Private Zhujiajiao Water Town Boating Tour with Fruit Picking

Exploring Shanghai’s Hidden Green Patches: A Private Water Town and Fruit Picking Tour

This private tour offering from Shanghai combines a taste of the countryside with a visit to one of the city’s most iconic water towns. It’s designed for travelers who want more than just city sights—who crave a hands-on, authentic experience that blends scenic beauty, local life, and delicious food. The focus on personalized service, with a private guide and flexible options, makes it a wonderful choice for families, couples, or small groups seeking a relaxed yet engaging day trip.

What really stands out about this experience is the opportunity to pick fresh fruit in a dedicated farm setting—something unexpected in a bustling metropolis. Not only does it add a fun, interactive element to your day, but the organic lunch at a farmer’s home provides genuine insight into local food traditions. That said, the tour’s value hinges on the scenery and cultural insight, which might feel a little short at times, especially if you’re craving a longer boat ride or exploration.

If you’re after a well-organized, authentic slice of rural life combined with waterway exploration, this tour ticks those boxes. However, travelers who want a more extensive water town experience or a longer boat cruise might find it a touch brief. Still, for those eager to enjoy a private, customizable outing that balances nature, local culture, and relaxation, this tour could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience with hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Includes fruit picking in a research-backed, organic farm environment.
• Scenic boat ride in Zhujiajiao Water Town offering unique waterway views.
• Authentic organic lunch at a local farmer’s home—delicious and homegrown.
• All entrance fees covered—no surprise costs.
• Ideal for families or small groups looking for flexibility and comfort.
• Pre-booking recommended—on average booked 21 days in advance.
• Great value for around $180 per person, considering all inclusions.

Unpacking the Experience: A Detailed Look at the Tour

This 6-hour private outing begins with a convenient hotel pickup in Shanghai, which makes the day seamless and stress-free. Your guide, who is often praised for their knowledge and friendliness, will lead you out to the Qingpu District, home to Zhaotun Strawberry Park. This location is intriguing because it’s a research center with over 20 years of expertise in plant technology—so you’re not just picking any strawberries; you’re stepping into a well-maintained farm with a reputation for quality.

Fruit Picking in Zhaotun: A Fun, Interactive Start

Once you arrive, the first surprise is that fruit picking takes place inside greenhouse tents rather than under open skies. While this might seem less picturesque than traditional farm fields, it’s practical—especially during cooler months or rainy days, and it guarantees you’ll get to pick ripe, juicy berries. The strawberries are described as sweet and run-down-your-chin juicy—a highlight for many visitors, who often mention tasting the fruit during their picking experience.

Reviewers consistently mention how much fun this is. One visitor, Aika_Y, loved the guide Berlin’s enthusiasm, saying, “We picked grapes and brought them home—they were so sweet and delicious.” The experience isn’t limited to strawberries; depending on the season, other fruits like grapes or different berries might be available. The fact that each person gets to pick and taste their fruit makes this a memorable, hands-on activity.

The Water Town: Zhujiajiao’s Charm

After the fruitful fun, it’s time to head to Zhujiajiao, often called the “Venice of the East.” This water town has been around for roughly 1,700 years, and it’s easy to see why many travelers fall for its peaceful canals, old architecture, and quaint bridges. The boat ride offers a fresh perspective that truly enhances the visit, allowing you to see this historic area from the water—an experience frequently highlighted as a favorite by reviewers.

While some mention the boat trip is somewhat short, the small size of Zhujiajiao means the tour covers a lot on foot too. You’ll stroll through narrow lanes, pass crumbling bridges, and admire traditional Chinese architecture. One reviewer, Marije_S, noted, “The boat trip was a little short, but the village is small so it was manageable.” The guide often shares stories and insights about local history, enriching the visit beyond just picture-taking.

Authentic Organic Lunch at a Farmer’s Home

No visit to a rural area feels complete without tasting the local food, and this tour delivers with an organic lunch at a farmer’s home. Guests rave about the quality, mentioning that dishes are flavorful, home-cooked, and authentic. Some reviewers even mention buying oysters and discovering pearls—a surprising highlight that adds an element of discovery and local craftsmanship.

Bottled water and a half-kilo of fresh fruit are included, with options for tea tasting. These thoughtful touches make the meal more than just fuel; they deliver an insight into regional food practices and farm-to-table freshness.

Practical Elements: Comfort and Convenience

The tour’s logistics seem well thought out. The private vehicle ensures comfort, especially important for those traveling with children or in groups. All entrance fees are included, removing the worry of hidden costs. The mobile ticket and group discounts add flexibility and value, while free hotel pickup and drop-off make the experience hassle-free.

What Travelers Love—and What Could Be Better

Based on reviews, one of the strongest points is the guides, often described as knowledgeable, friendly, and fluent in English. Berlin, in particular, is praised for her well-explained stories and cheerful demeanor.

Many travelers appreciate the value for money, considering the personalized service, boat ride, lunch, and fruit picking are bundled into a relatively affordable package. The delicious food and fresh fruit are consistently highlighted as memorable highlights, adding a tasty local touch to the day.

However, some might find the boat ride a tad short or wish for a longer experience in Zhujiajiao. If you’re craving an exhaustive exploration or extended boat cruise, this tour might feel a bit limited in scope. On top of that, because the fruit picking takes place in tents, it can get warm or humid—so light, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes are a must, especially during warmer months.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is most suited for travelers seeking a personalized, relaxed day outside the city. It’s ideal for families with children, couples, or small groups who appreciate authentic interactions—like tasting homegrown fruits and sharing a home-cooked lunch. If you’re interested in local culture, scenic waterways, and good food without the rush of large tour groups, this is perfect.

It’s especially appealing if you value guided insights and want a flexible itinerary that can be tailored to your interests. The focus on organic, home-grown produce also makes it a great choice for foodies or eco-conscious travelers.

Final Thoughts

For just $180, this tour offers a well-rounded, intimate look at both rural life and traditional water town aesthetics. You’ll enjoy interactive fruit picking, scenic boat rides, and authentic local cuisine, all with the comfort of private transportation and knowledgeable guides.

The mix of nature, history, and food makes it a balanced experience for those wanting to see a different side of Shanghai—away from the skyscrapers and bustling streets. The personal touch, from picking berries to home-cooked meals, transforms what could be a simple sightseeing trip into a memorable, authentic day out.

Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo seeking a guided escape, this tour offers genuine value and a chance to connect with local culture. Just pack comfortable shoes, bring your curiosity, and get ready for a delightful day that combines nature, history, and delicious bites.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making the day seamless and convenient.

What does the fruit picking involve?
You’ll pick strawberries or other seasonal fruits inside greenhouse tents. It’s an interactive, hands-on experience guided by a friendly local guide.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat ride in Zhujiajiao offers waterway views, but some mention it’s relatively short. Still, it complements the small water town perfectly.

Is lunch included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy an organic, home-cooked meal at a local farmer’s home, which many reviews describe as delicious and authentic.

Are entrance fees included?
All entrance fees are covered, so there are no hidden costs during the day.

Can children participate?
Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. The tour suits families and those looking for a relaxed experience.

What should I wear?
Light, comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended, especially during warmer months or if you tend to get hot during fruit picking.

Is this tour customizable?
Yes, it can be tailored to your interests, and it’s a private tour, so flexibility is a key advantage.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, travelers book about 21 days in advance—so planning ahead ensures availability.

This private Zhujiajiao water town tour offers a charming blend of scenic waterways, local culture, and fun activities—perfect for a day of relaxed exploration just outside of Shanghai.