Step back into the golden age of old Shanghai on this immersive heritage walk through Yuyuan Road. Explore hidden spy alleys, historic mansions, Jewish refugee architecture, and the former homes of influential figures who shaped modern China. The experience concludes at the legendary Paramount Ballroom, where guests can enjoy an optional afternoon tea dance inside one of the city's most iconic Art Deco landmarks.

• Location: Yuyuan Road, Shanghai
• Duration: 3-4 Hours
• Trip Type: Heritage walk, cultural experience, architecture tour
• Suitable for: History enthusiasts, culture lovers, photographers, couples, solo travelers, groups
• Organizer: OKDeal Travel

Route Highlights

Secrets of the Cultural Salon

Uncover stories of political intrigue, underground networks, and influential cultural figures who helped shape modern Shanghai.

Spy Maze Alleys

Walk through hidden passageways once used during periods of conflict and espionage, where secret agents and wartime operatives once moved unnoticed through the city.

The Golden Age of Glamour

Relive the elegance of old Shanghai, when socialites, businessmen, celebrities, and intellectuals gathered in the city's most fashionable venues.

Paramount Ballroom & Afternoon Tea Dance (Optional)

Step inside the legendary "No.1 Dance Hall of the Far East." Admire its beautifully preserved Art Deco interiors while enjoying tea, light refreshments, and live music. Guests are welcome to join the dance floor and experience a taste of 1930s Shanghai.

A Sip of Legacy

Enjoy afternoon tea surrounded by the atmosphere of a bygone era when Shanghai was known as the "Paris of the Orient."

Historical Sites Along the Route

Jinyuan Garden

Former residence of a prominent capitalist family before becoming the headquarters of the revolutionary "Good Eighth Company," reflecting China's dramatic social transformation.

Lane 749, Yuyuan Road

A maze-like residential compound built for wealthy elites that later gained notoriety as a gathering place for wartime operatives and collaborators.

Yuguang Village

One of Shanghai's earliest modern lane-house developments, featuring private gardens, improved ventilation, and planned green spaces.

Former Tongren Hospital Site

Founded in 1866, this historic institution played a pivotal role in Shanghai's early public health and medical development.

Jewish Architecture

A lasting reminder of Shanghai's role as a refuge for Jewish families escaping persecution during World War II.

Broadway Mansion

One of Shanghai's most famous entertainment venues during the city's jazz age, known for its luxurious nightlife and social scene.

Paramount Ballroom

Opened in 1933 and widely regarded as the finest ballroom in the Far East, it remains one of Shanghai's most iconic Art Deco landmarks.

Your Guide

Your guide serves as an official oral historian of Shanghai's former French Concession and specializes in bringing the city's hidden stories to life. Combining historical expertise with engaging storytelling, the walk offers a deeper understanding of Shanghai's rich cultural heritage.

Language

The main historical narration will be conducted in Mandarin Chinese, with English translation provided throughout the experience.

Event Details

Group Size: 10–20 people

Duration: Approximately 3-4 hours

• Heritage Walk: 2 hours
• Paramount Afternoon Tea Dance: 1 hour
• Additional time for transfers and site visits

Meeting Time: 12:50 PM

Meeting Point: Starbucks, Jiangsu Road Metro Station (Please wait for confirmation from the tour organisers after purchase. Do not go directly to the meeting point without confirmation of the tour starting)

Route: Jiangsu Road → Huashan Road section of Yuyuan Road

Ending Point: Paramount Ballroom, 218 Yuyuan Road

Language: Mandarin & English

Difficulty: ★☆☆☆☆ Easy

Suitable for most participants. The route consists primarily of city streets and sidewalks with minimal physical exertion.

Recommended Attire

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Hat and sunscreen
• Drinking water
• Camera
• Optional 1930s-inspired attire for the Paramount Afternoon Tea Dance experience

Photography

Please be respectful when taking photos in residential areas. Quiet photography is encouraged.

Pricing Details

• 289 RMB per person

Group Size: 10-20 people

What’s Included in the Package?

• Professional Mandarin tour guide and English Interpreter service
• Wireless Headphones with Microphone
• Afternoon tea & snacks from Paramount
• Organization fee

Not Included in the Package

• Transportation costs
• Paramount Ballroom Afternoon Tea dance 180rmb/person
• Tips for the guide
• Personal expenses

How to Book

• Secure your spot by completing payment on SmartShanghai.
• Once payment is made, the event organizer will contact you to confirm your booking.
• Further details, including trip specifics, schedules, and any additional information, will be provided.
• For any questions or special requests, guests are welcome to reach out.

Your spot will be secured—just put on your walking shoes and get ready for a historical adventure!

*Booking closes once spots are full or 2 days in advance, whichever comes first. Secure your spot early to avoid missing out!

Cancellation Policy

If members cancel the trip for personal reasons:

• Cancellation 3 days (72 hours) or more before the trip:
  A full refund will be issued.
• Cancellation within 3 days (less than 72 hours) before the trip:
  A 100 RMB transportation fee will be deducted, and the rest of the payment will be refunded.

If the trip cannot be continued due to force majeure (such as flood, earthquake, weather, or transportation issues):

Part of the trip payment may be refunded under the following conditions:

• Local bus transport fees included in your travel fee (as fully prepaid to the local bus agency) will not be refunded.
• Tour guide fees included in your travel fee will not be refunded.
• Full hotel/attraction fees already spent will not be refunded.
• New local hotel fees or other fees incurred at the destination will not be refunded.
• Flight/train changing/cancellation fees will not be refunded.
• Other personal losses incurred will not be refunded.

*Please note that your booking is confirmed only when full payment is made. Seats are limited. If you are unable to attend, you may transfer your spot to a friend, but rescheduling to another trip is not permitted.

Disclaimer

OKDeal Travel Disclaimer:

1. OKDeal Travel is not responsible for any unforeseen changes or disruptions caused by force majeure, including but not limited to:

• Temporary closure of attractions, suspension of sightseeing vehicles, or other disruptions due to weather or other uncontrollable factors.
• Seasonal landscapes (such as snow, flowers, or foliage) that are subject to weather conditions. Advertised images are for reference only and do not guarantee actual scenery.

2. The availability and operating hours of hotel facilities (e.g., swimming pools, saunas, fitness centers) are subject to change at the hotel's discretion.

3. Prices for optional activities listed in the itinerary (e.g., hot springs, cycling, fruit picking) may vary based on the local provider. Advertised prices are for reference only.

4. In the event of uncontrollable factors such as weather or traffic affecting the itinerary, adjustments may be made as necessary to ensure traveler safety.

5. The availability of single or double beds in hotel accommodations is not guaranteed.

All forms of outdoor recreation, including hiking, carry a higher level of risk compared to most ordinary activities. By participating in OkDeal Travel's hike, participants acknowledge and accept full responsibility for assessing the suitability of the activity for themselves. They are responsible for their own safety, conduct, and well-being and agree to participate solely at their own risk.

OkDeal Travel, its organizers, and hike leaders will not be held liable for any loss, injury, or damage sustained as a result of participation in these activities.

Photography Policy: Photos taken during the trip may be used for promotional purposes. Those who wish to opt out should notify the organizers before signing up.