Haining – City of Tides and Ancient Traditions
Haining (海宁) is a city with over 2,000 years of history, located in Zhejiang Province, just an hour's drive from Shanghai. Here you will find the famous ancient town of Yanguan, where you can witness the majestic Qiantang River tidal bore – one of the most impressive natural phenomena in China. Haining is also known as the "fur capital" and a center of sericulture.
What awaits you: a fascinating journey into past and present: a walk along the ancient streets of Yanguan, a visit to Zhibao Pagoda and Chenghuang Temple, observation of the tidal bore (depending on season), an introduction to traditional silk production, and shopping in the largest fur center in Asia.
Sights of Haining
What awaits you
- Early departure from Minhang by car — meeting at Xinzhuang Station (to avoid downtown Shanghai traffic), departure towards Haining via G60/G92 expressways.
- Arrival in Haining (~2 hours) — transfer to the ancient town of Yanguan (15 minutes from central Haining).
- Walk through Yanguan — old streets, Chenghuang Temple, Zhibao Pagoda.
- Observation of the Qiantang tidal bore — depending on tide times (most impressive in September-October).
- Lunch at a traditional restaurant — tasting of famous Haining-style duck and other local dishes.
- Visit to a silk manufactory — workshop on silk reeling, purchase of natural silk.
- Shopping at the fur center — the largest fur goods market in Asia.
- Return to Shanghai in the evening — comfortable car, drop-off at Xinzhuang Station.
One-day tour itinerary (by car from Xinzhuang)
*Times may be adjusted depending on tide schedule, traffic conditions and group preferences.
| Time | Program stage | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 06:00 | Meeting at Xinzhuang Station | Meet the guide/driver at the metro exit (Lines 1, 5). Meeting here to avoid central Shanghai traffic. |
| 06:00–06:15 | Departure onto the expressway | From Xinzhuang, take G60 or G92 (Shanghai–Hangzhou) towards Haining. |
| 06:15–08:00 | Drive to Haining | Approximately 1 h 45 min – 2 h without traffic. Distance ~120 km. |
| 08:00–08:30 | Transfer to Yanguan | From central Haining to the ancient town of Yanguan (15–20 minutes by car). |
| 08:30–11:00 | Ancient town Yanguan | Walk along the main street, Chenghuang Temple, Zhibao Pagoda (entrance tickets ~60¥). |
| 11:00–12:30 | Lunch | Traditional cuisine: Haining-style duck, river fish, local vegetables (≈80–100¥ per person). |
| 12:30–14:00 | Observation of Qiantang tidal bore | Head to the viewing embankment. Time adjusted according to daily tide schedule (peak in September-October). |
| 14:00–15:30 | Silk factory / Fur center | Factory tour, silk reeling demonstration, shopping (optional). |
| 15:30–16:00 | Free time | Short walk in the park or visit a small museum. |
| 16:00–16:20 | Departure from Yanguan | Return to the car, start drive back to Shanghai. |
| 16:20–18:30 | Drive back | Travel time including evening traffic on Shanghai outskirts (about 2–2.5 hours). |
| 18:30 | Arrival at Xinzhuang Station | Drop-off at the meeting point. End of tour. |
💡 Important notes for the car trip:
- Meeting at Xinzhuang was chosen specifically to bypass central Shanghai traffic – an optimal point for residents of Minhang and southern districts.
- Tide time – be sure to check the online Qiantang tide timetable 2–3 days before the trip to catch the peak.
- Toll roads: G60/G92 – prepare cash or ETC.
- Parking in Yanguan: there are paid parking lots at the entrance to the ancient town (~10–20¥/hour).
- Comfortable shoes are essential for walking on ancient cobblestones.
- Bring your passport (tax-free registration possible for large purchases).
Price and conditions
Tour cost
Services of a Russian-speaking guide, help with tickets, itinerary planning, accompaniment all day.
Guide services + sedan (1–3 people) for the entire tour, including round-trip transfer from Shanghai.
Additional expenses per person
Duration
Additional services
What else to visit nearby
Discover ancient Haining with us!
Book your private tour right now
⏱️ We recommend booking 5-7 days in advance for the best train and tide viewing options.
💳 Payment: 50% deposit upon booking, 50% on the day of the tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Important information
The indicated prices are valid at the time of offer for private individuals. The cost and availability of train tickets, hotels, and guide services may change.
Booking is made only after receiving a prepayment. The conversion rate is calculated according to the current central bank rate on the payment date.
Cancellation less than 7 days before the start of the event is non-refundable.
In the event of force majeure that makes the execution of the tour program completely or partially impossible (train cancellations, weather conditions, official events), the organizer reserves the right to make changes to the program and its duration.
