How to Plan Your Shanghai Highlights and Zhujiajiao Water Town Private Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Shanghai and want to experience its highlights and the quaint charm of a water town, the Shanghai Highlights and Zhujiajiao Water Town Private Tour is a great option to consider. This tour will take you on a journey through the bustling metropolis of Shanghai where you’ll get to see its most famous landmarks, and then onto the scenic Zhujiajiao Water Town for a peaceful gondola ride. Here’s everything you need to know about this private tour.

Experience

On this private tour, you’ll get to experience Shanghai like a local, which means visiting some of its must-see sights. From towering skyscrapers to quaint waterways, this tour has something for everyone. You’ll also get to taste authentic Chinese food and learn about the fascinating history and culture of Shanghai.

Highlights

Some of the main highlights of the tour include:

• Visiting the famous Bund promenade and taking in sweeping views of the city
• Exploring the Ming and Qing Dynasty monuments located in the Yu Yuan Garden
• Having a Chinese lunch in a local restaurant where authentic Chinese cuisine is served
• Riding a gondola through the picturesque canals of the Zhujiajiao Water Town

Full Description

The tour starts with a pick-up from your hotel or the cruise port, where you’ll be greeted by your private guide and driver. You’ll then head off to explore the highlights of Shanghai, starting with a visit to the Bund promenade. From here, you’ll get a panoramic view of both sides of the Huangpu River, which divides Shanghai into two parts: Pudong and Puxi.

Next, you’ll move onto Yu Yuan Garden, a traditional Chinese garden, built during the Ming Dynasty. Walk around this peaceful garden and take in the beautiful scenery, including temples, pagodas, and water features. You’ll also see an old Shanghai street, which dates back to the Qing Dynasty.

Lunch will be served in a local restaurant where you’ll get to taste authentic Chinese cuisine. The restaurant serves a variety of dishes that cater to all dietary requirements, so you’ll be able to enjoy your meal to the fullest.

The final stop on the tour is the Zhujiajiao Water Town, located just 1 hour’s drive from Shanghai. This town is known for its narrow alleyways and traditional buildings, which will transport you back in time. You’ll get to ride a gondola along the canals and see the unique architecture up close. Before heading back to your hotel or cruise port, you’ll have some free time to explore on your own and take in the peaceful atmosphere of the town.

Includes

The tour includes:

• Pick-up and drop off from your hotel or the cruise port
• Transportation by private air-conditioned vehicle
• Private driver/guide
• Entrance fees to the attractions visited
• Bottled water
• Chinese lunch
• Gratuities to the driver and guide (recommended)

Not Suitable For

This tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments as there will be some walking involved, especially in the Zhujiajiao Water Town.

Book the Tour Here

Ready to book this private tour for an unforgettable experience in Shanghai? Click here to book the tour with our partner. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the memories, and wear comfortable shoes to make the most of your walking tours. We hope you have a fantastic time exploring Shanghai and Zhujiajiao Water Town!

An Insider’s Guide to Exploring the Hidden Gems of Shanghai

Shanghai, a bustling metropolis in China, is often known for its towering skyscrapers, glitzy shopping centers, and busy streets. However, there’s so much more to see and experience in this city that even the locals would be surprised to discover. Here’s our insider’s guide to exploring the hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path destinations of Shanghai.

Local Attractions: Hidden Gems in Shanghai

While Shanghai’s most popular tourist spots such as the Bund and Yuyuan Garden are certainly worth seeing, there are fascinating hidden gems that most travelers never get to know. Start with the Fuxing Park, a peaceful green oasis with a unique European-style promenade. It’s a great place to watch locals practice Tai Chi, dance, sing, and even play the violin.

For an unconventional experience, head to the Propaganda Poster Art Centre, where you can learn about China’s propaganda posters from 1910 to 1990. It’s an informative and visually stunning journey through the country’s turbulent history. Another fascinating attraction is the Carving Art Museum, which showcases over 6000 exquisite jade carvings from all over the world, including some rare pieces from imperial China.

Dining Spots: Exploring Shanghai’s Intriguing Food Culture

Shanghai has a rich and diverse food culture that can’t be missed while visiting. One of the essential dishes to try in the city is Xiaolongbao, a type of steamed dumpling filled with soup and meat. For the best experience, head to Jia Jia Tang Bao in Huanghe Road, where they have been making these delicious dumplings for over 20 years.

Another must-try is a local favorite, Shengjian Bao, which is a type of pan-fried dumpling filled with pork and soup. Haozi Guan in Qibao Ancient Town is an excellent destination to taste authentic Shengjian Bao. For something sweeter, stop by Laomiao Abba, a dessert shop in the Tianzifang neighborhood, offering unique Shanghai-style pastry.

Cultural Experiences: Discovering Shanghai’s Art, Music, and Customs

Shanghai is home to a thriving art and culture scene, and there are several ways to experience it. One way is to visit the Shanghai Museum, which is the largest museum of ancient Chinese art in the country. They have over 120,000 artifacts on display, from porcelain and jade to bronze and calligraphy.

For a unique cultural experience, head to the Opera House to watch a traditional Chinese opera performance, which is often accompanied by beautiful music, dance, and costumes. You can also visit the Tianzifang neighborhood, which is a maze of picturesque alleyways filled with local artists’ galleries and shops.

Local History: Unearthing the Fascinating Tales of Shanghai

Shanghai has a rich and complex history that dates back to over a thousand years. While the city has undergone several transformations, there are some fascinating stories and characters that have left their mark. For instance, did you know that Shanghai was once known as the “Paris of the East” during the 1920s and 1930s due to its cosmopolitan culture and nightlife?

Another interesting historical site is the Jewish Refugee Museum, which tells the story of a small group of Jewish refugees who fled to Shanghai during World War II. You can also visit the Duolun Cultural Street, which is lined up with colonial-era buildings and used to be home to China’s famous authors and intellectuals.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Experiencing Shanghai’s Quirky Side

For those looking for something out of the ordinary, Shanghai has plenty of quirky experiences to offer. How about visiting the world’s first Hello Kitty-themed dim sum restaurant, located in the Jing’an district? Or, visiting one of the city’s many speakeasy bars, hidden behind secret doors and offering unique cocktails and ambiance?

One other unforgettable experience is taking a bicycle tour of the French Concession neighborhood, where you can explore the charming streets, parks, and mansions of the famous expat district.

Final Thoughts

Shanghai is a multifaceted city with unique attractions, food culture, and history. By exploring the hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path destinations, you can gain a deeper understanding of the city’s intriguing culture and traditions. Plus, you’ll get to experience the city like a local and make unforgettable memories.