Shanghai Historical Tour: Dive into Chuansha’s Past – Where Celebrity Stories Meet Centuries of Pudong History

Tour Itinerary

Bright and early, as you step into the bustling meeting point, a warm wave of welcome washes over you – your dedicated Your Way Holiday tour guide is already there, beaming from ear to ear, holding a signboard emblazoned with our company logo and your name high for easy spotting. They’ll rush over with a hearty greeting, eagerly take your luggage off your hands to lighten your load, and chat with you briefly to confirm all details, making sure you feel right at home from the very first moment. With their friendly demeanor and attentive care, all the hassle of travel fades away, leaving you fully ready to dive into the wonderful journey of exploring Chuansha’s rich culture and history.

Guided by our enthusiastic companion, our first stop is Chuansha Ancient City Wall Park, a historical gem with a legacy dating back over 450 years. Constructed in 1557 during the Ming Dynasty, when Japanese pirates frequently raided the coastal areas, this fortification was a strategic stronghold meticulously designed to safeguard local residents and trade routes. Today, it stands as the sole remaining intact section of Ming Dynasty city wall in Shanghai, its ancient bricks bearing the scars of time and battles, serving as a tangible testament to Pudong’s rich defensive history.As we ascend the stone steps and stroll along the weathered yet sturdy wall, the cool breeze carries whispers of the past. Nestled along the wall, we discover the Yuebei Pavilion, a serene structure erected in 1982. This pavilion houses a precious stele inscribed with "Mo Zhuang Ji", a calligraphy masterpiece attributed to Yue Fei, the revered patriotic general of the Southern Song Dynasty. Yue Fei's powerful strokes not only showcase his unparalleled calligraphy skills but also embody his unwavering loyalty and patriotism. It is said that the stele was carefully preserved and restored, ensuring that future generations could admire this cultural treasure.Just a short walk away, the Kuixing Pavilion stands as a testament to Chuansha’s deep-rooted cultural heritage. First erected in the Qing Dynasty, this pavilion has undergone meticulous restoration to maintain its original charm. Designed in the classic style of traditional Chinese pavilion architecture, it is dedicated to Kuixing, the god of literature in Chinese mythology. Adorned with intricate wood carvings and ornate eaves, the pavilion exudes an air of elegance and tranquility. For centuries, it has been a sacred place where scholars and students would come to pay their respects, pray for academic success, and seek inspiration. Its very existence symbolizes Chuansha’s longstanding emphasis on education, a tradition that has been passed down through generations, nurturing countless intellectuals and contributing to the town’s cultural prosperity.

A leisurely stroll along the cobblestone lanes, where the gentle patter of footsteps echoes against the ancient walls, leads us to Neishi Di (Former Residence of Huang Yanpei), a living testament to over 180 years of rich history. Constructed in the early 19th century during the Qing Dynasty, this architectural gem stands as a remarkable fusion of traditional Jiangnan elegance and subtle Western influences, a vivid reflection of the cultural cross-pollination that characterized the era.This compound is not merely a showcase of architectural splendor; it is a significant landmark in China’s modern history. It marks the birthplace of Huang Yanpei (1878-1965), a visionary and pioneer in the field of education, best known for establishing China’s vocational education system. Huang’s innovative ideas and unwavering dedication to educational reform have left an indelible mark on China’s educational landscape, shaping the future of countless students.Adding to its historical significance, Song Yaoru, the father of the esteemed Soong Ching-ling, spent his early years in this very residence. This connection links two of China’s most influential figures to Chuansha, further enriching the narrative of this historic abode.As you step inside, you are immediately transported back in time. The well-preserved courtyards, with their intricate designs and serene ambiance, offer a glimpse into the past. The carved wooden beams, adorned with elaborate patterns, showcase the exceptional craftsmanship of the era. Displayed throughout the residence are a collection of precious relics, including Huang’s handwritten letters that reveal his innermost thoughts and aspirations, as well as old photographs that capture significant moments in history. These artifacts not only highlight the region’s architectural heritage but also serve as a medium to pass down the inspiring stories of Huang Yanpei and Song Yaoru, and their profound connection to Chuansha. Each item tells a tale, inviting visitors to delve deeper into the lives of these remarkable individuals and the historical context in which they lived.

Next, we head to the Song Qingling Cultural Exhibition Center, a modern landmark in Chuansha. Opened in 2013, it honors Song Qingling (1893-1981), a renowned patriotic, democratic, and internationalist figure. Its contemporary design contrasts with the surrounding heritage buildings, reflecting Song's blend of tradition and modernity.Inside, over 200 historical items, photos, and personal effects trace Song's journey—from her Chuansha roots shaped by progressive family values to her role as a global advocate for peace. Interactive exhibits, including multimedia displays and VR experiences, deepen visitors' understanding of her contributions. The center's library also offers rich research resources.More than a museum, it's an educational hub promoting Song's ideals of patriotism, democracy, and internationalism. Through exhibits and events, it inspires visitors to uphold these values. A visit here reveals Song's profound impact on history, making it essential for history lovers and those curious about this 20th-century icon.

As lunchtime rolls around, we head to a time-honored restaurant on Chuansha Old Street, where we’ll savor authentic Pudong delicacies that have been passed down for generations. From the tender and flavorful Chuansha Three-Yellow Chicken, a local specialty with a history of over a century, to the soft and savory Xiasha Steamed Buns, which date back to the Qing Dynasty and are still made using traditional recipes, every bite is a taste of Chuansha’s culinary heritage. After a satisfying meal and a short break, we visit the Chuansha Construction Museum, which opened in 2010 to document the town’s proud tradition as the "Hometown of Construction". For over a century, Chuansha has produced countless skilled craftsmen who played a pivotal role in building Shanghai’s iconic landmarks, from old western-style houses in the French Concession to modern skyscrapers. The museum displays vintage construction tools, architectural models, and oral history recordings, preserving the memory of these craftsmen and passing on their spirit of precision and dedication.

Our next destination is the Chuansha Opera Art Exhibition Center, a tribute to the town’s 200-year history of opera. Chuansha has long been a cradle of traditional Chinese opera, particularly Hu Opera and Yue Opera, with local troupes dating back to the early 19th century. The center, housed in a renovated traditional building, showcases a stunning collection of antique opera costumes, elaborate props, and ancient scripts. It also offers interactive experiences, allowing visitors to try on opera costumes or learn basic opera gestures. Through guided tours and occasional mini-performances, the center keeps the rich opera culture of Chuansha alive, ensuring that this traditional art form is not forgotten but celebrated and passed on.

The final stop of our day is Chuansha Catholic Church, a striking example of Sino-Western architectural fusion with a history of more than 120 years. Built in 1903 by French missionaries, the church combines Gothic architectural elements – such as pointed arches, stained glass windows, and a tall spire – with traditional Jiangnan brick-and-wood construction techniques. Over the decades, it has weathered wars and changes, yet remains a spiritual and cultural landmark. Today, it not only serves as a place of worship but also stands as a testament to the cultural exchanges between China and the West in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, preserving this unique architectural heritage for future generations.

As the sun dips below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the ancient town, our one-day tour of Chuansha comes to an end. From the Ming Dynasty city wall that has stood for centuries to the museums preserving the legacies of celebrities, craftsmen, and artists, we’ve delved deep into the historical roots and cultural heritage of Pudong. Just as Your Way Holiday is committed to delivering heartfelt and informative travel experiences, we hope this journey has left you with cherished memories of Chuansha – the hometown of celebrities and the keeper of Pudong’s memories.Your Way Holiday always strives to create unforgettable travel experiences for you. Today, we have explored the roots of Pudong's history in Chuansha, from the ancient city walls to the former residences of celebrities, and felt the profound humanistic heritage here. We look forward to accompanying you on more wonderful journeys to discover the beauty of culture and history.

Price Per Person in US Dollars