8 Days Shanghai Xian Beijing Best of China Tour in Small Group

Shanghai, known for its remarkable blend of Eastern and Western cultures, has developed a unique charm over time. Upon your arrival at the airport or train station in Shanghai, your tour guide and driver will be waiting at the exit to greet you and escort you to a carefully selected hotel in downtown Shanghai. The remainder of the day is yours to relax and recover from jet lag or to explore the nearby surroundings at your own pace.

Arrival Tips:

Travelers can easily reach Shanghai by air or high-speed train. The city is served by two major airports: Shanghai Pudong International Airport and Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport, both offering numerous international and domestic flights. You can fly to Shanghai from most major cities in China, including Beijing, Xi’an, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Guilin, Kunming, Lijiang, and Lhasa. Alternatively, high-speed trains provide fast connections to Shanghai from: Beijing (4.5-6 hours), Xi’an (6-7.5 hours), Huangshan (2.5-3 hours), Guangzhou (7-8.5 hours), Suzhou (30 minutes), Hangzhou (about 45 minutes), Wuhan (3.5-4.5 hours), etc.

Today, you will spend the entire day exploring Shanghai, often referred to as the “Paris of the East,” where tradition and modernity coexist in perfect harmony. From towering skyscrapers and historic architecture to serene classical gardens and world-class museums, this vibrant city has it all.

Begin your day in the iconic Pudong Area, home to Shanghai’s famous skyline. The Lujiazui financial district boasts an impressive trio of towering skyscrapers: the Jin Mao Tower, the Shanghai World Financial Center, and the Shanghai Tower. Among them, the Shanghai Tower is not only the tallest building in China but also the second tallest in the world, standing at a staggering 632 meters (2,073 feet).

Here, you’ll ascend the Shanghai Tower, which features a striking 120-degree twist from base to peak. Ride the world’s fastest elevators, traveling at an astonishing speed of 64 km/h, to the Top of Shanghai Observatory on the 118th floor – 546 meters (1,791 feet) above the ground. From this vantage point, enjoy unparalleled 360-degree panoramic views of the city, with the Jin Mao Tower and Shanghai World Financial Center below you and the sprawling urban landscape stretching into the horizon.

Next, visit the renowned Shanghai Museum, a treasure trove of Chinese art and history. Designed to resemble an ancient bronze ding vessel, the museum’s architecture reflects the traditional Chinese cosmology of “round sky, square earth.” Inside, explore an impressive collection of 120,000 cultural relics spanning 5,000 years of Chinese history.

Don’t miss highlights such as the Da Ke Ding, an ancient bronze vessel from over 3,000 years ago, and the Bianzhong of Marquis Su of Jin, a set of rare bronze musical instruments. The Bronze and Ceramics Exhibition Halls are must-sees, offering a glimpse into the brilliance and refinement of China’s ancient artisans.

After lunch, step into the tranquil world of Yu Garden, the most celebrated classical Chinese garden in Shanghai. Hidden amidst the hustle and bustle of the city, this Ming Dynasty garden is a masterpiece of traditional Chinese landscaping. Take a leisurely stroll through its pavilions, rockeries, koi ponds, and intricately designed halls, marveling at the exquisite sculptures and carvings.

Outside the garden, explore the lively Yuyuan Bazaar, a bustling market where you can sample local snacks, shop for traditional crafts, or hunt for unique souvenirs.

Later in the day, take a leisurely walk down Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, one of Shanghai’s busiest and most famous shopping streets. Lined with luxury brands, cozy cafes, restaurants, and souvenir shops, this vibrant street is the perfect place to soak in Shanghai’s dynamic urban energy.

End your day at The Bund, the city’s most iconic waterfront area and a must-see destination. Known as the “Exhibition of International Architecture,” the Bund features 52 grand buildings in a variety of architectural styles, including Gothic, Baroque, and Art Deco. From here, marvel at the stunning contrast between the historic buildings along the Bund and the futuristic skyline of Pudong, illuminated in dazzling lights as night falls.

Travel Note:
(1) The Shanghai Museum and Yuyuan Garden are closed on Mondays. Visits may be adjusted to include the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center, City God Temple, or French Concession.
(2) During peak season, if the Shanghai Museum (People’s Square) is unavailable, it will be replaced by the Shanghai Museum East Branch.

As your 3-day Shanghai group tour comes to an end, you’ll have some free time to explore the city at your own pace before being escorted to the airport or train station for your flight or high-speed train to your next destination.

Trip Extension Ideas:

If you’d like to continue your adventure and explore other fascinating destinations in Asia instead of heading home, we’d be delighted to help you plan an extension trip. Simply share your ideas with us, and we’ll customize a journey tailored to your preferences!

Thank you for choosing HelloChinaTrip for your China tour. It has been our pleasure to assist you, and we look forward to welcoming you again on your next trip to China or Asia. Wishing you a safe and pleasant journey!