Connected by high-speed train, Shanghai and Hangzhou are now less than an hour apart. These two cities are prime examples of China's rapid rise in wealth and technology.
Our handpicked experiences will enable you to unlock the story of Shanghai's rise, hidden in the old and new buildings. You can wander the character-filled lilong lanes, hunt for authentic snacks, indulge in the city for a day without using cash, and try to find out the secret of Jack Ma's success (Alibaba's chairman is the richest man in China). More surprises are waiting for you to discover.
- Shanghai in Progress Tour
- Shanghai Local Food Hunt
- Shanghai Former Jewish Settlement
- West Lake Scenery and Relaxing Experiences
- Discover Alibaba's Story and Cutting-Edge China
- Tea Village and Culture Experience
Shanghai in Progress Tour (3 hours)
Listen to the hidden stories of the Bund
Experience the local snacks and local life
Overlook the city from Shanghai Tower
Discover the story of Shanghai's rise to the skies…
Trace the clues starting from the Bund, wander through alleyways to get a glimpse of the locals' lives, sit down for a break and enjoy some delicious Shanghai snacks, try to fit on the public ferry among the crowds to cross the Huangpu River and ascend the highest building in Shanghai — Shanghai Tower.
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Shanghai Local Food Hunt (3 hours)
Discover the authentic local snacks
Try Michelin-starred restaurant and street food
If you are tired of eating hotel breakfasts and want to try something new, you must try this tour!
To have a great start to your day, your local guide will take you into the alleyways where you can search for the most popular local snacks that are only served for a few hours each day. Get ready to eat like a local!
Former Jewish Settlement in Shanghai (4 hours)
Visit a Jewish ghetto to find the trace of the history
Witness the historical items in the exhibition
Listen to the stories of Jews in Shanghai
At the edge of old Shanghai, there is an area that witnessed the survival of the faith of tens of thousands of Jews. It is called "Hongkew Ghetto" by Jews.
Follow your local guide to discover the memories of elderly Jews. You will also see exhibitions of historic items, visit original buildings that stood during WWII, and learn stories about the area's history.
Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family's best-rated service across trusted platforms.
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Shanghai shenanigans
Molly was an awesome guide in Shanghai! She recognized my daughter’s love of cos play and actively photographed her, took us to a manga/anime mall and helped us buy tickets to Chinese Conic-con! We were introduced to the magic of Shanghai from the highest tower to the relaxing Long Bar on the Bund. more
Jul 2025, Stay621248
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Family visit to Shanghai
Our family had a great time with Qi in Shanghai. Even though, we only had one day with her before we embarked on the next part of our trip in China, she made quite the impact. She is enthusiastic, cosmopolitan, and shows a genuine interest in her guests. She saw that our hotel was right near some great street food and added a stop here so that we could experienced some delicious food. My kids loved this and she was their favorite guide of our whole trip. Wish we spent more time in Shanghai with a guide - definitely next time! :) more
Jul 2025, Keptium
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Shangai visit with an amazing guide
I had the absolute pleasure of exploring Shanghai with Winni as my guide, and I can honestly say she made the experience unforgettable. She has such a deep understanding of the city — not just its rich history and traditions, but also how it has transformed into the vibrant, modern place it is today. What really stood out to me is how well she knows the city. As a local, she took me to hidden spots that I never would’ve found on my own — places that really capture the spirit of Shanghai. And she explained the best ways to get around, which made everything so much easier and more enjoyable. Her knowledge of the city’s architecture, art, and cultural landmarks is amazing. She explained everything with so much clarity and passion, always taking her time and never rushing. I felt completely comfortable asking any question, no matter how big or small — and she always answered with patience and insight. Winni’s attitude made the whole experience even better. She was kind, upbeat, and always smiling, which made me feel at ease and genuinely excited to learn more. It felt more like exploring the city with a knowledgeable friend than being on a tour. And for anyone who loves shopping — Winni knows all the best places to find high-quality items at great prices. Thanks to her, I came home with some real treasures! I can’t recommend Winni enough. She made my visit to Shanghai something truly special, and I’m so grateful for her guidance and warmth. more
Jul 2025, Oscaresan
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West Lake Scenery and Relaxing Experiences (3½ hours)
Relax in a rowing boat on West Lake
Enjoy an afternoon Tea of Hangzhou style
As the ancient "back garden of Shanghai", Hangzhou is filled with relaxing charm. The best way to enjoy this city is to follow the locals.
Taking a rowing boat is the most authentic way to enjoy West Lake's beauty. Explore a century-old Chinese pharmacy, learn how to make Chinese medicine and try some Chinese medicine snacks. Then settle down to a fine afternoon tea of Hangzhou style.
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Tea Village and Culture Experience (3 hours)
Pick tea leaves with a tea farmer
Learn the art of tea-tasting
Enjoy tea dishes at China's top tea plantation.
Meijiawu Tea Village is the place of origin of the best tea in China — West Lake Dragon Well tea. A local tea farmer will welcome you with traditional tea-pickers' bamboo baskets and hats and accompany you to the tea plantation.
You will first learn to choose appropriate tea leaves and pick them in the right way. After tea-picking, the tea farmer will show you the process of stir-drying tea. This process dehydrates the leaves and helps preserve their beautiful green color. Then learn the proper way to make a cup of tea.
After saying goodbye to the tea village, we'll drive to a local restaurant hiding in the tea plantation to enjoy some tea cuisine.
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