Step into one of Shanghai’s oldest neighborhoods and explore the deep roots of this ever-changing city. The Free Tour of the Old City is your opportunity to learn about the foundations of Shanghai before the skyscrapers, luxury brands, and global fame. As you walk through winding lanes, over decorative bridges, and past traditional courtyards, you’ll gain insight into how the city evolved from a walled settlement to a modern metropolis. The old city still retains its distinct character—part heritage site, part living community—offering a rare look at everyday life in Shanghai that many visitors overlook. This walk helps you understand the city’s original layout, symbolic architecture, and how trade, migration, and local beliefs shaped it into what it is today.

Your guide will take you through centuries of tradition, from the layout of the neighborhood to the values embedded in its design. You’ll learn about the twelve animals of the Chinese zodiac and the meaning behind their costumes and characteristics. Discover how popular beliefs influence Chinese New Year rituals and daily habits, and how Taoist philosophy is still part of everyday thinking. At the Temple of the City God, you’ll explore the importance of local deities and how temples acted not just as places of worship but also community centers. The walk also highlights symbols of protection, luck, and spiritual power that can be found hidden in architectural details, offering a fresh perspective on what may look like simple decorations.

Along the way, you’ll pass by scenic corners like the Nine Zig-Zag Bridge and the Mid-Lake Pavilion, each with its own stories and function in traditional design. You’ll also step into the world of traditional Chinese medicine, visiting a centuries-old herb shop where concepts like yin and yang, balance, and nature’s healing properties come into play. Learn how herbs like ginseng or licorice are classified and why they’ve been used for generations. At the end of the tour, take in the calm atmosphere of the Old City Park, where locals relax among preserved relics of the past. This tour provides historical context, cultural depth, and visual richness—perfect for travelers who want to engage more thoughtfully with the story behind Shanghai’s streets.