1 Day Tour of Shanghai (Film Park & Zhujiajiao Ancient Town)

Exploring Shanghai in a single day might sound ambitious, but this tour manages to blend old-world charm, cinematic history, and modern skyscrapers into a surprisingly balanced experience. Guided by knowledgeable English-speaking guides, you’ll get a taste of the city’s layered personality—all without the stress of planning transportation or juggling tickets.

What we love about this trip is the opportunity to walk through Zhujiajiao’s traditional water town, snap selfies at a famous Republic-era film set, and spend a little time on Nanjing Road’s bustling shopping streets. The tour’s seamless transport, well-timed stops, and local insights make it ideal for first-time visitors or those craving a snapshot of Shanghai’s multifaceted identity.

One potential drawback? The itinerary is quite packed, which might leave some travelers wishing for a bit more time at each stop. Still, if you’re after a snapshot of Shanghai’s most iconic sights in one day, this tour offers solid value. It’s perfect for those who prefer guided experiences, want a hassle-free day, and are eager to see a mix of city glamour, historical charm, and film magic.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive itinerary covering old Shanghai, film history, and modern landmarks
• Seamless transport included, removing the hassle of navigating public transport
• Authentic experiences like walking through Zhujiajiao’s traditional water streets and visiting a famous film studio
• Expert guides provide context and local insights, enriching your understanding
• Flexible options for rescheduling in case of weather or attraction closures
• Value for money for a full day exploring diverse facets of Shanghai

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point and Transport

The tour begins conveniently at the exit of Gate 14 of People’s Square Metro Station. This location is easy to access via Metro Lines 1, 2, or 8, making it straightforward for most travelers to join without hassle. Once gathered, travelers hop into air-conditioned buses—an appreciated touch in Shanghai’s often humid weather. The small group size and comfort of the coach help keep everyone relaxed during the day’s transit.

Visiting Shanghai Film Park

Your first major stop is Shanghai Film Park, a top 10 film and TV base that has served as the backdrop for famous productions like The Bund, Kung Fu Hustle, and The Disguiser. The appeal here is twofold: film enthusiasts get a chance to pretend they’re a star in 1930s Shanghai, while selfie lovers will find plenty of opportunities with period costumes and set pieces.

Reviewers point out the guides’ knowledge here, with one noting that the guide “was very enthusiastic about film history and happy to share behind-the-scenes stories.” You might even spot a film crew or celebrities, which adds a sprinkle of Hollywood glamor to the day. The set design captures the flavor of early 20th-century Shanghai, making it a fun, visual journey into a bygone era.

Exploring Zhujiajiao Ancient Town

Next, the coach whisks you away to Zhujiajiao, a charming water town often called “Shanghais Venice” or “pearl by Dianshan Lake.” You’ll get about two hours here to wander through Ming-Qing streets, crossing Fangsheng Bridge, watching locals release fish for good luck, and enjoying the tranquil riverside scenery.

The town’s traditional houses and narrow waterways evoke a sense of stepping back in time. Many reviews mention how peaceful and picturesque Zhujiajiao is—whether you’re snapping photos of ancient bridges, browsing local shops, or relaxing with a cup of tea along the riverbank. The guides often recommend visiting Caohe Street and East Well Street, which are packed with local eateries and shops.

For lunch, you’ll have the freedom to indulge in famous local dishes like braised pork (“Zha Rou”), grandma’s rice dumplings, and Jiangnan-style river delicacies. These dishes not only taste amazing but offer an authentic flavor of Shanghai’s countryside cuisine, which locals love to visit on weekends.

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Afternoon Delights and Modern Shanghai

Post-lunchtime, you’re free to explore Nanjing Road’s famous pedestrian street. It’s the best place to soak in modern Shanghai’s vibrant commercial scene, with countless shops, cafes, and street performers. Many visitors enjoy strolling here, soaking in the bustling energy that contrasts sharply with Zhujiajiao’s serenity.

If you’re up for a quick detour, you can take the metro to Lujiazui Station to visit Shanghai’s iconic Oriental Pearl Tower. While this extra is at your own expense, the panoramic views from the tower’s observation deck are often highlighted as a highlight—perfect for those wanting a 360-degree snapshot of the city skyline.

End of the Day

The tour concludes at Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, giving you time to explore further or simply soak in the city lights. Alternatively, you can hop on the metro to return to your hotel or continue your evening with some sightseeing or shopping.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Transport and Convenience: The included air-conditioned bus makes navigating a busy city like Shanghai much easier, especially when covering three distinct areas. Many reviewers mention how smooth and punctual the transportation was, allowing the day to flow without stress.

Authentic Cultural Experience: From walking through Zhujiajiao’s ancient streets to dressing up at Film Park, the tour offers tangible, fun ways to connect with Shanghai’s past. The guides’ local knowledge and stories often add depth that you won’t find in a guidebook.

Diverse Highlights: Covering old water towns, film sets, and modern commercial streets ensures that your visit captures the city’s full spectrum—from Ming-Qing architecture to contemporary skyscrapers.

Flexibility and Safety: The change policy offers peace of mind in case of bad weather or attraction closures, and the tour’s small group size fosters a more personal experience.

Considerations for Travelers

While this tour offers a well-rounded experience, it’s worth noting that the itinerary is quite packed. If you prefer slower-paced visits or want more time at each stop, this might feel rushed. Also, the tour is primarily guided, so if you prefer exploring independently, some may find the structured schedule limiting.

You’ll want to bring comfortable shoes for walking, a passport (for any potential identification needs), and be prepared for a full day of sightseeing. Since lunch is free time, bringing some snacks or extra water might also be helpful, especially if you have specific dietary needs.

Final Thoughts

This tour provides a fantastic snapshot of Shanghai’s many faces within a manageable day. It’s especially suited for travelers who want an easy, guided way to see key sights without the stress of planning logistics. The mix of cinematic history, ancient water towns, and modern cityscapes ensures you get a well-rounded taste of the city’s diverse personality.

For those interested in film and history, Zhujiajiao’s charm combined with Film Park’s nostalgic sets makes it a standout. Meanwhile, lovers of urban energy will appreciate the vibrant Nanjing Road and panoramic views from the Oriental Pearl Tower.

This experience offers great value, blending culture, entertainment, and modernity into one accessible package. It’s a day well spent for travelers who want to see the highlights without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, all transport between the locations is provided with an air-conditioned tourist bus, making for a comfortable and hassle-free experience.

What is the meeting point?
The tour begins at the exit of Gate 14 of People’s Square Metro Station, near the KFC entrance, which is easy to access via Metro Lines 1, 2, or 8.

Can I customize the tour if attractions are closed?
The policy allows you to reschedule or get a full refund if there are closures or weather issues, offering flexibility in case plans change.

How long do we spend at each stop?
You’ll have about 2 hours at Shanghai Film Park, 2 hours exploring Zhujiajiao, plus some free time for lunch and shopping. The schedule is tight but designed to maximize what you see.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, especially if children are comfortable walking and are interested in film, water towns, or urban scenery. Children under 1.2 meters pay a child rate, which covers guide service but excludes other expenses.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, your passport, and any personal items. Bringing some snacks for the day might also be helpful since lunch is on your own.

In essence, this guided tour is a practical, engaging way to experience some of Shanghai’s most iconic sights in just one day. It’s best suited for those who want a structured, insightful journey without the hassle of planning each detail themselves. Whether you’re into movies, history, or cityscape views, the variety ensures there’s something for all to enjoy.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby