Private Historical Tour of Shanghai Museum Yu Garden and Tower
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Private Historical Tour of Shanghai Museum Yu Garden and Tower

Active
8h - 9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Experience many iconic attractions in this Shanghai Private Layover Tour. This tour will take you through Old Shanghai style streets, People’s Square and Pudong New Area. Discover a lesser-known side of Shanghai's history at Shanghai Jewish Refugees Museum. Learn about profound history and culture at Shanghai Museum. Walk around Nanjing Road and explore the thinnest building. Enjoy the panoramic views of Shanghai and sunset on the 118th floor of Shanghai Tower. To enhance your experience: Private transportation, lunch and entrance fees are included.

1. Admire classical Chinese architecture, exquisite sculptures and carvings at Yu Garden
2. Get in touch with the everyday people and experience local lifestyle at Yuyuan Old Street
3. Lunch is included, with vegetarian options available
4. Personalized experience with a private guide
5. Make the most of limited time with convenient airport pickup and drop-off

Available options

Private Historical Tour of Shanghai Museum Yu Garden and Tower

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation
Knowledgeable tour guide
All Fees and Taxes
Bottled water
Lunch
Entrance fee of the indicated attractions

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

Your tour guide will meet you at exit of the airport with the welcoming board on which your name will be written at 08:30 a.m.. Then, we will transfer to Shanghai downtown and start the wonderful Shanghai tour.
Firstly your guide will take you to Shanghai Jewish Refugees Museum which is a museum commemorating the Jewish refugees who lived in Shanghai during World War II after fleeing Europe to escape the Holocaust. The museum features documents, photographs, films and personal items documenting the lives of some of the more than 20,000 Jewish residents of the Restricted Sector for Stateless Refugees, better known as the Shanghai Ghetto, during the Japanese occupation of Shanghai.
See important sites from that era including the Jewish Refugees Museum (formerly Ohel Moishe Synagogue), Huoshan Park and Xiahai Temple. Learn from your informative guide about the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee, hear about modern day life in the historic neighborhood and meet local residents on this fascinating tour.

Then, we will move to People’s Square and visit Shanghai Museum to learn about profound history and culture of Shanghai.

2
Stop 2

Located in the center of Shanghai in People's Square, Shanghai Museum is a large museum of ancient Chinese art. Its style and presentation surround visitors with artifacts demonstrating ancient wisdom and philosophy. The exterior design of the round dome and the square base symbolizes the ancient idea of a round heaven and a square land.
The museum is divided into eleven galleries and three exhibition halls. The eleven galleries cover most of the major categories of Chinese art: Ancient Bronze, Ancient Ceramics, Paintings, Calligraphy, Ancient Sculpture, Ancient Jade, Coins, Ming and Qing Furniture, Seals, and Minority Nationalities.
We will see many scenic spots around people's square, such as the new Municipal Government Mansion, Shanghai Museum, Shanghai Grand Theater, Shanghai History Museum and Mu'en Church.

3
Stop 3 Pass by

We will admire the facade of Shanghai Grand Theater.
Shanghai Grand Theater is uniquely designed and beautifully shaped. It combines western and Chinese architectural styles perfectly. The white arched vault sets off glass curtain walls like a crystal palace.

Then, we will walk around Nanjing Road, explore surrounding communities and the thinnest building.

4
Stop 4

Nanjing Road is considered to be the 'No. 1 commercial street in China', which has been a landmark for this city for a long time. Along its 5.5 kilometers, you will find over 600 shops that on average are visited by some 1.7 million people each day. Here, you can purchase everything wanted, spanning from special and cheap souvenirs to the luxurious world famous brands. You can also visit the surrounding neighborhoods and the thinnest building.

The thinnest in Ningbo Road is known as Paper Building(纸片楼).
The building was once reported by British Daily Mail, stated as perhaps the world's flattest and thinnest building. Standing diagonally in the front of the the building, it just looks like a piece of paper. The old house had four floors, not all that thin; it takes the shape of triangular polygon. This novel and strange building still has a large number of residents.

At noon, we will enjoy local speciality for lunch, with vegetarian options available. After lunch, we will transfer to Yuyuan Old Street, experience the original Shanghai atmosphere and classical garden.

5
Stop 5

Shanghai Old Street, historically called Miaoqian Dajie, is an old business street that has a combination of tourist attractions, shops, entertainment and cultural exhibits. It owes its special social attractions and rich commercial background to the fact that the earliest bank, gold shop, jeweler's store, wine shop and tea house of the city were all to be found here. Visiting the old alleys of Shanghai is a great way to discover the traditional culture of this city and experience the real life of the Shanghainese.

6
Stop 6

Later, you will be shown around Yu Garden which was first built in 1559 during the Ming Dynasty by Pan Yunduan as a comfort for his father, the minister Pan En, in his old age. Pan Yunduan began the project after failing one of the imperial exams, but his appointment as governor of Sichuan postponed construction for nearly twenty years until 1577. 
Yu Garden is small in size, but it contains all elements that a classical Chinese garden should have. The pavilions, halls, rockeries, ponds and cloisters all have unique characteristics. The garden has six areas, each with its own style.

Later, we will transfer to Pudong New Area to wander in the Riverside Promenade and see Shanghai's financial district.

7
Stop 7

As a new and bustling district, Pudong offers visitors some of the most modern attractions, businesses, skyscrapers and shopping malls, all featuring the latest in entertainment, technology and fashion.
We will walk along Lujiazui Ring Bridge where is good place to photograph skyscrapers.

8
Stop 8

Then, your guide will show you around Shanghai Binjiang Avenue built in 1997 and located at the east bank of Huangpu River and it's praised as the new Bund of Pudong. It integrates sightseeing, leisure and relaxation, focusing on the urban ecological environment and functions. Walking on the broad Binjiang Avenue, overlooking the panorama of the Bund, listening to the melodious whistle on the Huangpu River, is a rare quiet and comfortable life in the heart of the metropolis.

9
Stop 9

The new landmark of Shanghai, the tallest building in Shanghai with a total height of 632 meters. The 118th floor of the tower has a indoor observation deck which is the world's highest indoor observation deck and called the 'Top of Shanghai Observatory'. Tourists are recommended to visit the exhibition hall on floor B1 first, and then take the express elevator to the 118th floor directly within only 55 seconds, its speed can reach 18 meters per second. Here, you have a bird’s-eye view of Shanghai. You will have time to stop and admire the scenery on both sides of the Huangpu River. If the weather is nice enough, you have a chance to see a spectacular sunset.

Afterwards, enjoy comfortable transfer back to airport to catch your flight or your hotel. Wrap your memories and say good-bye.

Available languages

Guide guide
DE CMN JA EN FR ES

Important information

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

We pick up from airports in Shanghai or nearby hotels.

About Shanghai

Shanghai is a global financial hub and a city of stunning contrasts, where futuristic skyscrapers stand alongside traditional shikumen houses. It's known for its vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and historic landmarks, making it a must-visit destination in China.

Top Attractions

The Bund

The Bund is a famous waterfront area with a stunning skyline of colonial-era buildings and modern skyscrapers. It's a must-visit for its historic significance and breathtaking views.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours Free

Oriental Pearl Tower

This iconic tower is a symbol of modern Shanghai, offering panoramic views of the city from its observation decks.

Architecture 2-3 hours ¥150-200

Yu Garden

Yu Garden is a classical Chinese garden with beautiful landscapes, pavilions, and historical buildings. It's a peaceful oasis in the bustling city.

Historical/Garden 2-3 hours ¥30

Shanghai Museum

The Shanghai Museum houses an extensive collection of ancient Chinese art and artifacts, providing a deep dive into China's rich history and culture.

Museum 2-3 hours Free

Nanjing Road

Nanjing Road is one of the world's busiest shopping streets, offering a mix of international brands, local shops, and vibrant street life.

Shopping 2-3 hours Varies by shop

Must-Try Local Dishes

Xiaolongbao

Small soup dumplings filled with meat and hot broth, typically pork. They are a staple of Shanghai cuisine and are often served with soy sauce and ginger.

Dumplings Contains meat, gluten, and soy.

Braised Pork Belly (Hong Shao Rou)

A slow-cooked dish of pork belly braised in soy sauce, sugar, and other seasonings. It's tender, flavorful, and often served with steamed buns or rice.

Main dish Contains pork and soy.

Shanghai Soup Dumplings (Shao Mai)

Open-topped dumplings filled with minced pork and shrimp, often served with a dipping sauce made of soy sauce, vinegar, and ginger.

Dumplings Contains pork, shrimp, and soy.

Stinky Tofu (Chou Doufu)

Fermented tofu with a strong odor, often deep-fried and served with pickled cabbage. It's an acquired taste but a popular street food.

Snack Vegetarian, contains soy.

Popular Activities

Hiking in nearby nature reserves Biking along the Huangpu River Tea house visits Spa treatments Visiting museums and historic sites Attending traditional performances Boat rides on the Huangpu River Swimming at nearby beaches

Best Time to Visit

April to October

This period offers pleasant weather, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city is lively with numerous festivals and events.

15°C to 35°C 59°F to 95°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Chinese (Mandarin)
  • Widely spoken: Shanghainese, English (in tourist areas)
  • English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Chinese Yuan Renminbi (CNY)

Time Zone

GMT+8

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Shanghai is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:
  • • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.
  • • Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps like Didi.
  • • Be wary of strangers offering unsolicited help or services.

Getting there

By air
  • Shanghai Pudong International Airport • 30 km from city center
  • Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport • 13 km from city center
By train

Shanghai Railway Station, Shanghai South Railway Station

By bus

Shanghai Long-Distance Bus Station, Shanghai South Long-Distance Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The Shanghai Metro is efficient, clean, and covers most of the city. It's the fastest and most convenient way to get around.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Didi, Meituan

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

The Bund Pudong French Concession Xintiandi Tianzifang

Day trips

Hangzhou
180 km from Shanghai • Full day

Hangzhou is a beautiful city known for its natural beauty, historic sites, and the famous West Lake. It's a great day trip from Shanghai for those looking to escape the city and enjoy some nature.

Suzhou
100 km from Shanghai • Full day

Suzhou is a historic city known for its classical gardens, silk production, and canals. It's a great day trip for those interested in history, culture, and architecture.

Zhujiajiao
50 km from Shanghai • Half day

Zhujiajiao is an ancient water town known for its well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture, canals, and bridges. It's a great day trip for those looking to experience traditional Chinese water town life.

Festivals

Shanghai Tourism Festival • September Shanghai International Film Festival • June Chinese New Year • January/February (varies)

Pro tips

  • Use the Shanghai Public Transportation Card for convenient and discounted travel on metro, buses, and ferries.
  • Download a translation app or carry a phrasebook to help with language barriers.
  • Try local street food, but be cautious of food safety and choose busy stalls with high turnover.
  • Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
  • Consider hiring a local guide or joining a tour to gain insights into Shanghai's history and culture.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 18-75
1
Childs
Age 3-17
0
Infants
Age 0-2
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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