Qibao – Water Town with 1000 Years of History
Qibao is a lively water town where history meets gastronomy. Along the ancient canals and little bridges of this bustling quarter, countless stalls with local delicacies create a unique atmosphere of old Shanghai. Perfect for getting to know local cuisine, shopping for souvenirs and immersing yourself in the daily life of old China.
Attractions of Qibao
What awaits you in the ancient town of Qibao
- Walk along the ancient canals. You will stroll along old waterways, cross picturesque stone bridges and feel the atmosphere of a traditional Chinese water town.
- Gastronomic journey. Try famous local delicacies: qiaojiao dumplings, steamed crab buns, sweet rice balls and other street snacks.
- Historical monuments. Visit the ancient Qibao Temple, the Zhang family residence and other well‑preserved buildings from the Ming and Qing dynasties.
- Shopping in traditional style. Walk along lively streets with numerous shops selling local handicrafts and souvenirs.
- Discover local crafts. See the process of making traditional Chinese fans, bamboo products and other crafts.
- Cultural exhibitions. Visit local museums and exhibitions telling the history of this ancient town and its cultural heritage.
- Photos in traditional costumes. You can wear traditional Chinese clothing and take memorable photos against the backdrop of ancient architecture.
- Evening walk with lighting. See how the town transforms in the evening when numerous lanterns are lit, creating a special romantic atmosphere.
- Tea ceremony. Relax in one of the traditional tea houses, where you can taste local teas and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere.
- Visit local workshops. If desired, you can take part in workshops on calligraphy, fan making or other traditional crafts.
Approximate tour program
*Times may be adjusted depending on the group’s pace and weather.
| Time | Program stage | Details & transport |
|---|---|---|
| 10:00 | Meeting with the guide in Shanghai | Qibao metro station (line 9) or your hotel (if transfer is ordered). |
| 10:00–10:15 | Transfer to the ancient town | 5–7 minutes on foot from the metro, or by car. |
| 10:15–11:00 | Walk along the main street and canals | Sightseeing of bridges, canals, photo session. |
| 11:00–11:30 | Visit to Qibao Temple | Ancient temple, pagoda, history. |
| 11:30–12:30 | Gastronomic tour | Tasting of local snacks: qiaojiao dumplings, crab buns, etc. |
| 12:30–13:30 | Zhang Family Residence and free time | .\]\\[0pt]Sightseeing of the old mansion, shopping.|
| 13:30–14:00 | Tea ceremony (optional) | Relax in a traditional tea house. |
| 14:00–14:15 | Return to the metro | Transfer to the station or hotel. |
💡 Important notes:
- Entrance tickets are paid separately: Qibao Temple – 5¥, Zhang Family Residence – 5¥.
- Comfortable shoes are a must – lots of walking on pavements.
- Cash yuan will be useful for buying food and souvenirs.
- Camera – every corner is worth a picture.
Cost and conditions
Tour cost
Metro + taxi
EconomyMetro + taxi. Guide services, assistance with tickets, accompaniment.
By car
ComfortDoor‑to‑door by car. Guide services + transfer from Shanghai and back.
Additional expenses
Duration
Additional services
Frequently asked questions
Important information
The indicated prices are valid at the time of offer for private individuals. The cost and availability of vehicles, interpreter and guide services may change.
Booking services is made only after receiving a 100% prepayment. The conversion rate is calculated at the current exchange rate of the Central Bank on the payment date.
If cancellation occurs less than 24 hours before the start of the event, the payment is non‑refundable.
In the event of force majeure that makes the execution of the tour program fully or partially impossible (national holidays, official events, etc.), the organizer reserves the right to make changes to the program and its duration.
The cost of services does not include and is paid separately: transport costs, event tickets, entrance fees and other similar expenses.
🏯 Logistics and secrets of Qibao for guide only
How to get there, buy tickets, best photo spots and interesting facts.
Qibao was founded during the Northern Song dynasty (approx. 960–1127). The name translates as "Seven Treasures" – after the number of ancient temples and pagodas. In old times it was an important trading centre on the Grand Canal. Today it is the only water town fully integrated into Shanghai's metro system.
- Metro: line 9 to Qibao station (七宝站). Exit 2, walk straight for 5–7 minutes to the entrance of the old town (past the shopping mall).
- Car: from central Shanghai via G50 to the Qibao exit. Parking at the entrance is paid (5¥/hour).
- Entry to the town: free. Tickets for the temple and mansion are bought separately.
- Qibao Temple (七宝教寺): ancient temple with a pagoda, entry 5¥.
- Zhang Family Residence (张宅): old Qing dynasty house, entry 5¥.
- Old Things Museum (老物件馆): collection of everyday objects from past centuries, free.
- Stone bridge (蒲汇塘桥): the oldest bridge, postcard view.
- Qiaojiao dumplings (荞麦饺): fried dumplings made of buckwheat flour with meat.
- Steamed crab buns (蟹黄汤包): inside – broth with crab.
- Sweet rice balls (汤团): with sesame or peanut filling.
- Where: main street (北大街) – a continuous food court. We recommend shop No.37 (老字号七宝汤团) for the rice balls.
- Best time for photos: morning (9:00–10:00) and evening (17:00–18:00), when the lanterns are lit.
- Toilets: available at the entrance and near the temple.
- Duration: seeing all the spots and having lunch takes 3–4 hours.
- Souvenirs: local sweets, fans, wood carvings.
📍 Where to use: legends – at the entrance; route – for orientation; notes – in tricky situations.