Shanghai: Top 5 Highlights + Bargaining in the Market

Shanghai offers visitors a captivating blend of old and new, where towering skyscrapers stand alongside historic temples. From the breathtaking views atop the Shanghai Tower to the serene tranquility of the Jade Buddha Temple, the city’s top attractions showcase its unique juxtaposition of modernity and tradition. Strolling along the Bund and exploring the charming French Concession neighborhood provide a glimpse into Shanghai’s diverse cultural influences. Of course, no trip to the city is complete without a visit to the bustling underground market, where haggling with vendors can lead to remarkable discoveries. There’s much more to uncover in this dynamic metropolis.

Key Points

• Explore Shanghai’s architectural marvels, including the second-tallest building in the world, the Shanghai Tower, and the historic Bund waterfront.
• Discover the serene Jade Buddha Temple and its exquisite jade statues, a cultural landmark dating back to 1882.
• Immerse in the tranquility of the 400-year-old Yu Garden, a stunning Ming Dynasty garden in the heart of the bustling city.
• Experience the vibrant mix of international and local stores on Nanjing Road, with the opportunity to sample traditional Chinese snacks.
• Conclude the tour with a visit to a popular underground market, where bargaining is encouraged to find unique souvenirs at the best prices.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Highlights

The private full-day tour from Shanghai offers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems, with a price tag of £26,695 per person.

The 8.5-hour tour highlights the towering Shanghai Tower, the serene Jade Buddha Temple, the historic Bund, the centuries-old Yu Garden, and the charming French Concession.

Travelers will marvel at the second-highest building in the world, visit two exquisite jade Buddha statues, stroll along the famous waterfront promenade, and discover the elegant Ming Dynasty gardens.

The tour includes an English-speaking guide, entrance tickets, local lunch, subway rides, and Uber transfers, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable exploration of Shanghai’s top sights.

Itinerary Breakdown

This private tour begins with the guide greeting guests in their hotel lobby before heading to the first stop, the Jade Buddha Temple.

After a 1-hour guided tour, the group travels by subway to the Shanghai Tower, where they’ll race up the fastest elevator to the observation deck.

Next, they explore Nanjing Road and the historic Bund area on a walking tour.

For lunch, they visit a local vegetarian restaurant near the City God Temple.

The tour continues at the 400-year-old Yu Garden, followed by a 30-minute guided walk through the charming French Concession.

The final stop is a 2-hour shopping excursion at the popular Shanghai Science and Technology Museum market.

Transportation Details

For the transportation needs of this private tour, guests will travel via a combination of the efficient and safe subway system as well as Uber (DIDI) car rides.

The subway journey to the Shanghai Tower takes approximately 30 minutes, while the Uber rides to Yu Garden and the French Concession take 10 and 15 minutes respectively.

Electric car rides are also provided for specific segments of the tour. The return to the hotel at the end of the day is a 40-minute journey.

This integrated transportation approach ensures a smooth and seamless experience throughout the day’s activities.

Jade Buddha Temple Exploration

After being picked up from the hotel, the tour heads to the Jade Buddha Temple, a profound cultural landmark dating back to 1882.

The temple is famous for housing two exquisite jade Buddha statues, one sitting and one reclining, carved from a single piece of white jade. During the guided tour, visitors will learn about the temple’s rich history and the significance of the Buddhas.

The guide will provide insights into the temple’s stunning architecture, including the intricate carvings and paintings that adorn the halls.

With an hour allocated for this stop, guests can enjoy the serene atmosphere and appreciate the temple’s spiritual significance.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Ascending Shanghai Tower

After visiting the serene Jade Buddha Temple, the tour moves on to the dramatic Shanghai Tower, the second tallest building in the world. Guests take the fastest elevator in the world, reaching the observation deck at 546 meters in just 55 seconds. From the deck, they are treated to awe-inspiring 360-degree views of Shanghai’s iconic skyline. The structure’s innovative design, featuring a twisting spiral shape, is an architectural marvel.

Feature	Statistic
Height	632 meters
Observation Deck	546 meters
Elevator Speed	18 meters per second
Elevator Duration	55 seconds

Truly a highlight of the tour, the Shanghai Tower provides an unparalleled vantage point to appreciate Shanghai’s remarkable transformation.

Discovering The Bund and Nanjing Road

From the soaring heights of the Shanghai Tower, the tour now turns its attention to two of Shanghai’s most iconic landmarks – The Bund and Nanjing Road.

These historic areas offer a captivating blend of old and new, showcasing Shanghai’s remarkable transformation.

The Bund, a waterfront promenade, is a symbol of the city, dividing the old and new sections.

Visitors can stroll along the picturesque walkway, admiring the stunning architecture of the colonial-era buildings and the modern skyscrapers across the Huangpu River.

Nanjing Road, the bustling shopping street, is a must-visit destination.

Guests can:

• Explore the vibrant mix of international and local stores
• Witness the lively street performances and local culture
• Indulge in traditional Chinese snacks and delicacies
• Experience the energy and dynamism of contemporary Shanghai

Visiting Yu Garden and French Concession

Next, the tour ventures to the serene Yu Garden, a true oasis within the bustling city. This 400-year-old Ming Dynasty garden features exquisite architecture, ponds, and lush greenery. After a guided tour, the group explores the nearby French Concession, a historic area with tree-lined streets and European-influenced buildings.

Highlights	Reasons to Visit
Tranquil Atmosphere	Escape the city’s hustle and bustle
Ornate Architecture	Appreciate Ming Dynasty design
Cultural Significance	Understand Shanghai’s history
Photogenic Landscapes	Capture picturesque scenery

The tour allows ample time to stroll through this charming neighborhood, taking in the unique blend of Chinese and European influences that characterize the French Concession.

Shopping in the Underground Market

The tour culminates at a popular underground market connected to the subway, where guests have the opportunity to flex their bargaining skills.

This bustling marketplace offers a wide variety of items, including:

• Shoes
• Bags
• Glasses
• Toys
• Custom suits

Bargaining is highly encouraged, as it allows visitors to negotiate prices and find the best deals.

With the guidance of the knowledgeable local guide, guests can navigate the market confidently and make the most of their shopping experience.

This is a chance to take in the local culture and bring home unique souvenirs from the Shanghai adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Tips for the Guide and Driver Included in the Tour Price?

The tour price doesn’t include tips for the guide and driver. Travelers can provide tips at their discretion based on the quality of service received during the tour.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Focus on Specific Interests?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized to focus on your specific interests. The tour provider offers flexibility in changing the itinerary to cater to your preferences within the tour duration and pricing.

Is Photography Allowed Inside the Jade Buddha Temple?

Yes, photography is allowed inside the Jade Buddha Temple, but visitors should avoid using flash photography, as it may disrupt the temple’s tranquil atmosphere. Photography is generally permitted in the open areas, but some restrictions may apply in certain sections.

What Is the Dress Code for Visiting Religious Sites?

When visiting religious sites, modest attire is generally expected. Shorts, short skirts, and revealing clothing should be avoided. Loose, long pants and shirts that cover the shoulders are typically appropriate.

Can I Store My Luggage With the Tour Company During the Tour?

The tour company can store your luggage during the tour. Guests can leave their luggage with the English-speaking guide, which will be securely kept and returned at the end of the day.

The Sum Up

Shanghai’s blend of modernity and tradition offers a captivating experience. Visitors can marvel at the city’s iconic attractions, from the breathtaking Shanghai Tower to the serene Jade Buddha Temple. Exploring the historic Bund, the charming French Concession, and the vibrant Yu Garden provides a glimpse into Shanghai’s rich heritage. And bargain hunters can uncover unique souvenirs in the bustling underground market, making it a truly immersive destination.

You can check if your dates are available here: