Top Shanghai Classes & Workshops

Most Shanghai tours take you to the Bund or Yu Garden. This one takes you down a street where locals actually live. Discover a quieter, more personal side of Shanghai on a small-group walking tour through the historic Xinhua Road neighborhood. This experience concludes at a local tea house, where you will be introduced to the history of Chinese tea and the six major tea families (green, white, yellow, oolong, red, and dark tea). Discover the tools used for brewing, learn how to prepare tea in a local way, and practice pouring and tasting tea with guidance from your host. Combining urban history, architecture, community culture, and hands-on tea preparation, this experience offers a relaxed and engaging way to discover Shanghai beyond the usual tourist trail.

Master the culinary secrets of China in a hands-on cooking class that takes place in the heart of Shanghai. Learn to prepare iconic dishes such as Kung Pao Chicken and delightful Shepherd's Purse Wonton, all while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of a local kitchen. This immersive experience offers not just cooking skills but a taste of authentic Chinese cuisine!

Experience traditional calligraphy in an exclusive private studio, led by a disciple of a renowned Qing Dynasty calligrapher (Wu Changshuo). Learn the art of calligraphy in a quiet studio tucked away in a historic 1930s lane. The studio is part of a heritage-protected building, offering a peaceful and authentic setting for you. By the end of your session, you'll have your own calligraphy artwork to take home as personal reminder of the experience.

Make the most of your airport layover on this whirlwind guided tour of Shanghai—also well-suited to cruise ship passengers. Tick off impressive landmarks, from the cutting-edge Bund waterfront to the 400-year-old imperial gardens. Veteran travelers who have already covered the highlights can choose from lesser-known sights like the Propaganda Poster Art Center or Jade Buddha Temple.

Find your center under the guidance of a seasoned practitioner with decades of experience and fluent English. Begin with gentle warm-ups before learning foundational movements. As morning mist rises from the river, discover the philosophy of balance, the art of Qigong breath control, and the inner strength cultivated in each posture. Alternatively, you can choose to gather in the peaceful People's Park in the evening, where there are ancient trees and serene gardens, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The core of this experience is your head coach - not just a coach, but a living treasure trove of martial arts traditions. They have rich communication experience with international tourists, vividly bringing Tai Chi art into life and sharing the legendary origin stories of Tai Chi from the Taoist sage Zhang Sanfeng to the great Chen, Yang, and Wu families. Feel the energy of Shanghai as you practice Tai Chi at dawn or dusk Learn the art of Tai Chi from a master instructor

Meet a TCM practitioner with over 20 years of professional experience Experience traditional pulse reading and tongue observation Discover your personal body constitution through Chinese medicine Receive a handwritten Chinese constitution report on the day Get a personalized English wellness report within three days Learn practical lifestyle and dietary ideas based on TCM principles

In this interactive cooking class, you'll receive hands-on training from Dim Sum Chef Yin, a local expert in Chinese cuisine. You'll master the traditional techniques for making Beef Curry Sheng Jian Bao, including preparing juicy filling, kneading dough, and creating perfect wrappers. You’ll also learn how to pan-fry these buns to get a crispy, golden bottom—a signature trait of this dish. Throughout the class, you'll discover the rich history of Sheng Jian Bao and its connection to Shanghai's food culture. We also introduce you to authentic Chinese tea, which you’ll enjoy alongside your freshly made buns. This class is perfect for food lovers eager to learn new cooking skills they can recreate at home. Vegetarians are welcome—please inform us in advance of any dietary preferences, and we'll do our best to accommodate.

Rather than rushing to keep up with a large group, explore Hangzhou at your own pace on a private day trip that you can customize according to your interests. Traveling by bullet train on your own saves hours stuck in traffic, while exploring with a private guide promises undivided attention at highlights such as West Lake and the Longjin Tea Farm.

You probably didn’t come to Shanghai expecting to get your hands on a real Qing dynasty book — let alone help restore one. This is one of those experiences that’s genuinely hard to find: step inside a local antique shop, work with an authentic book page from the late Qing dynasty, and spend two quiet hours doing something almost completely removed from modern life. Just you, your hands, and a piece of the past. And this isn’t a replica or a craft made to look old. You’ll be working with the real thing — a page that has survived for more than a century — learning how to repair it using traditional conservation techniques under the guidance of a professional book conservator. The page stays with the collection, where your restoration becomes part of its continuing story. You won’t find this at the usual Shanghai attractions — and that’s exactly the point.

Move beyond surface-level sightseeing and dive deep into authentic Chinese culture with a fresh, hands-on art experience! At China Culture Land, you can directly engage with traditional art by choosing your own creative path: opt for the vibrant, bold colors of Intangible Cultural Heritage Peasant Painting, or try traditional Freehand (Xieyi) Painting—which feels like watercolor but carries a profoundly different Eastern spirit. Uncover the stories behind every brushstroke, and take home more than just photos: leave with a truly special, one-of-a-kind souvenir crafted by your own hands.

If your time in Shanghai is limited, the private 3-hour Shopping tour makes the most of it. Enjoy time with your guide and shop till it drop. Customize your itinerary to suit your interests.Please always feel free to let your guide know your wish lists ahead of time. Shop fabulous bags, jewelry, toys and even tailor made suits. 1: Make your shopping list done for your family 2: Choice of morning , or afternoon departure 3: Savor a delightful authentic noodles along the way 4: Take it easy with pickup-and drop-off

Designed for cruise ship passengers arriving at Shanghai Cruise Terminal (Wusongkou Cruise Terminal), this private shore excursion features the highlights of Shanghai. Stops include the Yuyuan Garden, Yuyuan Bazaar, the Bund, French Concession, Jade Buddha Temple, Lujiazui Financial Center, and more. The tour can also be customized based on your interests.

Step into a local Shanghai home for an intimate Chinese cooking class and in-home dining experience centered on authentic Jiā Cháng Cài (Chinese home-style cooking). Learn to make handmade Chinese dumplings from scratch, master traditional folding techniques, and enjoy the meal you helped cook while discovering stories, traditions, and food culture that shape everyday life in Shanghai. More than a typical Shanghai cooking class, this private experience offers authentic Chinese home cooking and meaningful cultural connections - perfect for travelers seeking unique things to do in Shanghai.

Discover the elegance of tea culture with a 60-minute journey through the six classic teas of China at our Tianzifang teahouse in Shanghai. This private class, designed for up to five participants, invites you to learn traditional brewing techniques and delve into the rich stories behind each tea. Enjoy a serene atmosphere as you savor the distinct flavors and aromas that have been cherished for centuries, making it an enriching experience for both tea enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

What makes RUUTS unique is our approach to Chinese tea: we move beyond traditional tea ceremonies to create playful, sensory and immersive experiences. Guests are invited to taste, smell, observe and guess before discovering the story behind each tea. Through the eyes of a tea traveler with 7 years of experience exploring China’s tea regions, we connect tea with the country’s landscapes, people, history and everyday life, creating a personal and memorable cultural experience. The small-group format, carefully selected teas and authentic Shanghai settings create a bridge between China’s traditions and modern city life.

Ask anyone in China where to find the best meal, and the answer usually isn't a restaurant. It's someone's kitchen. One wok, a few dishes, everything brought to the table still steaming. That's what home tastes like here. I live in Shanghai, and I'd love to have you in my kitchen to cook a few of the dishes we make most often. None of them are difficult, and none of them are fussy, they're simply what's on the table in millions of Chinese homes every night. I'll walk you through the cutting, the seasoning, and the timing, and tell you the stories behind each dish along the way. Before we start, we'll take a relaxed stroll through a nearby wet market, seasonal produce, unhurried vendors, and a glimpse of daily life you won't find at any landmark. Afterwards, I'll send you a PDF of the recipes, so you can make these dishes again in your own kitchen wherever you are. One meal is enough to get to know Chinese food and each other. Come cook with me!

Explore the rich tapestry of Chinese tea culture during a captivating 2-hour session in Shanghai. Engage in a traditional Gongfu tea ceremony that reveals the artistry behind tea preparation, and master the brewing technique using a Gaiwan. Taste and appreciate four premium teas, from delicate white to robust oolong, while discovering how different years、 terroirs and manufacturing process influence flavor. This experience is perfect for travelers eager to deepen their understanding of this ancient tradition and elevate their tea appreciation. More importantly, fully immerse yourself in the joy brought by high-quality Chinese tea.

• Discover two sides of Shanghai: Pair a 90-minute English-guided visit to Jade Buddha Temple with a hands-on cultural workshop at M50. • Find an experience that suits you: Choose one of four workshops—bamboo butterfly weaving, soup dumpling making, seal carving, or fan painting. • Connect with Chinese craftsmanship: Learn through hands-on practice, with materials and instructor guidance included. • Explore beyond the workshop: Discover M50’s contemporary art atmosphere independently with an eight-language mobile web guide. • Start with added convenience: Choose optional one-way hotel pickup to Jade Buddha Temple, then make your own way to M50 after the temple visit. • Finish with a memorable photo stop: Walk to nearby 1000 Trees after your workshop to admire its distinctive architecture and explore independently.

Discover one of the most unique things to do in Shanghai with this immersive Chinese wellness experience. This half-day tour combines a hands-on Kung Fu class with authentic Traditional Chinese Medicine therapy, offering both physical activity and holistic healing. Perfect for travelers looking for a deeper cultural experience, this tour allows you to learn real martial arts techniques, receive a personalized TCM diagnosis, and enjoy traditional treatments such as Acupuncture, Cupping therapy, and Moxibustion.

Step into the world of legendary Shaolin warriors with a hands‑on, 90‑minute self‑defense experience designed exclusively for inbound travelers. Highlights:
 Authentic Shaolin Monk Instruction ️ Professional Indoor Venue . True Shaolin Zen Spirit Rapid Self‑Defense Skills Zen Tea Break & Cultural Talk From basic stances to joint locks and escapes, each move is rooted in centuries of Shaolin wisdom. No prior experience needed – just bring your curiosity and energy. Perfect for:
Solo travelers, families, or anyone who wants a unique, empowering souvenir from China that stays with them for life. Duration: 2 hours 
Includes: English‑speaking Shaolin monk instructor, all training gear, and a small Zen tea break. Book now – walk like a traveler, defend like a master.

Immerse yourself in the intricate world of traditional Chinese painting with this engaging workshop. Gain insight into the rich history, philosophy, and techniques that set Chinese art apart from Western styles. Familiarize yourself with essential materials like brushes, ink, and rice paper as you witness a live demonstration showcasing vital techniques such as brush strokes and composition. You'll have the opportunity to practice at your own pace, receiving personalized guidance to refine your skills. Conclude the experience by creating your own piece of art, enriched with symbolic meaning, and take home a unique masterpiece as a lasting memento.

Explore the rich history of Chinese writing in this engaging workshop that takes you from Oracle Bone Script to modern Standard Script. Uncover the cultural significance of each character while learning about the essential “Four Treasures of the Study.” Experiment with traditional writing materials as you practice basic strokes in Seal Script. Delve into the “Six Principles of Chinese Character Formation” to craft your very own character using ancient techniques. Wrap up your creative journey by transforming your chosen character into a personalized badge that you can take home as a unique souvenir.

Come to Shanghai M50 and step into the world of Xiaolongbao at CCW Restaurant. Under the guidance of a professional pastry chef, you can start from kneading the dough and make your very own Xiaolongbao step by step. We offer two packages to choose from: the Xiaolongbao Making Experience (60–90 mins), or the Xiaolongbao + Kung Pao Chicken Making Experience (120 mins), which adds this classic dish to your session. Once done, you can taste your creations on the spot and enjoy the most authentic flavors of Shanghai. ● Learn hands-on from a master chef—from kneading dough to steaming. ● Roll, pleat, and shape in one fluid motion—master the art of forming Xiaolongbao. ● Rich, juicy pork filling delivers authentic Shanghai flavor in every bite. ● Full journey from dough to dumpling—immerse in Shanghai's dim sum culture. ● Savor your own freshly steamed creations—an authentic taste of Shanghai.

Craft traditional paper-cut art with masters in Tianzifang's heritage shop, explore artsy alleyways, and savor iconic Shanghainese flavors to cap off your cultural journey! At least two people are required for the tour to proceed. Highlights: - Learn from Heritage Masters: Create your own paper-cut art guided by a decade-old shop's inheritors -Alleyway Art Quest: Wander Tianzifang's retro Shikumen lanes, discovering galleries and indie boutiques - Taste Shanghai's Soul: Explore iconic dishes—soup dumplings, scallion oil noodles, and classic pear candy desserts Itinerary: Paper-cutting workshop - Tianzifang - Dinner