Shanghai’s Old City offers a captivating blend of cultural heritage. At the Jade Buddha Temple, visitors can admire the serene beauty of exquisite jade statues, seeing the spiritual essence of Buddhism. Just steps away, the classical 16th-century architecture and lush landscapes of Yuyuan Garden provide a tranquil oasis, inviting exploration. These two landmarks offer a rich insight into Shanghai’s history and artistry, making them essential stops for any traveler seeking to uncover the city’s timeless charm. What intriguing discoveries await those who venture into this cultural tapestry?

Good To Know

Old in Shanghai--Explore Jade Buddha Temple & Yuyuan Garden - Good To Know

  • Guided tour of Old City Shanghai highlights Jade Buddha Temple and Yuyuan Garden, two iconic landmarks with rich historical and cultural significance.
  • Tour includes a 30-minute traditional tea ceremony at an old tea house, providing an immersive cultural experience.
  • Visitors can explore the ornate City God Temple and learn about the importance of jade in Chinese culture at the Jade Center.
  • Comfortable walking shoes are recommended due to the moderate walking involved and uneven surfaces on the tour route.
  • The four-hour tour is priced at €161.29 per person and includes transportation, entrance fees, and an English-speaking guide.

Tour Overview

Old in Shanghai--Explore Jade Buddha Temple & Yuyuan Garden - Tour Overview

This guided tour of Old City Shanghai offers visitors a comprehensive four-hour experience.

Priced from €161.29 per person, it includes a guided exploration of the historic Yuyuan Garden, the tranquil Jade Buddha Temple, and a traditional Chinese tea ceremony.

Guests can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.

Pickup from hotel lobbies is provided, and live guides fluent in English and Chinese are available.

For those seeking a more private experience, a group option is also offered.

With comfortable walking shoes recommended, this tour promises an immersive cultural journey through Shanghai’s vibrant Old City.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Itinerary Highlights

Old in Shanghai--Explore Jade Buddha Temple & Yuyuan Garden - Itinerary Highlights

The tour’s itinerary highlights include visiting the serene Yuyuan Garden for an hour, where guests can explore the classical pavilions, rock gardens, and arched bridges dating back to the 16th century.

Next, there’s a guided tour of the 19th-century Jade Buddha Temple, featuring two elegant Jade Buddha statues.

The tour also includes a 30-minute traditional tea ceremony at an old tea house, where guests can experience China’s 4,000-year tea history.

Throughout the tour, guests will discover Old City Shanghai‘s narrow alleys, the ornate City God Temple, and learn about the significance of jade in Chinese culture at the Jade Center.

Cultural Insights

Old in Shanghai--Explore Jade Buddha Temple & Yuyuan Garden - Cultural Insights

During the tour, guests will discover Old City Shanghai‘s narrow alleys lined with shops selling antiques and jewelry.

They’ll also visit the City God Temple, a restored complex with an ornate entrance gate and prayer halls.

At the Jade Center, they’ll learn about the difference between jadeite and nephrite, as well as jade’s significance in Chinese culture.

Throughout the experience, the guide will provide insights into the historical and cultural significance of the landmarks, allowing visitors to gain a deeper understanding of Old City Shanghai’s rich heritage.

Important Information

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended due to the moderate walking involved during the tour.

Photography is allowed, but flash photography may be restricted at certain sites to respect the cultural and religious significance of the locations visited.

Participants should be mindful of cultural sensitivities and dress appropriately when entering temples and other sacred spaces.

The tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, as the tour route includes uneven surfaces and stairs.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour package includes an English-speaking guide, admission to the Yuyuan Garden Bazaar, a tea ceremony experience, and entrance to the Jade Buddha Temple and City God Temple.

All transportation is covered as well. Optional tickets to Yu Garden are also provided.

However, meals aren’t included in the tour price. The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users due to the moderate walking involved. Guests are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes.

Photography is allowed, but flash may be restricted in certain areas to respect the cultural and religious significance of the sites visited.

Pickup and Transportation

The tour package includes pickup from your hotel lobby, ensuring a seamless start to your exploration of Shanghai’s historic sites.

Your guide will then transport you comfortably between the key destinations, allowing you to fully immerse in the cultural experience.

The tour includes:

  1. Pickup from your hotel lobby
  2. All necessary transportation between sites
  3. Dedicated, English-speaking guide to facilitate the journey

This hassle-free transportation makes it easy to navigate the Old City and focus on appreciating the rich history and heritage that Shanghai has to offer.

Tour Duration and Pricing

How long does the tour last, and what’s the cost?

The Old City Shanghai tour is a 4-hour guided experience. Priced from €161.29 per person, it offers great value for the extensive sightseeing and culture.

There’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, and a reserve now, pay later option for added convenience.

The tour includes pickup from your hotel lobby, and a live guide who can provide insights in both English and Chinese.

For those seeking a more personalized experience, a private group option is also available.

Cancellation and Booking

Old in Shanghai--Explore Jade Buddha Temple & Yuyuan Garden - Cancellation and Booking

For those interested in this guided tour, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. This offers flexibility should plans change unexpectedly.

Plus, a reserve now and pay later option is available, allowing you to secure your spot without an upfront payment.

To book this tour:

  1. Select your preferred date and time.
  2. Choose whether you’d like a private group or join a shared tour.
  3. Provide your hotel details for pickup.

With these convenient booking options, exploring the historical sites of Old City Shanghai has never been easier.

Frequently Asked Questions

Old in Shanghai--Explore Jade Buddha Temple & Yuyuan Garden - Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Allowed Inside the Temples?

Photography is generally allowed, but flash photography may be restricted inside the temples to respect their cultural and religious significance. Visitors should follow the guide’s instructions regarding photography.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Bringing your own food and drinks is not recommended on this tour. The tour includes a traditional tea ceremony, but meals are not provided. Participants should plan to purchase any desired refreshments during the tour stops.

Do I Need a Visa to Participate in the Tour?

Most likely, you’ll need a valid visa to participate in the Shanghai tour. The tour details don’t specify visa requirements, so it’s best to check with your travel agent or the tour provider before booking to ensure you have the necessary documentation.

Is the Tour Available in Other Languages Besides English and Chinese?

The tour is available in English and Chinese. There’s no mention of other language options in the overview, so it’s unclear if the tour is offered in additional languages.

What Is the Best Season to Visit the Yuyuan Garden?

The best season to visit the Yuyuan Garden is spring or autumn. The garden’s blooming flowers and mild temperatures make these seasons ideal for exploring the classical pavilions, rock gardens, and arched bridges.

The Sum Up

The Jade Buddha Temple and Yuyuan Garden offer a captivating glimpse into Shanghai’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can admire the exquisite jade statues, serene architecture, and lush landscapes, gaining a deeper understanding of the city’s history and artistry. These landmarks are essential stops for any traveler seeking to enjoy the unique charm of Old City Shanghai.