Zhujiajiao Water Town and Shanghai Fake Market Shopping Tour

When visiting Shanghai, many travelers crave a glimpse of traditional Chinese architecture and local life, away from the city’s skyscrapers and busy streets. This private tour, priced at $170 per person, offers exactly that—an exploration of Zhujiajiao Water Town, often called the Venice of the Orient, followed by a visit to a bustling fake market in downtown Shanghai. Led by knowledgeable guides in English, German, or Italian, this 8-9 hour experience balances culture with some wallet-friendly shopping.

What we really appreciate about this trip is how it combines a peaceful, scenic walk through historic water town architecture with the lively, energetic atmosphere of the fake market. You get to see Ming and Qing buildings, stone bridges, and authentic local food, all with the comfort of private transportation. And for shoppers, the market’s reputation for offering big-brand fakes at surprisingly good prices makes for an exciting, slightly rebellious shopping spree.

A potential drawback might be the time spent in the market—if you’re not a dedicated shopper or if you prefer authentic luxury goods, the fake market might feel a bit superficial. Also, as with any guided tour, you’re bound by the schedule, which might limit spontaneous exploration. Nonetheless, this tour is most suited for curious travelers who want a blend of scenic history, local flavors, and budget-friendly shopping.

Key Points

• Authentic Cultural Experience: Walk through well-preserved Ming & Qing architecture in Zhujiajiao.
• Scenic Water Town: Enjoy stone bridges, waterways, and traditional buildings with photo opportunities.
• Local Food and Snacks: Taste authentic village foods, a highlight for food lovers.
• Flexible Customization: Pick-up and drop-off at central Shanghai hotels within the Middle Ring Zone.
• Shopping for Big-Brand Fakes: Learn to bargain and discover quality fake goods at the market.
• Educational & Fun: Guided commentary enhances understanding of local history and culture.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Water Town Experience

When the tour begins, you’ll be picked up from your hotel or a designated location in central Shanghai—anywhere within the Middle Ring Zone. From there, it’s about a 1 to 1.5-hour drive to Zhujiajiao, a place known as the pearl of Jiangnan for its remarkably well-preserved Ming and Qing architectural complex. This village has been a market town for over 1700 years, which means you’re walking through ancient streets lined with stone bridges, wooden houses, and waterways that mirror classic Chinese paintings.

The experience is designed to give you a genuine sense of local culture, not just a touristy snapshot. Once there, your guide—be it Lily, Marco, or another friendly local expert—will lead you along the stone-slab paved roads. Expect to hear stories about the history of the buildings and the town’s long-standing role as a trading hub. We loved the way our guide pointed out specific architectural features and shared stories behind each bridge and building, making the walk feel like a living history lesson.

A highlight is simply strolling through the streets, spotting traditional shops, and snapping photos of the classic stone bridges that span the waterways—each with its own story. Your guide might suggest taking a gondola ride to view the town from the water, which adds a different perspective and makes for some beautiful photos. Plus, sampling some of the local authentic village foods and snacks—like fresh dumplings or sweet local pastries—gives a real flavor of village life.

Food and Local Culture

Food is an essential part of this experience. Your guide will recommend popular spots for tasting regional specialties, which might include handmade noodles, savory snacks, or sweet treats. These offerings are often overlooked by travelers and provide a genuine taste of local life. Reviewers mention enjoying the delicious street food, noting that it’s a highlight.

The Market Experience

In the afternoon, the tour shifts gears to visit a famous fake market in downtown Shanghai. This sprawling bazaar is famous for high-quality fakes of luxury brands—shoes, clothes, electronics, and souvenirs—sold at very affordable prices. The goods are often quite convincing, and your guide will help you learn how to bargain effectively. Several travelers appreciated the helpful tips for getting the best deals and the shops recommended by the guide, making the shopping part both fun and successful.

While these are fakes, many reviews note that the quality is surprisingly good, and they are a great option for those wanting the look without the price tag. Be aware that personal shopping is not included in the tour price, so if you plan to buy a lot, set aside some cash for bargaining. Some travelers found the market to be a bit overwhelming, but overall, it’s an energetic environment that adds a lively end to your day.

Practical Details & Considerations

Transport is private and comfortable, with a dedicated chauffeur making your journey smooth and hassle-free. The tour includes admission fees to Zhujiajiao and bottled water, adding value without extra costs. Since meals and additional scenic spot tickets aren’t included, you might want to bring some snacks or plan to eat during your free time.

Travelers should bring passport or a copy, wear comfortable shoes for walking, and be ready to bargain at the market. The tour is not suitable for those over 95 years old or anyone with mobility issues, given the walking involved and the variable terrain.

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The Value of This Tour

For the price of $170, you’re getting a well-organized, knowledgeable guide, transportation, entry to a beautiful water town, and an exciting shopping experience. The blend of cultural sights, local cuisine, and lively market shopping offers a well-rounded day. Plus, the flexibility of pickup and drop-off within central Shanghai makes this a convenient option.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want to see authentic Chinese town architecture and learn about local traditions, but also enjoy shopping—especially if you’re open to fake luxury goods. It’s perfect for those who appreciate history, photography, and delicious street foods. If you’re curious about everyday life near Shanghai and enjoy a bit of bargaining, this tour will keep you engaged.

Final Verdict

In sum, the Zhujiajiao Water Town and Shanghai Fake Market tour offers a fantastic day trip that balances a scenic, historical walk with the thrill of bargain shopping. It provides a genuine taste of Jiangnan architecture and culture, combined with the lively energy of downtown markets. While it’s not for those seeking luxury brand authenticity, it’s a value-packed route for travelers eager for authentic experiences and memorable photographs.

If you’re keen on exploring a quintessential water town and don’t mind a bit of playful shopping for big-brand fakes, this tour delivers on both counts. It’s a smart choice for adventurous, curious visitors who want a genuine, fun-filled, and convenient day out in Shanghai.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes. You’ll have private transportation with a chauffeur, making your travel between locations comfortable and efficient.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers the private guide, transport, admission fee to Zhujiajiao, and bottled water.

Can I choose the pick-up location?
Yes. The tour offers pick-up and drop-off at any hotel or location within the Middle Ring Zone of Shanghai.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or a copy, wear comfortable shoes for walking, and prepare for some bargaining at the market.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but your guide will recommend authentic local snacks and food options.

Is the market safe for shopping?
Yes, it’s a lively market with many shops selling fake goods of high quality. Bargaining skills will help you get the best deals.

Can I take a boat ride in Zhujiajiao?
The tour includes admittance to the town, but boat rides are not included. You can inquire locally if you wish to add one.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While most travelers find it enjoyable, it’s best suited for those comfortable with walking and bargaining. It’s not recommended for very young children or those with mobility issues.

What is the best time to do this tour?
Spring and autumn are ideal for comfortable weather. The town is picturesque year-round, but avoid peak holiday seasons for a quieter experience.

This tour is a well-balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and lively shopping, perfect for travelers eager to get a taste of old China and lively market scenes—all within a day’s easy travel from central Shanghai.

You can check availability for your dates here: