Private Tour of Zhujiajiao Ancient Water Town and Shanghai Tower

If you’re looking to get a well-rounded taste of Shanghai’s contrasting worlds — from its tranquil water towns to its soaring skyscrapers — this private tour offers a thoughtfully curated experience. It combines the serenity and history of Zhujiajiao, often called the “Oriental Venice,” with the awe-inspiring skyline views from Shanghai Tower’s 118th-floor observation deck.

We love that this tour provides a flexible schedule, allowing you to choose between morning or afternoon departures, making it easier to fit into your travel plans. The inclusion of a personal guide ensures you get insightful commentary, and the private nature means you won’t be sharing the experience with large crowds.

However, keep in mind that this tour runs around 6 to 7 hours, so it’s best suited for those with a full day to explore comfortably. If you’re keen on discovering both historical serenity and modern marvels in one day, this tour could be just what you need. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate a blend of culture, history, and spectacular views without the hassle of planning each detail yourself.

Key Points

• Balanced Experience: Combines ancient water town charm with modern city views.
• Private and Flexible: Personalized guides and flexible start times suit individual schedules.
• Value for Money: Includes entrance fees, a water ride, and a local meal if booked with lunch/dinner.
• Comfortable Transport: Air-conditioned vehicle for smooth transitions between sites.
• Authentic Insights: Guides are knowledgeable about local history, culture, and customs.
• Breathtaking Views: 360-degree visibility from the Shanghai Tower’s observation deck.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Discovering Zhujiajiao: A Tranquil Water Town

The journey begins with hotel pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle, making your transfer to Zhujiajiao, a water town established over 1,700 years ago. As you glide through the scenic waterways, you’ll witness traditional Ming and Qing Dynasty architecture, which has been remarkably preserved — a true window into old Shanghai’s charm.

Our guide, whose knowledge deeply enriches the experience, pointed out that many visitors comment on how the quiet elegance of the town contrasts sharply with the bustling city. The highlight here is the boat ride, which offers a leisurely perspective of the town’s riverside scenery. One reviewer mentioned that “the boat ride was peaceful and gave great views of the old houses lining the waterway,” emphasizing how this adds a distinctive, authentic touch to the visit.

You’ll also get to explore the Kezhi Garden, a Qing Dynasty-era private garden once owned by a wealthy local family. It’s a peaceful spot that showcases traditional Chinese landscape design, offering a break from the more commercialized parts of the town. The guide explained that Kezhi Garden, being a privately owned Qing Dynasty garden, provides a glimpse into historical leisure pursuits and garden aesthetics.

The Transition to Modernity: Shanghai Tower

After about three hours in Zhujiajiao, you’ll head back to the vibrant Pudong district. The drive itself is a scenic appetizer, with views of Shanghai’s stunning skyline. Once there, you’ll stroll along the skywalkway among towering steel giants, getting a feel for the city’s modern energy.

The highlight is definitely the Shanghai Tower, the world’s second tallest skyscraper. The high-speed lift, zooming up at 18 meters per second, gets you to the 118th-floor observation deck in just over a minute, a feat that never fails to thrill. Once at the top, the panoramic views are simply staggering: a 360-degree vista of sprawling cityscapes, historic neighborhoods, and the winding Huangpu River.

A reviewer appreciated the design of the tower, noting that “the views from the top made the ticket worth every penny,” and mentioned that “seeing the juxtaposition of traditional and ultra-modern Shanghai from above was a highlight.” If you’re a fan of architecture or cityscapes, this perspective offers a full appreciation of how Shanghai blends its past with its future.

Practical Details and Comfort

The entire experience is designed for comfort and convenience. The transportation is air-conditioned, which is a blessing on hot or humid days. The guide’s insights often include little-known facts or personal anecdotes, elevating the tour beyond a simple sightseeing trip.

The admission tickets to the Shanghai Tower observation deck and the Kezhi Garden are included, making it easier to budget and avoid long lines. If you opt for the lunch or dinner add-on, you’ll also enjoy a taste of local cuisine, adding an extra layer to this cultural journey.

Value and Considerations

At around $165.34 per person, the cost might seem high, but when you consider the private guide, transportation, entrance fees, and water town experience, it offers substantial value. The flexibility to choose your departure time helps you tailor the day to your pace, and the intimate setting allows for personalized attention.

One potential drawback is the duration — 6 to 7 hours might be too long for some travelers with a tight schedule. Also, if you’re not keen on water town scenery or skyscraper vistas, this combined experience might feel a bit broad. However, for those who want a well-rounded glimpse into Shanghai’s contrasting sides, it’s quite compelling.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This tour is ideal for travelers eager to see both the historic and modern sides of Shanghai without the hassle of organizing multiple tickets or transport. It suits those who enjoy learning from knowledgeable guides and want a personalized experience. Families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate a leisurely pace and stunning panoramic views will find this particularly appealing.

If you’re looking for a comprehensive day trip that balances relaxation, cultural insight, and cityscape beauty, this tour fits the bill.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup from Shanghai, making the start seamless.

Can I choose the departure time?
Absolutely, you can select either a morning or afternoon departure to suit your schedule.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, the admission to the Shanghai Tower’s observation deck and Kezhi Garden are included. The boat ride in Zhujiajiao is also covered.

What is the typical group size?
This is a private tour, so only your group will participate, ensuring a personalized experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can join but must be accompanied by an adult.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended; bring a camera for the views. If you opt for lunch/dinner, check for any specific dietary requests at booking.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 6 to 7 hours, depending on pace and traffic.

What if I want to visit a different tower?
The tour mentions you can replace Shanghai Tower with other famous towers like Oriental Pearl or Jinmao Tower if preferred.

Is this tour free cancellation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This private tour offers a thoughtfully balanced day exploring the contrasting worlds of old Shanghai and its futuristic skyline. The combination of Zhujiajiao’s historic waterways and the breathtaking views from Shanghai Tower is a compelling way to understand the city’s depth and dynamism.

While the price reflects the personalized service and inclusions, it’s a good value for travelers who want a seamless, insightful experience without the stress of logistics. The knowledgeable guides and stunning vistas make this a memorable way to spend a day in Shanghai, whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to explore deeper.

If you’re excited about seeing both the quiet elegance of traditional water towns and the thrill of towering skyscrapers, this tour is a solid choice. It’s best suited for curious travelers who appreciate comfortable pacing, expert insights, and high-quality sightseeing.

This experience strikes a great balance of culture, history, and modernity, making it perfect for those who want to truly understand Shanghai’s dual identity.