Private Tour of Shanghai Ocean Aquarium, Longhua Temple and Oriental Peal Tower

If you’re planning a day to get to know some of Shanghai’s most iconic spots, this private tour promises a well-rounded experience that combines stunning architecture, fascinating aquatic life, and deep cultural history. For around $215 per person, you get a flexible, guided itinerary that covers major sites with the comfort of private transportation and personalized attention.

What stands out most is the careful balance between modern Shanghai marvels—like the Oriental Pearl Tower—and its traditional roots, exemplified by the Longhua Temple. Plus, the inclusion of the Shanghai Ocean Aquarium makes for a fascinating start, especially if you love marine life and impressive underwater tunnels.

A potential consideration is the full day of sightseeing—while it’s well-paced, the itinerary is packed, so travelers who prefer more relaxed mornings might feel a bit rushed. This tour suits those who want a rundown of Shanghai’s highlights in one go, especially first-timers eager to see a variety of attractions with expert guidance.

Key Points

Comprehensive Day: Combines aquariums, historical sites, modern architecture, and cultural neighborhoods.
Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, passionate guides enhance the experience, sharing insights you won’t get on your own.
Comfort & Convenience: Includes private door-to-door transfers, saving the hassle of navigating public transport.
Balanced Itinerary: Offers a mix of indoor and outdoor sites with manageable walking distances.
Authentic Local Feel: Visits areas like the Former French Concession, revealing Shanghai’s European influence and local charm.
Value for Money: Entrance fees, private guiding, and transfers included make this a cost-effective way to see multiple sites.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

This private Shanghai tour offers a well-structured journey through a blend of modern marvels and traditional sights, designed to maximize your time and understanding of the city. Starting at 9 a.m., your guide—who, in many reviews, received praise for their depth of knowledge and friendly attitude—will pick you up directly from your hotel, which is a huge plus for avoiding the chaos of public transport or taxis.

Shanghai Ocean Aquarium: A Marine Wonderland

The day kicks off with a visit to the Shanghai Ocean Aquarium. Located in the Pudong district, right next to the Oriental Pearl Tower, the aquarium is one of the largest in the world. Its 155-meter underwater tunnel is an absolute highlight—imagine walking beneath a giant tank filled with sharks, rays, and schools of colorful fish. Visitors often mention the “stunning views” and the “fascinating marine creatures,” making it an engaging start.

The aquarium is housed in two pyramid-shaped buildings, offering varied exhibits—one can expect to see diverse aquatic ecosystems from different parts of the world. The ticket is included in your tour, which saves you the hassle of queueing, and reviewers note that the time allocated (about 1.5 hours) is ideal for a thorough visit without feeling rushed.

Learning About Shanghai’s Evolution at the Development Exhibition Hall

Next, the tour takes you into the Shanghai Development Exhibition Hall, located at the base of the Oriental Pearl Tower. Here, you’ll get a compact yet insightful look into Shanghai’s transformation from a small fishing village into a global metropolis. The exhibit includes thousands of relics, wax figures, and scaled models that make the city’s growth tangible.

Reviews highlight that this stop is especially suitable for those interested in cultural context—a free, accessible way to appreciate how Shanghai’s past and present intertwine. Expect around 30 minutes here, enough to absorb key moments in the city’s development.

Panoramic Views from the Oriental Pearl Tower

No trip to Shanghai is complete without a visit to the Oriental Pearl Tower. Standing at 468 meters, it’s a city icon that’s instantly recognizable. You’ll ascend to the glass-bottomed observation deck at 259 meters, offering sweeping views of the Pudong skyline, the Huangpu River, and beyond.

The tower’s unique architecture, with its spherical shapes, makes it a photogenic highlight. The main sightseeing floor at 263 meters provides even more impressive vistas and photo opportunities. The ticket is included, and many reviewers mention that the views are simply “breathtaking,” especially on clear days.

European Charm along Wukang Road

After soaking in the city’s modern height, the tour shifts gears to explore Wukang Road, only about a 45-minute walk away. This street is famous for its European-style architecture, including the Wukang Building, designed by architect Hudec. Many visitors are captivated by the “vessel-shaped” buildings and the stories they tell about Shanghai’s colonial days.

Walking along this street gives you a glimpse into the city’s architectural diversity and historical resilience. It’s a peaceful, scenic part of the day, and again, the free admission makes it accessible.

The Elegant Streets of Hengshan Road

Next, the tour visits the Hengshan Road area, part of the Former French Concession. It’s a favorite among expats and travelers alike for its leafy avenues, boutique cafes, and lively bar scene. The relaxed vibe and European architecture make it perfect for a casual stroll.

Many reviews point out that this area provides a lovely contrast to the high-rises of Pudong, with plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to experience Shanghai’s more laid-back, cosmopolitan side.

Visiting Longhua Temple—Shanghai’s Oldest Religious Site

The highlight of the afternoon is a visit to Longhua Temple, which dates back over 1,700 years. Its sprawling grounds, traditional Chinese architecture, and tranquil atmosphere make it a peaceful retreat amid the bustling city. The temple is the largest in Shanghai, and its symmetrical layout embodies classic Chinese design.

Travelers note that Longhua offers a glimpse into local religious practices and traditional Chinese temple architecture, making it a worthwhile stop for those interested in history and culture. The entry is included, and the time spent (about 30 minutes) is enough to explore without feeling hurried.

Cultural Reflections on Duolun Road and Luxun Park

The final stops include walking along Duolun Road, a famous cultural street lined with bronze statues of literary figures like Luxun. Visiting the Luxun Memorial and Gravesite offers a reflective moment, revealing a more personal side of Shanghai’s cultural scene. Many reviews describe it as a “moving experience,” especially for literature buffs or those interested in modern Chinese intellectual history.

The street itself is dotted with cafes and historic buildings, giving you a relaxed, artistic vibe to end your day.

Return and Reflection

After a full day of sightseeing, your private guide will transfer you comfortably back to your hotel. Many travelers find this seamless return a great way to conclude their day without fatigue or navigation worries.

Practicalities and Value

This tour costs about $214.94 per person, which covers all entrance fees, private transportation, bottled water, and the guidance of a knowledgeable local expert. The inclusion of private transfers means you avoid the hassle of figuring out public transit or waiting for taxis, which can be a real time-saver and stress reducer—especially in a sprawling city like Shanghai.

While lunch isn’t included, the guide will recommend some local spots for delicious, authentic food—an excellent opportunity to try Shanghai specialties like xiaolongbao or shengjianbao if you wish. The flexible schedule allows you to tailor your experience slightly depending on your preferences.

One thing to keep in mind is the duration—around 7-8 hours—so you’ll want to be prepared for a busy, full day. However, reviews reveal that the pacing is well-managed, with enough breaks and time at each site to truly enjoy without feeling overwhelmed.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive introduction to Shanghai’s most iconic sights. It’s well-suited for those who appreciate a mix of history, architecture, and modern cityscapes, all with the comfort of private guiding. If you enjoy learning through storytelling, you’ll find the guides’ knowledge invaluable; many past guests appreciated their insights and friendliness.

Travelers with an interest in marine life, architecture, Chinese culture, and local neighborhoods will find each stop rewarding. It’s also ideal for those who want a structured yet flexible day that covers a lot without the hassle of planning logistics.

FAQs

Is pickup included in this tour?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup, making the start of your day smooth and convenient.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, from pickup to drop-off.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all listed attractions—including the Ocean Aquarium, Development Exhibition Hall, and Longhua Temple—have their entrance fees covered.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The guide can suggest some options based on your preferences, but the schedule is designed to cover key highlights efficiently.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the attractions like the aquarium and the open spaces at Luxun Park are family-friendly, though it involves a fair amount of walking.

Are meals included?
No, lunch isn’t included, but the guide will recommend local eateries to try some famous Shanghai dishes.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended since there’s several walking and sightseeing stops. Dress appropriately for the weather, especially if visiting Longhua Temple outside of summer.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
Most sites involve some walking and steps; it’s best to discuss your needs directly with the provider to ensure accommodations.

What languages are guides available in?
The standard tour features English-speaking guides, but check with the provider for other language options.

Final Thoughts

This private tour of Shanghai’s key attractions offers a carefully curated, engaging day that balances modern architecture, cultural history, and local neighborhoods. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience both educational and enjoyable. The inclusion of private transfers simplifies logistics, allowing you to focus on exploring and absorbing the sights.

While it’s a full day, many reviewers find that the pace is manageable, with enough time at each stop to truly appreciate what makes Shanghai such a vibrant city. The combination of the aquarium’s underwater wonders, the panoramic vistas from the Pearl Tower, and the historic streets and temples makes this a well-rounded introduction—ideal for first-timers or anyone eager to see the highlights in a single day.

If you’re after a culture with comfort and efficiency, this tour offers excellent value and a memorable way to experience Shanghai’s diverse personality. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate guided insights and want to avoid the stress of planning individual visits.

In summary, this private Shanghai tour delivers meaningful experiences, exceptional guided commentary, and the convenience of private transport—all in one day. It’s a solid choice for those seeking a comprehensive, hassle-free way to explore this incredible city.