Private Tour:Zhujiajiao Water Town, Shanghai Tower & Maglev Train

Introduction

This private tour gives a well-rounded look at Shanghai, spotlighting both its historic water town charm and its cutting-edge modern skyline. Designed for travelers who want a balanced experience, it offers an immersive day exploring centuries-old streets and bridges, alongside the dizzying heights of the Shanghai Tower and a ride on the world’s fastest commercial train, the Maglev.

One thing we love about this tour is the careful mix of tradition and innovation — it’s a chance to see two very different sides of China’s biggest city in one day. The inclusion of a private guide and transportation really enhances the experience, making it more relaxed and personalized. The only consideration might be the full-day schedule, which could be a long day if you’re not used to a packed itinerary or walking quite a bit.

This tour suits those who enjoy a comprehensive snapshot of Shanghai—from history buffs and culture lovers to tech enthusiasts. It’s especially ideal if you’re after a value-packed day that saves you the hassle of planning multiple sights on your own.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary combining ancient and modern attractions
• Private guide ensures personalized attention and insider insights
• All-inclusive ticketing, gondola rides, and transport streamline the day
• Authentic experiences like local snacks and gondola rides add charm
• Time-efficient visits to major landmarks, saving you effort
• Well-reviewed guides praised for competence and experience

Exploring Zhujiajiao Water Town

Our journey begins just an hour outside of Shanghai in Zhujiajiao, a charming water town founded about 1,700 years ago. Its appeal lies in the 36 stone bridges, ancient streets, and traditional architecture that have withstood the test of time. Walking through these narrow, stone-paved streets, you’ll feel transported to a different era, with plenty of photo opportunities at picturesque spots like Fangsheng Bridge.

You’ll love the variety of local shops tucked into historic buildings, offering everything from souvenirs to local snacks. The tour includes a gondola ride along the canals, which offers a peaceful way to see the town from a different perspective. As one reviewer noted, the gondola ride “really adds a special touch to the water town experience,” making it feel authentic and relaxing.

During the visit, you’ll explore the Qing Dynasty Post Office and the Yuanjin Buddhist Temple — both historical sites that add a deeper understanding of local life and spirituality. The tour also includes sampling traditional snacks like sticky rice dumplings (zong zi), steamed pork in bamboo leaves (zha rou), and Chinese candies, giving your taste buds a true local treat.

A highlight for many is simply wandering the streets and soaking up the atmosphere. The shops and vendors along the riverbanks are lively but not overwhelming, and the guided commentary helps you appreciate the stories behind each site.

Potential drawback: Some travelers mentioned that the water town can get quite busy, especially on weekends, so arriving early or during weekdays can enhance your experience.

Ascending the Shanghai Tower

Next, you’re back in Shanghai’s city center to visit the Shanghai Tower — a marvel of modern architecture and engineering. Standing at 632 meters, it’s the second tallest building in the world and offers breathtaking views from its observation deck. From up high, you’ll see the sprawling city laid out beneath you, with its diverse neighborhoods and shimmering river.

The tower boasts the world’s fastest elevators, reaching speeds of 74 km/hr — meaning you’ll be at the top in just over a minute. This is a fun experience on its own, especially given the sleek design and high-tech feel of the elevator ride. On the observation deck, you’ll find expansive glass windows and informative displays, perfect for photo ops and appreciating the city’s scale.

Reviews praise the spectacular vistas and mention that the guide’s insights enrich the visit. One reviewer described it as “an incredible perspective on Shanghai,” noting that the views alone justify the visit. The experience allows you to grasp how Shanghai’s skyline has transformed over the past few decades, making this stop highly memorable.

Tip: The Tower’s observation deck is not just about views; it’s also about soaking in the scale of this bustling metropolis from above.

The Maglev: Speed and Innovation

The final highlight is the Maglev train ride and museum. The Maglev is a technology marvel, capable of reaching speeds over 420 km/hr — the fastest commercial high-speed electric train in the world. Your journey from Pudong International Airport to Longyang Road station in a mere 7 minutes showcases China’s cutting-edge transportation.

The Maglev Museum provides fascinating insights into how this train works and its importance to Shanghai’s infrastructure. Many reviews mention how impressive and smooth the ride feels, emphasizing the thrill of zooming along at such incredible speeds. The train’s speed and modern design make it a favorite for tech enthusiasts, but even casual travelers find it fun and awe-inspiring.

The experience encapsulates Shanghai’s reputation as a leader in innovation. It’s a quick but unforgettable glimpse into what the future of urban transportation might look like.

What’s Included and Practical Tips

This tour offers a comprehensive package: a private guide, comfortable air-conditioned transport, gondola rides, local snacks, bottled water, and all the entrance fees. The private guide and vehicle mean you can move at your own pace, ask questions, and skip lines if needed.

The tour lasts about 9.5 hours, so dressing comfortably and wearing sturdy shoes is advisable. Given the itinerary, it’s best suited for those with moderate physical fitness—expect some walking and stair-climbing, especially in the water town and tower.

It’s worth noting that pickup is limited to within 15 km of the meeting point, and additional charges apply for farther locations. The tour is operated rain or shine, so come prepared for the weather.

Authentic Experiences & Review Highlights

The reviews highlight how knowledgeable guides like Grace make a difference. One traveler called her “highly experienced and very competent,” and appreciated her ability to enhance their understanding of each site. Guests also loved the local food tasting, emphasizing how it added flavor (literally and figuratively) to the day, with mentions of delicious snacks like zong zi and zha rou.

The scenic gondola ride was appreciated for its peaceful, scenic quality, adding a layer of authenticity to the water town visit. Meanwhile, the Shanghai Tower’s panoramic views left many in awe, and the Maglev train provided a thrilling, futuristic experience.

The Sum Up

This private tour offers an excellent balance of culture, history, and modernity, making it perfect for travelers wanting a full-day experience without the stress of planning. Its combination of authentic water town charm and iconic city landmarks delivers a well-rounded picture of Shanghai’s past and future.

The private guide, streamlined logistics, and included tickets mean you’ll get a lot of value for your $255. It’s especially suitable for those who want an immersive, hassle-free day that covers diverse interests—from architecture lovers and history nerds to tech enthusiasts and foodies.

While the day is packed, the experience is flexible and thoughtfully curated, based on glowing reviews praising the knowledgeable guides and stunning views. If you’re after a comprehensive, memorable introduction to Shanghai, this tour ticks all the boxes.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult, and the day’s activities are generally suitable for kids comfortable with walking and some standing.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included. Tourists often enjoy exploring local eateries on their own, or you can bring snacks to enjoy during breaks.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as you’ll be walking quite a bit. Dress appropriately for the weather, whether that means layers, sun protection, or rain gear.

How long are the visits at each site?
Zhujiajiao water town is around 2 hours, the Shanghai Tower visit is approximately 1 hour, and the Maglev ride plus museum is about 45 minutes. The total length is roughly 9.5 hours.

Is pickup available at my hotel?
Pickup is offered within 15 km of the meeting point at the Grand Central Hotel, with an extra fee for locations beyond that range.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, cancellation is fully refundable if made at least 24 hours in advance. Last-minute changes are not accepted.

Is the tour operate in all weather conditions?
Yes, it runs in all weather, so come prepared for sun, rain, or shine.

What’s the benefit of booking this as a private tour?
A private guide offers personalized insights, flexibility, and the comfort of traveling at your own pace, making for a more tailored experience.

This tour offers an insightful, well-organized way to experience some of Shanghai’s most iconic sights and hidden gems in one memorable day. Whether you’re captivated by the history or amazed by modern engineering, it’s a journey that showcases the city’s unique blend of old and new.