Shanghai Night Boat Tour: Immersive Huangpu River Cruise and Culinary Delights

Tour Itinerary

Your guide, holding a “Your Way Holiday” sign, will warmly welcome you at the designated meeting point and ensure a smooth and comfortable start to your Shanghai adventure. Whether you prefer to check in at your hotel first or dive straight into the exploration, your guide will accommodate your needs, offering personalized service to make your experience seamless. Along the way, they will provide an introduction to Shanghai, sharing insights into the city’s rich history, dynamic culture, and unique blend of Eastern and Western influences.  

As evening approaches, indulge in a delightful dinner at a carefully selected restaurant near The Bund, where you can savor either authentic Shanghainese cuisine or a refined Western-style meal. If you opt for local flavors, your guide will introduce you to classic dishes such as braised pork belly, stir-fried river shrimp, and the renowned drunken chicken, each prepared with traditional techniques that reflect the essence of Shanghai’s culinary heritage. The delicate balance of sweet and savory flavors in Shanghainese cuisine is something truly unique, and your guide will explain the history behind these beloved dishes, making your dining experience even more immersive. If you prefer Western cuisine, the area boasts an array of elegant restaurants offering exquisite international flavors, some housed in historic buildings that add an extra layer of charm to your meal. As you dine, enjoy the breathtaking sunset over the Huangpu River, watching as the city gradually transforms into a mesmerizing display of lights. The combination of exquisite food, picturesque scenery, and cultural storytelling sets the perfect tone for the evening ahead.

After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along The Bund, where history and modernity merge in a striking visual contrast. This waterfront promenade is home to the famous Bund International Architecture Exhibition, a collection of grand colonial-era buildings that once housed the city's most influential banks, trading houses, and hotels. Your guide will bring these landmarks to life, explaining their architectural styles—ranging from neoclassical and gothic to baroque and art deco—and sharing stories of the foreign traders, entrepreneurs, and political figures who shaped Shanghai’s development. Walking along this iconic stretch, you’ll notice intricate details on the facades of buildings, from Greek-style columns to elaborate stone carvings, each with its own tale of Shanghai’s cosmopolitan past. As you gaze across the river at Lujiazui’s towering skyscrapers, including the Oriental Pearl Tower and the Shanghai Tower, you’ll witness how the city has evolved from a historic trading port into a global financial hub, making this walk a journey through time. The contrast between the warm glow of The Bund’s historical architecture and the futuristic neon lights of Lujiazui offers a breathtaking view, perfect for capturing memorable photos.

Next, head to Shiliupu Wharf, where you’ll embark on a scenic Huangpu River Night Cruise, a must-do experience that offers an unparalleled perspective of Shanghai’s illuminated skyline. As you glide along the river, The Bund’s classical buildings stand in elegant contrast to the futuristic skyscrapers of Lujiazui, creating a breathtaking visual spectacle. Your guide will highlight key landmarks, such as the Jin Mao Tower, the Shanghai World Financial Center, and the iconic twisting Shanghai Tower, explaining the symbolism and architectural innovations behind these structures. The cruise provides an opportunity to see Shanghai’s dynamic skyline from a different angle, with the shimmering lights reflecting beautifully on the water’s surface. The gentle sway of the boat, combined with the cool evening breeze, enhances the sense of relaxation as you take in the grandeur of the city. This experience captures the very essence of Shanghai’s transformation over the decades, from a historic port city to a modern metropolis at the heart of global commerce and culture.

To immerse yourself further in Shanghai’s vibrant nightlife and local culture, venture into one of the city's famous food streets—either Yunnan South Road Food Street or Changli Road Night Market. Here, you’ll be greeted by a lively, bustling atmosphere filled with the enticing aroma of street food sizzling on open grills. Your guide will introduce you to some of the city’s most beloved street foods, including crispy and juicy Shengjianbao (pan-fried soup dumplings), fragrant scallion pancakes, tender pork chop with sticky rice cakes, and freshly grilled skewers. Each dish tells a story of Shanghai’s rich culinary history, blending flavors from different regions of China. For the adventurous eater, there are also delicacies like stinky tofu and spicy crayfish, both of which are popular late-night snacks among locals. As you navigate the food stalls, your guide will share tips on what to try and how to eat like a local, ensuring that you get the most out of this authentic culinary experience. The night market is not just about food—it’s about feeling the pulse of the city, interacting with friendly vendors, and soaking in the dynamic energy of Shanghai’s street life. Whether you’re sampling a freshly made Jianbing (savory Chinese crepe) or sipping on a cup of soy milk, each bite brings you closer to the heart of Shanghai’s vibrant food scene.

As the evening comes to a close, your guide will ensure a comfortable transfer back to your hotel, airport, or train station, depending on your schedule. If you wish to extend your night, your guide can provide tailored recommendations for bars, jazz clubs, or late-night shopping areas, allowing you to continue your exploration at your own pace. With expert guidance and a carefully curated itinerary, this evening tour offers a deep dive into Shanghai’s architectural heritage, dazzling cityscape, and rich culinary traditions. It’s more than just sightseeing—it’s about experiencing Shanghai like a local, understanding its past, and appreciating its modern vibrancy, all in one unforgettable night.

Price Per Person in US Dollars