1 Day Shanghai: Ping Pong Experience & Bund Night Tour

1 Day Shanghai: Ping Pong Experience & Bund Night Tour – A Complete Review

Planning a day in Shanghai that combines cultural fun with stunning city views? This tour offers just that — a chance to swing a paddle at a renowned training center and then enjoy the glittering skyline of the city’s famous waterfront. It’s perfect for travelers eager to see a different side of Shanghai, blending athletic engagement with scenic sightseeing.

What makes this tour stand out is the chance to try authentic ping pong at a venue inspired by the world champion Xu Xin, along with a relaxed evening walk along the Bund, where you’ll see some of China’s most impressive skyscrapers illuminating the night. Plus, the small group size helps create an intimate experience, ideal for those who want to skip cookie-cutter tours.

However, keep in mind that dinner is not included, so you might want to plan ahead for a local meal afterward. This tour suits those who like a mix of active fun and scenic relaxation, especially if you’re curious about China’s favorite sport or want to see Shanghai’s skyline without the crowds.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic ping pong experience at a center inspired by world champion Xu Xin
• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a relaxed vibe
• Evening stroll along the iconic Bund, offering prime photo opportunities
• Comfortable transportation from downtown Shanghai makes logistics simple
• Keepsake ping pong souvenir adds a memorable memento of your day
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

Exploring the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Pickup and Start

Your day begins with a convenient pickup from your hotel in central Shanghai. The tour provider emphasizes a smooth start, with the group limited to just five participants, ensuring a more personalized experience. The small group size means you’re less likely to feel like just another face in a crowd, and guides are on hand to answer questions and tailor parts of the experience if needed.

Ping Pong at the Xu Xin Training Center

The highlight for many is the visit to the Xu Xin Training Center, a place inspired by one of China’s most celebrated table tennis champions. The facility is designed to give visitors a taste of the sport’s competitive atmosphere, complete with professional coaching and mini-games.

On the ground, you’ll experience the thrill of playing ping pong with equipment supplied. Guests have noted they’re encouraged to bring their own rackets if they prefer, but rentals are likely available. Reviewers mention the guide’s enthusiasm, and one noted that the coach was very friendly and helped beginners feel at ease—even if your ping pong skills are limited.

The experience is about fun rather than competition. It’s a chance to see the sport from a local perspective and understand its significance in Chinese culture. The facility’s design, inspired by Xu Xin, adds a layer of authenticity and prestige, making it more than just a casual game.

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Lunch and Free Time

After the ping pong session, you’ll return to the city center for your own meal. The tour provides recommendations for local eateries, so you can sample authentic Shanghai cuisine, whether that’s xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) or other regional dishes.

Evening Tour of the Bund

As the sun sets, the tour shifts gears toward scenic sightseeing. You’ll stroll along the Bund, Shanghai’s most famous waterfront promenade. The walk lasts about two hours, allowing ample time to admire the glittering Pudong skyline with its futuristic skyscrapers like the Shanghai Tower and Jin Mao Tower.

Many guests find the views breathtaking — and especially photogenic at night. The guide will point out notable landmarks, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to take postcard-worthy photos. Some reviews mention the walk as peaceful and relaxing, providing a chance to appreciate the city lights away from the daytime hustle.

Return and Keepsake

At the end of the evening, you’ll be dropped off back at your hotel. As a memento of your day, you’ll receive a ping pong souvenir, which can be a fun reminder of your visit. This small touch adds sentimental value, especially for those who enjoy collecting unique travel keepsakes.

Deep Dive: Why This Tour Offers Good Value

While the price of $179 might seem modest for a full day in Shanghai, it’s important to consider what you’re getting. The small group setting enhances the experience, making it more engaging and tailored. The transport is included, so you avoid the hassle of navigating public transit, and the professional coaching at the ping pong center adds a layer of authenticity and expertise that many standalone activities lack.

The evening walk along the Bund is a classic Shanghai experience, but doing it as part of an organized tour means you’ll benefit from local insights and tips you might miss exploring independently. Plus, the keepsake ping pong provides a tangible memory of a unique experience you won’t find in typical city tours.

What the Reviews Say

Guests appreciate the personal touch of the small group and the friendly guidance, often mentioning how the coach at the ping pong center made the sport accessible to beginners. One reviewer noted, “It was a lot of fun trying to hit the ball with the coach encouraging me — I felt like a star for a few minutes.”

Others loved the photo stops along the Bund, with comments about the breathtaking skyline views at night. However, a few pointed out that dinner isn’t included, so planning ahead for a meal afterward is advisable.

Practical Details: Transport, Timing, and Comfort

The tour’s pickup is from your downtown Shanghai hotel, with an emphasis on ease and comfort. The entire experience lasts about a day, with the ping pong session and city walk neatly divided. The limited group size means you’ll probably have more interaction with your guide, making it easier to ask questions or get personalized suggestions.

You’re encouraged to wear comfortable shoes for the walk and bring a change of clothes if you plan to get active at the ping pong center. Bringing your own racket is optional but might make you more comfortable if you’re used to a certain grip or style.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience appeals most to travelers looking for a lighthearted, culturally immersive day. It’s ideal for those who want to combine a bit of sport with sightseeing — especially if ping pong is a favorite or curiosity. The evening stroll suits photographers and those wanting to see Shanghai’s skyline without the daytime crowds.

It’s less suited for travelers who prefer luxury dining (dinner is on your own), or for seniors over 70 who might find the physical activity and walking challenging. The tour is also perfect for small groups and those who value personalized attention.

The Sum Up

In essence, this tour offers a balanced blend of active fun, cultural insight, and scenic beauty. It’s a compelling option for travelers who want to experience a quintessential Chinese sport while also soaking in Shanghai’s iconic night views, all within a small, friendly group.

The value lies in its authentic access — from professional ping pong coaching to a leisurely walk along the historic Bund — combined with the convenience of door-to-door pickup. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast, a photography buff, or simply someone looking to enjoy a different side of Shanghai, this tour delivers a memorable day with minimal hassle.

If you’re after a compact, well-organized experience that mixes sport, culture, and stunning vistas, this tour could be a highlight of your Shanghai trip.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel in downtown Shanghai, making logistics easy and stress-free.

Can I bring my own ping pong racket?
Yes, you’re welcome to bring your racket if you prefer, although the center provides equipment for the experience.

Do I need to be a ping pong pro?
Not at all. The experience is designed to be fun and inclusive, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player. The coach is friendly and helpful.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially for the walking part. A change of clothes might be useful if you get sweaty during the ping pong session.

Is dinner included?
No, dinner is not included. The tour provides restaurant suggestions in Shanghai for you to explore on your own.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts about a full day, with approximately 2 hours at the ping pong center and 2 hours walking along the Bund.

Is this tour suitable for seniors?
It may not be ideal for those over 70, as some physical activity and walking are involved. Check with the provider if you have concerns.

What’s the best time of day for the walk?
Evening is recommended to enjoy the stunning night views of the skyline and avoid daytime crowds.

How many people are in a group?
The group is limited to just five participants for a more intimate experience.

This tour combines a fun, authentic activity with the chance to see one of Shanghai’s most beloved sights—making it a great choice for those wanting a balanced, memorable day in China’s bustling metropolis.

You can check availability for your dates here: