Shanghai Private Tours: 20 Best Private Tours in Shanghai

Shanghai Private Tours: 20 Best Private Tours in Shanghai 2025

Open the China nighttime light map, and the brightest pinpoint in Eastern China greets you: Bustling Shanghai's here! Your Shanghai Private Tour will lead you to this No. 1 international gateway and the richest metropolitan area in China.

Go with Us at Flexible and Personalized Pace:

Inside Shanghai City (Classic & Theme): Discover The Bund's historic architecture face-to-face with towering Shanghai Tower. Explore traditional Yu Garden. Head to Disneyland with your family or explore hidden Zhujiajiao Water Town. Even more food, night, biking, and high-tech themes await your discovery.

Extend to Adjacent Suzhou, Hangzhou (<1 hour high-speed train): Visit UNESCO gardens and ancient canals in Suzhou, and poetic West Lake and Longjing tea fields and tea villages in Hangzhou.

Weaving Your China Journey from Shanghai: Extend your journey from Shanghai to include Xi'an Terracotta Warriors, Beijing's Forbidden City and Great Wall, Tibet, Guilin's Karst landscapes, and Zhangjiajie's Avatar mountains.

Choose Asia Odyssey Travel as Your Shanghai Private Tour Expert

With over 15+ years of experience, we specialize in Private Tours in Shanghai as well as Suzhou, Hangzhou, and private tours across China.

We are a large travel company. You can trust our professional and warm-hearted travel guides and consultants, worry-free transportation, guaranteed prices that meet your expectations, and authentic local itinerary extras (feel free to ask!). We guarantee 100% None Shopping Tours.

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Top 6 Shanghai Private Tours (Highly Flexible)

We have crafted 6 best private tours in Shanghai, specifically featuring the must-see attractions YOU won't want to miss. These tours, ranging from 1 to 4 days, feature a flexible pace, allowing you to depart at any time that suits your schedule.

We provide family fun at Disneyland (private transfer), efficient one-day tour covering The Bund skylines, or a historic city walk (Former French Concession, Longtan). For a local escape, travel outside city center to enjoy serene Zhujiajiao Water Town.

Classic Shanghai Day Tour - A Glimpse of China's Magic City

Shanghai

Situated on the coast of the East China Sea and the estuary of the Yangtze River, Shanghai is the world's largest and busiest port. As a bustling metropolis, Shanghai has been a major gateway for in...

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4 Days Shanghai Relaxing Family Tour with Disneyland Fun

Shanghai

Experience the perfect 4-day family tour in Shanghai, designed to provide relaxation, excitement, and everlasting memories. Immerse yourself in the vibrant city as you explore its renowned highlight...

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Shanghai French Concession Wukang Mansion

2 Days Shanghai Highlights Tour with the Bund, Skylines & City Walk Experience

Shanghai

What is the best way to explore Shanghai? Nowadays, citywalk has become a popular and enchanting way to fully immerse yourself in the old-world charm and dynamic essence of Shanghai. Taking a stroll...

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3 Days Best Shanghai Tour: Encounter Old and New Shanghai

Shanghai

How about taking a classic trip to witness the finest highlights of Shanghai? Are you eager to delve into the history and cultures of both old and new Shanghai? This 3-day Shanghai tour allows you t...

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2 Days Shanghai Zhujiajiao Water Town Tour: From Urban Cityscape to Jiangnan Waterway

Shanghai

Have you ever desired to visit a city that seamlessly blends modern allure with the grace of the past? Have you ever craved an experience where you could feel the bustle of the city and yet find mom...

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2 Days Modern Shanghai Impression Tour Modern Skyscrapers, Lifestyle & Art

Shanghai

Explore Shanghai, the Magic City, in a two-day tour meticulously curated to showcase the Shanghai's modern aspects. As the meeting point of Eastern and Western cultures, Shanghai continually tops ch...

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Thematic Shanghai Private Tours (Day Thrills)

Want to explore the new face of Shanghai? Try something new in one day with your partner.

These 8 Shanghai Private Tours are tied to the latest specialties: Night Ferry, Food, High-Tech (XR, Drone Food Delivery), Biking, and Layover. Pick one that fits your interest or contact us to describe what you want to discover.

5 Private Tours in Shanghai, Suzhou, Hangzhou

Do day tours not fit into your Shanghai plan? Extend your Shanghai Private Tours to Suzhou and Hangzhou, both under 1 hour away. We offer 5 Shanghai Hangzhou Suzhou Tours ranging from 5 to 9 days, as well as one-day trips from Shanghai.

The 9 Day Package is the best option for visiting Suzhou gardens and canal cruising, Hangzhou's West Lake, and Huangshan (cable car included). Alternatively, decide to cover three cities in 5 days. If you are interested, contact us now about a more extensive Zen experience planned for 2026.

9 Days Shanghai Suzhou Hangzhou Huangshan Eastern China Tour

Shanghai - Suzhou - Hangzhou - Huangshan

This 9 days Eastern China Tour covers the top 4 tourist destinations of Shanghai, Suzhou, Hangzhou, and Huangshan. From Magic City (Shanghai) to Venice of the East (Suzhou), Heaven on Earth (Hangzho...

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5 Days Shanghai Suzhou Hangzhou Tour: Experience Heavenly Charm by Bullet Train

Shanghai - Hangzhou - Suzhou - Shanghai

In China, there is a well-known saying that goes, "Up above there is heaven; down below there are Suzhou and Hangzhou". The prosperity of Hangzhou and Suzhou can be traced back to the mid-Tang Dynas...

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3 Days Suzhou Hangzhou Tour from Shanghai - Discover Poetic Jiangnan

Shanghai - Suzhou - Hangzhou

Fair South Recalled (忆江南 Memories of Jiangnan) 白居易- by Bai Juyi, the "Old Mayor" of Suzhou and Hangzhou (1,200 years ago) Fair Southern shore (江南好Jiangnan is so beautiful).With scenes I muc...

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Suzhou Day Trip from Shanghai by High Speed Train

Shanghai - Suzhou - Shanghai

From the bustling metropolis of Shanghai, a short half-hour journey by high-speed train transports you to a different world - Suzhou. This ancient city, often referred to as "Heaven on Earth" or the...

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1 Day Paradise Hangzhou Cultural Tour from Shanghai by High Speed Train

Shanghai - Hangzhou - Shanghai

As the capital of East China's Zhejiang Province and the ancient capital of the Southern Song Dynasty (1127-1279), Hangzhou boasts as a Popular Cultural Tourist Destination worldwide. When mentionin...

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China Add-ons: Private Tours from Shanghai

Looking to stay in China, not just Shanghai? Your expectations will be met, as we offer China Tours from Shanghai that cover your desired cultural or natural highlights.

These 8 to 15 days tours include imperial relics in Xi'an and Beijing, Tibet's Everest Base Camp, Guilin's Karst landscapes, Zhangjiajie's Avatar mountains, and Yangtze River Cruises.

8 Days Shanghai Xian Beijing Classic China Tour

Shanghai - Xian - Beijing

Iconic Essentials

8 Days

3 Places

First time to travel China? This classic China tour is one of our bestselling China tour, covering the top three popular tourist cities in China. On this 8 days Shanghai Xian Beijing Classic China T...

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6 Days Shanghai Beijing Highlights Tour by High Speed Train

Shanghai - Beijing

Short Trip

6 Days

2 Places

Shanghai and Beijing are often called “A Tale of Two Cities”. This 6 days Shanghai Beijing highlights tour takes you to explore all amazing tales of the two biggest cities in China. Shanghai is th...

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11 Days Tibet Train Tour from Shanghai with Everest Base Camp & Namtso Lake

Shanghai - Lhasa - Yamdrok Lake - Shigatse - Everest Base Camp - Damxung - Namtso Lake - Lhasa

Train Journey

11 Days

8 Places

Embark on an unforgettable adventure and take a train ride from Shanghai to Tibet! Marvel at the stunning views of the majestic Himalayan Mountains and the vast grasslands of the Qinghai-Tibet Plate...

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15 Days China Panorama Tour with Panda, Tibet & Beautiful Guilin

Shanghai - Guilin - Chengdu - Lhasa - Xian - Beijing

Discovery

15 Days

6 Places

On this 15 days China Panorama Tour, you will travel through China with the top 6 tourist cities which are Shanghai, Guilin, Chengdu, Lhasa, Xian, and Beijing. This across China trip includes China...

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7 Days Yangtze River Cruise Tour from Shanghai (Upstream)

Shanghai - Yichang - Yangtze River Cruise- Chongqing

Relaxing Cruise Journey

7 Days

4 Places

In today's busy world, it's In today's busy world, it's hard to find time to slow down and enjoy things. But the 7-day Yangtze River Cruise from Shanghai gives you a chance to do just that. This cru...

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13 Days Shanghai Guilin Yangtze Xian Beijing China Tour with Three Gorges

Shanghai - Guilin - Chongqing - Yangtze - Yichang - Xian - Beijing

Relaxing Holiday

13 Days

7 Places

On this 13 days Shanghai Guilin Xian Yangtze River Beijing China Three Gorges Cruise Tour, you will travel through China with the top 4 tourist cities and one classic trip on the Yangtze River Cruis...

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Shanghai Private Tours FAQs - Plan Your Shanghai Private Tours Worry-Free

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1. Will language be a problem in Shanghai?

While Mandarin Chinese is the official language in Shanghai and throughout China, English is becoming more widely spoken in major cities like Shanghai, especially among younger generations and those working in the tourism industry. However, it's important to note that the level of English proficiency can vary among individuals.

In popular tourist areas, hotels, upscale restaurants, and larger shopping centers in Shanghai, you can usually find staff members who can communicate in English to some extent. Many signs, menus, and transportation announcements also have English translations. Additionally, Shanghai has been investing in English language education and promoting bilingualism to support international visitors.

However, it's still advisable to be prepared for language barriers, especially when interacting with locals outside of tourist areas or when venturing into smaller local establishments. It can be helpful to learn a few basic Mandarin phrases or carry a translation app to assist with communication.

If you require assistance or have specific needs, consider using the services of a local guide or interpreter who can facilitate your interactions and help navigate language challenges.

Overall, while English is gradually becoming more prevalent in Shanghai, it's wise to be patient, flexible, and open to non-verbal communication to overcome any language barriers you may encounter during your visit.

2. When is the best time to visit Shanghai?

The best time to visit Shanghai is during the spring (April to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These periods offer pleasant temperatures, moderate humidity, and fewer chances of rain compared to other times of the year. Here's a breakdown of the seasons in Shanghai:
1) Spring (April to May): Spring in Shanghai brings mild temperatures, blossoming flowers, and vibrant greenery. It's an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring the city's parks and gardens. However, do note that April can be a bit unpredictable with occasional rain showers.
2) Summer (June to August): Shanghai's summer is hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). It can be uncomfortable for outdoor activities, and the city experiences frequent rain showers and occasional typhoons. If you visit during summer, be prepared for high humidity and consider indoor attractions and air-conditioned spaces.
3) Autumn (September to November): Autumn is considered the best time to visit Shanghai. The weather is pleasant, with cooler temperatures and lower humidity. It's a great time for sightseeing, strolling along the waterfront, and enjoying outdoor activities. However, early autumn (September) can still be a bit warm, so be prepared for some lingering summer-like weather.
3) Winter (December to February): Shanghai's winter is chilly and damp, with occasional cold spells. Temperatures can drop to around 0°C (32°F), but snowfall is rare. Winter is a quieter time in Shanghai, and you can enjoy fewer crowds and lower hotel rates. It's a good time to explore indoor attractions, visit museums, and experience traditional Chinese New Year celebrations if your visit coincides with late January or early February.

3. What is Shanghai cuisine and where can I find them?

Shanghai cuisine, also known as Hu cuisine, is a prominent culinary style in China known for its delicate flavors, emphasis on freshness, and meticulous cooking techniques. Here are some popular Shanghai dishes you should try and where you can find them in Shanghai:
1) Xiaolongbao (小笼包): These steamed soup dumplings are a Shanghai specialty. The delicate dumpling skins encase a flavorful filling with a burst of hot, savory soup. You can find excellent Xiaolongbao at renowned establishments like Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant and Jia Jia Tang Bao.
2)Shengjianbao (生煎包): Similar to Xiaolongbao, Shengjianbao are pan-fried soup dumplings. They have a crispy bottom and a juicy filling. Yang's Fry-Dumpling and Jia Jia Tang Bao are popular spots to savor this local favorite.
3)Lion's Head Meatballs (狮子头): Lion's Head Meatballs are large, tender meatballs made from a mixture of ground pork, water chestnuts, and seasonings. They are usually braised in a savory sauce and served with vegetables. You can find them at local Shanghainese restaurants like Jesse Restaurant and Fu 1088.
4)Shanghai Fried Noodles (阳春面): Shanghai-style fried noodles, known as Yangchun noodles, are stir-fried noodles with a light sauce. They are often topped with a variety of ingredients like pork, shrimp, and vegetables. Try them at renowned noodle shops such as Lao Zheng Xing and Da Hu Chun.
5)Drunken Crab (醉蟹): This seasonal delicacy involves marinating fresh crabs in rice wine or Shaoxing wine. The crabs are then steamed to perfection. For an authentic experience, visit restaurants like Fu Chun Xiaolong and Songyue Lou during the crab season (usually autumn).
6)Braised Pork Belly (红烧肉Hongshao Rou): This dish features succulent pork belly braised in a fragrant sauce, resulting in tender and flavorful meat. You can savor this classic dish at renowned Shanghainese restaurants like Lvbolang and Yangzhou Restaurant.

4. What are the nearby cities or attractions around Shanghai?

Absolutely! Shanghai is surrounded by several fascinating destinations that make for great Shanghai day trips or short getaways. Here are some interesting places near Shanghai worth exploring:
1). Suzhou (苏州): Known as the "Venice of the East," Suzhou is renowned for its classical gardens, tranquil canals, and charming water towns. Visit the Humble Administrator's Garden, Tiger Hill, and explore the picturesque water town of Tongli.
2). Hangzhou (杭州) : Just a short train ride away, Hangzhou offers scenic beauty with its iconic West Lake, historic temples, and tea plantations. Don't miss the chance to sample the famous Longjing tea.
3). Zhouzhuang (周庄): This ancient water town near Shanghai is famous for its well-preserved Ming and Qing Dynasty architecture. Take a boat ride along the canals, visit historic residences, and immerse yourself in the town's rich cultural heritage.
4). Nanjing (南京): As the capital of Jiangsu Province, Nanjing is steeped in history and offers a wealth of cultural attractions. Explore the magnificent Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, walk along the ancient city walls, and visit the Confucius Temple.
5). Wuzhen (乌镇): Another charming water town, Wuzhen showcases traditional architecture, stone bridges, and serene canals. Take a leisurely stroll through its ancient alleyways and experience the town's timeless beauty.
6). Huangshan (黄山)Yellow Mountain: If you're up for a longer trip, consider visiting Huangshan, one of China's most iconic mountain ranges. Marvel at its dramatic peaks, hike scenic trails, and witness breathtaking sunrises or sunsets.

5. How many days is enough for a Shanghai tour?

The number of days you should spend in Shanghai depends on your interests, the activities you plan to undertake, and the pace at which you prefer to explore the city. However, a suggested duration for a well-rounded visit to Shanghai is around 1 to 5 days. This time frame allows you to experience the city's major attractions, delve into its rich culture, and also have some time for day trips to nearby destinations. Contact us to tailor your Shanghai Tour according to your interests and the experiences you seek.

Here's a sample itinerary to give you an idea:
Day 1: Explore the Bund, visit Shanghai Museum, wander along Nanjing Road, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the city center. In the evening, take a Huangpu River cruise to admire the illuminated skyline.
Day 2: Discover the traditional side of Shanghai by visiting Yu Garden, City God Temple, and exploring the charming alleys of Tianzifang or Xintiandi. Indulge in local cuisine and experience Shanghai's vibrant street food scene.
Day 3: Take a day trip to a nearby water town such as Suzhou or Zhouzhuang, where you can experience the classical gardens, historic architecture, and tranquil canals.
Day 4: Visit modern landmarks like the Shanghai Tower, Shanghai World Financial Center, and the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center to gain insight into the city's futuristic development. Explore the trendy district of Jing'an or French Concession for shopping and dining.
Day 5: If you have an extra day, consider another day trip to Hangzhou to visit the stunning West Lake, and Lingyin Temple, and experience the famous Longjing tea culture.

Of course, you can adjust this itinerary based on your preferences and the specific attractions you wish to prioritize. Shanghaihas a lot to offer, including museums, art galleries, markets, parks, and a vibrant nightlife scene. So, the more time you have, the more you can explore and immerse yourself in the city's diverse offerings.

6. What is Shanghai most known for?

Shanghai is known for several notable features that have contributed to its international reputation. Shanghai is a global metropolis that seamlessly blends tradition and modernity while offering a unique and dynamic experience for visitors. Here are some of the key aspects for which Shanghai is most renowned:
1). Modern Skyline: Shanghai is famous for its iconic modern skyline, dominated by towering skyscrapers and futuristic architecture. The Pudong district, particularly the Lujiazui area, is home to landmarks like the Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai Tower, Jin Mao Tower, and the Shanghai World Financial Center. These structures create an awe-inspiring panorama that has become synonymous with the city.
2). The Bund: The Bund is a historic waterfront area along the Huangpu River that showcases Shanghai's blend of Eastern and Western influences. It features grand colonial-era buildings on one side and the modern skyline on the other, creating a distinctive contrast that encapsulates the city's past and present.
3). Economic and Financial Hub: As China's leading economic and financial center, Shanghai plays a crucial role in global commerce and trade. It houses the Shanghai Stock Exchange, and numerous multinational corporations, and serves as a vital business hub attracting professionals and entrepreneurs from around the world.
4). Art and Culture: Shanghai has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with numerous galleries, museums, and theaters. The Shanghai Museum, China Art Museum, and the Power Station of Art are notable institutions that showcase Chinese art, history, and contemporary works. The city also hosts various international events, including the Shanghai International Film Festival and the Shanghai International Arts Festival.
5). Cosmopolitan Lifestyle: Shanghai is renowned for its cosmopolitan vibe and diverse international community. It offers a rich blend of Eastern and Western cultures, reflected in its fashion, cuisine, nightlife, and entertainment options. The city boasts a thriving dining scene, luxury shopping districts, trendy neighborhoods, and a bustling nightlife.
6). Historical and Cultural Sites: Shanghai's history and culture are showcased in its ancient temples, traditional gardens, and historic neighborhoods. Places like Yu Garden, Jing'an Temple, Longhua Temple, and the Old Town area provide glimpses into Shanghai's past and offer a contrast to its modern developments.

Latest Shanghai Private Tours Reviews from Our Customers

Discover what our customers are saying about the latest Shanghai Private Tours. Browse through their recent reviews and feedback on tour arrangements, guides, transportation, attractions, dining, hotels, and detailed itineraries to plan your own unforgettable China tour. View All Customers Reviews >>

Sarah Lim

Singapore

161

What a 30-Day China Adventure — Exceeded My Expectation

I recently completed the “30 Days China Tour from Beijing” with Asia Odyssey Travel, and as someone from Singapore, I found it to be an exceptional experience.

Starting in Beijing, everything kicked off seamlessly — airport pick-up worked well, and our guide made us feel comfortable right away. Over the month we moved through a very broad selection of China’s landscapes, cities, history and culture. From the imposing Great Wall of China and Forbidden City in Beijing to ancient capitals, ethnic minority regions, high-speed train rides, rural scenery and modern metropolises.

Some of the highlights for me:

Visiting the Great Wall early in the morning when it was quiet and feeling the scale of it in person.
Seeing ancient city walls, historic towns and temples that really brought Chinese history to life.
Travelling by high-speed train across regions — the logistics were smooth and we always arrived on time.
Staying in a mix of city hotels and countryside guesthouses which gave variety.
Getting to try regional cuisines — from northern Beijing specialties to southwestern flavours, each region surprised me.

Destination(s): Beijing, Xian, Shanghai, Chengdu/Sichuan, Guilin/Yangshuo, Zhangjiajie, YangtzeRiver, Xinjiang, Dunhuang/Gansu

Date of Experience: Apr 01, 2025

Tour Customized by: JoJo

You May be Interested in This Tour: 30 Days China Tour from Beijing | Ultimate China Adventure

Michael S.

USA

196

An Incredible 21-Day China Experience - Eye-Opening & Seamless

I recently completed the “21-Day China Tour from Shanghai” with Asia Odyssey Travel, and as a traveler from the U.S., I found the journey both impressive and very well managed.

Starting in Shanghai, our arrival went smoothly — airport pick-up, a comfortable downtown hotel, and a friendly local guide who helped us get oriented right away. From there, the itinerary took us through a carefully curated mix of China’s highlights: we explored ancient towns, visited imposing historical monuments, traveled on high-speed trains and domestic flights, and experienced both modern cities and scenic countryside.

Some of the standout moments for me:

Walking through the old-city lanes and seeing the contrast of modern skyscrapers and traditional architecture.
Visiting iconic landmarks (palaces, temples, historic walls) that helped me appreciate China’s deep history.
Getting a taste of regional cuisine — from street-food stalls to more refined local restaurants — and discovering how varied Chinese food is.
Being impressed by the logistics: the hotels were well chosen, transport connections worked without major hiccups, and the guides were knowledgeable and professional.

I highly recommend this tour to fellow American travelers. It offers an excellent balance of history, nature, and city life — all arranged in a smart, hassle-free manner. Thanks to Asia Odyssey Travel for making it an unforgettable experience.

Destination(s): Beijing, Xian, Shanghai, Chengdu/Sichuan, Zhangjiajie

Date of Experience: Jun 10, 2025

Tour Customized by: Catherine

You May be Interested in This Tour: 21 Days China Tour from Shanghai: Pandas, Yunnan, Avatar Mountains, China's Icons

Liyana T.

Malaysia

161

Amazing 30-Day Journey Across China — Well Organized and Truly Worth It

I just came back from the 30-Day China Panorama Tour from Guangzhou with Asia Odyssey Travel, and it was truly one of the most memorable trips I’ve ever joined.

From the moment I landed in Guangzhou, everything was well-coordinated. The local guide greeted us at the airport and made us feel welcome right away. We started with classic Cantonese highlights like the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, Lychee Bay, and traditional dim sum — a great introduction to southern China’s culture.

The route that followed was impressive. We cruised along the Li River in Guilin, cycled through Yangshuo’s peaceful countryside, and admired the Longji Rice Terraces. In Yunnan, Dali and Lijiang’s old towns were full of character, with snow-capped mountains in the distance. Chengdu was all about pandas and Sichuan food, Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong looked like scenes from a painting, and Chongqing’s mountain city views were unforgettable. The trip ended with Beijing’s Great Wall and Forbidden City, and Shanghai’s skyline — the perfect contrast of history and modern life.

Everything ran smoothly throughout. The guides were professional and friendly, the hotels were clean and comfortable, and transportation was efficient. My personal highlights were sharing bamboo rice with local villagers in Longji, standing by the turquoise lakes of Jiuzhaigou, and watching the city lights in Chongqing after dinner.