Shanghai

Welcome to Shanghai

Shanghai is a city where the elegance of ancient traditions blends seamlessly with modern innovation, creating a dynamic, refined, and deeply captivating atmosphere. From its peaceful gardens and historic neighbourhoods to iconic skylines and artful blend of Eastern and Western influences, Shanghai stands as a symbol of China’s progressive spirit. This carefully curated 6-day itinerary offers an immersive journey that brings Shanghai’s rich history and culture to life, while also exploring nearby towns and Beijing’s timeless imperial treasures.

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Shan Signature Tour:

6-Day Shanghai & Beijing: A Tale of Two Cities & Beyond

Tour Highlights

Experience the tranquillity of Yuyuan Garden, the Ming Dynasty garden in the heart of Shanghai.

Soak in The Bund's Stunning Skyline, where European-style architecture meets modern skyscrapers of Lujiazui.

Stroll through the French Concession, known for its leafy avenues and beautiful colonial villas.

Day 1:

Classic tranquility at Yuyuan Garden & The Bund

Begin your Shanghai adventure with a stroll through Yuyuan Garden, a classical Chinese garden dating back to the Ming Dynasty. This peaceful oasis, nestled amidst the city’s hustle and bustle, invites you to enjoy its botanical wonders and intricate landscaping. Next, head to The Bund, where Shanghai’s historic architecture stands across from the modern skyline of Lujiazui, providing a striking contrast that perfectly represents the city’s blend of tradition and innovation.

Day 2:

Journey into the past at a scenic water town

Escape the city’s pace with a day tour to a water town outside of Shanghai in the Jiangnan region. Known for its charming waterways, the town invites you to explore narrow lanes, centuries-old bridges, and traditional buildings from the Ming and Qing dynasties. Don’t miss Tuisi Garden, a tranquil garden with a layout of ponds, halls, and pavilions that reflect the sophisticated lifestyle of wealthy merchants from past centuries. As you wander, visit quaint shops and tea houses that line the town’s picturesque streets.

Day 3:

Experience oriental modernity at the French Concession

Today, step into the heart of Shanghai’s international past with a visit to the French Concession. Stroll along its tree-lined avenues, flanked by elegant villas and European-style buildings. Continue to Zhangyuan, a popular shopping destination, where modern boutiques meet historic charm. In the evening, board a high-speed bullet train to Beijing, ready to continue your exploration in the capital.

Day 4:

Explore the secrets of emperors at Beijing's Forbidden City

Start your adventure in Beijing with a visit to Tiananmen Square, one of the world’s largest and most historically significant public squares. From there, enter the Forbidden City, the former imperial palace that served as home to 24 emperors. Walk through its grand halls, intricate architecture, and witness the essence of China’s imperial heritage. Conclude your day with a visit to Jingshan Park, where a gentle climb provides sweeping views over the Forbidden City, especially captivating at sunset.

Day 5:

The beauty of Summer Palace & Temple of Heaven

The morning unfolds at the Temple of Heaven, a spiritual site where emperors once prayed for the nation’s prosperity. Wander through this architectural masterpiece before heading to the Summer Palace, an expansive garden complex adorned with scenic lakes, hills, and historic pavilions. Embrace the tranquility of this royal retreat, and in the evening, savor a fine dining experience fit for a royal.

Day 6:

Scale the Great Wall

In the morning, head to Juyongguan or Mutianyu, to experience the Great Wall on the outskirts of Beijing. Take a light hike along the wall, enjoy stunning mountain views, and breathe in the rich history. End the day with a leisurely walk through one of Beijing’s historic Hutongs. These narrow alleys and courtyard residences offer a glimpse into local life and a charm unique to old Beijing before departing home.

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