Shanghai: 2 Days Southern Great Wall Trip With 5star Hotel

Exploring the Southern Great Wall Near Shanghai: A Detailed Look at a 2-Day Tour

Imagine stepping away from the crowds of Beijing’s more famous Great Wall and instead exploring a lesser-known yet equally fascinating section less than two hours from Shanghai. This 2-day tour offers just that—combining historical exploration, authentic local cuisine, and a touch of luxury with a stay at the Four Points Sheraton. Priced at $699 per person, it’s a well-rounded experience that balances travel, culture, and comfort.

What we love about this trip is how it avoids the tourist throngs, making the experience more intimate and genuine. We particularly appreciate the customizable itinerary—your private guide will tailor activities to suit your interests, whether you’re into history, scenery, or food. The visit to the Ziyang Old Street is charming, showcasing restored architecture and local specialties, while the highlight remains the Southern Great Wall of China, which offers a solid dose of history without the overwhelming crowds you’d encounter in Beijing.

A potential consideration is the travel time—although the bullet train speeds you there in just 2 hours, it’s a packed schedule. Travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace might find it slightly on the brisk side, but for those eager to maximize their time and see a unique part of China, this tour hits the sweet spot.

This experience suits travelers craving authentic encounters, history buffs, food lovers, and those who enjoy a touch of comfort after a day of exploring. It’s especially ideal if you’re keen on avoiding the tourist-heavy spots and want a more personal, tailored adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Unique Southern Great Wall: Experience a well-preserved section of the wall that’s less crowded.
• Private Guided Tours: Your guide customizes the itinerary based on your interests.
• Authentic Local Cuisine: Explore Ziyang Old Street and indulge in regional specialties.
• Comfortable Travel: Enjoy a high-speed bullet train ride and a luxurious hotel stay.
• Historical Riches: Walk along the Jin Dynasty-built wall, initially stretching 6,000 meters.
• Flexible Options: Alternative sites like Linghu Park or East Lake can be included.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Starting from Shanghai, you’ll be greeted in your hotel lobby by your private driver, ready to whisk you away on this adventure. The journey begins with a high-speed bullet train, a highlight in itself, whisking you to Linhai in just two hours. This method of travel is not only fast but adds a touch of modern Chinese efficiency, giving you more time to enjoy your destination.

During the train ride, you’ll have the chance to chat with your guide—who is there to tailor the day to your interests. Whether you’re passionate about history, scenery, or food, your guide will help craft your perfect experience. Once in Linhai, check-in at the FourPoints Sheraton, a comfortable base for your explorations, with breakfast included the next morning.

Exploring the Southern Great Wall

Your first stop is the Linhai Great Wall, also known as the Jiangnan Great Wall. Originally built during the Jin Dynasty (roughly 317-420 AD), this wall was designed by the same person who crafted Beijing’s Badaling section, which hints at its historical importance. Today, about 5,000 meters of the wall are open to visitors—most of which was reconstructed in 1995 and is in excellent shape.

Walking along this stretch, you’ll feel the weight of history beneath your feet—these stones have seen over a thousand years of Chinese history. The terrain is manageable, allowing a 2-3 hour walk that’s suitable for most fitness levels. Your guide will share stories about the Jin Dynasty, local legends, and how this section of the wall was part of regional defense strategies.

What makes this part of the Great Wall special is its lesser popularity among international travelers, which means you can enjoy panoramic views and authentic atmosphere without the crowds. The walls’ well-preserved condition also offers fantastic photo opportunities, especially if you’re into capturing history with a modern twist.

Discovering Ziyang Old Street

In the afternoon, you’ll explore Ziyang Old Street, a historic district lined with restored buildings and shops that retain their original architectural charm. It’s a lively place where history meets daily life, and you’ll find stalls selling local snacks, souvenirs, and regional gifts.

This street was once a venue for a Chinese New Year Gala, giving it an air of cultural significance. You’ll have about 1-2 hours to stroll, browse, and snack on regional delicacies. The street’s lively, authentic atmosphere is a highlight, especially if you’re interested in local lifestyles and traditional crafts.

Food lovers will appreciate the chance to sample regional specialties—think fresh snacks and homemade treats—making it a perfect way to round out your day. The shops also offer unique gifts, making it a good spot to pick up souvenirs.

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Evening and the Hotel Stay

After a full day, you’ll return to the FourPoints Sheraton for rest and relaxation. The hotel is a highlight in its own right—offering a comfortable retreat after a day of sightseeing, with breakfast included the next morning. If you’re still eager to explore, the hotel’s location and facilities make it easy to relax or discover additional nearby sites like Linghu Park or East Lake.

The Next Day: More Options and Return to Shanghai

Your second day can be as flexible as you like. After breakfast, your guide can suggest alternative activities such as visiting Linghu Park or East Lake, depending on your interests. You might also choose to just relax at the hotel or explore Linhai at your own pace.

In the late morning or early afternoon, you’ll board the bullet train back to Shanghai, completing your journey with comfort and convenience. Your guide ensures your safe return, leaving you with lasting memories of a distinctive part of China often overlooked by travelers.

What Is Included and What to Consider

Included in this tour are your private guide, air-conditioned vehicle, round-trip bullet train tickets, entry to the Southern Great Wall, and a one-night stay at the FourPoints Sheraton. These inclusions offer good value for a multi-faceted experience—combining transportation, accommodation, and guided exploration.

Not included are arrangements for hotels outside the downtown Shanghai area, with an extra fee of 300 yuan per group if your hotel isn’t centrally located. This is worth considering if you’re staying in outskirts like Jiading or Qingpu.

Price point at $699 seems fair given the private guide, train travel, hotel, and entrance fees—especially when compared to similar guided tours. The value hinges on your preference for personalized attention, authentic sites, and comfort.

Why This Tour Works

Authentic Experience: You’re stepping into a less touristy part of China, where local culture and history are more palpable.

Flexibility and Personal Attention: The private guide ensures the trip suits your pace and interests, which can make all the difference in how memorable the experience becomes.

Comfort and Convenience: Fast train travel and a 4-star hotel make this more comfortable than many day-trip options, especially if you prefer a relaxed start and end.

Food and Culture: The inclusion of Ziyang Old Street provides a taste of local life, and the opportunity to try regional snacks adds a flavorful dimension.

Historical Value: Walking along a Jin Dynasty-built wall that isn’t overwhelmed by crowds offers a rare, genuine connection with history.

Limitations: The schedule can be tight, especially if you want to linger longer at each site. Be prepared for a busy but rewarding two days.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers who want to see a less commercialized side of China’s history and landscapes without sacrificing comfort. It’s ideal for history buffs, food lovers, and those looking for a more intimate experience with local culture. If you’re someone who appreciates a tailored itinerary and enjoys traveling comfortably, this tour will suit you well.

It’s also an excellent choice if you want to avoid the crowds common at Beijing’s Great Wall while still walking along a significant part of China’s defensive architecture. Plus, the hotel stay adds a touch of luxury to what can otherwise be a day of intense exploring.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the train ride from Shanghai to Linhai?
The bullet train takes about 2 hours each way, making the journey quick enough to maximize your sightseeing time without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers private guide services, a private air-conditioned car, round-trip bullet train tickets, entrance to the Southern Great Wall, and a one-night stay at the FourPoints Sheraton hotel.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, your guide is happy to suggest alternatives like Linghu Park or East Lake, and will tailor activities based on your interests.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are a must. Also, consider bringing a hat, sunglasses, and water, especially if visiting in warmer months.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Given the manageable walks and comfortable transportation, it can be suitable for most ages, but consider individual mobility needs—discuss with your guide beforehand.

What is the best time of year for this trip?
While the tour is available year-round, spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather for walking and sightseeing.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day tour offers a well-balanced mix of history, culture, and comfort, making it a compelling choice for travelers wanting a more authentic and less crowded Great Wall experience near Shanghai. The private guide, flexible itinerary, and high-quality accommodations elevate this trip beyond a simple day-trip, providing a deeply personal encounter with China’s past.

If you’re keen to explore a quieter, more genuine section of the Great Wall, enjoy regional cuisine, and relax in a comfortable hotel, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s especially recommended for those who value guided insights and a tailored experience over cookie-cutter group tours.

While the schedule is tight, the rewards—less tourist congestion, authentic scenery, and local flavors—make it a worthwhile adventure. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a foodie, or just in need of a scenic escape, this trip offers a memorable way to step off the beaten path and into a piece of China’s lesser-known history.

You can check availability for your dates here: