Connected by high-speed train, Shanghai and Hangzhou are now less than an hour apart. These two cities are prime examples of China's rapid rise in wealth and technology.
Our handpicked experiences will enable you to unlock the story of Shanghai's rise, hidden in the old and new buildings. You can wander the character-filled lilong lanes, hunt for authentic snacks, indulge in the city for a day without using cash, and try to find out the secret of Jack Ma's success (Alibaba's chairman is the richest man in China). More surprises are waiting for you to discover.
- Shanghai in Progress Tour
- Shanghai Local Food Hunt
- Shanghai Former Jewish Settlement
- West Lake Scenery and Relaxing Experiences
- Discover Alibaba's Story and Cutting-Edge China
- Tea Village and Culture Experience
Shanghai in Progress Tour (3 hours)
Listen to the hidden stories of the Bund

Experience the local snacks and local life

Overlook the city from Shanghai Tower

Discover the story of Shanghai's rise to the skies…
Trace the clues starting from the Bund, wander through alleyways to get a glimpse of the locals' lives, sit down for a break and enjoy some delicious Shanghai snacks, try to fit on the public ferry among the crowds to cross the Huangpu River and ascend the highest building in Shanghai — Shanghai Tower.
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Shanghai Local Food Hunt (3 hours)
Discover the authentic local snacks

Try Michelin-starred restaurant and street food

If you are tired of eating hotel breakfasts and want to try something new, you must try this tour!
To have a great start to your day, your local guide will take you into the alleyways where you can search for the most popular local snacks that are only served for a few hours each day. Get ready to eat like a local!
Former Jewish Settlement in Shanghai (4 hours)
Visit a Jewish ghetto to find the trace of the history

Witness the historical items in the exhibition

Listen to the stories of Jews in Shanghai

At the edge of old Shanghai, there is an area that witnessed the survival of the faith of tens of thousands of Jews. It is called "Hongkew Ghetto" by Jews.
Follow your local guide to discover the memories of elderly Jews. You will also see exhibitions of historic items, visit original buildings that stood during WWII, and learn stories about the area's history.
Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

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Private Shanghai tour with Ms. Mulan
![]() I and my wife have a great time with Ms. Mulan for this couple of days.Day 1 was a rainy day, she very fast in rescheduled our itineraries. Ensuring that our tours for both days are perfect.She takes note of all the little details, brought us roasted pastry and Elephant ear pastry. She even got us into the Peace Hotel, understand the history and watch a singer with the famous Jazz band performances.Thanks for the good times. more
Mar 2025, S
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Amazing Finale of China Trip
![]() We visited Shanghai as our last stop of our China trip and had a great time before heading back! Shanghai is indeed the financial hub as it has lots of big and modern malls! Thanks to our tour guide Kris, for showing us around the modern and vibrant city! Kris has very good recommendations of food and also arranged transportation for us even after our regular tour! We are truly blessed and thankful to China Highlights for the amazing tour arrangements! more
Mar 2025, Jenny E
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Ideal
![]() Los 3 días en Shanghai han sido perfectos. Nuestro guia Francisco es encantador y muy profesional, totalmente recomendado! more
Mar 2025, Julen G
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West Lake Scenery and Relaxing Experiences (3½ hours)
Relax in a rowing boat on West Lake

Enjoy an afternoon Tea of Hangzhou style

As the ancient "back garden of Shanghai", Hangzhou is filled with relaxing charm. The best way to enjoy this city is to follow the locals.
Taking a rowing boat is the most authentic way to enjoy West Lake's beauty. Explore a century-old Chinese pharmacy, learn how to make Chinese medicine and try some Chinese medicine snacks. Then settle down to a fine afternoon tea of Hangzhou style.
Recommended tours:
Discover Alibaba's Story and Cutting-Edge China in Hangzhou
Listen to the stories of Jack Ma and Alibaba

Experience a mobile payment

Have a new retail experiences

Paying with your face, riding a QR code bike, stores without a sales clerk, ambulances getting a green light all the way... these are daily life in Hangzhou.
Journey with us and have your eyes opened by interesting stories about Jack Ma, the richest man in China, and how his company Alibaba changed Hangzhou.
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Tea Village and Culture Experience (3 hours)
Pick tea leaves with a tea farmer

Learn the art of tea-tasting

Enjoy tea dishes at China's top tea plantation.

Meijiawu Tea Village is the place of origin of the best tea in China — West Lake Dragon Well tea. A local tea farmer will welcome you with traditional tea-pickers' bamboo baskets and hats and accompany you to the tea plantation.
You will first learn to choose appropriate tea leaves and pick them in the right way. After tea-picking, the tea farmer will show you the process of stir-drying tea. This process dehydrates the leaves and helps preserve their beautiful green color. Then learn the proper way to make a cup of tea.
After saying goodbye to the tea village, we'll drive to a local restaurant hiding in the tea plantation to enjoy some tea cuisine.
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