Day 1
Arrival and Exploring Downtown Shanghai
by flight
A Keats teacher will accompany you throughout the whole trip. You will set out from Kunming by taking a flight to Shanghai.
After settling in the hotel, you will visit [Nanjing Road]. This is Shanghai’s main shopping street, famously known for its neon lights and bustling atmosphere. It’s a pedestrian street with a variety of stores from high-end boutiques to traditional Chinese shops and department stores.
You will then visit [The Bund]: A famous waterfront area in central Shanghai, The Bund is known for its impressive colonial-era buildings, which were banks, trading houses, and consulates in the past. It’s a great place for a leisurely walk with stunning views of the Pudong skyline across the river.
You will visit [Oriental Pearl Tower]: One of Shanghai’s most iconic landmarks, this TV tower offers observation decks with breathtaking views. It also houses a revolving restaurant and a historical museum in its basement.
You will visit [Lujiazui]: This is the financial hub of Shanghai, with towering skyscrapers like the Shanghai World Financial Center, the Jin Mao Tower, and the Shanghai Tower, which is the second tallest building in the world as of my last update.
Distance: 2,000 kilometers (1,240 miles).
Flight time: Around 3.5 hrs
Accommodation: Hotel in Shanghai
Meals: Not included, but will recommend local snacks
Day 2
Explore Old Shanghai
by subway
Today, you will visit [Wukang Road]: Known for its historic buildings, quaint boutiques, and charming cafes, Wukang Road is perfect for a stroll to experience the former French Concession’s unique East-meets-West atmosphere.
Then you will visit [Tianzifang]: A labyrinth of alleyways filled with art galleries, craft shops, cafes, and bars. This area has retained its residential charm and is a quieter alternative to the bustling city.
The you will visit [Yu Garden]: A beautiful example of a traditional Chinese garden with Ming Dynasty pavilions, rockeries, ponds, and a zigzagging bridge leading to the teahouse.
Then you will visit [Chenghuang Temple Market]: Also known as the City God Temple, this area is now a bustling marketplace featuring traditional Chinese architecture and local snacks.
Accommodation: Hotel in Shanghai
Meals: Breakfast included, lunch and dinner not included
Day 3
Cultural Landmarks and Creative Spaces
by subway
Today you will visit [People’s Square]: A large public square that’s home to several of Shanghai’s key attractions, including the Shanghai Museum and the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center.
You will then visit [1933 Old Millfun]: this art deco building has been transformed into a creative space with galleries, design studios, and restaurants.
You will then visit [Lu Xun Park]: Named after a famous Chinese writer, this park is a pleasant green space with a lake, traditional pavilions, and often hosts local activities.
You will visit [M50 Creative Park]: Shanghai’s main contemporary art district, M50 hosts an array of galleries in former factories showcasing works by emerging and established artists.
Accommodation: Hotel in Shanghai
Meals: Breakfast included, lunch and dinner not included
Day 4
Zhujiajiao Water Town
by car
A picturesque water town with a history of over 1,700 years. It features lovely water canals, ancient bridges like Fangsheng Bridge, and historic buildings. You can take a boat trip around the town to see it from the waterways.
Distance: 50 kilometers (roughly 31 miles)
Driving time: Around 1.5 hrs
Accommodation: Hotel in Shanghai
Meals: Breakfast included, lunch and dinner not included
Day 5
Zhouzhuang Water Town
Often referred to as China’s No.1 water town, Zhouzhuang is famous for its well-preserved architecture and beautiful waterways. It offers a glimpse into China’s past with sites like Shen House and Zhang House which are old residences showing the life of their wealthy owners.
Distance: 80 to 90 kilometers (50 to 56 miles)
Driving time: Around 2 hrs
Accommodation: Hotel in Shanghai
Meals: Breakfast included, lunch and dinner not included
Day 6
Shanghai Disneyland
by subway
The newest addition to the Disney family, Shanghai Disneyland offers unique attractions like the TRON Lightcycle Power Run and the largest Disney castle – Enchanted Storybook Castle. It’s a full day of entertainment with rides suitable for all ages.
Distance: 20 kilometers (around 12 miles)
Transporation time: Around 50 minuntes
Accommodation: Hotel in Shanghai
Meals: Breakfast included, lunch and dinner not included
Day 7
Departure
Depending on your flight time, you might have some free time to do last-minute shopping or sightseeing before you depart from Shanghai, either returning to Kunming to continue Chinese lessons or moving on to your next destination.