If you’re fascinated by old Shanghai and love stepping into the scene of a classic film, this private tour of Shanghai Film Park offers a lively, visually stunning journey through the city’s cinematic past. It combines a stroll through meticulously recreated film sets with a vintage tram ride, giving you a taste of Shanghai’s glamorous 1920s and 30s heyday—all within just three hours.

What makes this experience particularly appealing? We love the chance to walk through iconic film sets that recreate the city’s historic streets, the unique vintage tram ride that adds a layer of fun and nostalgia, and the opportunity to capture postcard-worthy photos at well-known film locations like Kaisiling Café and Zhejiang Road Bridge. The guided commentary enhances the visit, sharing behind-the-scenes stories that bring the sets to life.

However, one consideration is the limited duration—if you’re a big fan of exploring in more depth or want to soak in every detail, this tour might feel a little brisk. Still, for those seeking a focused, visually engaging snapshot of old Shanghai, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s especially well suited for travelers with a love of cinema, photography, or vintage aesthetics who want a manageable, well-organized experience.

Key Points

Authentic Film Sets: Walk through carefully recreated scenes of 1920s and 30s Shanghai.
Vintage Tram Ride: Experience a nostalgic journey that adds charm and fun.
Photo Opportunities: Capture amazing images at famous filming locations like Kaisiling Café.
Expert Guided Tour: Learn the stories behind the sets from knowledgeable guides.
Live Performances: Watch stunt shows, cheongsam parades, and rickshaw performances (schedule permitting).
Family-Friendly: Free for children under six, making it accessible for families or groups.

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A Closer Look at the Experience

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What’s Included and How It’s Organized

This tour, priced at $234 for up to three people, offers a compact but comprehensive glimpse into Shanghai’s cinematic past. It’s designed as a private experience, meaning you’ll have a dedicated guide who shares insights into the history and significance of each set, making it more personalized than a group tour. The total duration is three hours, so it’s perfect for fit travelers who want a quick yet immersive experience.

Starting Point and Accessibility

Meeting at the main entrance of Shanghai Film and Television Park, with coordinates 31.009750366210938, 121.31198120117188, ensures you’ll easily find your guide. The tour is wheelchair accessible and features English-speaking guides, which makes it suitable for a broad range of visitors.

What You’ll See and Do

Once inside the park, the guide will lead you through a series of film sets designed to evoke 1920s and 30s Shanghai. Expect to walk through Shikumen lanes—traditional stone-gated houses that are a signature look of old Shanghai—and European-style villas reminiscent of the city’s international concessions era. These recreated streets aren’t just for show—they’re built with painstaking detail, allowing you to step into a bygone era.

The old city wall and docks along Suzhou Creek add historical context, giving you a layered sense of the city’s transformation over the decades. As you stroll, your guide will share stories behind each set, from famous TV dramas to blockbuster movies, bringing the scenes to life.

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The Vintage Tram and Steam Train Ride

One of the highlights is the vintage Nanjing Road tram or an old steam train that whisks you around the park. This isn’t just a mode of transportation; it’s a nostalgic experience that transports you back in time. The tram allows for excellent photo opportunities, especially at bustling street scenes or at iconic spots like the Zhejiang Road Bridge.

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Photo Stops and Film Locations

Photographers and Instagram fans will appreciate the opportunity to pose at locations such as Kaisiling Café—a popular filming site—and the Zhejiang Road Bridge with its vintage cars and cityscape backdrops. These spots are frequently used in period dramas, so you’ll get a sense of what it’s like to be on a film set.

Live Shows and Performances

Depending on the day, you may catch live stunt shows, traditional iron-spark Da Tie Hua performances, cheongsam parades, or rickshaw performances. These acts add a lively, theatrical layer to the experience, though schedules can vary, so check in advance if a specific show is a must-see.

A Detailed Breakdown of the Tour

The Film Sets

Walking through the sets is akin to stepping into a Hollywood backlot, but with a distinctly Shanghai twist. The sets are designed to look authentic, with period-specific signage, costumes, and architecture. The guide’s commentary helps clarify which scenes or dramas were filmed here, making each photo and walk more meaningful.

Guests report that the sets are remarkably detailed, and many mention how these recreate a golden age of Shanghai—glamorous, bustling, and full of character. Reviewers also note that guides are quite knowledgeable, often sharing insider stories about the filming process, which deepens the experience.

Walking Through Shikumen Lanes and European Villas

The Shikumen lanes evoke the traditional Shanghai neighborhood style, with narrow alleys and stone houses, perfect for those interested in architectural history or authentic street scenes. The European-style villas are a stark contrast, reflecting the city’s colonial past, and offer a picturesque backdrop for photos.

The Old City Wall and Docks

You’ll also visit remnants of the old city wall and the docks along Suzhou Creek, which serve as historical markers of Shanghai’s growth from a walled city into a global metropolis. These spots provide a mix of history and scenery that enriches your understanding of the city’s evolution.

The Tram Ride and Photo Opportunities

The tram or steam train ride is brief but impactful. You can expect to hop on vintage vehicles that mimic the city’s old transportation system, with scenic views that make for great photos. Reviewers have pointed out that the tram is fun and adds a sense of adventure, especially for children or nostalgic adults.

Performances and Parades

While live performances are subject to schedule, those who have seen them praise the cheongsam parade for its elegance and the rickshaw acts for their lively nature. The “live stunt shows” add excitement and are often a highlight for visitors who enjoy action and spectacle.

Value and Practical Considerations

Price and What You’re Getting

At $234 for a group of three, this tour offers a focused, high-quality experience. Paying for a private guide means tailored commentary and flexibility. Compared to larger group tours, this setup allows for more personal interaction and the chance to ask in-depth questions.

Duration and Pacing

Three hours is a tight window—enough to see the main highlights without feeling rushed. For visitors with limited time or those who want a curated, informative experience rather than wandering on their own, this is ideal.

Suitability

This tour suits those interested in film, history, or vintage aesthetics. Families with children under six can join for free, making it more accessible for a family outing. It’s also good for photography enthusiasts who want high-quality shots in a controlled environment.

Accessibility and Flexibility

The tour is wheelchair accessible and features a flexible booking policy—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This makes planning easier, especially if your schedule shifts unexpectedly.

Final Thoughts

This Shanghai Film Park private tour with tram ride offers a unique, visually engaging look into Shanghai’s cinematic and architectural past. It’s a perfect choice for travelers wanting a manageable, story-rich experience that blends sightseeing with nostalgia. The detailed sets, authentic costumes, and lively performances create a vibrant atmosphere that transports you back in time.

The inclusion of a vintage tram ride adds a fun, photogenic element, making it especially appealing for those who love vintage aesthetics or want memorable pictures. While the tour is short at three hours, it’s packed with highlights that provide a clear window into old Shanghai, making it a valuable addition to any itinerary focused on culture, history, or film.

Overall, it’s a well-organized, immersive experience that balances storytelling with visual spectacle, suitable for a variety of travelers—from film buffs to history lovers to photographers—and offers good value for the price paid.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children under six years old can join for free, making it a family-friendly activity. Children over six will find it engaging, especially with performances and photo opportunities.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately three hours, covering all main highlights in a focused manner.

Is the tour private or part of a larger group?
It’s a private tour for up to three people, offering a more personalized experience with a dedicated guide.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the guided tour, tram or steam train ride, and entry to film set locations. Performances are subject to daily schedules.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for guests with mobility needs.

Where do I meet the guide?
At the main entrance of Shanghai Film and Television Park, with the exact coordinates 31.009750366210938, 121.31198120117188.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled start for a full refund.

Are there food or shopping options included?
No, the tour focuses on sightseeing and performances. However, the park has cafes and shops you can explore afterward.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended as there is some walking involved. Bring a camera for photos and perhaps an umbrella if you’re visiting during unpredictable weather.

Is this tour available in languages other than English?
Currently, the tour is offered in English, with guides knowledgeable about the history and filming stories.

This tour provides a dynamic, visually rich glimpse into Shanghai’s film and architectural past, perfect for a quick but meaningful cultural fix. Whether you’re a film lover, history buff, or photographer, this experience is a charming way to enjoy the city’s cinematic history.