Shanghai is well-known for its historical landmarks such as The Bund and the Yu Garden. It is also known to have some of the best museums in Asia like the China Art Museum. However, Shanghai has wonderful tours all over the city via numerous modes of transport. This will allow you to see a different crevice of this beautiful city each time.
1. A Guided Bicycle Tour
First up, take this guided bicycle tour through Shanghai’s historic streets and alleyways. Catch a glimpse of the unique local lifestyle all while getting your cardio in. Sounds like an all-inclusive tour to me. The duration of this tour is 4 hours. Cycle along picturesque Lu Xun Park towards the Yu Garden.
You can make stops at authentic food stalls and antique stores along the way. This is the best way to get an insider view of the locals’ way of life. As you tour the city surrounded by stone houses and buildings, pedal your way into a new culture. Also, explore the Shikumen architectural style. It blends design characteristics of eastern and western cultures, therefore reflecting the history of this great Chinese metropolis.
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2. Tea Tasting and Dessert Tour
Next, discover the secrets behind Chinese teas on this tea-tasting and dessert tour. This is the perfect opportunity to learn about the culture of the people of Shanghai. In fact, there is no better way to learn about people than through their food. You will travel on a 3-hour long tour on Huaihua Road. You will stop at a tea house to experience a traditional Chinese tea ceremony. This ceremony aims to instil relaxation. Tea has a calming effect on the body after all.
You will then try out mooncakes at 2 local pastry shops. These pastries are usually given as gifts in the Mid-Autumn festival symbolising the reunion of family. To top it all off, you will head to a Cantonese dessert restaurant to enjoy a range of desserts like milk pudding with purple sticky rice, almond tofu and sago. This surreal tasting experience will open you up to so much of Shanghai’s roots. Tickle your tastebuds with this unique and tantalising tour.
3. Su Zhou and Zhou Zhuang Water Village Day Tour
Enjoy China’s provincial delights on this water village day tour. Escape the city life and take in the serenity of these quaint and ancient towns. Furthermore, see how the daily lives of these people have remained unchanged for centuries. This tour can last up to 10 hours. You will be travelling between towns via a gondola.
This tour includes a scenic journey to Su Zhou, an ancient town known for its beautiful gardens. The town is regarded as the Venice of the Orient. Marvel at the town’s Ming Dynasty landscaping and construction. You will get the chance to eat an authentic Chinese lunch and further proceed to a silk factory. Here, you will see the manufacturing process of Chinese silk and learn the history behind it. Then you will finally proceed to Zhou Zhuang. This tour showcases not only the beauty of Shanghai but its history as well.
4. Old Shanghai City Tour
Finally, experience the changing face of Shanghai in this Old City Tour. This 3.5-hour tour explores city districts where local residents play cards on street corners. You will discover old city sights and trendy entertainment in Xintiandi.
The Old Shanghai will come through on this tour. The nightlife district is filled with boutique stores, chic restaurants and pubs. Once known as the Old Shikumen area, the antique charm has been transformed into international levels of sophistication. Take a trip back in time on this tour and experience the authentic Shanghai experience.
Final Goodbyes
Shanghai has many wonderful tours for everyone. Whether you’re a foodie and want to try the unique oriental flavours or an avid historian. Shanghai is the place for you. Experience this magnificent city on one of these informative and exciting tours. Furthermore, if you’re looking for a restorative experience after your tour be sure to visit one of the must-see bathhouses in Shanghai. See you at the Orient!
