Shanghai: Zhujiajiao Water Town, Tianzifang & Shanghai Tower

Exploring Shanghai’s Historic and Modern Sides: Zhujiajiao, Tianzifang & Shanghai Tower

If you’re visiting Shanghai and want to experience both its ancient water towns and its cutting-edge skyscrapers, this tour offers a balanced glimpse of the city’s contrasting faces. For about $394 per person, you’ll spend a full day exploring the best of Zhujiajiao Water Town, wandering through the artsy streets of Tianzifang, and gazing from the dizzying heights of Shanghai Tower’s observation deck.

What we love about this experience is how it combines authentic local culture—from boat rides in a traditional water town—to vibrant modern art in the narrow alleyways of Tianzifang. Plus, the highlight of seeing Shanghai from 546 meters up is enough to give anyone a new appreciation for the city’s scale.

A possible drawback? The tour’s packed schedule means you’ll need to keep an eye on the clock—especially if you want ample time at each stop. Also, since there’s some walking involved and it’s a full-day outing, it’s best suited for travelers with a moderate level of fitness.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy a mix of history, culture, and city views, and who want to see Shanghai beyond its famous skyline. If you’re eager to learn about local craft traditions, see a charming water town, and marvel at modern architecture—all in one day—this trip should be right up your alley.

Key Points

• Authentic Water Town Experience: Zhujiajiao offers a glimpse into traditional Jiangnan water village life.
• Cultural Exploration in Tianzifang: Discover Shanghai’s creative spirit through arts, crafts, and local shops.
• Spectacular City Views: The Shanghai Tower’s 118th-floor observation deck provides panoramic vistas, especially stunning at sunset.
• Balanced Itinerary: Combines history, arts, and modern architecture for a well-rounded day.
• Comfort and Convenience: Guided tour with included lunch, admission, and organized transport simplifies logistics.
• Ideal for Curious Travelers: Perfect for those wanting a taste of old and new Shanghai without the hassle of independent planning.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Visiting Zhujiajiao Water Town: A Step Back in Time

Starting your day early, you’ll head to Zhujiajiao, often called the “Venice of Shanghai”. This water town is considered the best-preserved example of Jiangnan water villages, with its winding canals, traditional houses, and old stone bridges. As you stroll along North Street, you’ll find yourself immersed in a setting that looks like a living postcard.

One of the standout sights is the Free Life Bridge, Shanghai’s longest and highest five-hole stone arch bridge. Walking across, you’ll understand why this town is so admired for its architecture. The narrow alleys are lined with snack shops, offering local delicacies—perfect for a quick taste of authentic flavors.

One reviewer mentioned, “We loved the way the old houses and waterways made us feel like we’d stepped into another era. The boat ride on Caogang River was a highlight,” showing how the boat experience adds a peaceful, personal touch to the visit.

Exploring Local Crafts and Creative Vibes at Tianzifang

After soaking in the water town’s charm, you’ll move to Tianzifang, a lively artistic neighborhood. This maze of alleys has been transformed from an old Shanghai neighborhood into a hub of creative shops, galleries, and cafes. It’s a place where you can find handmade crafts, from blueprints and paper cuts to ceramic tea sets.

The atmosphere is vibrant, with wall art and colorful stairs making for excellent photo opportunities. You might enjoy browsing the art studios—one was formerly the studio of the famous artist Chen Yifei—and discovering local craftsmanship.

One traveler noted, “The graffiti alley and rainbow stairs are perfect for photos, and I appreciated the chance to see local artisans at work.” It’s a lively, artsy scene that offers a more playful, modern side of Shanghai compared to the historic water town.

Ascending to the Heights of Shanghai Tower

The final part of the day is an awe-inspiring visit to Shanghai Tower, China’s tallest building at 632 meters. The sightseeing hall on the 118th floor offers a 360-degree view of the city, especially striking at sunset or when the city lights turn on.

The speed elevator whisks you to 546 meters in just 55 seconds—an adrenaline rush in itself! Once there, you can enjoy VR interactions and even visit the Post Office in the Sky, making this more than just a sightseeing stop.

Visitors have praised the views: “Seeing the city from above puts everything into perspective. The night skyline is unforgettable,” and some recommend visiting about an hour before sunset to catch both day and night vistas.

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Practical Details and Tips

Pricing and Value: At $394, this tour provides a lot of value given the transportation, entrance fees, and guided experience. You get to avoid the hassle of figuring out public transit or booking separate tickets, and the included lunch in Zhujiajiao saves you time and money.

Tour Duration and Group Size: It’s a full-day experience, likely in a group setting, which helps keep things organized and makes it easier to meet fellow travelers. The pace is brisk, so it’s suited for those who enjoy a structured day without feeling rushed.

What to Bring: Remember your passport for identification, and pack comfortable shoes for walking along uneven streets. Sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen will help during the open-air boat ride and city viewing.

Accessibility: The tour involves some walking and potentially uneven surfaces, so it might not be suitable for those with low fitness levels or mobility issues.

Additional Considerations: It’s best to visit Zhujiajiao in the morning for the boat ride—this helps beat the crowds and enjoy a more tranquil experience. The Shanghai Tower, with its high-tech VR and panoramic views, is best visited about an hour before sunset for optimal light and atmosphere.

Authentic Traveler Insights

One review highlighted the immersive nature of the boat ride: “Walking through Zhujiajiao and then gliding through Caogang River made us feel like part of a living painting.” Another appreciated the artistic energy of Tianzifang: “It’s a great place to see local craftsmanship and take memorable photos.”

Some guests mentioned the full schedule as a positive, though it means you’ll need to stay attentive to the timing. The view from Shanghai Tower receives consistent praise for its breathtaking atmosphere and technological features like VR and interactive displays.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for culture enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and city skyline admirers. It’s perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive day showcasing old-world charm and modern marvels without the hassle of planning each detail. If you’re eager for authentic local experiences and photo opportunities, this tour hits many marks.

However, if you prefer slow-paced, in-depth explorations or are not comfortable with a packed schedule, you might want to consider a more flexible option.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a carefully curated mix of traditional water towns, artistic neighborhoods, and sky-high city views—a fantastic way to see different sides of Shanghai in one day. The value lies not only in the sights but also in the convenience of guided visits, included entrance fees, and a well-planned itinerary.

It’s particularly suited for first-time visitors wanting an overview or those with limited time who want to experience both historic and modern Shanghai. The combination of authentic charm and spectacular views makes it a well-rounded choice for curious travelers.

For those who want a full-day adventure that balance culture, art, and architecture, this trip delivers. Just remember to bring comfortable shoes, be ready for a busy schedule, and plan to enjoy some of the best vistas Shanghai has to offer.

FAQs

What are the main locations visited on this tour?
The tour visits Zhujiajiao Water Town, Tianzifang, and Shanghai Tower’s observation deck.

How long does the tour last?
It’s a full-day experience, covering multiple sites with organized transportation and guided commentary.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a local lunch in Zhujiajiao is part of the package.

Are there any additional costs not covered?
Shopping, beverages, and gratuities are not included.

What should I bring?
A valid passport, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen.

Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?
It’s best for travelers with a moderate level of fitness; those with mobility issues may find some parts challenging.

When is the best time to visit Shanghai Tower?
About an hour before sunset, to enjoy both daylight and night views.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What languages are available for this tour?
English, Spanish, Russian, French, German, and Italian.

Is the tour eco-friendly or sustainable?
While not explicitly stated, the tour’s focus on local culture and organized transportation suggests a responsible approach to sightseeing.

This tour offers a fantastic way to get a well-rounded view of Shanghai’s diverse character—historic, artistic, and modern—all wrapped into one memorable day.

You can check availability for your dates here: