Shanghai Seven Treasure Town & Zhujiajiao Water Town Tour

Taking a day trip from Shanghai to explore two historic water towns offers a wonderful blend of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and authentic local life—without the hassle of navigating on your own. This tour, offered by Joy China Tours, takes you to Zhujiajiao, a famed water town, and Seven Treasure Town, a lesser-known but equally fascinating spot.

What we love about this experience is its well-paced itinerary, allowing you to soak in each town’s unique atmosphere without feeling rushed. The knowledgeable guides make history come alive with engaging stories, and the comfort of private transportation keeps things smooth. Plus, the chance to try local Chinese-style lunch adds a delicious, cultural touch.

However, no tour is perfect for everyone. If you have mobility issues or are traveling with very young children, the walking and boat rides might be less suitable. Still, this trip is ideal for those who want to see authentic water towns with a relaxed, informative approach. It’s a great fit for travelers keen on culture and picturesque scenery, all within a manageable day.

Good To Know

• Authentic Water Towns: Visit two distinctly different towns with rich histories and charming scenery.
• Balanced Pace: Enough time for sightseeing, walking, and optional boat rides without feeling overwhelmed.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides share stories that bring the history and culture to life.
• Comfort & Convenience: Private air-conditioned vehicle and hotel pickup/drop-off make the day seamless.
• Cultural & Culinary Experience: Enjoy a traditional Chinese-style lunch and learn about local commerce.
• Limited Flexibility: Optional activities like boat rides are at your own expense, so budget accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Your Day: Easy Pickup & Comfort

The tour kicks off at around 8:30 AM with a hotel pick-up in downtown Shanghai. From there, you’ll settle into a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, driven by a skillful local driver. The guide, whose name varies but is typically engaging and knowledgeable, contacts you the day before to confirm the exact pickup time. This personal touch helps ensure a smooth start and sets the tone for the day.

Zhujiajiao: A Classic Water Town

Your first stop is Zhujiajiao, often called the “Venice of Shanghai,” with roots that trace back to the Three Kingdoms Period. Here, you’ll wander through narrow old streets lined with centuries-old buildings and marvel at the Fangsheng Bridge, a beautiful stone structure that dates back several dynasties. The Baoguo Temple and Town God’s Temple offer insight into local spiritual life, while Zhuxi Garden provides a peaceful retreat amid the bustling town.

One of the most popular activities here is a boat ride along the river (at your own expense), which many reviewers say is worth the extra cost. It offers a different perspective of the town’s centuries-old architecture and bridges. Expect to see locals going about their day—selling goods, preparing food, or simply enjoying the scenery. It’s a serene, picture-perfect moment that captures the essence of Chinese water towns.

Lunch: Tasting Local Flavors

Around midday, you’ll enjoy a Chinese-style lunch, included in the tour. Many travelers comment on how satisfying and authentic the meal is—likely featuring local ingredients and traditional recipes. This is a great chance to sample regional flavors and rest before heading to the next stop.

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Seven Treasure Town: A Hidden Treasure

After lunch, the tour continues to Seven Treasure Town, situated in the Shanghai suburbs. Built during the Ming and Qing dynasties, this town was once a bustling marketplace for trading cloth, yarn, and vegetables. Today, it offers a glimpse into local commercial history and the lively atmosphere of a traditional market town.

Here, you’ll stroll through old streets and observe local crafts and trades. The environment is more laid-back compared to Zhujiajiao but equally rich in history and culture. This part of the tour also allows for some walking and exploring at your own pace, with plenty of photo opportunities along the way.

Understanding the Town’s Heritage

Your guide will share stories about the town’s past, and many guests appreciate the insightful commentary that helps bring the area’s bustling trade life to life. The town’s quieter, more intimate setting offers a chance to see local life in action—from shopkeepers to farmers—without the crowds common in more tourist-heavy spots.

Returning to Shanghai

The tour wraps up around 5 PM with a comfortable transfer back to your Shanghai hotel. The overall timing allows for a relaxed day, with enough space for spontaneous moments or extra photos.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Transportation and Group Size

Travel is in a private group with an air-conditioned vehicle, which is a significant advantage over larger bus tours. The driver and guide team work smoothly to keep the schedule on track and ensure your comfort. The tour’s flexibility means you can enjoy sightseeing at a calm pace, avoiding the stiff, hurried feel of larger group trips.

Cost and Value

Priced at $217 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded experience—covering transportation, entrance fees, a traditional lunch, and guided commentary. Many reviewers feel the price is reasonable, considering the convenience and quality of guides. You get a full day of sightseeing without the hassle of planning, plus the chance to learn about local culture from a knowledgeable guide.

Accessibility and Suitability

While the tour is wheelchair accessible, it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments or unaccompanied minors. Expect to walk on uneven or old pavement, and if you opt for the boat ride, you’ll need to balance on potentially moving boats. Children must be supervised, and comfortable shoes are recommended for walking through ancient streets and gardens.

Optional Activities

The boat ride in Zhujiajiao is optional and at your own expense. Based on reviews, it’s worth considering as it offers a different view of the water town, but it’s not a must-do for everyone. The town’s scenic beauty and historic architecture are captivating even without the boat.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, relaxed day exploring China’s water towns with a knowledgeable guide. It offers a gentle pace, perfect for those interested in history, culture, and scenic photography. The inclusion of local food and the option for a boat ride adds to the authenticity.

It’s particularly suited for visitors wanting an easy, hassle-free experience with transportation included, allowing them to focus on sightseeing and learning. If you’re looking for a quick escape from the city’s hustle and bustle while soaking in some Chinese tradition, this tour hits the right note.

However, it might not be the best choice for those with mobility issues, or travelers seeking very active or adventurous experiences. For those willing to pay a bit more for private, guided comfort, it’s a valuable way to uncover the charm of historic water towns.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your downtown Shanghai hotel, making it very convenient.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking on uneven surfaces and exploring old streets. Bring some cash if you want to participate in the boat ride, as it’s at your own expense.

How long are the stops at each water town?
You’ll spend about 3 hours at Zhujiajiao and roughly 3 hours at Seven Treasure Town, allowing ample time for sightseeing and optional activities.

Can I customize the experience?
This is a private group tour, so you might discuss specific interests or needs with the guide beforehand. However, the itinerary is set for a balanced day.

Is the boat ride included?
No, the boat ride is an optional activity that costs extra, but many find it worthwhile for the unique views it offers.

What is the duration of the tour?
The full tour lasts about 8 hours, starting around 8:30 AM and concluding back at your hotel around 5 PM.

Are meals included?
Yes, a Chinese-style lunch is included, providing a taste of local cuisine.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible, but note that walking on old streets and some uneven surfaces may pose challenges.

What kind of guide will I have?
An English-speaking guide will accompany your group, providing historical insights and local knowledge.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

In essence, this tour offers a well-rounded, thoughtfully curated experience of China’s water towns, combining scenic beauty, cultural history, and comfortable logistics. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to see authentic local life without the stress of self-planning, making it a memorable day out from Shanghai.

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