Experience the Serenity of Water Towns Near Shanghai

If you’re craving a break from the city’s hustle and bustle, this private tour to Fengjing and Xitang offers a peaceful retreat with scenic waterways and authentic local flavors. For around $292 per person, you get a full-day experience that includes hotel pickup, personalized guiding, boat rides, and dinner by the river. Starting around 1:00 pm and lasting about 8 to 9 hours, this tour is designed for those who want a deep, intimate look at two of China’s most charming water towns.

What we love about this tour is how it balances the quieter, less touristy Fengjing with the lively, sunset-lit streets of Xitang. It’s a chance to see two different sides of water town life, all with the comfort of a private vehicle and knowledgeable guides. Plus, the sunset boat ride and riverside dinner add a romantic touch that makes this experience especially memorable.

A key consideration is the moderate physical activity involved—walking along cobbled streets and boarding boats—but this is generally manageable for most travelers with some comfortable shoes. It’s not suited for anyone with mobility issues. This tour appeals most to couples, history buffs, or travelers looking for authentic, less crowded scenery outside the busy city.

Key Points

Private and personalized experience with your own guide and vehicle
Stunning sunset views over Fengjing and Xitang, ideal for romantic moments
Authentic local cuisine and drinks, including rice wine and river shrimp dumplings
Less touristy than some other water towns, perfect for a peaceful day out
Includes boat rides and entrance fees, ensuring no hidden costs
Flexible timing and hotel pickup make planning easier

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A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Off: Hotel Pickup and Journey to Fengjing

The tour kicks off with a hotel pickup in Shanghai around 1:00 pm. From there, your guide and driver whisk you away in a private vehicle for about 1.2 hours to the first stop: Fengjing Ancient Town. This water town is appreciated for its less crowded atmosphere and authentic charm, unlike the more commercialized tourist spots nearby. The journey itself is an opportunity to relax and get a preview of what’s to come.

Fengjing Water Town: A Tranquil First Stop

Once at Fengjing, you’ll have around two hours to explore. Your guide will introduce you to key sights like the Traditional Chinese Wedding Museum—which offers a glimpse into local wedding customs—and the “People’s Commune”, a relic from the Cultural Revolution that’s unique to China. You’ll wander through streets lined with traditional houses and canals, soaking in the slower pace and genuine atmosphere.

What makes Fengjing particularly special is its blend of history and authenticity. Unlike larger water towns, Fengjing remains relatively untouched by mass tourism, making it easier to connect with local life. You’ll also enjoy a boat ride along one of its waterways, giving you a relaxed view of the local homes where residents wash clothes, prepare meals, and go about their daily routines—just as they have for generations.

The Charm of Xitang at Sunset

After your Fengjing visit, it’s time to head to Xitang, which is renowned for its stunning sunset views. Arriving in the evening, you’ll witness the town transform into a scene straight out of a painting—glittering lights reflecting off the water, colorful bridges, and historic houses illuminated against the dusk.

You’ll have around three hours in Xitang, which includes a dinner at a riverside restaurant. The meal is a highlight, featuring local delicacies like sticky rice cake, river shrimp dumplings, sugar-coated water chestnuts, and smoked fish. The guide will encourage you to sample the local rice wine and beer, making for a lively, authentic experience.

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Why this Dinner Spot Matters

Eating at a riverside restaurant elevates the experience—dinner with views of the water and the setting sun makes for an unforgettable moment. The food is said to be representative of local flavors, and the relaxed atmosphere means you can enjoy your meal without the hurried feel of some tourist traps. The reviews mention that guides are attentive and knowledgeable, ensuring you get the most out of the experience.

The Sunset Boat Ride

After dinner, the tour concludes with a sunset boat ride, allowing you to see the town’s traditional houses, bridges, and canals lit by the evening glow. It’s a perfect way to end the day, combining scenic vistas with a sense of tranquility. This part of the experience is praised for its romantic appeal, especially for couples seeking a memorable escape.

Return to Shanghai

Once the boat ride ends, your guide will transfer you back to your hotel in Shanghai, arriving approximately 9 hours after departure. The convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off means you avoid the hassle of navigating public transport or taxis after a long day.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This tour’s private setting allows for flexibility and personalized attention, making it a great choice for travelers who value a tailored experience rather than large group sightseeing. The guides, like Penny and Kelly, are highlighted as knowledgeable and personable, adding an authentic touch that you won’t get with bigger tours.

The focus on less touristy Fengjing offers a refreshing contrast to crowded water towns, giving visitors a taste of real local life. The scenic boat rides and dinner by the water are thoughtfully included features that amplify the sense of calm and romance. For those interested in local culture, the visit to the wedding museum and the cultural relics add educational value to the trip.

Analyzing the Price and Value

At $292 per person, this tour carries a fair price considering the all-inclusive nature—private transport, guided tours, boat rides, and a riverside dinner. Compared to other experiences in Shanghai, it offers excellent value for money when you factor in the personalized service, fewer crowds, and the quality of sights. The reviews praise the good value and the guides’ attentiveness, making it clear that this is a well-curated experience.

Practical Tips for Travelers

Wear comfortable walking shoes—the cobbled streets are charming but can be uneven.
Bring some cash for small purchases or tips, though most meals and entrance fees are included.
Dress appropriately for weather—this tour operates in all conditions, but be prepared for sun or rain.
Photographers will love the sunset views, so bring your camera or smartphone with extra batteries.
Moderate physical fitness is recommended; if you have mobility issues, check with the provider beforehand.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want more than just a quick visit to water towns. It’s ideal for couples or small groups seeking a intimate, picturesque outing with personalized guides. History buffs and food lovers will enjoy the cultural and culinary elements, while those looking to escape the crowds will value the less touristy Fengjing.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

All in all, this private Fengjing and Xitang water town tour offers a rare chance to see two very different facets of water town life near Shanghai. The scenic boat rides, authentic local meals, and the peaceful sunset views make it a standout choice for anyone craving a serene escape. The personalized guiding and flexible itinerary ensure you’re not just another face in a crowd.

If you love tranquil water scenes, genuine local culture, and the chance to enjoy a romantic evening, this tour hits the right notes. It’s well-suited to those who appreciate thoughtful planning, quality experiences, and authentic sights off the beaten path.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts about 8 to 9 hours, starting around 1:00 pm and returning in the evening.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Shanghai, making it very convenient.

What is the cost per person?
The price is approximately $292 per person, which covers guides, transport, boat rides, entrance fees, and dinner.

Are meals included?
Yes, a riverside dinner with local specialties and drinks like rice wine and beer is included in the tour.

Can I customize the departure time?
The standard start time is 1:00 pm, but it’s best to confirm with the provider directly for any flexibility.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the tour involves walking and some boat rides, so consider your child’s mobility and comfort level.

This private tour offers a well-rounded, authentic glimpse into water town life outside Shanghai, perfect for those seeking a peaceful, scenic, and culturally rich experience with the comfort of personalized service.