Shanghai: Southern Great Wall Day Trip by Bullet Train

If you’re craving a break from Shanghai’s bustling streets but want to stay close enough for a meaningful day out, this tour offers a fantastic solution. It promises a visit to the Southern Great Wall in Zhejiang, a less crowded alternative to Beijing’s more famous sections, coupled with scenic parks and charming old streets. What makes this experience stand out? The seamless bullet train journey, the chance to walk along centuries-old fortifications, and the opportunity to indulge in local delicacies while exploring authentic Chinese culture.

What we love about this tour are its convenience and personalized touch—from the private guide to the tailored itinerary—and the chance to see a different side of China’s historical landscape. The opportunity to explore a Jin Dynasty-era wall, stroll through a classical Chinese garden, and visit Ziyang Old Street makes this a well-rounded cultural day. The only thing to keep in mind? It’s quite a packed schedule, so be prepared for a full day of walking and exploring. Still, with excellent reviews praising guides and sights alike, this trip is ideal for history lovers, families, and anyone eager to see beyond the typical tourist spots.

Key Points

• Comfortable High-Speed Travel: The bullet train from Shanghai offers a quick, smooth ride, making the journey itself part of the adventure.
• Tailored Experience: Your private guide personalizes your day, sharing insights and adjusting activities based on your interests.
• Historic and Scenic Highlights: Walk along the Linhai Great Wall, visit a serene Chinese garden, and explore a lively old street—each offering unique photo opportunities.
• Local Flavors and Cultural Touches: Enjoy authentic local dishes at a buffet restaurant, and experience traditional performances at the end of the day.
• Well-organized and Punctual: According to positive reviews, the logistics flow smoothly, with clear instructions and attentive guides.
• Value for Money: At $399 per person, including train fare, guided tours, meals, and tickets, it provides a comprehensive, hassle-free day.

Starting Point: Convenient Hotel Pickup and High-Speed Train

Your day begins early, with pickup from your Shanghai hotel—a luxury that many travelers appreciate, especially after a restful night. The guide is ready to answer any last-minute questions and make sure everyone is comfortable before heading to Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station.

The highlight here? The bullet train ride. Traveling at speeds of over 350 km/h, the train is surprisingly smooth, with reviewers like Peter praising the experience as “hardly feeling we were moving.” This part of the tour alone is worth the price, turning a typical day trip into a memorable journey. During the two-hour ride, your guide will offer insights into the area’s history or answer your questions, making the travel time both informative and relaxing.

First Stop: Linhai City and Local Delights

Once in Linhai, the tour shifts gears to refueling—literally. A buffet restaurant provides a variety of local dishes, including dumplings and desserts. This is a good chance to recharge, especially if you’ve traveled from Shanghai early in the morning. Reviewers like Theresa mention how helpful it is that guides accommodate dietary restrictions, which adds to the overall comfort of the experience.

The Tranquility of Donghu Garden

Next, we visit Donghu Garden, a traditional Chinese style garden renowned for its peaceful lakes and lush greenery. Walking through well-maintained pathways, you’re invited to relax and take in the scenery. This stop isn’t just about pretty pictures; it’s a true escape from urban life. Reviewers praise the time spent here as “serene” and “perfect for photography,” making it ideal for those who love nature and architecture.

Walking the Southern Great Wall

The core of the day: walking along the Linhai Great Wall, also called the Jiangnan Great Wall. Built during the Jin Dynasty (317-420 AD), it’s historically significant yet far less crowded than the Badaling section in Beijing. The wall originally stretched 6,000 meters, but today, about 5,000 meters are accessible for visitors.

Walking the wall provides a tangible sense of history. The wall’s design is attributed to the same architect behind China’s famous Badaling section, which adds to its architectural importance. Expect to spend about 2-3 hours here, exploring the ramparts and taking in stunning views. Reviewers like Danielle describe the walk as “incredible,” and note that even the steep stairs are authentic, with some side routes available for those less mobile.

Pro tip: Wear comfortable shoes and bring sun protection, as highlighted by Theresa, who noted the heat and humidity. Several reviews mention that guides are attentive, making sure everyone stays safe and enjoys each step.

Exploring Ziyang Old Street

After the wall, it’s time to visit Ziyang Old Street—a lively historical district filled with shops, restored buildings, and local crafts. Strolling along the street, you’ll find plenty of souvenirs, snacks, and photo ops. According to reviews, this is a highlight for many, offering the chance to browse traditional architecture and taste local specialties.

The street has been a venue for cultural events, including a Chinese New Year Gala, making it a lively and culturally rich environment. An hour of wandering here allows for browsing and small purchases, as several guests mention enjoying the variety of local gifts and foods.

Return Journey and Final Highlights

After a full day of sightseeing, the trip wraps up with the bullet train back to Shanghai. The return trip is just as smooth as the outbound, with guides assisting in ensuring smooth transfers. Drop-off is flexible—you can be taken back to your hotel or other downtown locations.

Reviewers consistently praise the efficiency and punctuality of the entire process, with some mentioning the luxury car transfer to the train station as a nice touch.

The tour costs $399 per person, a price that covers round-trip bullet train fares, private guide services, transport, tickets to the Great Wall and Donghu Garden, and a delicious buffet lunch. The inclusion of all these elements means you don’t need to worry about extra costs or logistics—everything is arranged for you, making it a good value considering the full-day experience.

However, some reviews highlight the physical demands—lots of walking, sometimes on uneven surfaces—and suggest packing comfortable shoes, sunblock, and water. If mobility is a concern, it’s worth noting that guides are accommodating, but certain routes might be more accessible than others.

This trip is ideal for history enthusiasts, families, and those eager to see a lesser-known part of China without sacrificing comfort. The private guide ensures a personalized experience, making it suitable even for visitors with specific interests or needs. It’s perfect if you’re looking to escape the crowds and explore authentic sites with a knowledgeable local.

The tour also appeals to travelers who appreciate well-organized logistics—the train travel, transfers, and timings are all handled smoothly, allowing you to focus on enjoying each stop. Food lovers will appreciate the local buffet, and photo enthusiasts will find plenty of scenic vistas and historic architecture to capture.

This Southern Great Wall day trip from Shanghai offers a compelling mix of history, scenery, and culture, all packaged with convenience and expert guidance. The inclusion of high-speed train travel makes it stand out from typical day tours, adding a touch of modern Chinese innovation to your experience.

While the schedule is packed, the thoughtful organization and attentive guides ensure that you won’t feel rushed. The opportunity to walk along a Jin Dynasty-era fortification, relax in a traditional garden, and explore a lively old street makes this a well-rounded cultural escape.

For travelers wanting an authentic, well-organized experience outside of Shanghai, this tour delivers a memorable day with plenty of photo-worthy moments and cultural insights. It’s especially recommended if you prefer a private guide and seamless logistics, with enough flexibility to make the day truly your own.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour begins with pickup from your hotel, providing a stress-free start to your day.

How long is the train ride?
The train ride from Shanghai to Linhai lasts approximately 2 hours, traveling at high speed for a smooth journey.

What’s the best time to book?
Most travelers book about 53 days in advance, ensuring availability and smooth planning.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available at the buffet restaurant.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Your private guide tailors the day based on your interests, whether that’s more time at certain sites or specific activities.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers train fares, guide services, transportation in Linhai, tickets to the Great Wall, Donghu Garden, and a buffet lunch.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but be aware of the walking involved and wear comfortable shoes. Guides are attentive, and side routes are available for those with limited mobility.

This day trip from Shanghai is an excellent way to see a different side of China—less crowded, more authentic, and beautifully scenic. If you’re after a well-organized, culturally rich adventure that combines history with modern convenience, this tour hits the mark.