Shanghai: Zoo and Zhujiajiao Water Town Tour with Boat Ride

If you’re looking to experience a mix of nature, history, and authentic local charm in Shanghai, this Zoo and Zhujiajiao Water Town Tour offers a well-rounded day. It’s a package that combines the fun of seeing pandas and other animals with wandering through a water town that’s been around for over 1,700 years—and topping it off with a relaxing gondola cruise.

What makes this tour especially appealing is the personalized touch — you’ll have your own private guide and vehicle, which helps make the day flexible and relaxed. We love how it balances popular sights like the zoo with less touristy, atmospheric water town strolls, but it’s worth noting that you’ll be on a carefully scheduled itinerary, so if you love wandering at your own pace, that’s something to consider.

This tour is a great fit for travelers who want a taste of both wildlife and traditional Chinese water town scenery. It’s ideal for families, couples, or small groups who want a meaningful, guided experience without breaking the bank. If you’re after a fully independent day or a more adventurous off-the-beaten-path experience, you might find this tour more structured than you prefer. Still, for those seeking a manageable, insightful day trip, it ticks many boxes.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private guide and vehicle ensure a flexible, comfortable day tailored to your interests.
• Animal Lovers’ Delight: See pandas, elephants, tigers, and more with the convenience of included entrance fees.
• Historic Charm: Walk through the ancient streets of Zhujiajiao, with its Ming and Qing architecture and water markets.
• Scenic Canal Cruise: Enjoy a peaceful gondola ride, soaking up views of old residences and temples along the water.
• Cultural Insights: Learn about water town traditions and local crafts from your knowledgeable guide.
• Value for Money: At $190 per person, the tour offers a thorough, all-inclusive experience that covers transport, entry fees, and a boat ride.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Balanced Look at the Tour Experience

This tour is designed to give you a comprehensive look at two distinct sides of Shanghai—its modern zoo life and its centuries-old water town charm. We’ll walk through what you can expect from each part, highlighting what makes them special and where you might want to plan a little extra time or attention.

Pickup and Transportation

Starting with the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off in downtown Shanghai, this private tour ensures you don’t have to worry about navigating the busy city yourself. The air-conditioned vehicle and private driver keep the journey comfortable and hassle-free, especially after a busy morning. Reviewers consistently praise the punctuality and comfort of the transport, noting it’s a significant perk that sets this tour apart from larger group options.

Visiting Shanghai Zoo

The first stop is the Shanghai Zoo, a popular spot known especially for its collection of Giant Pandas. Our guide, described as friendly and knowledgeable in reviews, will lead the group around to see pandas, peacocks, tigers, monkeys, and elephants. The zoo is well-regarded for its animal variety and spacious enclosures. One reviewer praised the guide, Shirley, for making the visit very interesting with engaging stories, which adds value far beyond just walking around.

Expect to spend about 1-2 hours here. It’s a highlight for families and animal enthusiasts but also a good starter to energize the day with some adorable pandas and other creatures.

Exploring Zhujiajiao Water Town

After the zoo, the journey continues to Zhujiajiao, often called the “Little Oriental Venice,” a water town with over 1,700 years of history. As you arrive, heading to the tallest bridge offers a stunning view of the ancient architecture—Ming and Qing styles—that line the waterways.

Walking through the stone-paved streets and water markets offers a glimpse into traditional Chinese life. Local arts, crafts, trinkets, and authentic eateries are scattered throughout, making it a great spot for casual shopping or sampling local snacks. A highlight, loved by many reviewers, is the chance to enjoy some street food — a must-do for authentic flavor.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Canal and Gondola Ride

The pièce de résistance is the private boat ride that takes you down the old waterways. Even for those who’ve seen Venice, this waterway cruise offers a unique perspective of Chinese water town life. You’ll see old residences, temples, and trees lining the canals, all adding to the tranquil charm. Several reviewers mentioned that their guides, like Annie, made the experience extra special by pointing out interesting sights or taking perfect photos.

Tour Duration and Flexibility

Clocking in at about 7 hours, the tour is a satisfying full day but not overly long. The timing is flexible with check-in options, and the private setting allows some control over pace and stops. For guests wanting to extend their exploration, optional arrangements for out-of-center pickups are available for an extra fee.

Cost and Value

At $190 per person, this tour covers a lot of ground—entrance fees, boat ride, private vehicle, and a knowledgeable guide. While that might seem steep compared to public transport or self-guided visits, the convenience, comfort, and insider knowledge make it a good value, especially if you factor in avoiding the hassle of planning and navigation.

What We Loved About the Tour

One of the most commonly praised aspects, reflected in review comments, is the knowledgeable guides. Guests consistently mention guides like Shirley and Annie for their friendliness, storytelling, and local insights, which add depth to the experience. The scenic views during the boat ride and the authentic charm of Zhujiajiao’s architecture resonate strongly with travelers craving a genuine look at traditional water towns.

Plus, the animal encounters at the zoo are a highlight—seeing pandas up close is an experience many cherish—and the comfort and punctuality of transportation make the whole day smooth and enjoyable.

Potential Drawbacks

Some might find the schedule a little tight if they prefer more free time at each stop. Also, since food and drinks are not included, those with specific dietary preferences may want to bring snacks or plan for meals outside the tour. The optional extra pickup fee for outskirts areas might also be a consideration for travelers staying outside downtown Shanghai.

Who This Tour Is Best For

If you enjoy a guided, all-in-one experience that captures both wildlife and traditional water town scenery, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s especially suitable for families with children, couples, or small groups looking for a hassle-free day with plenty of points of interest. It suits those who value expert guides and comfortable transportation but aren’t necessarily looking for an independent or self-guided adventure.

However, if your idea of exploring involves wandering freely at your own pace or discovering lesser-known spots, you may find the schedule a bit structured. Still, the combination of highlights makes it a great introduction to some of Shanghai’s most photogenic and culturally rich sites.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 7 hours, making it a full but manageable day trip.

Is transportation included?
Yes, you’ll be picked up and dropped off at your hotel in downtown Shanghai via private, air-conditioned vehicle.

What animals can I see at the zoo?
The zoo features pandas, peacocks, tigers, monkeys, elephants, and more.

Do I have to pay for anything extra?
The tour price includes entrance fees to the zoo and water town, plus the boat ride. Food, drinks, and optional out-of-center pickups are not included.

Can I customize my pickup location?
Pickup is included in downtown Shanghai. Outskirts like Pudong or Disneyland can be arranged for an additional fee.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, especially due to the zoo visit and engaging water town scenery, making it family-friendly.

What language is the guide in?
Guides speak English, ensuring easy communication for international travelers.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This Shanghai Zoo and Zhujiajiao Water Town Tour offers a balanced and enriching experience that combines wildlife encounters with the serenity of a traditional water town. Its private nature ensures comfort, flexibility, and personalized insights, making it particularly appealing for those who want a guided, hassle-free day.

The inclusion of a guided walk through centuries-old architecture, a boat ride along peaceful canals, and the chance to see pandas up close makes this tour both fun and meaningful. While it’s priced at a premium, the convenience and depth of experience justify the cost for many travelers seeking a well-organized day of exploration.

In short, if you’re after a snapshot of authentic Chinese water town life paired with the chance to get up close with some adorable animals, this tour is a smart pick. It’s especially suited for visitors who enjoy guided tours, want to avoid logistical hassles, and appreciate insightful commentary from local experts.

Whether it’s your first time in Shanghai or a repeat visit, this tour offers a charming window into two very different sides of China’s most vibrant city.

You can check availability for your dates here: