Private Shanghai Gangster Tour

Private Shanghai Gangster Tour: A Unique Dive into the City’s Criminal Underworld

If you’re after a tour that offers more than just the usual sightseeing, this Private Shanghai Gangster Tour promises a fascinating peek into the city’s less-glamorous, more dangerous history. Led by a guide who embodies a figure from the 1930s underworld, this experience takes you off the beaten path to explore Shanghai’s criminal legends, hidden mansions, and controversial characters.

What really makes this tour stand out is the personalized touch—it’s a private experience that allows for deeper storytelling, more interaction, and tailored insights. Plus, if you’re feeling adventurous, there’s an option to add a visit to a local shooting range, making it even more memorable.

On the flip side, this tour is relatively short (around 2 hours) and doesn’t include transportation or meals, so you’ll want to plan accordingly. It’s perfect for history buffs, crime enthusiasts, or anyone curious about Shanghai’s underworld—and it’s a hit among those who appreciate in-depth, authentic stories delivered by knowledgeable guides.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private tour tailored for your group
• Historical Depth: Focuses on lesser-known criminal figures and locations
• Added Fun: Includes a Black Jack lesson and a complimentary drink
• Optional Add-on: Visit a shooting range for extra excitement
• Authentic Insights: Guided by guides in character who know their stuff
• Value for Money: Unique experience for around $115, with many reviews praising its depth and entertainment

A Look at the Itinerary and What You Can Expect

This tour is a curated walk through some of Shanghai’s shadowy corners, focusing on iconic crime-related sites that tell stories most travelers don’t get to hear. Each stop is designed not only to look at historic buildings but to reveal the tales that made these places infamous.

Starting Point: The Opulent Mansion of Big Eared Du

The tour kicks off at a mansion once owned by one of Shanghai’s most formidable opium dealers. Here, the guide—who adopts the persona of Big Eared Du—shares stories of how this powerful crime lord evaded jail despite getting caught. Expect to hear about how he was revered and feared, and why he was such a dominant figure during the 1930s.

Reviewers mention that this spot provides a fascinating glimpse into the wealth and influence of gangsters of that era. One reviewer stated, “We loved the way the guide brought the character to life, making history both engaging and entertaining.” The mansion itself is free to enter, making it a practical starting point that sets the tone for the tour.

The Customs Officer’s Residence

Next, you’ll visit the former residence of a Chinese customs officer who was a thorn in the side of Big Eared Du. This stop helps paint a picture of the power struggles and covert battles happening behind Shanghai’s glamorous veneer. The guide’s storytelling makes it easy to imagine the tension and intrigue that unfolded in these walls.

Dutch Con-Man’s House

The tour then takes you to a mansion built by a Dutch con-man known for daylight robbery—an example of the opportunists and fraudsters who found their way into Shanghai’s criminal landscape. The guide recounts the con-man’s audacious schemes and the subsequent fate of his house, giving guests a sense of the city’s gritty underbelly.

White Russians’ Quarter

Finally, you’ll explore where the White Russians lived and worked in the 1930s—a community that outnumbered the French in Shanghai three to one. This stop uncovers the multicultural aspect of Shanghai’s underworld, highlighting how international crime elements influenced the city’s history.

The Experience: What Makes It Special

The beauty of this tour lies in its storytelling approach. Guides don’t just recite facts—they embody characters from the era, bringing history alive with humor and insight. Multiple reviewers praise guides like George, David, and Daniel for their deep knowledge and ability to entertain. One reviewer said, “George was very knowledgeable about Shanghai’s history and made the stories fun and engaging.”

The tour’s duration—roughly 2 hours—means it’s a bite-sized but rich experience. The walking pace is manageable, with most stops lasting about 15 minutes, giving you enough time to absorb the stories without feeling rushed.

Unique Features and Extras

• Private Tour: For a more intimate experience, the guide can focus entirely on your group, making it great for families, couples, or small groups.
• Black Jack & Craps Lesson: You won’t just learn about Shanghai’s crime scene—you also get a quick lesson in gambling tricks, adding a fun, interactive element.
• Free Drink: To keep things lively, the tour includes a complimentary drink at a historic property, perfect for relaxing after exploring the clandestine past of Shanghai.
• Optional Shooting Range: For those craving a bit more adrenaline, adding a visit to a local shooting range is available—an unusual feature that sets this tour apart.

What You Might Not Love

While this tour offers a highly engaging narrative and great value, it’s relatively short and doesn’t include transportation or meals. If you’re after a comprehensive day-long experience, this might feel limited. It’s also based mostly in the French Concession area, so to see more of Shanghai, you’d need additional activities.

Insights From Reviewers and Practical Tips

Many travelers found the guide’s storytelling and character acting to be a highlight. One reviewer noted, “Daniel stayed in character the whole time, making it really fun and immersive.” Others appreciated the depth of knowledge, with comments praising the guide’s ability to mix entertainment with education.

The tour’s price point—just over $115 per person—offers good value, especially considering the personalized experience and added extras. The inclusion of a drink and the Black Jack lesson makes it feel more interactive and memorable.

However, since this is a private tour, it’s best suited for people who enjoy storytelling, history, or slightly quirky experiences. If you prefer a fast-paced, museum-style visit, this might not be your thing.

Practical Details and Logistics

• Duration: About 2 hours (walking)
• Start/End Location: China, Shanghai, Xu Hui Qu, 1292
• Group Size: Private, for your group only
• Price: $115.68 per person (excluding tax invoices if required)
• Meeting Point: Conveniently located near public transportation
• Booking: Book 14 days in advance, as most guests do
• Age Restrictions: Children under 16 need an adult; moderate physical fitness recommended
• Add-ons: Shooting range visit available (additional cost)
• Cancellation: Free up to 24 hours before the tour

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for those looking to see a different side of Shanghai, uncovering stories of crime, influence, and intrigue. It’s perfect for history buffs wanting a fun, interactive way to learn about the city’s past, or for travelers who enjoy immersive storytelling and character acting.

It’s also a great choice if you’re interested in the multicultural aspects of Shanghai’s underworld—whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group. The optional shooting range adds a daring element that will appeal to adventure-seekers.

If you’re after a laid-back, surface-level overview of Shanghai’s sights, this might not be the best fit. But for those craving a personalized, engaging, and slightly rebellious tour, it hits the mark.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a solo or group activity?
It’s a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, offering a more personalized experience.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 2 hours, walking between several historical sites.

Can I add a shooting range visit?
Yes, you can opt to include this extra experience for an additional cost, adding an adrenaline rush to your gangster adventure.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the private guide, all activities listed, a free drink at a historic property, and a Black Jack and Craps lesson.

Are transportation arrangements needed?
No, but the meeting point is near public transit, making it easy to access.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult; the physical activity level is moderate.

Will guides stay in character?
Yes, guides like George, Daniel, and others stay in character, making the experience more immersive and entertaining.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour start time for a full refund.

Is the tour available year-round?
Confirmation is given within 48 hours of booking, so it’s seasonal based on availability, but generally available most of the year.

Is the guide knowledgeable?
Absolutely—reviewers repeatedly praise the guides’ expertise, storytelling abilities, and ability to make history fun.

Final Thoughts

This Private Shanghai Gangster Tour offers a compelling alternative to traditional sightseeing. It brings to life the city’s underground world through engaging storytelling, colorful characters, and intriguing historical sites. The private format ensures you won’t be rushed, and the added details make it a truly immersive experience.

For travelers interested in Shanghai’s darker stories, or simply looking for a memorable way to learn about the city’s past, this tour provides excellent value. The optional shooting range and Black Jack lesson add playful, interactive elements that elevate the experience.

Overall, it’s best suited for those with a curiosity for history, a sense of humor, and an appreciation for stories that go beyond the surface. If you want to see Shanghai with a different lens—one that reveals its shady past and colorful characters—this tour is a solid choice.

Experience the city’s secrets, meet a colorful cast of characters, and walk away with stories that will make your Shanghai trip truly unforgettable.