Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know before your Shanghai tour

How do I book a tour?

Booking is easy! You can:

We'll respond within 24 hours with a personalized itinerary and price quote.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept the following payment methods:

  • Cash (paid on the day of the tour in CNY or USD)
  • WeChat Pay / Alipay (popular in China)
  • Bank Transfer (for advance bookings)
  • PayPal (for international travelers)

No deposit is required for most tours — you can pay on the day of your tour.

Can I cancel or change my booking?

Yes! We offer free cancellation up to 48 hours before your scheduled tour. Changes to dates or itineraries are always welcome at no extra charge. We understand that travel plans can change, and we're flexible to accommodate you.

Do I need to pay a deposit?

For most standard tours, no deposit is required. You can pay on the day of your tour. For custom multi-day tours or large groups (6+ people), we may ask for a small deposit (20%) to confirm the booking. This is fully refundable if you cancel 48 hours in advance.

What is included in the tour price?

Our tour prices typically include:

  • Private English-speaking guide
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off (within central Shanghai)
  • All entrance fees to attractions
  • Lunch or food tastings as specified
  • Bottled water
  • Boat/cruise tickets where applicable

Personal expenses, tips, and souvenirs are not included. There are no hidden fees — everything is clearly stated upfront.

Can I customize the itinerary?

Absolutely! All our tours are fully customizable. You can:

  • Add or remove attractions
  • Adjust the start time and duration
  • Choose your preferred lunch style
  • Request specific activities (shopping, photography, etc.)
  • Combine elements from different tours

Just let us know your preferences when you contact us, and we'll design the perfect itinerary for you.

Are airport pickup and drop-off available?

Yes! We offer airport transfer services for an additional fee. We can pick you up from either Pudong International Airport (PVG) or Hongqiao International Airport (SHA). This can be added to any tour package. Please let us know your flight details when booking.

What if it rains on the day of my tour?

Don't worry! Most of our tours are designed to work in any weather. Many attractions are indoor or have covered areas. If it's a light rain, we'll provide umbrellas and continue as planned. In case of extreme weather, we can reschedule your tour at no extra cost.

Are your guides English-speaking?

Yes! All our guides are fluent in English. Many also speak additional languages including Japanese, French, German, Korean, and Spanish. We carefully select guides who are not only language-proficient but also passionate storytellers and knowledgeable about Shanghai's history and culture.

Are the tours private or shared?

Most of our tours are private — just you and your party. We believe private tours offer a more personalized and flexible experience. However, we can arrange small group tours (up to 6 people) if you'd like to join other travelers or if you're traveling solo and want to meet people.

What is the maximum group size?

For private tours, there's no strict limit — we can accommodate groups of any size. For larger groups (10+ people), we'll arrange a comfortable private bus and may assign multiple guides to ensure everyone gets personal attention. Contact us for a custom quote for large groups.

Do I need a visa to visit Shanghai?

China's visa policy depends on your nationality. Many countries now benefit from visa-free transit (144 hours / 6 days) when transiting through Shanghai. As of 2024-2025, citizens from 54 countries can enjoy this policy. Additionally, several countries have mutual visa exemption agreements with China.

We recommend checking with your local Chinese embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements specific to your nationality.

What should I bring on the tour?

We recommend bringing:

  • Comfortable walking shoes (essential!)
  • Sunscreen and a hat (summer months)
  • A light jacket or sweater (spring/autumn)
  • Your camera or smartphone for photos
  • A reusable water bottle
  • Some cash (CNY) for snacks or souvenirs
  • Your passport (carry a copy)

We'll provide bottled water and umbrellas if needed.

Is Shanghai safe for tourists?

Absolutely! Shanghai is one of the safest major cities in the world for tourists. Violent crime is extremely rare. The city has excellent public security, well-lit streets at night, and friendly locals who are used to international visitors. As with any big city, just practice common sense — keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas, and you'll have a worry-free experience.

Can you help with hotel recommendations?

Yes! We're happy to recommend hotels in Shanghai based on your budget, preferred location, and travel style. We have partnerships with several quality hotels in the Bund, Lujiazui, French Concession, and Jing'an areas. Just let us know your preferences and we'll suggest the best options.

What is the best time to visit Shanghai?

Shanghai is beautiful year-round, but the best times to visit are:

  • March to May (Spring) — Mild temperatures, blooming flowers, comfortable sightseeing
  • September to November (Autumn) — Pleasant weather, clear skies, perfect for outdoor activities
  • June to August (Summer) — Hot and humid, but great for nightlife and river cruises
  • December to February (Winter) — Cold but less crowded, lower prices, festive decorations

Each season has its charm — we can help you plan the perfect itinerary regardless of when you visit!

Still Have Questions?

We're here to help! Reach out and we'll get back to you within 24 hours.