Private Tour: Experience Precious Ear Treatment,Dinner with Face-changing Show

When it comes to experiencing Shanghai in a way that blends tradition, entertainment, and a touch of the unusual, this private tour promises quite a bit. From wandering through centuries-old gardens to enjoying fiery Sichuan dishes paired with a mesmerizing face-changing show, it also offers one of those quirky “must-try” moments—an ear treatment that claims to reveal a magic point. Whether you’re a lover of cultural shows or just curious about new wellness experiences, this tour packs several highlights into just five hours.

What we particularly like about this experience is its effort to combine sightseeing with entertainment and wellness in one seamless package. Plus, the inclusion of a private guide and transportation means you won’t be left wandering alone in the busy city. That said, a possible drawback is the overall value considering some of the less positive review feedback, especially about the ear treatment. This tour might appeal best to travelers eager for a mix of traditional sights, lively performances, and the chance to explore something a little different—if you’re open to the surprises (and the quirks).

Key Points
– Cultural Highlights: Visit the historic Yu Garden and ancient tea house, enjoying Ming Dynasty-era aesthetics.
– Delicious Food & Entertainment: Enjoy authentic Sichuan cuisine alongside a captivating face-changing show.
– Unique Wellness Element: Experience a distinctive ear treatment meant to reveal a ‘magic point’—though reviews suggest not everyone found it worthwhile.
– Convenience: Private pickup, air-conditioned transport, and a dedicated guide streamline the experience.
– Mixed Reviews: While the tour offers a fun cultural blend, some travelers found certain activities disappointing or lacking in quality.
– Cost & Value: At roughly $183 per person, the experience includes a lot, but some may question whether all parts are equally worthwhile.

A Tour That Ticks Multiple Boxes

This private tour offers an enticing package: a chance to walk through Shanghai’s ancient and modern districts, enjoy authentic Sichuan food, witness the famous face-changing performance, and experience a mysterious ear treatment. It’s a bit of everything, aimed at travelers looking to cover a lot in a short time with ease.

Starting at 4 p.m., you’re picked up directly from your hotel, which adds a layer of convenience—no hunting for meeting points or navigating the busy streets. The route takes you to the Yu Garden, a traditional space that spans over 400 years of history, and is a great way to see how wealthy families in the Ming Dynasty designed their estates. Expect scenic bridges, pavilions, and statues that paint a picture of historical elegance.

Exploring Yu Garden and the Old City

Walking through Yu Garden feels like stepping back in time. We loved the way the garden’s layout weaves harmony between natural elements and architecture, with winding paths and intricate rockeries that practically tell stories of old Shanghai. The tour includes a visit to an ancient tea house, where a traditional Chinese tea ceremony provides a moment of calm and cultural insight.

This part of the tour is quite pleasant and offers excellent photo opportunities. It’s also a chance to learn about Chinese tea customs—something many visitors cherish. However, some reviews hint that the overall experience might be a bit rushed, so if you’re craving a deeper exploration, you might want to allocate more time on your own.

Savoring Sichuan Cuisine and the Face-Changing Show

After wandering the gardens, the group heads to a local Sichuan restaurant for dinner. The options typically include hot pot or Sichuan cuisine, both known for fiery flavors and bold spices. The food is generally well-reviewed and provides a satisfying taste of authentic regional dishes, especially for those who enjoy spicy food.

While enjoying your meal, you’ll get to witness the Chinese face-changing show, a performance famous for its rapid mask changes and dramatic costumes. We found the act visually stunning and quite lively, but some reviews suggest that the quality of the show varies—some find it enchanting, others less so.

The Mysterious Ear Treatment

The most unusual part of the experience is the ear treatment at the end of the tour. Supposedly, you’ll discover a “magic point” in your ear that you’ll love once found. The activity is described as an “ear massage,” but reviews reveal mixed feelings about its authenticity and value. One traveler even called it a “terrible ear piercing experience,” pointing out that it didn’t meet their expectations or seemed as professional as hoped.

Despite the skepticism, many find the process intriguing and may enjoy the novelty of it. It’s a quirky, almost whimsical addition to the tour, best suited for those with a curious spirit willing to try unconventional wellness practices.

Final Stop: Tianzifang and Return to Hotel

After the ear activity, the tour concludes with a visit to Tianzifang, a lively arts and crafts enclave filled with boutique shops and cafes. It’s a perfect place for a brief stroll or some last-minute souvenirs before being driven back to your hotel.

Practicalities and Value

The tour costs around $182.50 per person, which, considering the inclusions—dinner, face-changing show, ear treatment, guide, tea ceremony, and transportation—seems reasonable on paper. However, with some reviews indicating dissatisfaction with certain activities, it’s worth weighing whether all aspects are equally engaging.

The private guide and air-conditioned vehicle add comfort and flexibility—especially helpful after a busy day. The tour duration of about five hours makes it a manageable evening activity, but don’t expect to become an expert in each element. It’s more of a sampler platter of Shanghai’s culture and quirks.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a mix of sightseeing, entertainment, and wellness in one evening. If you’re curious about Chinese traditions and don’t mind a bit of the unusual, the ear treatment might be a memorable highlight—even if it’s not for everyone. Food lovers will appreciate the opportunity to taste authentic Sichuan cuisine alongside a lively performance, while those interested in traditional gardens will enjoy the Yu Garden visit.

However, if you’re more interested in a deep dive into history, or prefer highly polished performances, this tour might feel a little superficial or inconsistent.

Final Thoughts

This private Shanghai tour offers a diverse array of experiences—from ancient gardens and traditional tea ceremonies to fiery Sichuan dishes and a colorful face-changing show. The inclusion of an eccentric ear treatment adds a splash of the unusual, though reviews suggest it’s not universally well-received or entirely professional. The convenience of private transport and guided commentary makes it easier to navigate a busy city, but be prepared for some activities that may not live up to expectations.

In terms of value, it’s a package designed for those wanting variety and a taste of local flair—all in one go. Just keep your expectations in check, especially regarding the ear treatment, and focus on enjoying the authentic food and cultural visuals.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
The tour includes dinner options like hot pot or Sichuan cuisine, so it’s best to specify dietary needs when booking. Many Sichuan dishes are vegetable-based, but confirm with the provider to ensure suitable choices.

What’s included in the tour price?
The price covers dinner with a face-changing show, a professional guide, ear massage, tea ceremony, and air-conditioned transportation. Extras like additional snacks or souvenirs are not included.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy available. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How long does the entire tour last?
It lasts approximately 5 hours, starting at 4 p.m. and ending after a visit to Tianzifang and your return to the hotel.

Is this tour appropriate for children?
Most travelers can participate, but the ear treatment might be better suited for adults or older children with an interest in wellness activities.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for walking and dining are recommended. Since part of it involves outdoor wandering, dress appropriately for the weather.

In the end, this tour offers a colorful, if somewhat eclectic, glimpse into Shanghai’s vibrant culture and traditions. Whether it’s the food, the shows, or the eccentric wellness activity, it’s a package that’s best for adventurous travelers eager to see a side of Shanghai that’s a little different.