Beijing river ferry will soon connect the Garden Expo Park and Yongding River Forest Park along the Yongding River.City officials confirmed the new transport option will improve travel and attract more visitors. Trial operations will run from September 10 to 14 during the 2025 China International Fair for Trade in Services. With the new ferry, the journey between the two major parks will take only five minutes, greatly reducing travel time.
At the Garden Expo Park dock, new attractions will provide more than just a transport hub. Coffee shops and bars will welcome guests, while outdoor events such as kayaking, dragon boat races, and motorboat rides will bring energy to the waterfront. Wang Xi, deputy director of the park’s marketing and activities department, shared that these additions will create a lively and dynamic atmosphere.
Planners are already preparing a second development phase. Four new docks will be constructed, and waterways will receive major upgrades. Additional facilities, including visitor centers and scenic terraces, will further enrich the park experience. Wang noted that these changes will give people more reasons to enjoy the riverside.
Furthermore, the expansion will connect the ferry with nearby cycling paths and riverside roads. Cyclists will even be able to board with their bikes, adding more flexibility for outdoor enthusiasts. According to the Beijing Municipal Development and Reform Commission, this feature will encourage eco-friendly transport and recreational activity.
The ferry project also forms part of the broader “Two Parks, One River” program. This initiative links Shougang Park, Garden Expo Park, and the Yongding River through integrated projects focused on culture, travel, and sustainability.
Future plans include building a 200-kilometer cycling network and creating accessible green spaces without barriers. These developments aim to combine ecological preservation with public enjoyment, offering both recreation and environmental benefits.
The Beijing river ferry represents more than a new transport service. It symbolizes the city’s vision of combining green development with modern leisure. With trial rides beginning soon, the project is expected to become a highlight of the Yongding River.
