Changzhou Island - This photo was taken in a cloudy day, so there’s no gorgeous sky. I took this photo from a ship.
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Changzhou Island

4.6
·5 reviews·Guangzhou, China

Discover historical depth at the Whampoa Military Academy and enjoy scenic Pearl River views via affordable ferry on Changzhou Island.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
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Changzhou Island - This photo was taken in a cloudy day, so there’s no gorgeous sky. I took this photo from a ship.

Changzhou Island

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover historical depth at the Whampoa Military Academy and enjoy scenic Pearl River views via affordable ferry on Changzhou Island.

4.6
(5 reviews)

"Take the ferry for scenic Pearl River views! It's a cheap and cheerful way to reach the island.Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚢 Ferry Fun

Take the ferry for scenic Pearl River views! It's a cheap and cheerful way to reach the island .

🍦 Unique Ice Cream

Try the soy milk soft serve for a surprising local treat!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Whampoa Military Academy

Whampoa Military Academy

Changzhou Island

Explore the historic grounds of this significant military institution, a key site in Chinese history.

Pearl River Ferry Ride

Pearl River Ferry Ride

Pearl River

Enjoy scenic views of Guangzhou and the island as you take a budget-friendly ferry to Changzhou Island.

Soy Milk Soft Serve

Soy Milk Soft Serve

Changzhou Island

Experience a unique local dessert with a familiar yet distinct flavor and texture.

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Planning Your Visit

Island Access & Timing

Changzhou Island is accessible by boat or bridge from Guangzhou. Opting for the ferry offers scenic Pearl River views and is a unique experience.Reddit Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid larger crowds, especially if you're seeking a more tranquil island escape.

Embrace Local Flavors

Don't miss trying local specialties like soy milk soft serve, a surprisingly delightful treat with a unique texture.Instagram The island offers a chance to experience authentic local life away from the city bustle.

Best Times

When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Enjoy the ferry ride
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Official Release of Changzhou City Promotional Video! Changzhou, how can I rid my mind of her. #imageofthecity #cityvideo #changzhou #常州 #教我如何不想她
@ichangzhou
26.2K likes • 141.7K views

🚢 Ferry Fun

Take the ferry for scenic Pearl River views! It's a cheap and cheerful way to reach the island.Reddit

🍦 Unique Ice Cream

Try the soy milk soft serve for a surprising local treat! Instagram

🌙 Escape the summer heat in #Changzhou at Maoshan Forest World! Try night drifting under starlit lights —like gliding through a forest of fireflies. Pure magic! #SummerEscape #NightAdventure #MaoshanForest #FireflyVibes
@ichangzhou
14.4K likes • 801.8K views
🍦Have you ever tried soy milk soft serve? 🍦 Tried it for the first time on Changzhou Island in Guangzhou, and it totally caught me off guard! The taste was familiar, but the texture? Completely different. That first bite had me like, “Wait… I know you… but not like this! 😂” Let me know if you’ve had it somewhere else! 👀🍦 📍Changzhou Island - Guangzhou China 🇨🇳 #SoyMilkSoftServe #FoodieFinds ...
sillywander
48 likes • 1.8K views

🚶‍♀️ Explore Open Spaces

Enjoy the island's protected open areas and lower development density for a relaxed vibe.

🏛️ History Buffs

Visit the Whampoa Military Academy for a dose of Chinese history.

😍 Step into a fantasy world at #Changzhou’s Longfeng Valley! Cross Jiangsu’s first glass bridge with epic views all around—like a movie scene! #TravelChina
@ichangzhou
8.6K likes • 496.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚢 Ferry Fun

Take the ferry for scenic Pearl River views! It's a cheap and cheerful way to reach the island.Reddit

🍦 Unique Ice Cream

Try the soy milk soft serve for a surprising local treat! Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Explore Open Spaces

Enjoy the island's protected open areas and lower development density for a relaxed vibe.

🏛️ History Buffs

Visit the Whampoa Military Academy for a dose of Chinese history.

What Travellers Say

4.6
(5 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Changzhou Island is appreciated for its historical significance, particularly the Whampoa Military Academy, and its scenic Pearl River ferry access. Visitors enjoy the island's relaxed atmosphere and unique local treats like soy milk soft serve. However, some may find the island's offerings limited for an extended visit.

"Changzhou Island is a small island in Huangpu District. There are two ways to get to the island: take a boat or cross the bridge from the direction of Guangzhou University Town. Guangzhou University Town belongs to Panyu District. Yes, Huangpu District and Panyu District are separated by a river, which is one of the small tributaries of the Pearl River. I personally prefer taking a boat because you can see the scenery on the Pearl River when passing by it. Entering Cheung Chau Island from the waterway, they have two docking piers, Yuzhu Pier and Cheung Chau Pier. Before 2021, the price of a passenger ship was one yuan per person. Later, the staff installed air conditioning, and the price increased to 2 yuan. There are also car ferries next to the passenger terminal, and the price per car is 15 yuan.

Many people know Changzhou Island because of the Whampoa Military Academy here. Of course, some people come to the island for walking and tourism, because the population density of this island is relatively small compared to other towns and streets in Guangzhou, and there are a large number of open spaces on the island that are no longer allowed to be developed. They are protected. Many residents cannot build buildings more than 4 stories, because this will be considered to affect the appearance and is not in line with the tourist attraction."

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What People Like

Historic Whampoa Academy
Scenic ferry ride
Unique soy milk soft serve

What People Dislike

Limited attractions for long stays

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can reach Changzhou Island by boat or by crossing a bridge from Guangzhou University Town. The ferry is a popular choice for its scenic Pearl River views and affordability, costing around 2 yuan per person.Reddit Car ferries are also available for 15 yuan.

The island is relatively small and offers a relaxed atmosphere. Walking is a great way to explore its open spaces and historical sites. You can also consider local transport options if available.

Changzhou Island is located in the Huangpu District of Guangzhou, accessible via the Pearl River. While it's part of the city, it offers a distinct, less developed feel compared to the bustling city center.

Yes, you can drive to Changzhou Island by crossing a bridge from the direction of Guangzhou University Town. Car ferries are also an option for those who prefer to travel by water with their vehicle.Reddit

The island has two main docking piers for passenger ferries: Yuzhu Pier and Changzhou Pier.Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Generally, there is no entry fee to visit Changzhou Island itself. However, specific attractions on the island, like the Whampoa Military Academy, may have their own admission fees.

Ferry operating hours can vary. It's advisable to check with local ferry operators or transportation authorities for the most up-to-date schedules, especially if you plan to visit early or late in the day.

Information regarding entrance fees for the Whampoa Military Academy can vary. It's recommended to check their official website or inquire locally for the most current pricing and visiting information.

While not as widely publicized as major city events, local festivals or events might occur. Checking local Guangzhou event listings closer to your travel date could reveal any special happenings on the island.

Ferry tickets to Changzhou Island are typically purchased on-site at the piers. Given the low cost and frequent service, advance booking is usually not necessary.

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can visit the historic Whampoa Military Academy, enjoy a scenic ferry ride on the Pearl River, explore the island's protected open spaces, and try unique local snacks like soy milk soft serve.Instagram

Yes, Changzhou Island is known for its relatively low population density and protected open spaces, making it ideal for walking and sightseeing away from the urban rush.

Expect a mix of historical sites, tranquil natural areas, and views of the Pearl River. The island offers a more laid-back environment compared to mainland Guangzhou.

A notable unique food experience is trying the soy milk soft serve, which offers a familiar taste with a distinct texture.Instagram The island also provides opportunities to sample local Guangzhou flavors.

Changzhou Island has a relatively low population density compared to other parts of Guangzhou. Development is also restricted in many areas, preserving open spaces.Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Great photo opportunities include the historic Whampoa Military Academy, scenic views from the Pearl River ferry,Reddit and the island's open green spaces. The unique soy milk soft serve Instagram also makes for a fun shot.

Yes, the combination of historical architecture, natural landscapes, and river views provides diverse subjects for photography. The relaxed atmosphere also allows for unhurried picture-taking.

Mornings and late afternoons often offer the best light for photography, providing softer shadows and warmer tones. The ferry ride itself can also yield beautiful shots of the cityscape and river.

While generally permissible, be mindful of any specific rules within historical sites like the Whampoa Military Academy. Always respect private property and local customs.

Drone usage is often subject to strict regulations in urban areas and near historical sites. It's crucial to check local drone laws and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone on or around the island.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Changzhou Island offers a relaxed environment that can be enjoyable for families. The Whampoa Military Academy provides a historical learning experience, and the island's open spaces are great for kids to run around. The Pearl River ferry ride is also an exciting adventure for children, offering new sights and sounds.Reddit

Consider packing snacks and drinks, as options might be more limited than on the mainland. The island's lower development density means a more peaceful outing, away from the overwhelming crowds of larger attractions. It's a good option for a half-day trip focused on history and a scenic boat ride.

💰 Budget Travelers

Changzhou Island is an excellent destination for budget travelers. The Pearl River ferry is incredibly affordable, often costing just a few yuan, and provides a scenic journey.Reddit Entry to the island itself is free, and while the Whampoa Military Academy may have a small entrance fee, it's generally a cost-effective way to experience a piece of Chinese history.

Exploring the island's open spaces and enjoying local snacks like the unique soy milk soft serve Instagram are also budget-friendly activities. The overall atmosphere is relaxed, allowing for a pleasant and inexpensive day out without the pressure of expensive tours or attractions.

🚶‍♀️ Solo Explorers

For solo travelers seeking a quieter, more reflective experience, Changzhou Island is ideal. The Whampoa Military Academy offers a deep dive into history at your own pace. The ferry ride provides a chance to observe local life and enjoy the river views without the need for company.Reddit

Enjoy the tranquility of the island's open spaces and perhaps discover hidden corners. Trying the soy milk soft serve Instagram is a simple, enjoyable solo indulgence. It's a place to unwind, learn, and experience a different facet of Guangzhou away from the typical tourist trails.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Whampoa Military Academy: A Historical Landmark

The Whampoa Military Academy (also known as the Republic of China Military Academy) is a significant historical site on Changzhou Island. Founded in 1924, it played a crucial role in the early years of the Republic of China and trained many prominent military leaders. Visiting the academy offers a glimpse into China's modern military history and its revolutionary past.

Visitors can explore the preserved buildings and grounds, which often evoke a sense of stepping back in time. The academy's strategic location on the island provided it with natural defenses and a commanding view of the Pearl River. It stands as a testament to a pivotal era in Chinese history, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

While the academy is a primary draw, its presence also contributes to the island's overall historical ambiance. Understanding its significance enhances the appreciation of Changzhou Island as more than just a recreational spot, but a place deeply rooted in national heritage.

Navigating Changzhou Island: Ferry vs. Bridge

Getting to Changzhou Island presents a choice between two main methods: the Pearl River ferry or crossing by bridge. Many travelers, as noted in discussions, prefer the ferry experience. It's not just a mode of transport but an attraction in itself, offering picturesque views of Guangzhou's skyline and the surrounding waterways as you glide across the river.Reddit The ferry is also incredibly affordable, with prices historically around 1-2 yuan, making it a budget-friendly option.

Alternatively, you can reach the island via a bridge, connecting from the Guangzhou University Town area. This method is more direct for those traveling by car or seeking a quicker land-based route. However, it misses out on the unique perspective and leisurely pace that the ferry provides. For those who appreciate scenic journeys and a taste of local transit culture, the ferry is the recommended choice.Reddit

Once on the island, the pace slows down. The island's layout and the emphasis on preserving open spaces mean that exploring on foot is highly enjoyable. The lower development density compared to mainland Guangzhou allows for a more relaxed exploration, whether you're heading to historical sites or simply enjoying the island's atmosphere.

Unique Culinary Delights: Soy Milk Soft Serve

Changzhou Island offers a surprising culinary gem: soy milk soft serve. This unique treat, highlighted by visitors,Instagram offers a familiar ice cream experience with a distinct twist. The taste is reminiscent of traditional soy milk, but the texture is that of a creamy, smooth soft serve, creating an intriguing and delightful contrast.

This local specialty is a perfect example of how even seemingly simple food items can offer a novel experience. It's a must-try for adventurous eaters and those looking to sample authentic, local flavors that go beyond the typical tourist fare. The novelty of soy milk soft serve makes it a memorable part of any visit to Changzhou Island.

Beyond this specific treat, the island provides opportunities to enjoy local Guangzhou cuisine in a more relaxed setting. The lower population density and preserved natural areas contribute to a tranquil environment where one can savor local food without the usual urban hustle.

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