Exploring the rich history and vibrant culture of Shanghai is a must-do for any traveler. This full-day tour offers a comprehensive introduction to the city’s iconic landmarks, from the serene Jade Buddha Temple to the bustling Yuyuan Garden and the iconic Bund waterfront. Along the way, visitors can enjoy Shanghai’s dynamic art and architecture, indulge in a traditional Chinese lunch, and gain a deeper appreciation for the city’s enduring legacy. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this tour promises to unveil the multifaceted allure of Shanghai, leaving you eager to uncover more.
Key Points

- A full-day excursion covering major Shanghai landmarks, including Jade Buddha Temple, Shanghai Museum, Yuyuan Garden, and the Bund.
- Offers a traditional Chinese lunch and daily departures from city center hotels, with a high customer satisfaction rating.
- Provides in-depth exploration of historical and cultural attractions, such as the 19th-century Jade Buddha Temple and the classical Yuyuan Garden.
- Allows visitors to experience the blend of Shanghai’s historical and modern identity, from the Bund’s colonial architecture to the city’s contemporary skyline.
- Offers a comfortable and accessible tour experience, with air-conditioned transportation, wheelchair accessibility, and flexible group sizes.
👉 Check out our guide to the 18 Best 2 Day Tours In Shanghai
Contents
- Key Points
- Tour Overview and Highlights
- Itinerary and Activities
- Jade Buddha Temple
- Peoples Square
- Shanghai Museum
- Yuyuan Garden
- The Bund
- Transportation and Accessibility
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?
- Can I Bring My Own Lunch or Snacks?
- Is the Tour Available in Other Languages?
- Can I Cancel or Reschedule the Tour?
- How Long Does the Entire Tour Last?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Shanghai
- More Tour Reviews in Shanghai
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Shanghai we have recnetly reviewed
Tour Overview and Highlights
This full-day Shanghai excursion allows visitors to explore the city’s renowned landmarks and cultural attractions, including the Jade Buddha Temple, Shanghai Museum, Yuyuan Garden, and the iconic Bund.
The tour includes a traditional Chinese lunch and daily departures from city center hotels.
With over 300 positive reviews and a 4.0 overall rating, this comprehensive tour provides an immersive experience showcasing Shanghai’s rich history and vibrant modern identity.
Highlights include the 19th-century Jade Buddha Temple, the expansive Shanghai Museum housing 12,000 artifacts, the serene Yuyuan Garden, and the Bund, a landmark symbolizing Shanghai’s blend of old and new.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Shanghai.
Itinerary and Activities

The tour begins with a visit to the Jade Buddha Temple, a 19th-century structure from the Qing Dynasty that visitors can explore for around an hour.
Next, travelers stop at Peoples Square, where they can spend 10 minutes socializing with locals in a verdant area.
The tour then moves on to the Shanghai Museum, where they’ll have 1.5 hours to view the 12,000 artifacts showcasing Chinese history.
After the museum, the group heads to the serene Yuyuan Garden, where they can stroll through the significant structures and springs for an hour.
The final stop is the iconic Bund, a landmark symbolizing old and new Shanghai, where visitors can spend 30 minutes soaking in the sights.
Throughout the day, the tour also passes by the Former French Concession and Xin Tian Di, allowing participants to catch glimpses of the tree-flanked streets and entertainment districts.
Jade Buddha Temple

Visitors can explore the 19th-century Jade Buddha Temple, a structure from the Qing Dynasty, for around an hour during the tour. This Buddhist temple houses two exquisite jade Buddha statues, which were brought from Burma in the late 19th century.
Visitors can marvel at the intricate carvings and learn about the temple’s history and significance. The main hall features detailed wood carvings and colorful murals, creating a serene and atmospheric setting for worshippers.
With the admission fee included in the tour, travelers can enjoy a peaceful respite from the bustling city streets and gain insight into Shanghai’s rich cultural heritage at this iconic landmark.
Peoples Square
Visitors can socialize with locals in the verdant expanse of Peoples Square for about 10 minutes during the tour. This vibrant public space offers a glimpse into the daily life of Shanghainese residents.
Here, you’ll find:
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Lively conversations among friends and families
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Energetic tai chi practitioners moving in graceful synchronicity
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Casual strolls and people-watching opportunities
While the time spent here is brief, Peoples Square provides a welcome respite from the bustling city streets and a chance to soak in the local atmosphere.
As you move on to the next stop, you’ll carry with you a deeper appreciation for Shanghai’s dynamic urban culture.
Shanghai Museum
One of the key stops on the Shanghai day tour is the Shanghai Museum, where visitors can explore a vast collection of over 12,000 artifacts that showcase China’s rich cultural heritage.
The museum’s extensive exhibits cover a wide range of Chinese art and history, from ancient bronzes and ceramics to calligraphy and paintings. Visitors can wander through the museum’s impressive galleries, marveling at the intricate craftsmanship and learning about the cultural significance of the various pieces.
With its free admission and conveniently located in People’s Square, the Shanghai Museum provides a captivating glimpse into China’s remarkable past, complementing the other highlights of the day tour.
Yuyuan Garden
The Yuyuan Garden, a significant historical landmark, offers visitors a tranquil respite amidst the bustling city of Shanghai. Sprawling across 5 acres, this classical Chinese garden features exquisite pavilions, ponds, and rock formations that reflect the harmonious blend of nature and architecture.
Highlights of the Yuyuan Garden include:
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Meandering paths that lead to hidden corners and picturesque vistas
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The Exquisite Jade Rock, a towering limestone formation believed to resemble a reclining dragon
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Intricate architectural details, such as the intricately carved Dragon Wall and the elegant Huangpu Tower
Visitors can stroll through this oasis of calm, seeing the serene ambiance and rich cultural heritage of the Yuyuan Garden.
The Bund
Along the winding banks of the Huangpu River, the Bund stands as an iconic landmark that symbolizes the blending of Shanghai’s historic past and vibrant present. This famous waterfront promenade offers visitors a unique perspective on the city’s architectural evolution. Lined with grandiose colonial-era buildings and towering modern skyscrapers, the Bund presents a striking contrast that encapsulates Shanghai’s dynamic transformation.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Historical Significance | The Bund was the financial center of old Shanghai, home to foreign banks and trade houses. |
| Architectural Styles | A mix of neo-classical, baroque, and gothic styles from the early 20th century. |
| Stunning Skyline | Offers breathtaking views of the Pudong skyline across the Huangpu River. |
| Vibrant Atmosphere | A popular promenade for strolling, sightseeing, and enjoying the lively riverfront. |
Transportation and Accessibility
For this full-day Shanghai tour, travelers are conveniently picked up and dropped off at their city center hotels in an air-conditioned vehicle.
The tour is wheelchair accessible and stroller-friendly, ensuring a comfortable experience for all.
With a minimum group size of 3 persons, this tour can accommodate up to 999 travelers, providing a flexible and inclusive option for visitors to explore the city.
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The tour is wheelchair accessible, allowing all travelers to participate.
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Strollers are welcome, making it a family-friendly option.
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The tour can accommodate groups ranging from 3 to 999 travelers, catering to a variety of party sizes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?
There is no strict dress code for the tour. Visitors can wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and shoes. It’s recommended to dress modestly when visiting religious sites like the Jade Buddha Temple.
Can I Bring My Own Lunch or Snacks?
Participants are generally allowed to bring their own lunch or snacks on the tour. However, it’s important to check with the tour operator beforehand, as some may provide a meal as part of the experience.
Is the Tour Available in Other Languages?
The tour is available in multiple languages beyond English, such as Chinese, Japanese, and others. Travelers can inquire about language options when booking the tour to ensure they receive a guide who speaks their preferred language.
Can I Cancel or Reschedule the Tour?
Yes, the tour can be cancelled or rescheduled. Most providers offer flexible policies, allowing travelers to make changes to their bookings prior to the tour date without incurring penalties. Customers should check the tour provider’s policies for specific details.
How Long Does the Entire Tour Last?
The full-day excursion lasts approximately 7 hours. It includes visits to key landmarks like the Jade Buddha Temple, Shanghai Museum, Yuyuan Garden, and The Bund, along with a traditional Chinese lunch. The tour departs daily from city center hotels.
Best of Shanghai Day Tour, Including Jade Buddha Temple & Bund & Yuyuan Garden
“The places visited on this tour in Shanghai are truly the highlights of the city for a first time visitor. Be careful about booking this tour if yo…”
Recap
This comprehensive Shanghai tour offers a captivating blend of historic landmarks, cultural treasures, and scenic wonders.
Visitors will enjoy the city’s rich heritage at the Jade Buddha Temple, explore the tranquil beauty of Yuyuan Garden, and marvel at the colonial architecture along the iconic Bund.
With a traditional Chinese lunch and a visit to the renowned Shanghai Museum, this tour provides an unforgettable experience showcasing the best of Shanghai’s past and present.























