Shanghai’s historical tours pack centuries of fascinating stories into walkable adventures. The Jewish heritage half-day tour stands out for its well-preserved sites and expert narration at the Jewish Refugees Museum. I especially love the 7-hour bike tour combining Jewish history with the former Japanese Concession – it’s a perfect blend of exercise and education. For Cold War buffs, the 3-hour communist history walking tour delivers with its authentic propaganda art and revolutionary landmarks. Private architectural tours let you set the pace while discovering the city’s most beautiful buildings. Check out these top historical tours that showcase the best of old Shanghai.
Good To Know
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The Jewish History Tours in Shanghai offer a half-day exploration of Jewish immigration waves, with a high recommendation rate and suitable for most travelers.
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The Full Day Jewish Refugee Museum & Heritage Bike Tour provides a comprehensive 7-hour experience, including a visit to the museum and a cycling tour through the Japanese Concession.
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The Shanghai Propaganda and History Walking Tour is a 3-hour immersive exploration of the communist era, featuring the Propaganda Poster Art Center and Soong Ching Ling’s residence.
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The Private Shanghai Art and History Tour offers a 4-hour exploration of the city’s artistic and historical heritage, with a focus on the M50 creative hub and the Shanghai Propaganda Poster Art Centre.
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The Private Hidden and Historical Suzhou Exploration takes visitors to Ming Dynasty gardens, an ancient gate, and a Buddhist pagoda, including a scenic rowboat ride along the picturesque canals.
Tour of Jewish Shanghai Led by a Jewish History Expert
For a deeper dive into Shanghai’s Jewish history, the “Tour of Jewish Shanghai Led by a Jewish History Expert” offers an engaging and educational experience. Lasting half a day, this tour explores the Jewish immigration waves to Shanghai, with highlights including a visit to the Jewish Refugees Museum and a stop at the Huoshan Park memorial plaque.
Led by a knowledgeable and passionate guide, travelers will hear captivating stories of Baghdadi-Jewish developers, Chinese workers, and European refugees. The tour, which operates in the Hongkou district, commonly referred to as the Shanghai Ghetto, boasts a 99% recommendation rate from over 100 reviews.
Priced from $96 per person, the tour accommodates a maximum of 22 travelers and includes private transportation. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers, with the exception of pregnant individuals or those with serious medical conditions.
With an overall rating of 4.9/5, this tour provides an insightful look into Shanghai’s remarkable Jewish history and is a must-do for those seeking a deeper understanding of the city’s past.
Read our full review: Tour of Jewish Shanghai Led by a Jewish History Expert Review
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Full Day Shanghai Jewish Refugee Museum & Heritage Bike Tour
Setting out on a comprehensive exploration of Shanghai’s Jewish heritage, the Full Day Shanghai Jewish Refugee Museum & Heritage Bike Tour offers a captivating and immersive experience.
Spanning 7 hours, this tour provides a deep dive into the city’s rich Jewish history, from the 1850s to the 1950s. Visitors will explore the Jewish Refugee Museum and Ghetto, cycle through the Japanese Concession, and discover landmarks like the former Jewish Club.
Along the way, an expert guide shares in-depth knowledge, shedding light on the Jewish community’s influence on Shanghai’s culture and economy. The tour also includes a lunch of authentic local cuisine and the use of high-quality bicycles and helmets.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour caters to the needs of modern travelers.
Garnering a perfect 5/5 rating from previous guests, the Full Day Shanghai Jewish Refugee Museum & Heritage Bike Tour promises a personalized and informative exploration of this unique aspect of Shanghai’s history.
Read our full review: Full Day Shanghai Jewish Refugee Museum & Heritage Bike Tour Review
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Shanghai Propaganda and History Walking Tour
The Shanghai Propaganda and History Walking Tour offers an immersive exploration of the city’s communist era, guiding visitors through the Propaganda Poster Art Center and the former residence of Soong Ching Ling.
This 3-hour walking tour, rated 5.0/5 based on 5 reviews, takes participants on a journey through Shanghai’s local streets and the classical French Concession. Along the way, the English-speaking guide shares stories behind the propaganda and everyday life during the early communist period.
The tour includes all entrance fees, free snacks, and a Chinese wonton soup and dinner. Meeting at the Jiangsu Road Metro Station, the experience ends at the Shanghai Songqingling Former Residence.
With a maximum of 15 travelers, the tour provides a comfortable and intimate experience, with guides known for their accommodating and insightful approaches.
Wheelchair accessible and stroller friendly, this historical tour is a must for those seeking to understand Shanghai’s communist legacy.
Read our full review: Shanghai Propaganda and History Walking Tour Review
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4-Hour Private Shanghai Art and History Tour
Exploring Shanghai’s rich artistic and historical heritage, the 4-Hour Private Shanghai Art and History Tour immerses guests in the city’s vibrant creative districts and iconic landmarks.
Led by a knowledgeable English-speaking guide, the tour begins at the M50 creative hub, a former factory now home to contemporary art galleries and studios.
Next, visitors discover the charming alleyways of Tianzifang, a thriving arts neighborhood brimming with indie shops, cafés, and artist workshops.
The highlight of the tour is the Shanghai Propaganda Poster Art Centre, where guests learn about Shanghai’s 20th-century artistic legacy.
Throughout the experience, the tour includes private transportation, entrance fees, and gratuities.
With a moderate level of physical fitness required, the tour is wheelchair accessible and operates in all weather conditions.
Guests can conveniently book the tour with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, with prices starting at $85 per person.
Read our full review: 4-Hour Private Shanghai Art and History Tour Review
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Private Hidden and Historical Suzhou Exploration From Shanghai
A private guided tour from Shanghai to the historic city of Suzhou offers travelers a unique opportunity to uncover over 2,000 years of cultural heritage.
The tour features visits to a Ming Dynasty garden, the ancient Chang Gate, and a Buddhist pagoda, providing a comprehensive glimpse into Suzhou’s rich history. Guests can also enjoy a relaxing rowboat ride along the city’s picturesque canals, taking in the scenic beauty.
The tour includes a professional guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, and private transportation. Travelers can opt for an all-inclusive package that covers lunch and entrance fees. Gratuities are included in all options, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
The tour is suitable for those with a moderate fitness level and is wheelchair accessible. Guests are advised to provide any dietary requirements in advance and have a valid passport on the day of travel.
With a 5.0 overall rating and positive feedback on the personalized experience and the guide’s expertise, this Suzhou exploration tour from Shanghai is an excellent choice for those seeking a deep dive into China’s past.
Read our full review: Private Hidden and Historical Suzhou Exploration From Shanghai Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Average Group Size for These Tours?
The average group size for historical tours is typically between 10 to 15 participants. This allows for a more personalized experience and enables the guide to cater to the needs and interests of the group effectively.
Do the Tours Accommodate Dietary Restrictions or Allergies?
Most historical tours accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies. Guests should inform the tour operator of any special needs when booking to ensure the tour can cater to their requirements.
Are the Tours Wheelchair-Accessible?
Most historical tours are wheelchair-accessible, with staff able to accommodate visitors’ needs. Tour providers often inquire about any accessibility requirements when booking to ensure a comfortable and inclusive experience for all participants.
Can the Tours Be Customized to Individual Interests?
Yes, many tour providers allow for customization to individual interests. Travelers can often work with the tour company to design a personalized itinerary that focuses on their specific historical interests and needs.
What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for These Tours?
Most historical tour providers offer flexible cancellation and refund policies. Customers can typically cancel tours for a full refund up to 24-48 hours before the scheduled start time, depending on the provider’s terms and conditions.
The Sum Up
Shanghai offers a range of captivating historical tours that explore its diverse heritage. From exploring the city’s Jewish roots to uncovering its propaganda past, these tours provide a unique and immersive experience for visitors. Whether you’re interested in art, architecture, or hidden gems, Shanghai’s historical tours offer an enriching way to discover the city’s rich and fascinating past.