From Shanghai: Water Town Zhujiajiao Tour With Gondola Ride

Nestled just outside of Shanghai, the historic water town of Zhujiajiao offers a serene escape from the bustling city. On this private tour, visitors can enjoy the town’s centuries-old architecture, serene canals, and traditional Chinese culture. From a scenic gondola ride to exploring ancient stone bridges and gardens, this excursion promises an enchanting glimpse into a well-preserved slice of China’s past. For those seeking a tranquil respite and cultural enrichment, this tour is an opportunity not to be missed.

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Key Points

This 6-hour private tour from Shanghai takes visitors to the historic water town of Zhujiajiao, including a guided walking tour and optional gondola ride.
The tour includes round-trip transportation from downtown Shanghai hotels, entrance fees, and an English-speaking guide, with gratuities not included in the £120.52 per person cost.
Highlights of the tour include exploring the town’s ancient stone bridges, such as the famous Fangsheng Bridge, and visiting the Hexin Garden to see its collection of antiques and artworks.
The walking tour through Zhujiajiao’s winding streets provides a glimpse into the town’s tranquil atmosphere and traditional architecture along the picturesque canals.
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or individuals over 95 years old, and comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

Travelers can experience the tranquil water town of Zhujiajiao on a 6-hour private tour from Shanghai. Costing £120.52 per person, the tour includes a live English-speaking guide and a private group experience.

Pickup is from downtown Shanghai hotels, followed by a 1.5-hour drive to Zhujiajiao. In the town, visitors will explore Hexin Garden, go on a guided walking tour, and see the historic Fangsheng Bridge.

An optional 20-minute gondola ride offers a unique view of the area. The tour includes transportation, entrance fees, and hotel pickup and drop-off, though gratuities aren’t included.

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Itinerary Details

The tour begins with pickup from downtown Shanghai hotels within the Outer Ring, followed by a 1.5-hour drive to Zhujiajiao.

The tour begins with pickup from downtown Shanghai hotels within the Outer Ring, followed by a 1.5-hour drive to Zhujiajiao.

In the ancient water town, visitors explore Hexin Garden for 45 minutes, admiring the Chinese antiques and artworks.

Then, a 1.5-hour guided tour takes them through the winding streets and alleys. They’ll see the Fangsheng Bridge, the longest and oldest stone bridge in the greater Shanghai area, built in 1571.

An optional 20-minute gondola ride offers a unique perspective of the town.

Finally, it’s a 1.5-hour return trip back to Shanghai.

Hexin Garden Exploration

After being picked up from their downtown Shanghai hotels, visitors are taken to the Hexin Garden, where they spend 45 minutes exploring the ancient Chinese antiques and artworks on display. The garden showcases a fascinating collection, including:

| Item | Description |

| — | — |

| Antique Furniture | Ornate wooden pieces dating back centuries |

| Jade Carvings | Intricate sculptures of animals and deities |

| Calligraphy Scrolls | Historic examples of Chinese calligraphy art |

With a knowledgeable guide on hand, guests can learn about the historical significance and cultural value of the Hexin Garden’s impressive exhibits.

Zhujiajiao Walking Tour

From the Hexin Garden, the tour proceeds to the water town of Zhujiajiao, where visitors embark on a 1.5-hour guided walking tour through the winding streets and alleys.

The guide leads the group along the town’s ancient stone bridges, such as the historic Fangsheng Bridge built in 1571.

Tourists have the option to take a 20-minute gondola ride for a unique perspective of the town’s tranquil canals and traditional architecture.

After the walking tour, the group travels back to Shanghai, arriving approximately 1.5 hours later, completing the 6-hour private excursion from the city.

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Fangsheng Bridge Highlights

One of the highlights of the Zhujiajiao tour is the historic Fangsheng Bridge, a stone bridge built in 1571 that’s the longest and oldest of its kind in the greater Shanghai area. This iconic landmark spans the tranquil canals, offering visitors a picturesque view of the water town.

| Bridge Facts | Value |

|————–|——-|

| Year Built | 1571 |

| Length | 100m |

| Material | Stone |

| Arch Count | 7 |

| Designation | Oldest stone bridge in Shanghai region |

The Fangsheng Bridge is a must-see for its architectural significance and serene setting, providing a glimpse into Zhujiajiao’s rich history and natural beauty.

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Gondola Ride Experience

Along With the historical highlights, the tour also includes an optional 20-minute gondola ride that provides a unique perspective of Zhujiajiao.

Gliding along the narrow canals, visitors can admire the charming ancient architecture and bridges from the comfort of a traditional wooden boat. The gentle ride allows travelers to soak in the tranquil atmosphere of the water town at a leisurely pace.

The gondola experience is an excellent way to complement the walking tour, offering a different vantage point to appreciate Zhujiajiao’s picturesque scenery and timeless ambiance.

Transportation and Inclusions

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off service, transporting participants to Zhujiajiao in a private air-conditioned vehicle.

Entrance fees for the Hexin Garden and a 20-minute boat ride are covered. Gratuities for the driver and guide aren’t included.

This private tour experience is ideal for those who want a hassle-free way to explore the charming water town. With a knowledgeable English-speaking guide leading the way, visitors can enjoy the historic architecture and serene canals without worrying about logistics.

The tour is fully customizable based on individual interests.

Important Considerations

This private tour has a few important considerations for prospective participants.

First, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or individuals over 95 years old due to the walking involved. Comfortable shoes are recommended, as the guided tour in Zhujiajiao covers winding streets and alleys.

While the tour itinerary is generally fixed, it can be customized based on interests. Guests should check availability for desired starting times.

Finally, gratuities for the driver and guide aren’t included in the tour price, so participants should budget accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

No, the tour doesn’t allow participants to bring their own food and drinks. Meals and refreshments are not included in the tour, but visitors can purchase them during the sightseeing stops or the gondola ride.

Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?

There is no specific discount for children or seniors on this private tour. The base price of £120.52 per person applies to all participants, regardless of age. However, the tour is customizable, so discounts may be available for certain modifications.

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Photography is allowed during the tour. The tour guide encourages guests to take pictures to capture the scenic views and historic sights of Zhujiajiao. However, visitors should be mindful of any restrictions or cultural sensitivities when taking photographs.

Can We Extend the Duration of the Tour?

Yes, the duration of the tour can be extended. The tour is customizable, so travelers can discuss extending the tour with the tour operator based on their interests and availability.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Hidden Costs?

There are no additional fees or hidden costs for this tour. The price includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transport, entrance fees, and a boat ride. Gratuities for the driver and guide are the only optional extra.

The Sum Up

The Zhujiajiao Water Town tour from Shanghai offers a unique opportunity to take in the town’s rich history and captivating waterways. Highlights include a guided walking tour, exploring Hexin Garden, and a scenic gondola ride, providing a well-rounded cultural experience. With comfortable transportation and a knowledgeable guide, this tour is a must-do excursion for those seeking to discover the enchanting charm of this water town.