Spend an afternoon exploring Shanghai’s vibrant dessert scene on this 3-hour guided tour. You’ll visit 8 local shops, indulging in traditional Chinese tea and a variety of delectable treats. From the significance of mooncakes to a captivating tea ceremony, this experience promises to immerse you in the city’s rich culinary culture. At $77 per person, it’s a chance to uncover the delightful flavors that make Shanghai a top destination for dessert enthusiasts.
Key Points
- A 3-hour guided tour exploring the world of Chinese afternoon tea and local desserts in Shanghai.
- Opportunity to taste mooncakes, milk pudding with purple sticky rice, and other unique local sweets.
- Witness a traditional Chinese tea ceremony and learn about different tea types and their characteristics.
- Tour includes skip-the-line access to the meeting point at the South Huangpi Road metro station.
- Positive customer reviews highlighting the personalized attention from the guide and the unique cultural insights provided.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Shanghai 3-Hour Afternoon Tea Tasting and Dessert Tour is priced from $77.00 per person and lasts for 3 hours.
Discover the art of Chinese afternoon tea and local desserts with this 3-hour tasting tour for $77 per person.
Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and they can reserve their spot without paying upfront.
The tour includes a guided experience of discovering Chinese afternoon tea and local desserts, such as mooncakes, icy treats, and a traditional tea ceremony.
The meeting point is at the South Huangpi Road metro station, and the tour provides skip-the-line access and hotel pick-up and drop-off services.
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Tour Experience and Highlights
This tour allows visitors to discover the depths of Chinese afternoon tea and indulge in a variety of local desserts.
Guests will taste delectable mooncakes from Huaihai Road dessert shops and witness a traditional Chinese tea ceremony. They’ll sample icy desserts like milk pudding with purple sticky rice, papaya, sago, and mango puree.
The tour visits 8 different dessert shops, a small museum, and a beautiful park, providing an immersive cultural experience.
A live English-speaking guide enhances the journey with personalized attention and engaging conversations about the significance of the local sweets and tea.
Meeting Point and Logistics
To start the tour, guests meet at the Metro line 1, South Huangpi Road station, exit 2. Through a separate entrance, they skip the line.
The tour includes a local guide who’s fluent in English. During the 3-hour experience, guests visit 8 different dessert shops, a small museum, and a beautiful park.
They enjoy a traditional Chinese tea ceremony and sample a variety of local desserts, including mooncakes, milk pudding, and icy treats.
Hotel pick-up and drop-off are provided, ensuring a seamless and convenient experience.
Customer Reviews and Ratings
According to customer reviews, the Shanghai Afternoon Tea Tour has an impressive overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 12 reviews.
Travelers praised the tour guide for their personalized attention and engaging conversations, the unique experience of local sweets and cultural insights, and the non-touristy approach with in-depth discussions.
Highlights from reviewers include:
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Diego Bretanha: "The guide provided personalized attention and engaging conversations."
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Hayden: "Enjoyed the unique experience of local sweets, sightseeing, and cultural insights."
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Ekaterina: "Appreciated the non-touristy approach and in-depth cultural discussions."
Tour Features and Cultural Significance
The Shanghai Afternoon Tea Tour offers an immersive experience into the cultural significance of Chinese tea and desserts. Mooncakes, a highlight of the tour, symbolize family reunion during the Mid-Autumn Festival. Guests also learn about the distinctive characteristics of green tea from Hangzhou and black tea from Fujian. The tour’s cultural insights go beyond just tasting – it provides an opportunity to understand local lifestyle and traditions through guided discussions.
| Tea Type | Origin | Key Characteristics |
| — | — | — |
| Green Tea | Hangzhou | Fresh, grassy, delicate |
| Black Tea | Fujian | Robust, malty, full-bodied |
| Oolong Tea | Fujian | Fragrant, floral, balanced |
| White Tea | Fujian | Subtle, sweet, light |
| Herbal Tea | Various | Medicinal, soothing, diverse |
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Discovering Chinese Afternoon Tea
Although afternoon tea is a beloved British tradition, the tour invites guests to enjoy Shanghai’s distinct tea culture.
The experience features:
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A traditional Chinese tea ceremony, where guests learn about the intricate preparation and serving rituals.
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Sampling a variety of premium teas, including green tea from Hangzhou and black tea from Fujian, each with its own unique flavor profile.
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Engaging discussions with the knowledgeable guide, who provides insights into the cultural significance and history of these cherished tea traditions.
Visitors gain a deeper appreciation for the art of Chinese tea drinking during this immersive afternoon tea journey.
Indulging in Local Desserts
While the traditional tea ceremony provides a culture, the tour also celebrates Shanghai’s vibrant dessert scene.
Guests indulge in a variety of local sweets, including the iconic mooncakes. These pastries, symbolic of family reunion during the Mid-Autumn Festival, offer a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
The tour also features icy desserts like milk pudding with purple sticky rice, papaya, sago, and mango puree, showcasing the city’s diverse culinary heritage.
Experiencing a Traditional Tea Ceremony
Alongside the indulgence in local desserts, the tour also provides an opportunity to experience a traditional Chinese tea ceremony.
The tea ceremony is a revered cultural practice that dates back centuries. Guests can expect:
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An in-depth explanation of different tea varieties, their origins, and preparation methods.
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Demonstration of the precise techniques involved in brewing the perfect cup of tea.
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Immersion in the serene ambiance and tranquil rituals that define the traditional tea ceremony.
This authentic experience allows participants to gain a deeper appreciation for the art of Chinese tea culture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tour Suitable for Vegetarians or Those With Dietary Restrictions?
The tour is suitable for vegetarians and those with dietary restrictions. The guide can accommodate alternative options for desserts and tea, ensuring everyone enjoys the experience. Guests should notify the tour operator of any special dietary needs in advance.
Can I Take Photos During the Tour and Are There Any Restrictions?
Yes, you can take photos during the tour. There are no restrictions, and photography is encouraged to capture the unique desserts and cultural experiences. The tour guide will even assist with the best photo opportunities.
What Is the Minimum Group Size Required for the Tour?
The tour has no minimum group size requirement. Travelers can book the tour individually or as a group. The tour operates with both small and large group sizes, allowing for a personalized experience.
Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment or Attire for the Tour?
No special equipment or attire is required for the tour. Casual, comfortable clothing and walking shoes are recommended. The tour will provide all necessary items, including tea and desserts, as part of the overall experience.
Are There Any Discounts or Promotions Available for the Tour?
There are no special discounts or promotions mentioned for this tour. The standard price is $77 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Booking now and paying later is an option.
The Sum Up
The Shanghai 3-Hour Afternoon Tea Tasting and Dessert Tour offers a delightful way to explore the city’s rich culinary heritage. Theres some good a variety of local desserts, learn about the cultural significance of Chinese tea, and experience a traditional tea ceremony, all while enjoying personalized attention from an English-speaking guide. At $77 per person, this tour provides a unique and engaging experience for those seeking to enjoy Shanghai’s vibrant food culture.
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