road, Port, and Water Transportation Management and Service Center said they will continue working to integrate more tourism resources, aiming to make it easier for residents and visitors to enjoy Hangzhou’s and Zhejiang’s natural scenery and rich cultural heritage via waterways.