Private Shanghai Gangster Tour

Shanghai’s gangster history comes alive in this private tour that takes you beyond the usual sights. Led by guides in character, you’ll explore the hidden side of the city’s past when crime lords ruled the streets and opulence was built on shady deals. This is not your typical sightseeing experience — it’s a chance to uncover the secrets behind Shanghai’s colonial-era underworld.

What we love about this tour is its personalized approach, its fascinating storytelling, and the opportunity to add on something a little more daring like a visit to a shooting range. However, it’s important to note that this experience is designed for those with moderate physical fitness and an interest in history that’s a bit darker than usual. Perfect for history buffs, curious travelers, or anyone wanting a different perspective on Shanghai’s heritage.

Key Points

• Private experience offers a more tailored, intimate exploration of Shanghai’s criminal past
• Authentic storytelling brings the city’s gangster era vividly to life
• Add-on shooting range offers a unique, adrenaline-fueled extra (optional)
• Accessible and convenient meeting point near public transit in the Xu Hui district
• Highly praised guides like George, Daniel, and Luke are known for their knowledge and engaging style
• Great value for the price at $115.68, especially considering the personalized service and included extras

Why Choose the Private Shanghai Gangster Tour?

This tour stands out because it offers a rare glimpse into a lesser-known part of Shanghai’s history. It’s perfect for travelers who want more than just surface-level sightseeing; instead, you get a vivid picture of the city’s criminal underbelly during the colonial era. The private nature means no large crowds, and the guides often stay in character, making it feel like stepping back in time.

One of the biggest draws for many reviews is the guides’ knowledge and character. Guides like George, Daniel, and Luke are frequently praised for their storytelling, humor, and ability to make history engaging. We’ve seen comments like “David was like a history teacher,” and “Daniel was enthusiastic and a talented storyteller.” That passion helps bring the stories of gangsters like Big Eared Du and the White Russian community vividly to life.

The tour’s flexibility and options to extend the experience, such as a visit to a shooting range, allow for a more exhilarating day. Plus, the inclusion of a free drink at a historic property and lessons on gambling tricks (Black Jack and Craps) add a playful touch that many find memorable.

The Itinerary in Detail

The experience takes around two hours, making it a manageable yet immersive dive into Shanghai’s criminal past. The stops are carefully chosen to highlight key figures and locations that reveal the city’s dark side.

Stop 1: The Mansion of Big Eared Du

The tour kicks off at the luxurious home of Big Eared Du, one of Shanghai’s most powerful Chinese crime bosses. Here, you’ll learn why Du was so revered and how he managed to avoid jail despite his illicit activities, especially his opium dealings. Many reviews praise the guide’s storytelling here, describing this as a “great visualisation of the underworld’s opulence and power.”

Stop 2: The Customs Officer’s Residence

Next, you’ll see where a Chinese customs officer once lived. This figure was a thorn in Du’s side, battling corruption and illegal trade. The contrast between these two figures paints a vivid picture of the complex power struggles in 1930s Shanghai.

Stop 3: The Dutch Con-man’s House

This stop reveals the story of a Dutch con artist who pulled off daylight robberies, only to be ousted by a more ruthless successor. The building’s history, including its transfer of power, offers insights into the ruthless opportunism that thrived in the city’s shady side.

Stop 4: The White Russian Community

Finally, the tour visits where the White Russians lived and worked, outnumbering the French community three to one in the 1930s. The White Russians’ notorious reputation and their influence on Shanghai’s underworld are key highlights, offering a glimpse into the multicultural chaos that defined that era.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes a private guided walk led by a native English speaker, ensuring you get detailed and engaging narration. All the stops described are part of the experience, and the flexibility of the private setup means the guide can adapt slightly to your interests.

The extras are what make this tour particularly appealing: the option to add a visit to a shooting range for some adrenaline, a free drink at a historic property, and a quick lesson in gambling tricks. These elements elevate what might otherwise be a straightforward walk into a multi-sensory experience.

However, note that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the starting point. Food and drinks, besides the included beverage, are also not covered, giving you the freedom to explore local eateries afterwards.

The Experience and Guides

From reviews, guides like George, Daniel, and Luke consistently receive high marks for their enthusiasm, knowledge, and ability to stay in character. The tours are often described as “interesting,” “fun,” and “educational,” with guides going beyond rote history to include vivid stories, humorous moments, and insider details.

For instance, Daniel’s storytelling is so engaging that one reviewer said he was like a “history teacher with a passion for intrigue.” Another visitor appreciated his enthusiasm and humor, noting that “he made it really fun,” which is essential for a tour that combines history with a bit of theatrical flair.

The guides’ ability to visualize scenes and bring characters to life makes the experience more immersive. Their storytelling style turns what could be dry facts into lively tales about Shanghai’s underworld figures, gang wars, and clandestine dealings.

The Value for Money

At $115.68 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering its private nature, the personalized attention, and the range of extras. Many reviews highlight the quality of guides and the depth of storytelling as worth the price, especially when compared to more generic group tours.

The optional add-ons, like the shooting range, provide a unique twist, making it more than just a sightseeing walk. Plus, the free drink and gambling lessons add a playful element that many travelers find memorable.

Accessibility and Practicalities

Meeting at a central location in Shanghai, near public transit, makes it easy to access. The tour requires moderate physical fitness — mainly walking and standing — but the pace is flexible. As it’s a private tour, you can adjust the focus or duration slightly if needed, making it more accommodating.

Keep in mind, the tour is booking well in advance (around 14 days), so plan ahead if you want to secure your spot. It’s recommended for travelers over 16, unless accompanied by an adult.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history enthusiasts, especially those intrigued by crime and the underworld. It suits travelers who appreciate engaging storytelling and are comfortable with a bit of theatrical role-playing. Given the optional shooting range, it also appeals to those seeking a more adrenaline-fueled experience.

It’s ideal for small groups or couples, since the private setup makes it intimate. If you’re after a unique look at Shanghai’s layered past, this tour will definitely satisfy.

Final Thoughts

This private Shanghai Gangster Tour provides a fascinating, entertaining, and highly personalized look into the city’s shadowy past. The guides’ storytelling skills, combined with carefully chosen stops, make it stand out from standard city walks. For an interesting mix of history, humor, and a touch of danger, you’ll find it well worth the price.

The optional extras and the engaging guides ensure that your two hours are packed with memorable moments. It’s perfect for those who want to see a different side of Shanghai, beyond the usual skyline and temples.

If you’re a curious traveler with a taste for stories of crime and intrigue, this tour is a must-do in Shanghai. It’s also a great way to connect with the city’s layered history in a fun, authentic way.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult, and the tour is generally suited for those with moderate physical fitness. It’s best for older kids interested in history or stories of crime.

Can I book a private tour for just a small group?
Yes, this is a private tour designed for your group only, providing a personalized experience.

Is transportation included?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the starting location.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a manageable but immersive experience.

Can I add the shooting range?
Yes, this is an optional extension you can choose to include, adding a more adrenaline-filled component to your tour.

What should I wear or prepare?
Comfortable walking shoes and casual attire are recommended. Be prepared for some walking and outdoor exposure, depending on the weather.

To sum it up, this private Shanghai Gangster Tour offers a compelling glimpse into the city’s darker history with knowledgeable guides and memorable storytelling. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking an authentic, engaging experience that combines history, culture, and a dash of danger. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for something different, this tour promises an entertaining journey into Shanghai’s shadowy past.