Tibetan Heartlands: Lhasa, Gyantse & Shigatse

Discover Shanghai's Dazzling Contrasts Through Personalized Exploration

Day 1: Arrival & Shanghai's Urban Panorama

Morning: Airport Arrival & Sky-High Welcome

Your English-speaking private guide will greet you at Shanghai airport, port, or railway station. Begin your journey with a visit to the world's highest bookstore at Shanghai Tower's 52nd floor, where panoramic city views await. Enjoy a drink while admiring Shanghai's iconic skyline including the Shanghai World Financial Center, Jinmao Tower, and Oriental Pearl TV Tower.

Afternoon: Huangpu River Cruise & Architectural Wonders

Embark on a one-hour Huangpu River cruise from 16th Pier, passing landmarks including the Oriental Pearl Tower and historic Garden Bridge. Afterwards, explore the Bund's magnificent collection of 52 European colonial buildings in Gothic, Baroque, and other architectural styles - a true World Exhibition of Architecture.

Evening: Optional Nightlife Experience

As darkness falls, consider experiencing Shanghai's vibrant nightlife with optional transfers to exclusive bars like M1NT with its shark tanks or VUE Bar atop Hyatt at the Bund Hotel, offering spectacular river views.

Day 2: Water Town Escape - Tongli's Timeless Charm

Morning: Journey to "Venice of the Orient"

After breakfast, travel approximately 1.5 hours to Tongli Water Town, a 1,000-year-old settlement often called the "Venice of the Orient." This photogenic town features ancient stone bridges, traditional waterfront houses, and peaceful canals dividing the area into seven islands connected by 49 historic bridges.

Afternoon: Canal Exploration & Local Life

Experience Tongli from its traditional wooden boats, once used for transportation and now offering tourists a unique perspective of daily life. Observe residents maintaining traditional customs - washing clothes by the river, elderly women knitting in sunlight, and artists playing traditional instruments beside ancient bridges.

Alternative Water Town Options

• Zhouzhuang: China's "No. 1 Water Town" featuring profound cultural heritage and historic buildings like Shen House and Chengxu Taoist Temple
• Xitang: Distinguished by its unique "Rain Corridor" formed by connected ceilings along flagstone pathways

Evening: Culinary Experience

On your return to Shanghai, your driver can drop you at the Michelin-recommended Virtue & Thrive Restaurant (established 1878) to sample authentic Shanghai cuisine, including their famous Fresh Meat Mooncakes.

Day 3: Shanghai's Heritage & Urban Planning

Morning: City Development & Classical Gardens

Begin at the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall to understand Shanghai's transformation from small village to international metropolis through interactive displays and models. Then explore the meticulously-designed Yu Garden, a 400-year-old classical Southern Chinese garden featuring the Dragon Wall, Nine-Turning Bridge, and central pavilion.

Afternoon: Traditional Architecture & Local Culture

Visit Tianzifang Old Block, a preserved residential area showcasing Shanghai's distinctive Shikumen architectural style. Wander through nearly century-old lanes now housing boutique shops, cafes, and bars while observing local residents going about their daily lives.

Late Afternoon: Departure

Your guide and driver will transfer you to the airport, port, or railway station for your onward journey, concluding your immersive Shanghai experience.