Private Day Tour: Zhujiajiao with Your Choice of Shanghai Sites

Private Day Tour: Zhujiajiao with Your Choice of Shanghai Sites

If you’re looking for an authentic taste of Shanghainese culture and history, this private day tour offers an excellent blend of scenery, history, and personalized sightseeing. For around $208 per person, you’ll spend about 9.5 hours exploring the best-preserved water town, Zhujiajiao, then choose three highlights of Shanghai to round out your day. The tour includes door-to-door transfers, a gondola ride, and local snacks — all led by a knowledgeable guide, which makes it a flexible and value-packed option.

Two things we particularly like: First, the freedom to choose your favorite Shanghai sites — whether classic spots like the Bund and Yuyuan Garden or offbeat locations like the Propaganda Poster Art Centre. Second, the private guide and vehicle mean you get tailored attention and a relaxed pace, avoiding crowded group tours.

The only consideration? Since lunch isn’t included, you’ll need to plan where to eat, which is perfect if you enjoy discovering local restaurants on your own. This tour suits travelers who want a mix of culture, scenic beauty, and the flexibility to customize their experience, especially those who appreciate guided insights and comfort.

Key Points

• Customizable itinerary lets you pick three Shanghai sites that appeal most to your interests.
• Private guide and vehicle ensure personalized attention and a relaxed, flexible schedule.
• Includes a gondola ride and local snacks for a taste of water town life and Shanghainese flavors.
• Visit Zhujiajiao — a well-preserved water town with stone bridges, ancient buildings, and bustling streets.
• Comprehensive yet flexible with options to add or skip sites based on your preferences.
• Ideal for travelers who want a comfortable, well-organized day with authentic experiences.

Exploring Zhujiajiao: The Water Town Gem

Starting your day in Zhujiajiao, just an hour outside Shanghai, you’ll quickly realize why it’s called the “Venice of the East.” Established over 1,700 years ago, this water town is characterized by 36 stone bridges, narrow rivers, and historic buildings that line the waterways. As you walk along the ancient stone streets, you’ll notice lively shops, food vendors, and quiet corners that seem frozen in time.

One of the start highlights is the gondola ride, included in the tour. It’s an ideal way to see the town from a different perspective, gliding smoothly along the canals. You’ll also visit the Qing Dynasty Post Office and the Yuanjin Buddhist Temple, both of which offer glimpses into the region’s history and spiritual life. The walk through Zhujiajiao provides a genuine snapshot of traditional water town life, with plenty of chances to snap photos or browse local crafts and snacks.

Visitors consistently praise the informative guides, like Cathy, who bring the town’s stories to life, making the visit engaging and memorable. One reviewer mentioned how she appreciated the guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge, especially during a rainy day, which can sometimes put a damper on outdoor sightseeing. The two-hour stop here balances enough time for exploration without feeling rushed.

Shanghai Highlights: Your Choice, Your Experience

After returning to Shanghai, the real fun begins: selecting three sites that match your interests. This flexibility means no forced group visits or cookie-cutter itineraries. You might opt for the Yuyuan Garden, a classic Ming Dynasty garden with elegant halls, rock formations, and water features. The Grand Rockery and Exquisite Jade Rocks are particularly photogenic and well worth your time.

The nearby Yuyuan Old Street offers a lively scene of traditional shops, street food, and vibrant lanterns—perfect for soaking in local culture and grabbing some authentic snacks. It’s a colorful contrast to the calm serenity of the garden.

For a taste of Shanghai’s architectural history, the Bund is a must-see, with its impressive array of European-style buildings lining the Huangpu River. Walking along the promenade, you’ll enjoy views of the skyline and learn about Shanghai’s international trading history.

You could also visit the Oriental Pearl Tower—a towering, futuristic icon with a transparent-glass observation deck offering 360-degree views of the city. While admission isn’t included, it’s a highlight for many visitors wanting a panoramic perspective.

Finally, the Former French Concession provides a stroll through tree-lined streets with architecturally intriguing buildings, shops, cafes, and a lively atmosphere that feels worlds apart from the bustling city center. The guide may also suggest culturally enriching sites like the Jade Buddha Temple or Fuxing Park, which offer insights into religion and local leisure activities.

Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Zhujiajiao Ancient Town (2 hours)

The highlight here is the walk along ancient stone bridges and waterways, which exudes a timeless charm. The inclusion of a gondola ride is a real plus, giving visitors a peaceful glide through the narrow canals lined with traditional houses. Visiting sites like the Qing Dynasty Post Office and Yuanjin Buddhist Temple offers historical and spiritual context, enriching your understanding of the town’s past.

The reviews emphasize how guides like Cathy make the trip engaging, sharing stories that add depth to the scenery. One reviewer mentioned that even in rainy weather, the guide kept the energy high, making the experience enjoyable.

Yuyuan Garden & Old Street (2 hours total)

The Yuyuan Garden is a true classic, dating back to the Ming Dynasty. Expect carefully landscaped gardens, ornate pavilions, and artistic rock formations. The Grand Rockery and Jade Rocks are among the highlights, and you’ll see traditional architecture and water features that make for wonderful photos.

Adjacent to the garden, Yuyuan Old Street offers an energetic scene with shops selling souvenirs, snacks, and local crafts. The lantern-lit streets create a cozy, nostalgic atmosphere, perfect for wandering and tasting local snacks. This stop provides a lively, cultural contrast to the serenity of the garden, and many reviewers appreciate the chance to experience authentic Shanghai street life.

Shanghai’s Iconic Sights (choice of 1-3 options)

The Bund is a favorite for its historic European architecture and scenic river views. Walking along the promenade, you’ll learn about Shanghai’s colonial past and see skyscrapers like the Jin Mao Tower and Shanghai Tower in the distance.

The Oriental Pearl Tower offers an unforgettable view from its highest sphere. While tickets aren’t included, the towering structure’s unique design is a photo magnet and a symbol of modern Shanghai.

The French Concession offers a different vibe—quiet, shaded streets lined with boutiques, cafes, and historic buildings. It’s ideal for leisurely exploring and understanding the city’s colonial-era influences.

The Jade Buddha Temple provides a serene experience, with two famous jade Buddha statues and a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for those interested in spiritual history.

Fuxing Park and Other Optional Stops

Fuxing Park, with its fountains, pavilions, and early-morning activity, showcases Shanghai’s leisure culture. It’s a peaceful place to relax and watch local residents dance, play cards, or practice tai chi.

Transportation, Comfort, and Flexibility

The tour’s door-to-door private transfers mean you don’t have to worry about navigating public transport or hailing taxis — a significant advantage in a bustling city like Shanghai. The vehicle is air-conditioned and spacious, ensuring comfort during the drive to Zhujiajiao and between sites.

The timing is well-paced, with enough time at each stop for photos, browsing, and short rests. The inclusion of bottled water and local snacks keeps you refreshed throughout the day.

Since the tour is private, you’ll enjoy a more relaxed experience, with your guide tailoring commentary and pace to your interests. This is especially helpful if you wish to skip certain sites or spend extra time at favorites.

Cost and Value

At $207.90 per person, this tour offers good value considering the private guide, transportation, gondola ride, and admissions. If you value personalized attention and the ability to craft your day, it’s a worthwhile investment. Comparing this cost to typical group tours, the private aspect enhances the overall experience and comfort.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a personalized, flexible day exploring both traditional water towns and Shanghai’s diverse cityscape. It’s perfect for those with a moderate physical fitness level, comfortable walking shoes, and a curiosity for history and culture. Families, couples, or small groups will appreciate the private nature, while solo travelers can enjoy the tailored attention.

If you’re eager to avoid crowded tours, want to learn from engaging guides, and prefer to choose your sites, this tour hits the sweet spot. The inclusion of local snacks and the gondola ride adds authentic touches that elevate the experience beyond just sightseeing.

The Sum Up

This private day tour offers an engaging and customizable way to experience Zhujiajiao water town alongside Shanghai’s most iconic and interesting sites. The combination of personalized guide service, scenic boat rides, and flexible site selections makes it a smart choice for travelers seeking comfort and authenticity.

The experience shines in its ability to blend historic charm with lively street scenes and modern architecture, all while maintaining a relaxed pace. Whether you’re a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or someone simply eager to see a more traditional side of Shanghai, this tour provides a well-rounded, enjoyable day.

Best suited for travelers who value personalized service, cultural insights, and scenic beauty, this tour promises a memorable journey through one of China’s most vibrant and diverse regions.

FAQ

How long is the total tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours and 30 minutes, including transfers, sightseeing, and activities.

Are transportation and transfers included?
Yes, the tour includes door-to-door private transfers in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort and convenience.

Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
Entrance fees for Zhujiajiao, Yuyuan Garden, and Jade Buddha Temple are included, but for attractions like the Oriental Pearl Tower, tickets are not included—so plan accordingly.

Can I customize the sites I visit in Shanghai?
Absolutely. You get to choose three Shanghai sites that suit your interests, making the experience tailored to your preferences.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. You can select a restaurant and dishes that appeal to you, giving you flexibility to enjoy local cuisine on your own.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking, and dress appropriately for weather conditions. The tour operates in all weather, so come prepared.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the tour is designed for travelers with moderate physical fitness levels.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours in advance are not refunded.

Whether you’re seeking a charming water town escape or a flexible way to see Shanghai’s highlights, this private tour offers a perfect balance of comfort, authenticity, and personalized service.