Tucked away from the glitz of modern Shanghai lies the captivating Old City Town, a hidden gem that beckons the curious traveler. Wander through the ancient city wall, learn about the serene atmosphere of Buddhist and Taoist temples, and discover the enchanting 400-year-old Yu Garden. This immersive experience offers a chance to savor the vibrant culture and culinary heritage of Shanghai, from savoring local street food to participating in a traditional tea ceremony. Embark on this off-beaten path journey and uncover the city’s rich history and enduring traditions.

Good To Know

Discover Off Beaten Route--Shanghai Old City Town - Good To Know

  • Explore the ancient city walls and learn about the rich history of Shanghai’s Old Town during a 3-hour walking tour.
  • Immerse in the cultural heritage of Shanghai by visiting Buddhist and Taoist temples, and participating in a traditional tea ceremony.
  • Discover the exquisite architecture and 400-year-old gardens of the renowned Yu Garden, a highlight of the tour.
  • Experience the bustling atmosphere of the City God Temple’s bazaar, where you can savor local street food and dim sum.
  • Benefit from a small group size (up to 8 participants) and knowledgeable guides, who provide insights into Shanghai’s diverse cultural and culinary traditions.

Tour Overview

Discover Off Beaten Route--Shanghai Old City Town - Tour Overview

A 3-hour walking tour of Shanghai Old Town, priced from £50.85 per person, provides a limited group size of up to 8 participants in English and Chinese.

It offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, allowing for flexible travel plans with no upfront payment required.

The tour starts at the corner of Shouning Road and South Xizang Road, in front of the "Riverdale Residence" sign.

With an overall customer rating of 4.8/5 based on 6 reviews, this experience promises an immersive cultural journey through Shanghai’s historic Old Town.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Itinerary Highlights

Discover Off Beaten Route--Shanghai Old City Town - Itinerary Highlights

The tour starts at the corner of Shouning Road and South Xizang Road, in front of the "Riverdale Residence" sign.

Visitors will first explore the ancient city wall, learning about its history and significance.

Next, they’ll visit a Buddhist temple and a Taoist temple, gaining insights into China’s major religions.

The highlight is the 400-year-old Yu Garden, featuring exquisite architecture and tranquil ponds.

The tour also includes a stop at the City God Temple of Shanghai, a bustling bazaar for local snacks and dim sum, and a traditional tea ceremony with an expert.

Throughout the 3-hour journey, you will enjoy Shanghai’s rich cultural heritage.

Cultural Experience

Discover Off Beaten Route--Shanghai Old City Town - Cultural Experience

Exploring the cultural experience, visitors learn about the two major religions in China – Buddhism and Taoism.

They’ll explore exquisite 400-year-old Yu Garden, known for its tranquil ponds and architecture.

Plus, participants get to partake in a traditional tea ceremony led by a tea expert, gaining insight into this timeless custom.

This culture allows guests to deeply appreciate Shanghai’s rich heritage and history.

  • Discover the architectural wonders of Yu Garden
  • Participate in a traditional Chinese tea ceremony
  • Learn about the influences of Buddhism and Taoism

Food Tasting

Discover Off Beaten Route--Shanghai Old City Town - Food Tasting

Alongside the immersive cultural experience, the walking tour also offers a chance to savor the local culinary delights.

Participants will have the opportunity to sample some of Shanghai’s renowned street food, like the classic soup dumplings and sticky rice rolls.

The tour takes visitors through a bustling bazaar where they can explore various local snacks and dim sum. This provides a true taste of the vibrant food scene in Shanghai’s Old Town.

With the guidance of the knowledgeable local guide, guests can learn about the unique flavors and preparation methods of these traditional delicacies, further enhancing their understanding of the city’s rich culinary heritage.

Booking Information

Booking the Shanghai Old City Town walking tour is flexible and convenient.

Travelers can take advantage of the "Reserve now & pay later" option, which allows them to secure their spot without any upfront payment. Plus, the tour offers flexible travel plans, meaning guests can easily adjust their plans without incurring any fees.

The meeting point for the tour is conveniently located at the corner of Shouning Rd and South XiZang Rd, in front of the "Riverdale Residence" sign.

Based on 6 reviews, the tour has an overall customer rating of 4.8/5, indicating a high level of satisfaction among past participants.

Meeting Location

Discover Off Beaten Route--Shanghai Old City Town - Meeting Location

The meeting point for the Shanghai Old City Town walking tour is conveniently located at the corner of Shouning Rd and South XiZang Rd, in front of the "Riverdale Residence" sign.

This central location makes it easy for participants to find and start the tour. The meeting point is situated in the heart of the old town, just steps away from the first stop on the itinerary – the ancient city wall.

With clear signage and accessibility, guests can confidently arrive at the designated spot and begin their immersive exploration of Shanghai’s rich cultural heritage.

Customer Ratings

Discover Off Beaten Route--Shanghai Old City Town - Customer Ratings

Customers have rated the Shanghai Old City Town walking tour highly, with an overall score of 4.8 out of 5 based on 6 reviews.

The tour seems to have resonated well with past participants, offering a unique cultural experience in the heart of the city.

Some key highlights from the reviews include:

  • Knowledgeable and engaging guide who provided fascinating insights into the city’s history and traditions
  • Well-paced itinerary that allowed ample time to explore the highlights without feeling rushed
  • Delightful food tasting and tea ceremony that elevated the culture

Frequently Asked Questions

Discover Off Beaten Route--Shanghai Old City Town - Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Tour Guide’s Level of Expertise?

The tour guide is highly knowledgeable about the local culture, history, and traditions. They skillfully lead the group through the Old Town, providing insightful explanations and facilitating engaging cultural experiences like the tea ceremony.

Are There Any Special Discounts or Packages Available?

The tour doesn’t offer any special discounts or packages. However, travelers can take advantage of the reserve now & pay later option and flexible travel plans with no upfront payment required.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Suit Individual Preferences?

The tour can be customized to suit individual preferences. Travelers can request modifications to the itinerary or focus areas, subject to availability. Additional fees may apply for personalized arrangements.

Are Any Mobility Assistance Services Provided for Disabled Guests?

The tour operator provides mobility assistance services for disabled guests, including wheelchair access and support staff to ensure a comfortable and accessible experience. Guests should inquire about specific needs when booking the tour.

What Are the Safety Measures in Place During the Tour?

The tour provider prioritizes participant safety with measures like limiting group size, providing safety instructions, and closely monitoring the group during the activities. Disabled guests can request assistance which will be accommodated as needed.

The Sum Up

Discover Off Beaten Route--Shanghai Old City Town - The Sum Up

Discover the hidden gems of Shanghai’s Old City Town on an immersive 3-hour walking tour. Explore ancient sites, savor local street food, and experience traditional tea culture. This captivating experience offers a deep appreciation of the city’s vibrant heritage. Booking details and meeting location are provided to ensure a seamless exploration of Shanghai’s off-beaten-path treasures.