Private 2-Hour Shanghai Lanes and Alleyways Walking Tour

Summary

If you have already visited Shanghai’s Bund, City God Temple and Yuyuan Garden and wish to go beyond the popular tourist spots, you'll get a new perspective on this walking tour that explores Shanghai's courtyard alleyways, known as nongtangs. The nontangs are back passageways that combine traditional building design with modern Western architecture, offering a unique urban atmosphere not found in other places. The nongtangs were established in the 1920s and many of the original inhabitants still live there and retain elements of the old ways despite the pace of change in other parts of Shanghai. As you meander through the nongtangs with your experienced guide, listen to fascinating anecdotes that reveal the cultural norms in the nongtangs. Your guide also introduces you to some of the local elderly residents who welcome your into their homes to socialize and learn about their daily life and their past. History comes alive when you hear their stories, and you can learn how the changes in modern Shanghai have affected their lifestyle. Small food markets operate along the alleyways, often owned by local residents who supply their neighborhood with fresh produce and other goods. Your guide takes you to some of these tucked-away shops and wet markets where you can meet the owners and learn about their livelihoods. You can also purchase some local delicacies such as tea eggs, which are hard boiled eggs cooked in tea and a marinade sauce. Sampling street food makes perfect complement to this unforgettable experience of authentic Shanghai.

Tour info

Duration
2 hours
Group Size
Pricing (From)
Commentary
Meeting Point
Dropoff location

Why take this tour?

See Shanghai through the eyes of a local on this 2-hour private guided tour of the city’s areas where normal tours don’t go. Follow your knowledgeable local guide as you wander through Shanghai’s 'nongtangs' -- old districts, lanes and alleyways dating back from the 1920s featuring age-old architecture, unique designs and artwork. With your guide, make a home visit to interact with long-time elderly residents of these 'nongtangs' and gain a deeper understanding of local Shanghai life. Then, explore a local food market and try some Chinese street food (own expense). This is a private tour just for you and your party.

What’s included?

  • Private walking tour

  • Local English-speaking guide

  • Gratuities

  • Food and drinks

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off

Things to know

Before you book

  • Duration: 2h

  • Mobile tickets accepted

  • Instant confirmation

Cancellation Policy

    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Operated by:

Shanghai Pathways-Private One-day and Walking Tours

About operator:

If you want unique & authentic tours to see the real Shanghai, come join us! We take you behind the scenes of a destination to reveal it's hidden gems and appreciate the Chinese culture. We believe this is the perfect style of travel experience for those who want to get off the beaten path and really connect with the destination. With English speaking Chinese guides who lives in Shanghai, you are assured a real local experience. The experience can be as short as a couple of hours, or a whole day, but in every case we will take you to interesting places to meet locals, and really see what makes the place tick.

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