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Private Shanghai Tours - Experience China's Ultimate Gateway

Few cities in the world showcase the contrast between tradition and innovation quite like Shanghai. Experience China's most international city through historic neighborhoods, modern innovation, local culture, and personalized journeys designed around your interests.

China's Gateway City
As one of China's most connected international cities, Shanghai offers convenient global flights and high-speed rail access to explore East China, including Suzhou, Hangzhou, Huangshan and Nanjing.

Where Old Meets New
Walk along the historic Bund, discover traditional neighborhoods, and experience the futuristic skyline of Pudong — where centuries of heritage meet modern innovation.

Beyond the Famous Landmarks
Go deeper into Shanghai through local cuisine, hidden neighborhoods, cultural stories, and authentic experiences that reveal the real character of the city.

Designed Around You
Enjoy flexible private tours tailored to your interests, travel pace, and travel style with over 10+ years experienced guide. 

Our Best-Selling Private Shanghai Day Tours & Packages

Overwhelmed by too many choices? Start with our most popular Shanghai tours. From the Bund and Yu Garden to the hidden streets of the Former French Concession, these carefully designed tour itineraries showcase both the city's famous landmarks and its local character.

With private guides, dedicated vehicles, and smart timing to avoid the largest crowds, you'll experience Shanghai comfortably and at your own pace. Every tour can also be fully customized to match your interests.

Daytime view of Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai Tower and skyscrapers across Huangpu River, iconic scenery seen from Shanghai Bund waterfront
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1 DAY

Exclusive 1-Day Shanghai Private Tour – Discover the Best of Shanghai Highlights

Shanghai
Wander old alleys, French Concession lanes, shopping streets, and the Bund, covering Shanghai’s classic highlights at a relaxed pace.
FROM $97 Per person
Details
Street view of Jade Buddha Temple featuring traditional upturned eaves and yellow walls
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1 DAY

Shanghai Historical Tour – One Day Tour in Shanghai with Temple, Museum & Old City Highlights

Shanghai
This private cultural day tour leads you to explore multi-dimensional Shanghai. With private transfer, personalized storytelling and tailor-made local meals.
FROM $97 Per person
Details
Zhujiajiao Ancient Water Town Shanghai, Classic Jiangnan Canal Houses with Red Lanterns
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1 DAY

Shanghai One Day Tour: The Bund, Shanghai Museum & Zhujiajiao Water Town

Shanghai
Private car & bilingual guide with door-to-door pick-up. Explore water town relics and Bund skyline at your own pace.
FROM $100 Per person
Details
Serene Yuyuan Garden View, Classical Jiangnan Pavilion, Stone Bridge, Pond & Lush Metasequoia Trees
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1 DAY

Experience Shanghai Like a Local – Private One-Day Tour Made Your Way

Shanghai
Private day tour covering Shanghai's top 5 landmarks. Chauffeur service with flexible schedule, featuring ancient gardens, old alleys and the Bund night views.
FROM $98 Per person
Details

1-Day Shanghai Tours: Maximize Your Time with a Local Guide

Short on time? Our Private Shanghai City Tours cover the city's must-see highlights along with lesser-known neighborhoods. A balanced way to experience both iconic landmarks and everyday local life in one day. Explore available day tours below and find one that fits your schedule.


view of Shanghai Orthodox Church of the Mother of God, white onion domed building hidden among old shikumen houses and green trees
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1 DAY

One Day Tour in Shanghai of Architecture & Urban Heritage

Shanghai
Read Shanghai through stone, brick, and stained glass on a private journey across the city's most fascinating architectural treasures.
FROM $93 Per person
Details
Exterior view of Shanghai Jewish Refugees Museum, vintage brick historic building
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1 DAY

Shanghai Jewish Ghetto Tour with Colonial-Era Hidden Stories

Shanghai
Discover a hidden side of Shanghai through Jewish refugee history, wartime stories, and historic neighborhoods rarely found on typical city tours.
FROM $94 Per person
Details
Quiet street view of vintage historic villa shaded by lush plane trees on Shanghai Wukang Road
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1 DAY

Off-the-Beaten-Path Shanghai Day Tour – Immersive Experience of Local Markets & Creative Districts

Shanghai
Flexible private tour to uncover local life, vintage villas, art lanes and Bund twilight away from tourist crowds.
FROM $92 Per person
Details
Night view of Enchanted Storybook Castle with gorgeous fireworks reflection on lake at Shanghai Disneyland
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1 DAY

Shanghai Disneyland VIP Tour: Premium Disney Experience with Official Guide & Transfers

Shanghai
Unlock the ultimate Disney day with official VIP service, private transfers, and more time for the attractions you love.
FROM $591 Per person
Details

Flexible Shanghai Private Tours: In-Depth Packages for All Ages

Looking for more than a quick visit? These private tours offer flexible multi-day options, with enough time to explore culture, food, and local life at a comfortable pace for couples, families, and small groups. Browse multi-day options and plan your trip your way.

A Trip to Shanghai and Suzhou with Must See Places
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5 DAYS

Private 5-Day Shanghai & Suzhou Scenic & City Highlights Tour

Shanghai - Suzhou
Experience the perfect blend of Shanghai's modern skyline and Suzhou's classical gardens on a 5-day journey through vibrant city life and the tranquil beauty of Jiangnan water towns.
FROM $275 Per person
Details
Modern minimalist building of Shanghai Museum, walking visitors, golden Chinese name sign on white wall
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4 DAYS

4 Days Shanghai In-Depth Tour: Explore History, Culture & Hidden Gems

Shanghai
Spend 4 days in Shanghai exploring the Bund, Yu Garden, Shanghai Tower, Nanjing Road, museums, and authentic local neighborhoods.
FROM $295 Per person
Details
Lively alley lined with handicraft shops in Shanghai Tianzifang
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2 DAYS

2-Day Shanghai Cultural & City Highlights Tour with Private Guide

Shanghai
Plan a meaningful Shanghai 2 days itinerary with a local guide. Discover historic gardens, the Bund, Shanghai Tower and authentic neighborhoods.
FROM $257 Per person
Details
Exterior view of iconic Wukang Building on Wukang Road, Shanghai old architecture landmark
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3 DAYS

Private Tour in Shanghai: 3-Day Family Adventure with Shanghai Disneyland & Iconic City Sights

Shanghai
Experience the best of Shanghai in 3 days, where iconic landmarks, hidden neighborhoods, and Disney magic come together.
FROM $359 Per person
Details

Into the Clouds: Scenic East China Tours with Yellow Mountain

Discover the natural beauty of East China with Huangshan and its surrounding ancient villages, where dramatic mountain landscapes meet centuries-old rural culture. This route combines iconic peaks, forest scenery, and traditional stone-built villages that preserve the authentic lifestyle of historic China. Experience breathtaking views, peaceful countryside atmosphere, and cultural depth in one seamless private journey.

China classic landscapes tour Shanghai Hangzhou Huangshan
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6 DAYS

6-Day Exclusive Shanghai, Hangzhou & Huangshan Scenic Highlights Tour

Shanghai - Hangzhou - Huangshan
A 6-day journey through Shanghai, Hangzhou, and Huangshan, combining city skylines, classical gardens, West Lake, tea culture, UNESCO villages, and mountain scenery in one seamless itinerary.
FROM $530 Per person
Details
Shady plane tree boulevard & vintage European villas on historic street in Shanghai
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8 DAYS

8-Day East China Cultural & Scenic Tour From Shanghai with Huangshan Exploration

Shanghai - Suzhou - Hangzhou - Huangshan
Explore the best of Eastern China in 8 days from Shanghai, through Suzhou's gardens, Hangzhou's West Lake and tea culture, and Huangshan's dramatic peaks and sea of clouds.
FROM $699 Per person
Details
Farmers picking fresh tea leaves in rolling Longjing tea fields, Hangzhou West Lake area
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12 DAYS

12-Day Classic & Deep Tour From Shanghai: Hangzhou, Huangshan & Suzhou

Shanghai-Hangzhou-Huangshan-Suzhou
Take a deep journey from Shanghai to Hangzhou, Qiandao Lake, Huangshan and Suzhou with private guides, local experiences and seamless transfers.
FROM $1550 Per person
Details
Classic white wall black tile Huizhou architecture by calm lake, mountain mist background, ancient Hui-style houses with perfect water reflection at dawn
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10 DAYS

China Tour Starting in Shanghai: 10-Day Journey to Suzhou, Hangzhou & Mt. Huangshan

Shanghai - Suzhou - Hangzhou - Huangshan
From Shanghai's skyline to Suzhou's gardens, Hangzhou's West Lake, and Mt. Huangshan's peaks, this 10-day journey lets you simply travel, observe, and experience while everything is fully taken care of for you.
FROM $860 Per person
Details

The Ultimate China Journeys with A Shanghai Gateway For 10+ Days

Use Shanghai as your gateway to explore more of China. From cultural cities to scenic landscapes, these longer journeys combine multiple destinations into one well-paced itinerary. Discover extended tours and build a trip that matches your interests.

Green sandstone pillars under clear blue sky, Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
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13 DAYS

13-Day Ultimate China Discovery Tour: From Shanghai to Huangshan, Zhangjiajie, Xi'an & Beijing

Shanghai - Huangshan - Zhangjiajie - Xian - Beijing
From Shanghai's Skyline to the Great Wall — Discover Huangshan, Zhangjiajie, Xi'an & Beijing in 13 Days.
FROM $2459 Per person
Details
Farmers picking fresh tea leaves in rolling Longjing tea fields, Hangzhou West Lake area
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12 DAYS

12-Day Classic & Deep Tour From Shanghai: Hangzhou, Huangshan & Suzhou

Shanghai-Hangzhou-Huangshan-Suzhou
Take a deep journey from Shanghai to Hangzhou, Qiandao Lake, Huangshan and Suzhou with private guides, local experiences and seamless transfers.
FROM $1550 Per person
Details
Seaside beach of Putuo Mountain, visitors along shoreline and green hills
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5 DAYS

Private 5-Day Putuo Island and Ningbo Tour From Shanghai

Zhoushan-Ningbo
Escape Shanghai for a 5-day coastal journey to Putuo Island and Ningbo, featuring ancient temples, seaside views, historic sites, and authentic local experiences.
FROM $539 Per person
Details
Ancient wooden pavilion in Shanghai Yu Garden, traditional Chinese garden architecture
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9 DAYS

9 Days Shanghai Huangshan Beijing Tour with Private Guide & Driver

Shanghai-Huangshan-Beijing
A perfect first China trip covering Shanghai, Huangshan and Beijing with carefully planned routes, private transportation and authentic local experiences.
FROM $1149 Per person
Details

Worry-Free Beijing, Xi'an & Shanghai Tours for Beginners

Our top Beijing, Xi'an and Shanghai tours are perfectly designed for first-time travelers. Avoid overcrowded rushed schedules; we arrange seamless city transfers to showcase iconic historical landmarks and authentic local culture at a comfortable pace. Discover our handpicked travel packages below.

 Iconic triple circular roof ancient Chinese architecture of Temple of Heaven, white marble balustradey, Beijing landmark
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11 DAYS

11 Days China Tour: Beijing Xi'an Shanghai Tour Package with Huangshan

Beijing - Xi'an - Shanghai - Huangshan
An 11-day journey from Beijing to Xi'an, Shanghai, and Mt. Huangshan, fully arranged with seamless transport, hotels, and guided experiences so you can simply enjoy.
FROM $960 Per person
Details
View of Shanghai Pudong skyline featuring Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai Tower and SWFC beside Huangpu River
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5 DAYS

Beijing to Shanghai Tour: A 5-Day Journey Through China's Greatest Cities

Beijing-Shanghai
Experience Two Sides of China — From Beijing's imperial wonders to Shanghai's vibrant modern charm in just 5 days.
FROM $595 Per person
Details
Universal Studios Beijing Main Entrance Building Theme Park Tour
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10 DAYS

10-Day Beijing Xi'an Shanghai Family Vacation Package

Beijing-Xian-Shanghai
Family-friendly travel in China! Explore the city features and theme parks in Beijing, Xi'an, and Shanghai.
FROM $1280 Per person
Details
Terracotta Army Ancient Qin Dynasty Pottery Warriors Tour from Xi'an
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7 DAYS

7-Day Hit 3-City Classic Tour: Beijing Imperial Culture , Xi'an Ancient Relics & Shanghai Modern City

Beijing-Xian-Shanghai
All-round China classic journey! Combine imperial relics, ancient Tang culture and modern metropolitan fun.
FROM $550 Per person
Details

Shanghai Weekend Excurstions: Seamless Day Trips to Hangzhou & Suzhou

Extend your trip beyond the city with easy day tours to Hangzhou or Suzhou. High-speed connections make it simple to explore lakes, gardens, and historic towns without changing your base. See popular day trips and start planning your next stop.

Peaceful view of wooden sightseeing boats on Hangzhou West Lake
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2 DAYS

Private 2-Day Hangzhou & Shanghai Tour: Highlights for Families

Hangzhou-Shanghai
Quiet lakes. Bustling skylines. One unforgettable journey through the two faces of eastern China.
FROM $226 Per person
Details
Visit Hangzhou West Lake from Shanghai
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1 DAY

Private Hangzhou Highlights Day Tour From Shanghai by High-Speed Train

Shanghai - Hangzhou
Enjoy a stress-free private day trip from Shanghai to Hangzhou with high-speed train tickets and transfers included. Explore West Lake, Lingyin Temple, Meijiawu Tea Village, and Hefang Street at a relaxed pace, with all arrangements handled for a seamless cultural experience.
FROM $105 Per person
Details
China Tour to Shanghai Hangzhou Wuzhen
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7 DAYS

Private 7-Day Shanghai & Hangzhou Tour with Stunning Wuzhen Water Town

Shanghai - Hangzhou - Wuzhen
Embark on a 7-day private tour of Shanghai and Hangzhou, exploring iconic skylines, classical gardens, West Lake, and Longjing Tea culture with premium comfort and seamless travel.
FROM $515 Per person
Details
Qin Dynasty style palace gate and city wall scenery at Hengdian World Studios China
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1 DAY

Flexible Shanghai to Hengdian Day Tour with Private Transfer

Hengdian
Escape Shanghai for a unique Hengdian World Studios experience. Visit legendary film locations with a private car, flexible schedule, and seamless service.
FROM $124 Per person
Details

East China Cultural & Heritage Tours – Jiangnan Experience

Experience the cultural essence of East China through Shanghai, Suzhou, Wuxi, and Nanjing, four of the most important cities in the Jiangnan region. This journey reveals a rich blend of classical Chinese gardens, ancient canals, water towns, and historic capitals that shaped traditional Chinese civilization. From elegant Suzhou gardens to Nanjing's imperial history and Wuxi's canal culture, this route offers a deeper understanding of East China's heritage and lifestyle.

Panoramic scenery of Taihu Lake, green islands, ancient pavilions and lush forest lakeshore
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7 DAYS

7 Days Shanghai Suzhou Wuxi Nanjing Tour: Relaxed Jiangnan Journey for Seniors

Shanghai-Suzhou-Wuxi-Nanjing
Discover East China on a 7-day private tour covering Shanghai, Suzhou, Wuxi and Nanjing with gardens, water towns, lakes and cultural sites.
FROM $753 Per person
Details
Gate of Lingshan Scenic Area with grand Lingshan Giant Buddha under sunset sky in Wuxi
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8 DAYS

8-Day Private Shanghai Suzhou Wuxi Nanjing Tour with Local Experts

Shanghai-Suzhou-Wuxi-Nanjing
A perfect first China trip exploring Shanghai, Suzhou, Wuxi and Nanjing with comfortable transfers, local cuisine, cultural sites and expert guides.
FROM $870 Per person
Details
Entrance gate of Tianzifang, famous ancient alley tourist spot in Shanghai, pedestrians and street sign
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5 DAYS

5 Days Shanghai Suzhou Nanjing Tour Package with High-Speed Train

Shanghai-Suzhou-Nanjing
Discover Shanghai, Suzhou and Nanjing on a 5-day private tour package with local guides, high-speed trains, cultural sites, and authentic experiences.
FROM $647 Per person
Details
Zhujiajiao Ancient Water Town Wooden Rowing Boat Canal Cruise Shanghai Tour
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5 DAYS

Private 5-Day Shanghai & Nanjing Cross-City Essence Tour

Shanghai-Nanjing
A selected journey spanning the two cities of Shanghai and Nanjing! You can experience both the modern urban atmosphere and the authentic taste of ancient towns and water towns.
FROM $399 Per person
Details

How Buer China Travel Handles Your Tours

Personalized Trip Planning

Before creating your itinerary, our travel specialists take the time to understand your interests, preferences, travel style, and expectations. We carefully plan every part of your journey, from route design and daily schedules to sightseeing experiences and local activities, making sure the pace, destinations, and experiences are perfectly matched to your needs.


Tourists enjoy a trip to Xizang's snow mountains

Carefully Selected Services & Team

We personally select and work with trusted hotels, transportation providers, professional guides, and local partners who meet our standards for quality, comfort, cleanliness, and reliability. From comfortable accommodations and well-maintained vehicles to knowledgeable local experts, every service is carefully chosen to ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.

Tourists Enjoy Guilin Private Tour

Final Trip Preparation & Travel Tips

About 1–2 weeks before your departure, our team will contact you to go over the final details of your trip. We'll reconfirm your itinerary, hotels, transportation, and special requests, answer any last-minute questions, and provide all essential travel information, including contact details, arrival instructions, and helpful travel tips, so you can arrive in China fully prepared and travel with confidence.

Visitors in Hangzhou Private Tour

24/7 Local Support Throughout Your Journey

Our support does not end after your trip begins. Throughout your journey, our team stays connected and ready to assist with any questions, schedule adjustments, transportation coordination, or unexpected situations. With local support available when you need it, you can relax and focus on enjoying your China experience with confidence.

Visitors in Zhujiajiao Private Tour
Personalized Trip Planning
Carefully Selected Services & Team
Final Trip Preparation & Travel Tips
24/7 Local Support Throughout Your Journey
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Jennifer

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What Our Travelers Say

More Reviews
Fenghuang ancient water town with stone arch bridges and traditional buildings at sunrise
Marlowe
August 21, 2026
I had never traveled around China by high-speed train before, so I wasn't sure what to expect. Once we got the hang of it, it was actually one of the easiest parts of the trip. Having someone meet us at the stations was especially helpful because some of the stations are enormous. We could just get off the train, find our driver and move on.
Aerial view of Qingdao Catholic church with twin orange spires, coastal old town, Shandong
Soren
August 18, 2026
If you like old architecture, bring a camera. Badaguan was probably my favorite part because every street seemed to have a slightly different look. The church and railway station were also great photo stops. I liked that the tour wasn't only about famous sights — there was plenty of time to notice small details along the way.
Large bronze statue of Confucius framed by green trees, Qufu Shandong
Caelan
August 18, 2026
I knew Mount Tai would be the big highlight for me, but it was still better than expected. The views kept changing as we went higher, and there was something really special about seeing the old temples and inscriptions along the mountain. The whole trip was also very well organized. We had enough time at each place without feeling like we were constantly watching the clock.
Dusk view of Quancheng Square with lotus fountain and Jinan city skyline, Shandong
Anna
August 18, 2026
We really enjoyed the tour, although there is definitely a fair amount of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must. The old streets were probably my favorite part because there was something interesting around every corner. Baotu Spring was busy when we visited, but the water itself was beautiful. Overall, it was a very nice way to see the central part of Jinan in one day.
Traditional Chinese pavilion at Baotu Spring park, historic stone steles, Jinan Shandong
Nell Rowan
August 18, 2026
We only had half a day in Jinan, so this route worked really well for us. It felt like a good balance between seeing the famous sights and getting into the older parts of the city. I especially liked how relaxed the walking section was. Our driver was on time, communication was easy, and we never felt rushed.
Sunrise over Fanjing Mountain, ancient temple and iconic rock peak, Guizhou
Orlaith
August 18, 2026
There are definitely some long drives on this itinerary, so I wasn't sure how I would feel about that beforehand. Surprisingly, I didn't mind them much. The scenery changes constantly, and we passed through so many green mountain areas that I found myself looking out the window most of the time.
The whole trip also felt quite different from our previous China trips. It was less about famous city landmarks and more about landscapes, villages and seeing a different side of everyday life.
Huge natural Zhijin karst cave with underground river, warm lighting, Guizhou
Callum
August 18, 2026
I originally booked this mainly for Huangguoshu Waterfall, but the whole route ended up being much more interesting. The scenery around Xingyi was probably my favorite part. I loved the quieter roads, mountain views and small villages along the way. Our driver was also very helpful and always on time, which made the longer driving days much easier.
Traditional wooden stilt houses of Langde Miao Village, mountain?backed ethnic village in Guizhou
Carys
August 18, 2026
I booked this because I wanted something more cultural and less focused on the usual sightseeing spots, and it was exactly what I was hoping for. Langde and Basha were interesting for different reasons, but Zhaoxing was probably my favorite. Walking around in the evening with all the wooden houses and lights coming on was beautiful. The itinerary is fairly full, but it never felt like we were just jumping off the car, taking a photo and leaving. We had time to walk around and actually look at the villages. Lunches were simple and local, which I preferred.
Color?lit Guanyan karst cave with stalactites, underground water and tourists, Guilin
Cormac
August 18, 2026
Yangshuo was easily my favorite part of the trip. The sidecar ride was brilliant because we were out on small country roads with the karst mountains all around us. It felt much more memorable than seeing the same landscape from a tour bus. West Street was fun too, although very different from the countryside. The cooking class in the afternoon was also surprisingly enjoyable. We actually cooked rather than just watching someone else do everything.
Yingtianmen Gate of ancient Sui-Tang Luoyang imperial city, grand Tang dynasty architecture
Nerys
August 14, 2026
The Hanfu evening was something I almost skipped because I thought it might be too touristy. I'm very glad I didn't. Walking around Luoyi Ancient City dressed up, with the lights coming on and little performances happening around the streets, was genuinely fun. It was probably the most playful part of the trip after several days of museums and historical sites. Also, I ate far too many snacks that night.
Blooming peonies and ancient Chinese pavilion during Luoyang Peony Festival
Niall
August 13, 2026
The peonies were the main reason I booked this trip, and luckily they were in really good shape when we visited. The National Peony Garden was huge and there were so many different colors that I probably took too many photos.
I also liked that the tour didn't make the whole trip about flowers. Longmen Grottoes was completely different and probably the most memorable place overall. Our guide gave us enough background to understand what we were looking at, but we still had time to wander around by ourselves.
The train station pickup and drop-off were also very convenient. For a short two-day trip, everything felt quite straightforward.
Ancient bell tower and traditional old street scenery in Luoyang historic district
Carys
August 13, 2026
I thought the Hanfu experience would mainly be about getting dressed up and taking a few photos, but I ended up enjoying the whole day much more than expected. The hair and makeup were beautifully done, and everything felt quite natural once we were out exploring.
We visited a few of Luoyang's historic places along the way, but the best part was simply walking around in Hanfu and having time to enjoy the atmosphere. The whole day felt relaxed and fun, and I came home with some of my favorite photos from the trip.
Shaolin monks performing traditional martial arts stage show at Shaolin Temple
Orlaith
August 13, 2026
I was expecting this to be mostly a Shaolin Temple sightseeing trip, so the morning at the martial arts school was a really nice surprise. We got there early and watched the students training before joining some of the basic exercises. I lasted considerably less time than they did! The two-hour Kung Fu lesson was probably my favorite part. It was much more about stance, balance and repetition than I expected, which made me appreciate the performance on the last day a lot more. The driver was also very punctual throughout the trip, which made everything feel easy.
Lotus lanterns and entrance sign of Qingming Shanghe Garden in Kaifeng, Henan
Niamh
August 13, 2026
Before the trip, I was mostly interested in Luoyang and Shaolin, so I wasn't expecting Kaifeng to be my favorite day. Longting and the Iron Pagoda were interesting, but Qingming Riverside Landscape Garden was what really stayed with me. We went in the afternoon and the atmosphere gradually became more lively. The old-style streets, bridges and waterways made it easy to imagine what a busy Song Dynasty city might have felt like. It was also nice to have a day that wasn't just about temples and monuments.
Grand Vairocana Buddha cliff carving at Longmen Grottoes, Luoyang China
Mireille
August 13, 2026
We visited in summer and, wow, Luoyang was hot. Longmen was still absolutely worth it, but bring water and wear comfortable shoes! We were glad the day wasn't packed with outdoor sights. After spending a few hours at Longmen, we were definitely ready for some air conditioning and a cold drink. The next morning at White Horse Temple felt much easier, and having a slower start made a big difference.
Ancient gate of Shaolin Temple, home of Chinese Kung?fu
Eira
August 13, 2026
I came mostly for Shaolin Kung Fu, but the temple and Pagoda Forest gave me a much better understanding of where the tradition comes from. The temple grounds were quite peaceful, which I wasn't really expecting. The Kung Fu performance was definitely the most fun part for me. Some of the movements looked almost impossible. Our driver was also very punctual, which made the second day much easier since we had a train to catch afterward.
Main gate of White Horse Temple, China's first ancient Buddhist temple in Luoyang
Elio
August 13, 2026
I originally thought we could just take taxis between everything ourselves. After looking at the locations, I changed my mind. Having the car waiting for us made a big difference, especially with only one day. The driver was on time, the vehicle was comfortable, and we didn't waste time figuring out where to go next. I also liked that we weren't pushed through the Old Town. We had some free time to wander around and grab snacks. Small thing, but it made the day feel much more like a trip and less like a checklist.
Lit giant Buddha statue cliff carving night scenery at Longmen Grottoes Luoyang
Elara
August 12, 2026
I was a little worried about doing Longmen Grottoes and Shaolin Temple in one day, but the whole thing was much easier than I expected. The driver was already waiting when we arrived in Luoyang and everything moved pretty smoothly from there. I especially liked that we didn't have to think about getting from Luoyang to Dengfeng ourselves. The day was busy, but it never felt chaotic.
Classical Chinese pavilion and clear spring water at Baotu Spring Park, Jinan
Ivo Merritt
August 12, 2026
We considered doing Jinan, Mount Tai and Qufu on our own, but after looking at the transport between the three places, we decided to book a private tour.
Honestly, it saved us a lot of hassle. The driver was already waiting when we came out of the hotel, the transfers were smooth, and we didn't spend half the day figuring out where to go next. We could also leave our luggage in the car during the transfers. The itinerary is fairly full, but the organization made it manageable.
Colorful stalactite and stalagmite landscape inside Tai'an Underground Dragon Palace
Tavian Brooks
August 12, 2026
I wasn't sure what to expect from the Underground Dragon Palace, but the rafting ended up being one of the funniest parts of the trip. It's not some crazy white-water ride, so don't expect that — it's more of a strange and enjoyable way to see the cave. After spending most of the previous day climbing stairs, sitting in a raft underground felt pretty perfect. The cave itself was also much bigger than I expected.

Shanghai Travel Guide

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Explore Top Destinations With Buer China Travel

Can I take a train from Shanghai to other cities?

Yes. Shanghai's high-speed rail network connects to many popular destinations, including Hangzhou (45–60 min), Suzhou (25–35 min), Nanjing (1–1.5 hrs), and Beijing (4.5–6 hrs), making onward travel fast and convenient.

How many days should I spend in Shanghai?

3–4 days is ideal for first-time visitors, with extra time if you plan to visit nearby cities like Hangzhou or Suzhou.

Is Shanghai easy for English speakers?

Yes. English is commonly available at airports, hotels, major attractions, and many restaurants. Translation apps also make getting around easy.

Which airport should I fly into?

Shanghai Pudong (PVG): Best for most international flights.
Shanghai Hongqiao (SHA): Best for domestic flights and high-speed rail connections.


Are there direct flights to Shanghai?

Yes. Shanghai offers direct flights from major cities across Asia, Europe, North America, Australia, and the Middle East, making it one of China's most connected international hubs.

Is Shanghai the best city to enter China?

Yes. Shanghai is one of the best gateways to China, with excellent international flight connections, modern transportation, and easy access to cities like Hangzhou, Suzhou, Beijing, and Xi'an.

Is Shanghai safe for international travelers?

Yes. Shanghai is considered one of the safest major cities in China, with a low crime rate and well-developed public infrastructure. Visitors can generally explore the city comfortably, even in the evening.

What is the best way to get from Shanghai Airport to the city center?

Shanghai has convenient airport transportation options, including metro, airport buses, taxis, and private transfers. For first-time visitors with luggage, a private transfer or taxi is usually the most comfortable option, while the metro is a budget-friendly choice.

What is Shanghai famous for besides the Bund?

Besides the Bund, Shanghai is famous for its historic neighborhoods, shikumen architecture, local food, coffee culture, shopping streets, and the unique mix of traditional and modern Chinese life.

Is Shanghai a good base for exploring other cities?

Yes. Shanghai has excellent high-speed rail connections to nearby destinations such as Hangzhou, Suzhou, and water towns, making it a convenient starting point for exploring the Jiangnan region.

Ready to Start Your Journey?

Share your travel goals and preferences with us. From logistics to local experiences, we will craft a comprehensive, tailor-made plan and detailed cost breakdown to ensure a seamless trip.

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>12 years old

2~11 years old

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