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.