Shanghai: Southern Great Wall Day Trip by Bullet Train

A Unique Great Wall Experience Just Outside Shanghai
This day trip offers a chance to explore the Southern Great Wall of China near Linhai, about a two-hour bullet train ride from Shanghai. For $399 per person, you get 13 hours of cultural sightseeing, walking on one of China’s less-crowded but equally historic sections of the Wall, plus a taste of local life along Ziyang Old Street. The tour includes private transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and a delicious lunch, making it a well-rounded way to see a different side of China’s ancient fortifications.

What I love about this trip is how it combines the thrill of fast train travel with the intimacy of a private guide. You get to escape the crowds of Beijing’s more famous sections and experience a quieter, more authentic slice of history. Plus, wandering along the original Jin Dynasty construction (initially built between 317-420 AD) gives you a real sense of standing in a 1,700-year-old structure. The highlight for many is the stunning views along the Wall and the lively atmosphere of Ziyang Old Street, packed with local foods and crafts.

A possible drawback is that the day is quite full—travel times and walking can be physically demanding. If you’re looking for a leisurely, slow-paced day, this might feel a bit rushed. Also, if your hotel is in the outskirts of Shanghai, additional planning is needed for the pickup, or you’ll be asked to meet in the city center.

This trip suits travelers who enjoy history, outdoor walking, and culture but also want the convenience of private transport and a curated experience. It’s especially good if you’ve already ticked off the major sites in Beijing and want to explore a lesser-known but equally impressive section of the Great Wall.

Key Points

• Less Crowded: Experience the Great Wall without the crowds found in Beijing, allowing for more authentic and personal exploration.
• Quick, Comfortable Travel: High-speed bullet train makes the journey fast and smooth, saving time and energy.
• Rich Local Culture: Explore Ziyang Old Street, famous for traditional architecture and local food vendors.
• Historic Significance: Visit a section built during the Jin Dynasty, designed by the same architect as Beijing’s Badaling Wall.
• Flexible Itinerary: Customizable tour stops, with options to relax or explore more depending on your interest.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Summer and Andrew enhance the experience with stories and tips.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Review: What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The Journey Begins with Bullet Train Comfort and Speed

From your Shanghai hotel, you’ll be picked up and whisked away to the train station, where your high-speed train awaits. The two-hour ride to Linhai is a highlight in itself. We loved the way the bullet train minimizes travel fatigue—no long bus rides here—and it’s a modern, efficient way to cover the distance. The train’s comfortable seats and the opportunity to chat with your guide about the day ahead make this part of the experience enjoyable rather than a mere commute.

Exploring the Linhai Southern Great Wall

Once in Linhai, the highlight is walking along the Southern Great Wall, a lesser-known but significant structure that initially stretched 6,000 meters. Today, about 5,000 meters remain, offering plenty of opportunity for a 2-3 hour walk. The walls, initially built during the Jin Dynasty (317–420 AD), were designed to defend against pirates and invasions from Japan, giving you a tangible connection to China’s military history.

What truly captivated us was the sense of authenticity. Unlike the heavily restored sections in Beijing, this part of the Wall feels more genuine, with uneven stones and natural surroundings. Several reviewers mention the breathtaking views; walking along the ancient stones while surrounded by lush greenery gives a feeling of stepping back in time.

The tour guides are a big plus here. We appreciated the way guides like Summer or Andrew shared stories about the Wall’s construction and the local legends, making the history come alive. As one reviewer put it, “Our guide, Summer, was exceptional—kind, knowledgeable, and passionate, enriching our experience with fascinating stories.”

Ziyang Old Street and Local Food

After the Wall, the trip moves to Ziyang Old Street, a lively corridor lined with restored buildings and shops. Here, you’ll find a variety of local specialties and crafts, perfect for browsing or picking up unique souvenirs. The street was also the venue for a Chinese New Year Gala, which adds a layer of cultural significance.

We loved how flexible the tour is here—you can wander at your own pace, relax with some snacks, or explore more shops. According to reviews, “the street offers a variety of local specialty gifts and foods,” and many find this part to be one of the most enjoyable segments of the trip. For some, it’s a chance to sample authentic cuisine and see local architecture that’s remained largely unchanged for centuries.

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Customizable Options and Personal Touches

The tour is designed to be flexible. If you’ve been to Linhai before and want to see different attractions, just discuss it with your guide. Some options include Linghu Park or East Lake—both offering scenic natural environments.

The guides do a great job of adjusting the pace and activities to suit your interests. Several reviews mention the importance of this flexibility—”the pace of our day was determined by us,” said one traveler—making the experience feel tailored rather than rushed.

The Return Journey and Overall Value

After a full day of sightseeing, you’ll board the bullet train back to Shanghai, where your driver will ensure you get safely back to your hotel. The whole experience offers excellent value when you consider the private guide, train tickets, transportation, and food included.

Many travelers noted how seamlessly everything was organized, with comments like “the logistics to come and go was very smooth” and “the trip was well coordinated.” The price, at around $399, is reasonable when you compare it to similar private tours in China—especially given the personal guidance and fast train access.

The Real Experience: Authenticity and Accessibility

From the comments, it’s clear that guides like Summer, Jenny, or Andrew elevate the trip by sharing insights and making logistics effortless. This is a significant advantage for those who might feel overwhelmed navigating unfamiliar transportation or language barriers.

The tour also offers an opportunity to see a less-commercialized part of China’s Great Wall, avoiding the tourist congestion and overpriced souvenirs of more famous sections. The walking on the original wall and exploring traditional streets makes the entire experience stand out.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip appeals most to travelers with an interest in history, outdoor activities, and authentic local culture. It’s perfect if you want to avoid the crowds and see a quieter, more genuine part of China’s architectural legacy. The flexible pacing and private guide make it suitable for those who prefer a personalized experience.

It’s also worth considering if you enjoy gastronomy—the included local lunch and the opportunity to browse Ziyang Old Street’s food vendors will appeal. If you’re looking for a full day of cultural discovery without the hassle of planning, this tour is an excellent choice.

Practical Details: Transportation, Timing, and Cost

The tour’s inclusion of round-trip bullet train fare ensures a quick, comfortable ride, and the private vehicle or taxi adds convenience at both ends. The total duration is 13 hours, so be prepared for a long day, but one packed with meaningful sights and experiences.

If your hotel isn’t centrally located, be aware you might need to coordinate a meeting point or pay an extra fee—this is straightforward, but worth noting. The tour includes lunch and the entrance fee to the Southern Great Wall, adding value and saving time in planning.

FAQs

What is the average duration of the trip?
The entire day lasts about 13 hours, with approximate travel times of 2 hours each way by train and about 2-3 hours at the Wall, plus time for exploring Ziyang Old Street.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Most likely yes, but be prepared for walking on uneven surfaces along the Wall. The tour is flexible, and you can choose to rest or explore more depending on your energy.

Are the guides fluent in English?
Yes, the tour features English-speaking guides who provide detailed stories and assistance throughout the day.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers private guides, all local transportation including train tickets, lunch, and entrance to the Southern Great Wall.

Is hotel pickup included?
Not for hotels outside downtown Shanghai; in those cases, you’ll be given instructions on where to meet or pay an extra fee.

Can I customize the day’s activities?
Absolutely. If you’ve visited Linhai before or want to add other sights, just discuss it with your guide.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are essential for walking. You might also want sun protection, water, and a camera to capture the views.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve now and pay later, with full cancellation permitted up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility in your planning.

Final Thoughts

For those craving a more intimate, authentic experience of China’s Great Wall, this trip offers an excellent alternative to the crowded Beijing sections. You’ll enjoy the thrill of high-speed rail, the beauty of ancient stonework, and the charm of traditional streets—all in one well-organized day. The knowledgeable guides, delicious local food, and scenic walks make it a memorable adventure.

While the day is long and packed, the mix of history, nature, and culture makes it worthwhile. It’s best suited for travelers who love outdoor sightseeing, historical architecture, and engaging guides. If you’re keen to explore beyond the tourist hotspots and enjoy a personalized, hassle-free trip, this is a solid choice.

Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply craving a different perspective on China’s heritage, this tour delivers a taste of real local life and ancient marvels. It’s a journey that balances comfort, authenticity, and discovery—just what you need for a memorable day outside Shanghai.

You can check availability for your dates here: