Private Zhujiajiao Water Town Boating Tour with Fruit Picking

Experience the Best of Shanghai with a Private Zhujiajiao Water Town Tour and Fruit Picking

Imagine spending a day away from the skyscrapers and hustle of Shanghai to enjoy a more relaxed, authentic side of China. This private 6-hour tour takes you from your hotel to the tranquil water town of Zhujiajiao, often called the “Venice of the East,” combined with a visit to Zhaotun Village, known as the “hometown of strawberries.” For $180 per person, you’ll enjoy personalized guidance, a boat ride, a delicious organic lunch, and the chance to pick fresh fruit—an experience that offers a taste of local life along with scenic water views.

What we love most about this trip is the blend of culture and fun outdoor activities—you’ll learn about local agriculture, see charming old architecture, and enjoy the peaceful canals that make Zhujiajiao so special. Plus, the private guide means you can customize and pace your day, making it ideal for families, couples, or anyone craving a relaxed yet rich experience outside the city.

One thing to consider: the fruit picking takes place in greenhouses or tents, which can get warm and humid, especially during April to May. So lightweight clothing and comfortable shoes are a must. This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate hands-on experiences, scenic boat rides, and local culinary delights. If you’re looking for a charming day trip that combines nature, history, and a touch of adventure, this tour will hit the spot.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private guide, customizable itinerary.
• Authentic Local Flavor: Organic farm lunch and fruit picking in a traditional village.
• Scenic Water Views: Boat ride through Zhujiajiao’s tranquil canals.
• All-Inclusive Price: Entrance fees, lunch, boat ride, and fruit or tea tasting included.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for children and travelers of most ages.
• Convenient Pickup: Hotel pickup and drop-off included for ease.

A Deeper Look at the Tour Experience

What’s Included and Why It Matters

At $180 per person, this tour offers good value considering it covers transportation, a boat ride, lunch, and all entrance fees. The convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off means you won’t have to worry about navigating public transport or haggling with taxis—just relax and enjoy the ride. The tour is private, so you’ll have the guide’s full attention, making it easier to ask questions and tailor the trip to your interests.

Day Breakdown: From Urban to Waterway

First Stop: Zhaotun Village for Fruit Picking

Your day begins with a pickup at your hotel in Shanghai, followed by a drive to Zhaotun Strawberry Park in Qingpu District. Here, you’ll find a surprising sight: strawberries grown under greenhouse tents, instead of outside in the open air, due to controlled research and cultivation. Despite the enclosed setting, the strawberries are juicy, sweet, and worth the effort—a fact confirmed by travelers who say the taste is “worth it” and “delicious.”

The experience is interactive and fun—your guide will accompany you as you pick your own strawberries, tasting some along the way. While seasonality means strawberries are best from December to May, this visit offers the chance to explore the local fruit-growing techniques and sample fresh produce. Some travelers enjoyed bringing home grapes or other fruits they picked, with one review noting the “oyster with pearls” as a fun highlight.

Second Stop: Zhujiajiao Water Village

After your fruit adventure, a local organic lunch at a farmers’ home awaits—it’s a chance to enjoy authentic, home-cooked dishes made with fresh ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and unpretentious, a real peek into rural life near Shanghai.

Post-lunch, you’ll wander through Zhujiajiao, a 1,700-year-old water town famed for its old architecture, crumbling bridges, and peaceful canals. Many visitors describe it as a “Venice of the East,” and it’s easy to see why—old stone bridges arch over calm waterways, and traditional houses line the banks. As one traveler mentioned, “The water town was beautiful,” and the boat ride provided a perfect vantage point to appreciate the scenery.

The Boat Ride and Local Sights

The boat ride is a highlight, giving you a different perspective of Zhujiajiao’s serene waterways. While some reviewers mention the boat trip is “a little short,” it still offers a peaceful, scenic experience that adds a special touch to the day. You can expect gentle gliding along tranquil canals, with views of historic architecture and lush greenery.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is especially suited for families, couples, or small groups who want a more intimate, flexible day outside Shanghai. The reviews highlight guides like Berlin and Mary, who are praised for their knowledge and friendliness—making the experience all the more enjoyable. If you’re eager to see a less touristy side of China, sample local organic food, and enjoy scenic boat rides, this tour is a strong pick.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Day

• Wear light, comfortable clothing—especially if visiting in warmer months, as greenhouses can get humid.
• Bring comfortable shoes for walking through the water town and exploring.
• The tour includes bottled water and a half-kilo of fruit or tea tasting per person, but feel free to bring extra snacks or beverages.
• Note that more than half a kilo of fruit isn’t included in the price, so plan accordingly if you want more.

Why This Tour Offers Real Value

While $180 may sound like a hefty price, you get privately guided, all-inclusive experiences—a boat ride, a unique fruit-picking activity, and a home-style organic lunch—all tailored to your interests. The personalized nature means you’re not stuck with a big group, and the flexibility to customize adds to overall satisfaction.

Travelers have repeatedly praised the knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery. One reviewer noted that the guide “explained things clearly” and was “very knowledgeable,” which made the history and culture come alive. The delicious, home-cooked lunch adds a flavor of local life that you simply can’t get from a restaurant chain.

The Sum Up

This private Zhujiajiao water town tour with fruit picking offers a well-balanced mix of scenic beauty, culture, and hands-on fun. It’s perfect for those who want a relaxing, authentic escape from Shanghai without sacrificing comfort or convenience. The experience suits families, couples, or small groups eager to enjoy local produce, historic sights, and peaceful waterways.

If you’re someone eager to see the quieter, more genuine side of China—and enjoy some fresh fruit along the way—this tour delivers both in spades. The personal guide, scenic boat ride, and organic lunch make it a memorable day that combines discovery with relaxation. Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, or just looking for a quiet break, this trip has something special to offer.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes free hotel pickup and drop-off for your convenience, so you don’t have to worry about transport arrangements.

What’s the best time of year to do this tour?
While strawberries are available from December to May, the tour can be enjoyed year-round, but expect different seasonal fruits depending on the time.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat ride is described as a scenic cruise through Zhujiajiao’s canals, though some reviews mention it being a little short—still, it offers a lovely perspective of the water town.

Can children participate?
Absolutely. The tour is family-friendly and suitable for children, especially since kids enjoy picking fruit and exploring old bridges and waterways.

What should I wear?
Light clothing and comfortable shoes are recommended, especially during warmer months when greenhouses and tents can get humid.

Are all entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees are covered in the price, so you can focus on enjoying your day without additional costs.

This tour offers a thoughtful way to rediscover China’s traditional towns, enjoy local flavors, and escape the city’s buzz—all with the comfort of a private guide. It’s an experience worth considering for anyone wanting a laid-back, authentic slice of life outside Shanghai.