I recently joined the 3-Day Shanghai Tour Package, which included a serene visit to Zhujiajiao Water Town, and I can’t recommend it enough. As a couple who loves history and culture, we were eager to see both the modern side and hidden gems of Shanghai. Our guide, John, was fantastic—he made the entire experience smooth and enjoyable, with an excellent mix of historical insight and flexibility.

The first day in Shanghai was packed with highlights. We started with a walk along Nanjing Road, one of the world’s busiest shopping streets, where John gave us an interesting rundown of Shanghai’s rapid modernization. It was a fascinating contrast to the old-world charm we would later experience in Zhujiajiao. Then, we explored The Bund, where John shared details about the colonial-era buildings that line the riverfront. He also explained the evolution of Shanghai as a global trading hub. Afterward, we strolled through Yuyuan Garden & Bazaar, a beautiful blend of traditional Chinese architecture and lively market streets. John made sure to point out the historical significance of the garden’s design, and we had fun browsing the local shops.

On the second day, we made our way to Zhujiajiao Water Town, and this was, without a doubt, a highlight. The town’s ancient canals, stone bridges, and old houses made us feel like we had stepped back in time. John took us to the Fangsheng Bridge for photos and told us fascinating stories about the town’s history. We then enjoyed a peaceful boat cruise through the canals, which was a perfect way to relax and take in the tranquil atmosphere. Despite the summer heat, John kept us comfortable by suggesting a stop at a cool, cozy local tea house, where we learned about Chinese tea culture. It was a great way to escape the heat and enjoy a moment of serenity.

The third day took us through Old French Concession and Tianzifang, two charming neighborhoods that showcase the city’s unique blend of French colonial influence and modern art. John was extremely knowledgeable about the history and architecture, and we were able to enjoy the walk without feeling rushed. We then visited Kezhi Garden, a peaceful, lesser-known spot that offered a quiet retreat from the city’s bustle. Afterward, we stopped at the Qing Post Office, which gave us a glimpse into China’s past during the Qing Dynasty.

Throughout the tour, John went above and beyond to make sure everything ran smoothly. When the weather unexpectedly turned quite hot, he quickly adjusted the itinerary and made suggestions to keep us comfortable. For example, instead of continuing to walk through the crowded streets, he led us to an air-conditioned museum for a short break, and then we resumed our sightseeing with new energy.

By the end of the tour, we felt like we had experienced the best of Shanghai—the modern vibrancy of Nanjing Road and The Bund, the tranquility of Zhujiajiao Water Town, and the charm of the city's historical neighborhoods. John’s flexibility, knowledge, and attention to detail made this trip unforgettable.

Reviewed to: 3-Day Shanghai Trip Package Including Zhujiajiao Water Town Excursion