Shanghai History Walk: Time-Travel Through Old Shanghai’s Hidden Trails

Shanghai History Walk: Time-Travel Through Old Shanghai’s Hidden Trails

Shanghai, a city with a profound historical heritage, attracts countless tourists to explore with its unique charm. From bustling skyscrapers to tranquil old alleys, from bustling Nanjing Road to the historic Bund, every place tells the story of old Shanghai. Next, let's take a stroll through Shanghai's history and plan an unforgettable trip to Shanghai. 

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1. The Bund: A Historical Witness of the International Architecture Exhibition

Introduction to the Bund

The Bund, located on the banks of the Huangpu River, is one of the most iconic attractions in Shanghai. Here, a variety of European style buildings with different styles are gathered, known as the "World Architecture Expo". Strolling along the Bund, it feels like crossing time and space, returning to that bustling modern era.


Travel advice

It is recommended to go to the Bund in the evening to enjoy the beautiful scenery on both sides of the Huangpu River. At this moment, the lights of the Bund gradually lit up, complementing the reflection of the river, forming a beautiful painting. In addition, you can also hire a professional shanghai tour guide (mentioning secondary keywords) to take you on a deep understanding of the historical background and cultural connotations of each building.

The Bund 2.jpg

2. Yu Garden: Jiangnan style of classical gardens

Introduction to Yu Garden

Yu Garden, located in the old city of Shanghai, is a classical garden with the style of the Ming Dynasty. The pavilions and towers in the park are arranged in a staggered manner, with small bridges, flowing water, and winding paths leading to secluded surroundings, showcasing the delicacy and elegance of Jiangnan gardens.


Travel Guide

To visit Yu Garden, you can start from the Jiuqu Bridge and enjoy the lotus pond under the bridge and the surrounding ancient buildings. Next, you can go to Deyue Tower to taste authentic Shanghai local cuisine and experience the culinary culture of Shanghai. In addition, the Yu Garden Shopping Mall is also a good place for shopping, which gathers many traditional Handicrafts and special snacks.

Yu Garden.jpg

3. Xintiandi: a fashion landmark integrating old and new

Introduction to Xintiandi

Xintiandi, located in Luwan District of Shanghai, is a comprehensive area integrating fashion, leisure and culture. Here, there are both well preserved shikumen buildings and modern commercial facilities, as well as restaurants and bars.


Tourist highlights

In Xintiandi, you can walk in the Shikumen buildings and feel the life breath of old Shanghai. At the same time, you can also visit nearby fashion shops, restaurants, and bars to experience the modern and fashionable lifestyle of Shanghai. In addition, there are many art exhibitions and cultural activities in Xintiandi, so that you can feel the cultural charm of Shanghai while visiting.


4. Tianzifang: The Perfect Integration of Art and Life

Introduction to Tianzifang

Tianzifang, located on Taikang Road in Shanghai, is an old alleyway full of artistic atmosphere. Here, numerous artists and craftsmen gather, and their works are perfectly displayed in a small space.


Tourist Experience

At Tianzifang, you can appreciate various creative artworks and handicrafts, and feel the perfect integration of art and life. At the same time, you can also taste authentic Shanghai snacks and drinks and enjoy a leisurely afternoon. In addition, there are many fashionable shops and cafes around Tianzifang, which are great places to take photos and check in.

5. Thoughtful suggestions for historical strolls

Hiring a Shanghai tour guide

To better understand the History and Culture of Shanghai, it is recommended to hire a professional Shanghai tour guide. They can not only take you to explore the footprints of old Shanghai, but also tell you more stories and legends about Shanghai.


Participate in a trip to Shanghai, China

During your visit to Shanghai, why not join a tour group for a trip to Shanghai, China. In this way, you can visit more Shanghai attractions in a short period of time, while enjoying professional tour guide services and convenient transportation arrangements.


Book a Shanghai travel package

Many travel agencies offer Shanghai tourism package services, including accommodation, dining, and attraction tickets. Booking such a package not only saves time and energy, but also allows you to enjoy more discounts and convenience during your visit to Shanghai.


conclusion

Shanghai Historical Stroll is a journey through time and space. From the Wanguo buildings on the Bund to the classical gardens of Yu Garden, from the fashionable landmarks of Xintiandi to the artistic life of Tianzifang, everyone will be reluctant to leave. Why not Plan a trip to Shanghai and personally explore the footprints of old Shanghai. During the tour, utilize resources such as Shanghai tour guides, China Shanghai tours, and Shanghai travel packages to make your journey more colorful and unforgettable.

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What Our Clients Say?

Based on 10,000+ traveler reviews

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Daniel Dorothea
Canada
Reviewed on April 29,2025
Shopping on Nanjing Road in Shanghai was just amazing! It's truly the "First Commercial Street of China", where tradition and modernity blend perfectly. You can find awesome souvenirs and experience the trendy vibes in cool stores. The neon lights at night are just spectacular, shining bright like Times Square in New York. The food here is incredible too. I had a feast for my taste buds. Shanghai, I'll definitely be back!
Destination(s): Shanghai
Date of Experience: May 08,2024
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Elvis Eva
Canada
Reviewed on June 20,2025
As a solo traveler from Canada, I was nervous about navigating China alone—but this 11-day tour was PERFECT! From hiking the Great Wall at sunrise (Day 3) to gasping at the Terracotta Army (Day 5), every day delivered ‘pinch-me’ moments. The real showstopper? Zhangjiajie’s Avatar Mountains (Day 7)! Our guide made the stone pillars come alive with stories. Massive thanks for handling all logistics—bullet train tickets, entry passes, car! And the 4-star hotels surprised me.
Destination(s): Beijing Xian Zhangjiajie Shanghai
Date of Experience: June 02,2025
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Simon
America
Reviewed on May 29,2025
Our 2-day Zhangjiajie tour was beyond spectacular! As someone who’s visited Beijing and Shanghai for work, this trip revealed China’s wild, magical heart. Day 1 in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park felt like stepping onto Pandora—I’m a huge Avatar fan, and Yuanjiajie’s floating peaks left me breathless. The misty pillars and lush valleys like pure movie magic! Then came Fenghuang Ancient Town, we eat dinner beside the thundering waterfall. It seems Unreal! The night views of stilt houses glowing over the river were straight from a fairy tale. For fellow Avatar lovers and adventure seekers: Don’t miss this bucket-list experience! 10/10 would return. A Well-Traveled Film Buff, May 2025
Destination(s): Zhangjiajie
Date of Experience: May 08,2025
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