The Huangpu River cuts across Shanghai city, dividing it neatly into two. The western sector or Puxi is home to the old walled city and most of the historical tourist attractions. The eastern sector Pudong is a recent development of the last few decades and is the new business district boasting many awesome glass and steel towers. On a typical day, thousands of commuters and tourists cross the river by bridge, tunnel or the humble ferry. There are several crossing points and this is located along a riverside garden on the Pudong side. 

Iconic towers vie for your attention on the Pudong side of the river. Shanghai is built on the banks of the Huangpu River which flows into the estuary of the mighty Yangzijiang (the Yangtze River). A leisurely cruise down the river lets you admire the soaring skyscrapers, among which the Oriental Pearl Tower, Jin Mao Building and Shanghai World Financial Centre were the world's tallest till dethroned by newer builds. Facing off on the opposite bank is the historic Bund with its colonial era architecture. Interspersed on both banks are gleaming condos, hotels and office-mall complexes. This spectacular lineup is punctuated by picturesque old factories, warehouses and quays bustling with the day's business. As you soak in the splendour, your cruiser weaves through an endless stream of barges, launches and small coastal ships. There used to be waterborne electronic billboards beaming their enticing out-of-home messages straight to the riverside residents. Then you might also...