Shanghai: Southern Great Wall Day Trip by Bullet Train

Traveling in China often conjures images of the famous Great Wall in Beijing, but this tour offers a unique chance to explore a lesser-known, yet equally captivating, stretch near Shanghai—the Southern Great Wall of Linhai. Designed for travelers craving authenticity without the overwhelming crowds, this day trip combines history, scenic views, and local flavors into a single, well-organized package.

What we love most about this experience is the combination of fast, comfortable travel—thanks to the bullet train—and the opportunity to walk along a less-touristed section of the Great Wall. Plus, the visit to Ziyang Old Street gives you a taste of local life and flavors that are often missed by mainstream travelers. One thing to consider? The day is quite packed, so if you prefer a more relaxed pace, this might feel rushed for some.

This tour suits those who want a cultural adventure outside the busy crowds of Beijing, especially if you’re interested in history, scenic hiking, and authentic local cuisine. It’s perfect for curious travelers looking to deepen their understanding of Chinese heritage in a manageable, well-organized day.

Key Points

• Unique Location: Explore the Southern Great Wall in Linhai, a less-visited but historically significant section built during the Jin Dynasty.
• Fast Travel: The bullet train makes the trip quick and comfortable, saving hours compared to driving.
• Cultural Highlights: Walk the ancient wall and explore Ziyang Old Street for local shops and foods.
• Authentic Experience: Enjoy local cuisine and a glimpse of traditional life away from tourist crowds.
• Expert Guides: Known for knowledgeable guides who enrich your understanding with stories and historical context.
• Great Value: For $399, you get transportation, entrance fees, local lunch, and a tailored private experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Is This Tour All About?

This day-long adventure offers a chance to experience the Southern Great Wall near Shanghai—an impressive structure originally built to defend against pirate invasions from Japan, and designed by the same architect as Beijing’s Badaling. Instead of sharing the crowds like in Beijing, you’ll have the wall pretty much to yourself, surrounded by nature and history.

Starting early from Shanghai, you’ll hop on a high-speed bullet train—a highlight in itself—zooming toward Linhai in Zhejiang Province in about 2 to 3 hours. The journey feels like a luxury, with plenty of opportunities to discuss your preferences with your private guide, who will tailor the day to your interests. This flexibility makes all the difference in turning a standard tour into a memorable experience.

Once in Linhai, you’ll explore the Great Wall Scenic Area. While it’s shorter than the iconic sections near Beijing, the 5,000 meters of remaining wall are enough to give a real sense of its scale and strategic importance. The walkable paths allow about 2-3 hours of exploring at your own pace, with plenty of opportunities to snap photos, catch breathtaking views, or just soak in the atmosphere.

The story behind the wall is fascinating—initially 6,000 meters long, it still offers enough distance for a good walk and insights into its Jin Dynasty origins. Several reviews, like Jose’s, highlight how special it feels to walk a less-crowded, ancient section of the Great Wall—a true highlight for history buffs and scenery lovers alike.

Exploring Ziyang Old Street and Local Cuisine

After conquering the wall, the tour continues with a visit to Ziyang Old Street, a slice of authentic local life. The street features restored buildings and traditional shops—a lively area where you can browse local specialty gifts and sample delicious regional snacks.

Multiple reviews praise guides like Summer, Andrew, or Jenny for their knowledge and friendliness, making the street visit more engaging. As one traveler shared, the guide’s storytelling enriched the experience, and her tips on local food made the entire day more enjoyable.

Expect to spend about 1-2 hours here, which is enough to sample some food, explore shops, and soak in the historical architecture. If you’ve visited Linhai before or want a different experience, your guide can suggest alternative spots like Linghu Park or East Lake.

The Local Flavors

The tour includes a lunch—a chance to try regional dishes in a comfortable setting. Many reviews tout the good value for money, emphasizing how well-organized and satisfying the meal was. Guides are attentive to dietary needs, including vegetarian options, and some reviews even mention guides booking special vegetarian or vegan meals.

Logistics and Comfort

The entire trip runs smoothly thanks to the private transportation—air-conditioned cars or taxis—and the round-trip bullet train tickets included in the price. The tour is designed for convenience, with clear instructions if your hotel isn’t in the downtown area, and optional pickups from specific locations.

Starting early, the tour usually lasts about 13 hours—so prepare for a long but fulfilling day. The timing is flexible, and guides often tailor the pace—some travelers might prefer more walking and exploration, while others might want a more relaxed experience.

The group size is private, which means personalized attention, and reviews consistently mention the guides’ professionalism and friendly demeanor. Many travelers remark on how guides like Summer and Jenny made logistics effortless, navigating train stations and helping with photos or local tips.

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Transport & Tickets

The highlight is the bullet train, whose modern, comfortable cars make the 2-3 hour journey fly by. The Great Wall ticket and local transport are included, removing stress about queues or confusing ticket lines. The only additional costs are if your hotel is outside the designated pickup areas—so check your location beforehand.

Authenticity and Value

Many reviewers comment on the authenticity of the experience. Unlike some touristy day trips, this tour emphasizes local culture, historical significance, and scenic beauty. The combination of exploring a less crowded section of the Great Wall and wandering through Ziyang Old Street offers a genuine glimpse into regional Chinese life.

At $399, the cost might seem high for some, but it includes a private guide, all transportation, entrance fees, and a quality lunch—which adds up to good value for a fully catered, personalized day trip. Plus, the convenience of the bullet train and the lack of crowds make it a worthwhile investment for those wanting to see something more than just the typical tourist spots.

Highlights from Reviews

A common theme among positive reviews is how guides like Summer, Jenny, or Andrew brought the experience to life with their storytelling and local knowledge. For example, Jose notes: “Our guide, Summer, was exceptionally kind, knowledgeable, and passionate, enriching our experience with fascinating stories.”

Another review by GUSTAVO praises the “good planning of activities and the attentive guide,” emphasizing how smooth logistics helped focus on enjoying the day.

Many travelers also mention how the stunning views from the wall and the delicious local food made this trip memorable. Multiple reviews highlight how exploring the less-crowded wall felt like a true discovery, away from the crowds and commercialism.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a comprehensive, authentic experience for travelers eager to see a different side of China’s impressive heritage. The mix of ancient architecture, scenic hikes, and local culture makes it a standout option for those who want more than just a tourist snapshot.

It’s especially well-suited for history lovers, scenic hikers, and foodies who appreciate authentic regional flavors. The convenience of high-speed rail and private guides means you won’t waste time or energy navigating public transport or crowded spots. The value for money is solid, considering the included transport, tickets, and meal.

If you’re staying in Shanghai and want a day that’s both enriching and visually stunning, this trip is a smart choice. Just be prepared for a long day, and bring good shoes — you’ll want to make the most of every step along this historic wall and vibrant street scene.

FAQ: Your Questions About the Southern Great Wall Day Trip

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
Yes, if your kids are comfortable walking and enjoy historical sites, this tour can be a great family outing. Just consider the length of the day and ensure everyone has comfortable shoes.

What should I bring on the trip?
Comfortable shoes are a must, given the walking on the wall and around Ziyang Old Street. Sunscreen, a hat, and water are also advisable, especially during warmer months.

Does the tour provide vegetarian or special dietary options?
Yes, guides are flexible and will accommodate vegetarian or vegan dietary needs—some reviews mention guides booking special meals aligned with dietary preferences.

How long is the train ride?
The bullet train ride takes approximately 2 hours from Shanghai to Linhai, with a return journey of similar duration.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes private guide service, air-conditioned transportation, round-trip bullet train tickets, entrance fees to the Great Wall, and a local lunch.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, guides are happy to suggest alternative spots like Linghu Park or East Lake if you’ve been to Linhai before or prefer different experiences.

What’s the best time of year to go?
While not explicitly mentioned, generally spring and autumn offer the best weather for outdoor walking and sightseeing in this region.

Is the tour physically demanding?
It involves walking along the Great Wall and exploring streets, so a moderate level of fitness and comfortable shoes are recommended.

Are the guides fluent in English?
Yes, the guides speak English and are known for their friendliness and knowledge.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if plans change.

In summary, this trip is perfect for those eager to see a less crowded, historically significant section of the Great Wall with the added bonus of exploring local culture and cuisine. It balances convenience, authenticity, and value, making it a memorable choice for travelers based in Shanghai longing to venture beyond the usual and experience a quieter, more personal side of China’s heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: