Nanjing & Shanghai 4-Day Cultural Journey
This 4-day tour showcases the rich heritage of Nanjing and Shanghai. Start in Nanjing with a scenic night tour of the Qinhuai River and visits to the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum and Nanjing City Wall. Take a high-speed train to Shanghai, where you’ll explore the Bund, Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, and the tranquil Jing’an Temple. A perfect combination of history, culture, and modern landmarks.
Included with every escorted tour
Day 1: Nanjing
Arrival in Nanjing–Night tour of Qinhuai River
4-star Hotels
Breakfast & Lunch
After arriving in Nanjing, you will check in to your hotel and have time to refresh. In the evening, embark on a captivating night tour of the Qinhuai River, often referred to as the “mother river” of Nanjing. As you sail through the water, the picturesque ancient architecture on both banks will enchant you, offering a glimpse of Nanjing’s rich history.
Afterward, you will visit the bustling Confucius Temple area, home to the Nanjing Museum and local markets, where you can shop for traditional crafts and souvenirs.
Evening Option:
For a deeper dive into the local culture, you can enjoy a riverside dinner at a local restaurant along the Qinhuai River. Try the famous Nanjing salted duck, duck blood soup, and other local delicacies, while soaking in the view of the night-time cityscape.
Day 2: Nanjing
Wutong Avenue–Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum–Nanjing City Wall–Xuanwu Lake Boat Tour
4-star Hotels
Breakfast & Lunch
After breakfast, we head to Wutong Avenue, a peaceful tree-lined street perfect for a morning stroll. Known for its beautiful scenery, it leads us to the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, a memorial to the father of modern China. Here, you will climb the 392 steps that lead to the mausoleum’s observation platform, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Next, we will visit the Nanjing City Wall, one of the most impressive remnants of ancient China’s fortifications. Stretching for miles, the wall offers panoramic views of the city and serves as a symbol of Nanjing’s rich history.
In the afternoon, take a relaxing boat tour on Xuanwu Lake, one of Nanjing’s most beautiful natural landmarks. Surrounded by temples, pagodas, and lush gardens, the lake provides a serene escape from the urban hustle. Enjoy a peaceful walk around the lake, or rent a bike to explore the nearby parks.
Evening Option:
In the evening, enjoy a leisurely walk through Nanjing’s famous 1912 Bar Street, where you can find chic cafes, stylish shops, and vibrant nightlife. If you’re interested in local art, visit the nearby Nanjing Art Museum to experience some contemporary exhibits.
Day 3: Nanjing--Shanghai
High-speed Train to Shanghai–Wu Kang Mansion–Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street–The Bund
4-star Hotels
Breakfast & Lunch
After breakfast, take a high-speed train to Shanghai, which takes around 2 hours. Upon arrival, we will head straight to the historic Wu Kang Mansion, an iconic example of Shanghai’s early 20th-century architecture. This beautifully preserved building, a fusion of European styles, gives a glimpse into the city’s colonial past.
Following this, we will head to the famous Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street. As one of the busiest commercial streets in the world, Nanjing Road is a paradise for shoppers, with its mix of high-end boutiques, traditional shops, and department stores. You can wander the street at your own pace and explore the many side streets that lead to hidden gems.
Next, enjoy the spectacular view from The Bund, Shanghai’s iconic waterfront promenade. The historic buildings on one side contrast beautifully with the futuristic skyline on the other side, including the towering Jin Mao Tower, the Shanghai Tower, and the Oriental Pearl TV Tower.
In the afternoon, we will visit the famous Yu Garden, a classical Chinese garden dating back to the Ming Dynasty. Walk through its tranquil courtyards, pagodas, and ponds, and get a taste of old Shanghai amidst the modern cityscape.
Recommended Activities:
In the evening, enjoy a Huangpu River cruise. From the river, you’ll get an unforgettable view of the glittering skyline of Shanghai. The cruise gives you a unique perspective of the city’s blend of modern and colonial-era architecture, and is especially magical when the lights come on after dark.
Day 4: Shanghai
Jing’an Temple–Departure from Shanghai
4-star Hotels
Breakfast & Lunch
On the final day, we will visit Jing’an Temple, a peaceful Buddhist temple located in the heart of the city. This stunning temple features ancient Chinese architecture, tranquil gardens, and a large statue of Buddha. Take time to appreciate its calm and sacred atmosphere, which offers a contrast to Shanghai’s vibrant pace.
Next, we will visit the nearby People’s Square, a public park in the center of the city surrounded by important museums, shopping malls, and historic buildings. You can take a relaxing stroll through the square or visit the Shanghai Museum, which showcases ancient Chinese art and cultural relics.
Afterward, you will have some free time for last-minute shopping at one of Shanghai’s upscale malls or explore the local neighborhoods to discover the charm of this bustling metropolis.
In the afternoon, we will head to the airport for your departure, marking the end of a memorable trip.
Evening Option:
If you have time before your flight, you can visit the Shanghai Tower. From the observation deck, enjoy a panoramic view of the entire city, and marvel at one of the tallest buildings in the world, especially stunning during sunset or nighttime.
