Discover Off Beaten Route–Shanghai Old City Town

Shanghai’s Old City Town offers a captivating glimpse into the city’s rich cultural heritage, inviting travelers to venture beyond the bustling streets and discover its hidden gems. This immersive 3-hour tour guides visitors through the ancient city wall, unveiling ornate Buddhist and Taoist temples, and the enchanting Yu Garden. As they savor local street foods and partake in a traditional tea ceremony, guests gain unique insights that bring Shanghai’s vibrant history to life. With a small group setting and expert guides, this off-beaten-path experience promises to be an unforgettable adventure in one of China’s most dynamic destinations.

Key Points

• Explore Shanghai’s rich cultural heritage through visits to ancient city walls, Buddhist and Taoist temples, and the exquisite Yu Garden.
• Immerse in a traditional Chinese tea ceremony to gain insights into the history, preparation, and significance of tea culture.
• Savor a diverse array of local street food delicacies, including savory soup dumplings, fragrant rice rolls, and grilled skewers.
• Engage with knowledgeable guides who provide historical context and insights, enhancing the cultural experience.
• Discover the off-beaten path of Old Town Shanghai, away from the bustling city center, and connect with the enduring traditions that shape the city.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The tour allows visitors to explore the historic Old Town of Shanghai over a 3-hour sightseeing and tasting experience.

Priced at Kč1,541 per person, the tour is limited to 8 participants and is available in English and Chinese.

Highlights include a stroll along the ancient city wall, visits to Buddhist and Taoist temples, a tour of the renowned Yu Garden, and tastings of local street foods and a traditional tea ceremony.

Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides, authentic Chinese cuisine, and rich historical insights provided throughout the tour.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this comprehensive culture is an excellent way to discover the charms of Old Town Shanghai.

Itinerary Highlights

Visitors on this tour begin at Shouning Road, taking in the ancient city wall for about 10 minutes.

Next, they’ll explore two major religious temples – one for Buddhism and one for Taoism, spending 20 minutes at each site to learn about religious etiquette and cultural significance.

The highlight of the tour is a 30-minute visit to the stunning Yu Garden, a 400-year-old oasis of exquisite architecture and serene landscapes.

The tour also includes:

• A delightful 30-minute street food tasting at the bustling local bazaar
• A tranquil 30-minute traditional tea ceremony led by an expert
• Engaging historical insights from the knowledgeable guide

Cultural Experience

During this tour, participants enjoy the rich cultural heritage of old Shanghai.

They visit two major religious temples – one for Buddhism and one for Taoism. Led by knowledgeable guides, they learn about the etiquette and cultural significance of these sacred spaces.

The highlight is the traditional tea ceremony, where a tea expert guides them through the intricacies of proper tea preparation and appreciation. This hands-on experience allows travelers to gain a deeper understanding of Chinese tea culture and its role in daily life.

Through these cultural encounters, visitors leave with a profound appreciation for the enduring traditions that shape the character of historic Shanghai.

Food Tasting

Along With the culture, the tour offers visitors the opportunity to sample a variety of local delicacies.

Theres some good:

• Savory soup dumplings, bursting with rich broth and tender pork.
• Fragrant stick rice rolls, a street food staple, filled with a blend of aromatic ingredients.
• Sizzling skewers of marinated meats and vegetables, grilled to perfection.
• Refreshing fruit-infused teas, a perfect complement to the flavorful cuisine.

These authentic bites provide a true taste of Shanghai’s vibrant street food culture, allowing participants to enjoy the local culinary traditions.

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Customer Feedback

Travelers consistently praise the Shanghai Old City Town tour, awarding it an impressive 5/5 rating based on 4 reviews.

Highlights praised by customers include the knowledgeable guides, who provide rich historical insights, and the authentic Chinese food tasting experiences.

Reviewers remark on the engaging nature of the tour, noting that it offers a truly immersive cultural experience.

The street food at the bustling bazaar and the traditional tea ceremony led by an expert are particular standouts.

Ancient City Wall

The tour begins with a visit to the ancient city wall, a remnant of Shanghai’s storied past. This iconic structure, standing tall for centuries, tells a tale of the city’s evolution.

Visitors are captivated by:

• The intricate brickwork and architectural details that showcase the craftsmanship of bygone eras.
• The panoramic views from atop the wall, providing a unique perspective of the bustling modern city.
• The sense of timelessness, as you imagine the countless individuals who’ve walked these same paths throughout history.
• The opportunity to step back in time and connect with Shanghai’s rich cultural heritage.

Religious Temples

Next, the tour takes visitors to explore two major religious temples – one for Buddhism and one for Taoism.

At the Buddhist temple, the guide explains the significance of the ornate statues and shrines, highlighting the principles of compassion and enlightenment. Visitors learn the proper etiquette, such as removing shoes and avoiding certain behaviors.

The Taoist temple, with its intricate architectural details, provides insight into the ancient Chinese philosophy emphasizing harmony with nature. The guide shares the history and cultural relevance of the temple, encouraging visitors to participate in simple rituals like lighting incense.

This culture allows travelers to gain a deeper appreciation for the religious diversity of Old Town Shanghai.

Traditional Tea Ceremony

As part of the cultural experience, participants engage in a traditional tea ceremony led by a tea expert.

The ceremony offers a captivating glimpse into Chinese tea culture, with the expert guiding guests through the intricate steps. Participants learn about the history, preparation, and significance of this time-honored ritual.

The sensory experience is heightened, as they savor the fragrance and flavor of the carefully brewed tea.

The ceremony instills a sense of:

• Tranquility
• Mindfulness
• Appreciation
• Connection to tradition

The traditional tea ceremony provides a serene and authentic culture, deepening participants’ understanding of Shanghai’s rich heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Walking Is Involved During the Tour?

The tour involves moderate walking, with guests exploring the ancient city wall, temples, Yu Garden, and street food markets over the course of 3 hours. The group size is limited to 8 participants for a more personalized experience.

Are There Any Restroom Breaks Scheduled During the Tour?

The tour includes several scheduled stops and activities, but it doesn’t mention any specific restroom breaks. Participants can likely use restrooms at some of the main sites like Yu Garden during the tour.

Is the Tour Suitable for Young Children?

The tour may not be the most suitable for young children. It involves extensive walking and exploration of historical sites, which could be tiring for younger kids. However, the food tasting and tea ceremony might appeal to families with older children.

Can I Purchase Souvenirs During the Tour?

Yes, there are opportunities to purchase souvenirs during the tour. Visitors can explore the bustling bazaar and browse local handicrafts, traditional Chinese tea, and other cultural items to take home as mementos of their Old Town Shanghai experience.

What Should I Wear to Be Comfortable During the Tour?

For the 3-hour Shanghai Old Town tour, you’ll be comfortable in lightweight, breathable clothing and comfortable walking shoes. Avoid restrictive or formal attire, as you’ll be on your feet for much of the tour exploring historic sites and tasting local foods.

The Sum Up

Explore the hidden gems of Shanghai’s Old City Town on this immersive 3-hour tour. Discover ancient city walls, ornate temples, and the enchanting Yu Garden while enjoying local street foods and a traditional tea ceremony. With expert guides and a small group setting, this tour offers a unique insight into Shanghai’s rich cultural heritage, making it an unforgettable experience in one of China’s most dynamic cities.

You can check if your dates are available here: