1-Day Private Tour to Shanghai Zhujiajiao Water Town,Nanjing Road and the Bund

A Complete Look at the 1-Day Private Tour to Shanghai’s Water Town, Nanjing Road, and the Bund

For travelers eager to get a taste of Shanghai’s contrasting charms—its historic waterways and bustling cityscape—this private tour offers a well-rounded glimpse in just one day. With a dedicated guide, private vehicle, and a thoughtfully curated itinerary, you’ll visit some of the city’s most iconic spots, while enjoying flexibility and comfort.

One feature we particularly appreciate is the inclusion of key sites like Zhujiajiao Water Town, with its ancient streets and peaceful canals, balanced with the vibrant energy of Nanjing Road and the scenic elegance of the Bund. The fact that you’re picked up and dropped off at your hotel makes the experience seamless, especially in a city where navigating public transport can be daunting for first-timers.

On the flip side, a potential consideration is the absence of a boat ride at Zhujiajiao, which some travelers might miss, as well as the full-day commitment of around 8 hours. However, this is typical of most comprehensive city tours and can be a small tradeoff for the convenience of a private guide and personalized experience.

Who would this tour suit best? It’s ideal for visitors who want a curated, efficient day exploring Shanghai’s highlights without the hassle of planning logistics themselves. It’s also great for those traveling with family or friends who prefer a guided, relaxed pace, and for anyone eager to combine a touch of history, shopping, and iconic city views into one day.

Key Points

• Private Guide & Transport: Ensures personalized attention and comfort.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Visits include Zhujiajiao, Nanjing Road, and The Bund.
• Flexible Timing & Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off included.
• Cost-Effective for Value: At $220.80 per person, it covers entrance tickets, lunch, and transport.
• Cultural & Urban Blend: Experience both historic water town charm and modern city energy.
• Limited to 8 Hours: A full but manageable day, perfect for tight schedules.

Exploring the Itinerary in Depth

Zhujiajiao Water Town

Your day kicks off at 9:00 am with a hotel pickup, whisking you out of central Shanghai to the “Venice of the East”, as Zhujiajiao is often called. The drive takes about an hour, giving you a chance to relax and get a preview of the scenic outskirts.

Zhujiajiao is a water town with over 1,700 years of history. Covering 47 square kilometers, it’s a serene contrast to Shanghai’s urban hustle. Here, you’ll explore three highlights: Kezhi Garden, a Qing Dynasty treasure built in 1912 with pavilions and lotus ponds; the Qing Dynasty Post Office, an architectural relic from centuries past; and the Fangsheng Bridge, a stone marvel with nine turns that has links to local legends.

Based on reviews, many find Kezhi Garden a peaceful retreat with “beautiful pavilions and a lovely lotus pond,” and the bridge is “a perfect spot for photos.” The entrance fee is included, so you can focus on soaking in the atmosphere.

While the tour doesn’t include a boat ride—which is typical for most half-day excursions—you’ll still enjoy wandering the narrow lanes, watching local life unfold, and perhaps snapping some memorable photos of the canals and ancient buildings.

Nanjing Road: The Heart of Shanghai’s Shopping Scene

Back in the city center, your next stop is Nanjing Road, the bustling commercial vein that’s a magnet for shoppers from around the world. Stretching 5.5 km from the Bund to Jing’an Temple, it’s a sensory overload of neon lights, storefronts, and street performers.

You’ll spend around an hour here, just enough to stroll, take in the lively scene, and admire the mix of historic and modern architecture. This stretch is famous for its designer stores, flagship outlets, and vibrant street life. Reviewers note that “it’s the place to see the hustle of Shanghai,” and that “even if you’re not shopping, it’s fun to soak up the atmosphere.”

While free to browse, Nanjing Road embodies Shanghai’s identity as China’s premier shopping destination—perfect for those who love window shopping or want to experience daily city life.

The Bund: Iconic Views and City Skylines

After lunch, your guide will escort you to The Bund, Shanghai’s most famous waterfront area. Here, the history of the city comes alive with views of colonial-era buildings on the west bank of the Huangpu River and the modern skyline of Pudong across the water.

Spending about 30 minutes here, you’ll stroll along the promenade, take photos of the impressive skyline, and enjoy the lively atmosphere. The view of the Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai Tower, and the Jin Mao Tower is especially stunning in the afternoon light.

According to reviews, The Bund is “a must-see for first-timers,” and many appreciate the blend of old and new that embodies Shanghai’s spirit. It’s a scenic spot that’s worth a quick visit to appreciate the city’s development and historic grandeur.

Wrapping Up and Return to Hotel

After the sightseeing, your guide will return you to your hotel—making for a relaxed end to your day. The tour wraps up roughly around 5 pm, depending on traffic and pace.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour provides great value by including private transport, a guide, entrance tickets to Zhujiajiao, and lunch. The air-conditioned vehicle makes long drives comfortable, especially in summer heat. The lunch, typically a local meal, adds to the experience, allowing you to sample regional flavors without extra planning.

Notably, the tour does not include a boat ride at Zhujiajiao, which some travelers might miss. If you’re craving that experience, it might require a separate booking.

The tour is designed to be flexible and private, so your group enjoys the itinerary at your own pace. The cost is $220.80 per person, a reasonable price considering the inclusions, especially when compared to booking individual tickets and transportation.

Day Length and Extra Hours

The tour normally lasts around 8 hours, but if you’re looking to extend, the guide and driver can accommodate extra hours at a rate of 180 CNY per hour. This flexibility can be handy if you want to linger longer at the Bund or explore additional spots.

Practical Tips for Your Day Out

• Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll be walking on cobbled streets and through gardens.
• Bring a camera or smartphone: Plenty of scenic photo ops at Zhujiajiao, the Bund, and Nanjing Road.
• Dress appropriately: If visiting during summer, light clothing and sun protection are advisable.
• Be prepared for crowds: Especially at Nanjing Road and the Bund; weekends tend to be busier.
• Carry some cash: While many places accept cards, small vendors and street performers may prefer cash.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private tour strikes a good balance between guided convenience and culture. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer to avoid the hassle of navigating public transport or planning their own route. Families, first-time visitors, or anyone short on time will find this a practical way to see some of Shanghai’s highlights efficiently.

If you’re someone who appreciates authentic experiences but values comfort and structure, this tour offers a nice blend. It’s also an excellent choice for those traveling with companions who want to share a memorable day with minimal fuss.

Final Thoughts

This 8-hour private tour of Shanghai offers a satisfying combination of history, shopping, and city views, all tailored to your pace. The inclusion of a guide and private vehicle simplifies logistics, making it easier to focus on enjoying each site. While it doesn’t include a boat ride at Zhujiajiao, the walk-through experience is still charming and authentic.

The value of the tour lies in its ability to cover diverse facets of Shanghai—its ancient water towns and modern skyline—in a single day, without feeling rushed. The flexibility and personalized attention make it well-suited for travelers who want a curated experience with comfort.

Overall, if you’re looking to get a broad yet intimate glimpse of Shanghai’s charm in one day, this tour offers a well-balanced, practical, and enjoyable option. It’s perfect for those who want a guided experience that respects their time while providing authentic insights into this dynamic city.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your Shanghai hotel, ensuring a hassle-free start to your day.

How long is the drive to Zhujiajiao Water Town?
The drive takes approximately one hour from central Shanghai, giving you a comfortable travel time before exploring.

Are entrance tickets to Zhujiajiao included?
Yes, your tour includes the admission fee to Zhujiajiao, so you don’t have to worry about extra costs there.

Can I do a boat ride at Zhujiajiao?
No, this tour does not include a boat ride, although some similar experiences do offer it separately.

What’s the schedule like?
The tour begins at 9:00 am with hotel pickup and ends around 5:00 pm, with flexibility for extra hours at an additional cost.

Is lunch included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy a provided lunch during the day, giving you a taste of local cuisine.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. Expect some walking and outdoor time.

This tour provides a well-rounded, comfortable way to experience some of Shanghai’s most iconic sights—perfect for travelers who want a guided, all-in-one day that balances history, shopping, and cityscapes.