Exploring Shanghai’s Xintiandi, CCP Museum and French Concession on a Tour

Shanghai is one of the most exciting cities in China. Boisterous and modern yet steeped in history and culture, it’s the perfect place to explore. For an unforgettable experience in Shanghai, consider taking a tour of the area’s many attractions, including the Xintiandi area, the Chinese Communist Party Museum and the Heyuan garden district. In this guide, we will tell you all you need to know to make the most of exploring these three areas of Shanghai on a tour.

Why Take a Tour?

The beauty of joining a guided tour is that you get to see more than if you were exploring independently. While you may be able to grab a map and work out your route, having a knowledgeable local tour guide to explain the history and culture of each area will ensure that you remember your time in Shanghai for years to come. Taking a tour also ensures that you don’t have to work out the logistics of getting around and truly maximises your time exploring. And with Get Your Guide offering a range of private and group tours, there’s something to suit every type of traveller.

Explore Xintiandi

The first destination on your tour should be Xintiandi, an area which has been developed from a historical residential area and today is a bustling hub of entertainment, food and culture. Stroll along the cobblestone alleyways where homes, built in traditional Shikumen style with wooden lattice-work doors, stand alongside cafes, bars and art galleries. Visit the many designer retail stores, or grab a coffee or bite to eat in one of the trendy East/West fusion restaurants. It’s not all modern, chic buildings; Xintiandi is undoubtedly culturally enriching with iconic historical sites such as Huai Hai Road—which was the location of some of Shanghai’s most famous battles during the Chinese civil war—and Tianzifang – a traditional lane of craftsman-style houses.

Chinese Communist Party Museum

After exploring Xintiandi, you’ll make your way to the Chinese Communist Party Museum; an important part of learning about modern Chinese history and culture. The museum is filled with static displays as well as interactive exhibits, giving insights into the workings of Chinese society before and after the foundation of the People’s Republic of China, in 1949. Learn about how the Chinese Communist party became so entwined with its citizens lives, not only through traditional propaganda but also with modern initiatives such as using computer modelling to measure and monitor local economic progress. It’s sure to be an interesting experience!

Heyuan Garden District

Your final stop on your tour is Heyuan Garden District, located in Shanghai’s hinterland where you can enjoy peaceful moments away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Shanghai. Heyuan Garden is among the most famous gardens in Shanghai and was built by a wealthy local business family from 1876-1877. As you stroll through the park, you will observe it’s incredible architecture –which fuses together aspects of both western and traditional Chinese civilizations – including a majestic pavilion that stands at 37 meters tall! The park is also home to beautiful gardens, religious structures and a lake filled with fish and swans. Heyuan Garden is also the perfect place to buy souvenirs, as there are several craft shops located near its entrance.

Best Way to Uncover Shanghai’s Wonders with Get Your Guide

We hope this article has inspired you to take a tour of Xintiandi, CPP Museum and French Concession! Get Your Guide can arrange a variety of tours around Shanghai that visit these three areas – so you can explore all three without having to worry about time or logistics – making sure that you get the most out of your time in Shanghai! All Get Your Guide tours are led by knowledgeable local guides who can provide advice and assistance so that even if you are just spending one day in Shanghai, you will feel like a true local by the end of it. Check out this private Half-Day Tour for an experience you won’t forget!

An Insider’s Guide to Exploring Shanghai

Are you planning a trip to Shanghai and looking for unique experiences amidst the bustle of the city? Look no further. Let this guide take you on a journey through the lesser-known parts of Shanghai that are sure to make your trip unforgettable.

Local Attractions

While Shanghai has plenty of well-known tourist attractions, such as the Oriental Pearl Tower and Yuyuan Garden, the city has hidden gems that most visitors miss. One of them is Tianzifang, an arts and crafts enclave located in the alleyways of the French Concession. The labyrinthine lanes of Tianzifang house a myriad of boutique shops, cafes, and art galleries showcasing the work of local artists. If you’re interested in the city’s history, check out the Propaganda Poster Art Centre, which features vintage posters from the Mao era.

Another lesser-known attraction is the Longhua Martyrs Cemetery, a sacred spot for those who perished in Shanghai’s struggle against the Japanese. The serene environment and beautiful architecture will give you a glimpse into the city’s past.

Dining Spots

Shanghai’s food scene is a blend of traditional Chinese cuisine with Western influences. For a truly local experience, try xiaolongbao, steamed buns filled with meat or soup. You can find them at Jia Jia Tang Bao, which is rumored to be the best xiaolongbao restaurant in the city.

If you’re feeling adventurous, head to Yang’s Fry Dumpling for the famous shengjianbao, crispy-bottomed fried dumplings filled with minced pork and soup. Here, the dumplings are made to order and served hot off the griddle.

Hongkou district is known for its Jewish heritage, and it’s worth a visit to explore the unique history and culture. Grab a bagel at Lox and Bagel, an authentic deli that has been serving the community since 2009.

Cultural Experiences

Shanghai is a melting pot of cultures, and there is no shortage of cultural experiences to dive into. Start by visiting the Shanghai Museum, which houses a collection of Chinese art and cultural relics from the Neolithic period to the present day. The museum’s architecture alone is worth a visit, with its circular shape symbolizing the ancient Chinese belief in the cyclical nature of the universe.

For an authentic Chinese opera experience, head to the Yifu Theater, which specializes in marionette performances. The puppets are incredibly lifelike, and the performances are a unique blend of song, music, and storytelling.

Local History

Shanghai has a fascinating past that’s worth exploring beyond its modern-day skyscrapers and neon lights. The city has a unique blend of colonial and Chinese architecture, a testament to its tumultuous history. Visit the Former Residence of Sun Yat-sen, the founding father of the Republic of China. The house is a perfect example of Shikumen, a traditional Shanghai architectural style that combines Western and Chinese elements.

For a glimpse into Shanghai’s darker past, visit the site of the Sihang Warehouse. During the Battle of Shanghai in 1937, a small contingent of Chinese soldiers held off the invading Japanese army for three months. The site is now a museum, commemorating the bravery of the soldiers who sacrificed their lives in defense of their country.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For a truly unique experience, take a tai chi class in one of Shanghai’s public parks. The classes are usually early in the morning and are led by experienced instructors. It’s a perfect way to start your day, align your body, and focus your mind.

Another hidden gem is the Shaoxing Lu Fabric Market, an indoor market that’s a treasure trove of fabrics, ribbons, and trimmings. You can find everything from silk to cotton to wool, and there are tailors on hand who can create custom pieces for you.

In conclusion, Shanghai is a city full of surprises, and it takes time to explore its hidden beauty. Use this guide as a starting point, and feel free to wander off the beaten path and discover your own unique experiences. From hidden alleys to authentic cuisine, Shanghai is a place that will leave you with unforgettable memories.