How to Plan Your Shanghai: Yu Garden and City God Temple Private Walking Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Shanghai and want to experience an insider’s view of the city’s changing face, the Shanghai: Yu Garden and City God Temple Private Walking Tour is a must-do. Over the course of a 3-hour guided tour, you’ll explore some of the city’s historic sites, meet its friendly residents, and sample some delicious local street food. In this guide, we’ll show you how to plan your own tour, so you can make the most of your time in this vibrant and exciting city.

Experience

The tour is designed to give visitors a chance to see some of the most iconic sites in Shanghai up close, while also learning about the hidden gems that many tourists overlook. The highlights of the tour include:

• A visit to one of China’s finest private gardens, the Yu Garden.
• An exploration of the City God Temple, a Taoist temple that has been a spiritual center for Shanghai residents for centuries.
• The opportunity to taste some of Shanghai’s most famous street food, including the city’s signature soup dumplings.
• Plenty of time to explore the streets and shops around the temple area, where you can pick up unique souvenirs and bargains.

Planning Your Tour

To plan your own Yu Garden and City God Temple Walking Tour, follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Choose Your Guide

The easiest way to book the tour is through GetYourGuide.com, which offers a range of tours in Shanghai and other cities around the world. Make sure to book the Yu Garden and City God Temple Private Walking Tour specifically to get the full experience.

Step 2: Choose Your Date and Time

The tour is available on most days throughout the year, but it’s best to check availability in advance to avoid disappointment. Choose a date and time that suits your schedule and make sure to arrive at the meeting point on time.

Step 3: Prepare for the Tour

To make the most of your tour, be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and dress appropriately for the weather. Bring a bottle of water and a small backpack or bag to carry your belongings. You can also choose the optional snack option for some extra fuel.

Step 4: Meet Your Guide and Start Your Tour

The tour begins at Yuyuan Garden where you’ll be met by your friendly and knowledgeable guide. They’ll introduce themselves and give you a brief overview of the tour before setting off to explore the garden.

Step 5: Explore the Garden and Surrounding Streets

Wander through the garden’s winding paths and tranquil ponds, taking time to appreciate the classic landscape architecture that makes it one of the finest private gardens in China. Afterward, visit the streets around the garden, where you can rummage for bargain items and take in the sights and sounds of local life.

Step 6: Visit the City God Temple and Try Some Local Food

Next, your guide will take you to the City God Temple, where you can discover the complex’s colorful Taoist architecture and learn about local beliefs and customs. Then, sample some of Shanghai’s most famous street food, including the city’s signature soup dumplings.

Step 7: Explore the Surrounding Streets and Bargain for Souvenirs

After the temple, spend some time exploring the surrounding streets, where you can stop into tiny family-owned shops or try your hand at bargaining for souvenirs.

Step 8: Finish Your Tour

The tour will finish back at the starting point, where you can say goodbye to your guide and reflect on the many amazing experiences you had throughout the day.

Book Your Tour

To book your own Yu Garden and City God Temple Private Walking Tour, head to GetYourGuide and book the tour here!

An Insider’s Guide to Shanghai: Discovering Hidden Gems, Local Cuisine, Culture, and History

Shanghai is a city that blends the charm of traditional China with the modernity of present times. While attractions like the Bund, Yuyuan Garden, and the Shanghai Tower are all a must-visit, there is much more this city has to offer. So here’s an insider’s guide to exploring Shanghai, that goes beyond the usual tourist attractions and showcases the hidden gems and local culture that will make your trip unforgettable.

Local Attractions: Discovering Hidden Gems

Shanghai may be known for its towering skyscrapers, but the city’s real beauty lies in its hidden alleys and quaint neighborhoods. Visit the Tianzifang district, a traditional Shanghai neighborhood that was transformed into a commercial district where artists display their works in small galleries, cafes, and souvenir shops. Explore M50 Creative Park, the best place to get a glimpse of Shanghai’s burgeoning art scene, as it houses over 100 contemporary art galleries and studios. Lastly, take a stroll around the Former French Concession, a tranquil residential area where you can find historical buildings, trendy cafes, and boutique shops.

Dining Spots: Savoring Local Cuisine

Shanghai has a rich food culture that goes beyond the famous xiaolongbao or dumplings. Try the Xie Ke Huang Crab, a local delicacy that is only available during the autumn season. Be adventurous and taste some of the weird and wonderful street foods at Huanghe Road, such as spicy crayfish and freshly grilled octopus. For a more formal dining experience, head to the Lost Heaven restaurant and indulge in their signature dishes like the Yunnan-style grilled cheese and roast pork.

Cultural Experiences: Immersing in the Local Culture

Shanghai boasts a rich cultural heritage that is deeply embedded in its daily life. Watch a traditional Chinese opera show at the Shanghai Opera House, or get a glimpse of the city’s folk culture at the Shanghai Museum, where you can peruse through exquisite paintings, ceramics, and sculptures. Don’t forget to witness first-hand a traditional tea ceremony, an ancient art form that has been part of Chinese culture for centuries.

Local History: Revisiting the Past

Shanghai has a fascinating history that dates back to the early 5th century. Soak up some of the city’s past by visiting the Shanghai History Museum located inside the Oriental Pearl Tower. For a glimpse into the city’s participation in World War II, head to the Shanghai Jewish Refugees Museum, which showcases the story of Jewish refugees who found safe haven in the city during the Nazi regime. Finally, visit the Longhua Martyrs Cemetery, located outside of the city, that commemorates the sacrifice of thousands of soldiers in the Chinese Civil War.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unforgettable Experiences

If you want to take your Shanghai experience to the next level, try exploring some of the unconventional experiences the city has to offer. Take a night boat ride along the Huangpu River to witness the beautiful skyline and illuminations of the city. Take a lesson in calligraphy, the art of writing Chinese characters, or learn to play the traditional Guqin, a seven-stringed Chinese instrument. Book a personalized photography tour to get stunning shots of the city’s hidden beauty.

In conclusion, Shanghai is a city that deserves a leisurely and thoughtful exploration. With new hidden gems to discover, hidden alleyways to explore, and stories to uncover, this insider’s guide will lead you to experience Shanghai truly, deeply, and unforgettable.