Qingxi: Forgotten Ancient Town

Qingxi is a hidden ancient town with more than 1400 years of history, located in Fengxian District, Shanghai. It is an ideal day trip from Shanghai for those tired of tourist crowds and seeking an authentic China.

You will see preserved narrow alleys only 2 meters wide, ancient stone bridges from the Ming dynasty (Nanhongqiao, Yongshouqiao), Ming dynasty houses along the canals, and feel the atmosphere of antiquity that you won’t find in overhyped tourist spots.

🏯1400 years of history

🚶Narrow alleys (2 m)

🌉Ming‑era bridges

🎫Free entry

⏱️~6 hours

Attractions of the ancient town

What awaits you

Meeting in Shanghai (09:00) — departure by car with a driver.
Arrival in Qingxi (~10:30) — start of the walk at the entrance to the ancient town.
Narrow alleys and bridges — sightseeing of Nanhongqiao, Yongshouqiao, photo session.
Lunch at a local restaurant — traditional Shanghai cuisine.
Ming dynasty houses and gardens — visit to Nanyuan Garden.
Free time — souvenirs, tea, walk.
Return to Shanghai (15:30) — arrival around 17:00.

Approximate tour program (1 day)

*The itinerary may be adjusted due to weather or traffic.

Time	Program stage	Details
09:00	Departure from Shanghai	Car with driver, road 1-1.5 hours.
10:30	Arrival in Qingxi	Walk along narrow alleys only 2 meters wide.
11:00	Sightseeing of Ming‑era bridges	Nanhongqiao, Yongshouqiao, photo session by the canals.
13:00–14:00	Lunch	Traditional Shanghai cuisine at a local restaurant.
14:00–15:00	Nanyuan Garden and Ming houses	Visit to a traditional Chinese garden.
15:30	Departure to Shanghai	Return road.
~17:00	Arrival in Shanghai	Drop‑off at Xinzhuang metro station.

💡 Important notes:

Entry to the ancient town is free.
Comfortable shoes for walking on stone pavements.
Water, camera, cash yuan for souvenirs.

Cost and conditions

💰

Tour cost

Metro + taxi

Economy

Services of a Russian‑speaking guide, accompaniment all day. Transfer between locations – metro and taxi.

149$per group 1–3 persons

Groups larger than 3 – individually

By car

Comfort

Guide services + sedan rental (up to 3 persons) for the whole day, including transfer between attractions.

250$per group 1–3 persons

🎫

Additional expenses

Entry to the ancient townFree
Lunch at a local restaurant80-150¥ (~11-21$)
Souvenirs and snacks50-200¥ (~7-28$)
Transport (if "Walking" option chosen)~100¥ (~14$)

*Exchange rate may vary. Prices are approximate.

⏱️

Duration

~6 hours

from departure to return

Road from Shanghai: 1-1.5 hours
Sightseeing in the town: 4-5 hours

✨

Additional services

Photo session

+50$

Airport transfer

+100$

Minivan rental

+80$

Boat ride along the canals

+50$

Frequently asked questions

How to get to Qingxi from Shanghai?

The best way is by car with a driver. The journey takes about 1-1.5 hours. We arrange door‑to‑door transfer. You can also take the metro and bus, but that takes longer.

Is there an entrance fee to the ancient town?

No, entry to the ancient town of Qingxi is free. However, some inner courtyards, museums or gardens may charge a separate fee.

How much time is needed for sightseeing?

For a comfortable walk along the main streets, bridges and attractions, 4-5 hours are recommended. The full tour including travel takes about 6 hours.

Is there food available in the town?

Yes, there are several authentic restaurants and cafés in the ancient town where you can try local Shanghai cuisine.

Is it suitable for young children?

Yes, the ancient town is suitable for families with children. However, note that the streets are narrow and paved, so a stroller may not be very comfortable.

What should I bring?

Comfortable shoes for walking on stone pavements, water, camera, cash yuan for souvenirs and food.

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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 is confirmed only after receiving a prepayment. Cancellation less than 48 hours before the start – no refund. In case of force majeure (national holidays, official events), the organiser reserves the right to make changes to the program. The basic cost does not include: entrance tickets to paid sites, meals, personal expenses.