24 Hours Hotline: +86 137-3541-1378
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24 Hours Hotline: +86 137-3541-1378
Email:[email protected]
Overview
Shanghai's Longtang also Known as the Beijing's Hutong, The differences between the two are strikingly visible. Hutongs are short, while longtangs are taller, with two or three stories, towering above the mazes within. They’re something like the capillary vessels of a city. Life pulses through these narrow streets, there is a rhythm here.
History & Background
Shanghai has long been a city of immigrants. The first explosion came in the 1840s, when the Qing Dynasty was forced to sign Britain’s “Treaty of Nanking.” Under this agreement, China opened five ports for foreign trade with low tariffs—Shanghai was one of them. Westerners flooded the city, and built their own neighborhoods. Chinese also flooded in, taking advantage of the new work opportunities, and seeking refuge from the Taiping Rebellion, a violent farmers’ uprising of the south. The sudden influx of Westerners and rural Chinese, and their cultural mixing, is what led to the unique architecture of the longtangs.
Built to accommodate the city’s new residents, the original longtangs were miniature, compact neighborhoods, made up of small wood buildings. Inside one longtang, there were many alleyways, labyrinth-like, but only one exit: a single metal gate, which led to the main street.
A large variety of housing styles are called "lilong residences" in Shanghai. Of these, the best known and most characteristic is the shikumen (???), two- or three-storey terrace houses with a wall and large gate in front of each dwelling. Other types include the more modern "new style lilong" (????); the simplified "Cantonese style lilong" (????); the high-end villa-like "garden lilong" (????); and the higher density "apartment lilong" (????). Colloquially, they are referred to as "lilong houses" or, as an English translation, "lane houses".
Chinese character for "long"
In simplified Chinese confusion is sometimes caused between lòng ("alley" traditional Chinese ? or ?) with the verb nòng (meaning "tamper with" traditional Chinese ?) since both have been simplified down to "?" by removal of the radical (a hand-radical shou-bù ? in the case of "tamper with", a walk-radical compounded from chì? "step" and chì ? "step" on both sides of the phonetic ? "public" in the case of "alley"). In simplified Chinese the two characters are now written the same way, but the two different pronunciations are still retained in standard Mandarin, where only context indicates whether to read lòng or nòng. However, in Shanghai dialect the verb is also pronounced long.
As to the traditional Chinese character for "long", the form "??" has been in use since at least the end of the 19th century, but even 19th century scholars posited that the "correct" written form of "long" should be "?".
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Duration：6-8 Hours
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Tour Style：Incredible Shanghai Highlights Day Tour is a comprehensive Shanghai one day tour tailored for those who have just one day to experience the city’s top attractions. This fully guided tour offers the expertise of a knowledgeable Shanghai private tour guide, ensuring that you make the most of your limited time. As you explore Shanghai’s highlights, you’ll gain valuable insights into the city’s rich culture, history, local lifestyle, and future developments. With complete flexibility, you can either follow a pre-designed itinerary or customize your tour to suit your interests, allowing for a unique Shanghai experience tailored to your preferences. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, this Shanghai one day tour provides a well-rounded view of the city, making it ideal for travelers seeking an immersive and efficient exploration. Whether you're interested in historical sites, modern marvels, or local culture, this tour ensures that you see the best of Shanghai in a single day.
Duration：3 Days, 2 Nights
Attractions(Cities)：Datang Sleepless City, Xi'an Tang Dynasty Music and Dance Show and Dumpling Banquet, the Terracotta Warriors, the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, the Ancient City Wall, Xi’an Museum, and Muslim Quarter
Tour Style：Step aboard a high-speed train from Shanghai and begin a graceful journey into the heart of Xi’an—where imperial grandeur and lively street culture intertwine in perfect harmony. This thoughtfully curated Xian tour from Shanghai invites you to explore the city’s timeless treasures: marvel at the silent majesty of the Terracotta Warriors, wander through the serene courtyards of the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, and trace centuries of history atop the Ancient City Wall. As twilight descends, Xi’an glows with enchantment—lanterns shimmer in the Grand Tang Dynasty Everbright City, where music, dance, and Tang-style elegance recreate the splendor of a bygone age. In the Muslim Quarter, fragrant alleys lead to sizzling local fare and vibrant flavors. A highlight awaits in the form of a delicate dumpling banquet, followed by a spellbinding performance of Tang Dynasty music and dance. With expert guides bringing each story to life, this Xian tour from Shanghai is more than a trip—it’s a poetic encounter with China’s enduring soul.
Duration：3 Days, 2 Nights
Attractions(Cities)：Summer Palace, Beijing Hutongs, Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Mutianyu Great Wall, Bird’s Nest, Water Cube
Tour Style：This expertly curated 3-day Shanghai to Beijing tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and architectural wonder. Led by a professional local guide, you’ll explore Beijing’s most iconic sites—from the political heart of Tiananmen Square and the imperial grandeur of the Forbidden City, to the peaceful Summer Palace and the sacred Temple of Heaven. Walk through the traditional Hutongs to experience the charm of old Beijing, then head to the breathtaking Mutianyu Great Wall for panoramic mountain views, with an optional cable car for added comfort. On your way back, enjoy photo stops at the Bird’s Nest and Water Cube, striking symbols of China’s modern era. With seamless service, expert commentary, and a thoughtfully planned route, this tour delivers a rich, immersive taste of Beijing—all in a single unforgettable day.
Duration：3 Days, 2 Nights
Attractions(Cities)：Terracotta Warriors, Muslim Quarter, Mutianyu Great Wall, Bird’s Nest, Water Cube, Beijing hutongs, Tiananmen Square, Fobidden City, Summer Palace
Tour Style：This unforgettable tour package from Shanghai is designed for travelers seeking a perfect blend of history, culture, and authentic local experience—all in a single, well-curated day. Stand before the awe-inspiring Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an and walk along the breathtaking Mutianyu Great Wall in Beijing, two of China’s most iconic landmarks. Discover the grandeur of imperial China as you explore Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and the serene Summer Palace, each filled with rich stories and historical depth, brought to life by your expert guide. Dive into local culture as you wander through the bustling Muslim Quarter and the maze-like Beijing hutongs, where tradition lives on in every courtyard and alleyway. With professional guiding, smooth transfers, and thoughtful service throughout, this tour offers a deep and engaging look into China’s timeless heritage—crafted to leave you inspired.
Duration：8 Days, 7 Nights
Attractions(Cities)：Shanghai, Hangzhou, Suzhou, Nanjing
Tour Style：Want to make the most of your time in Shanghai and beyond? This 8-Day Shanghai, Hangzhou, Suzhou & Nanjing Tour Package offers the perfect blend of cultural exploration and scenic relaxation, taking you through some of China’s most enchanting cities—often described as “heaven on earth.” With the company of a friendly and knowledgeable private guide, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of each destination’s rich history, unique charm, and local traditions. The flexible itinerary allows you to explore at your own pace, whether you’re strolling through ancient gardens, cruising peaceful lakes, or discovering hidden alleyways. Every detail is thoughtfully arranged to ensure a personalized, comfortable, and unforgettable journey through eastern China.
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