Shanghai Sacred Private Taoism and Zen Tour

Shanghai, China
Duration6h - 8h
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish, Chinese, French, Spanish
Private tourOnly your group will participate
Pickup offeredSee the meeting and pickup details below

Overview

Many temple tours focus on seeing as many sites as possible.

Shanghai Sacred Journey takes a different approach.

Rather than rushing through landmarks, this experience is intentionally designed to help you slow down and engage with living traditions through meaningful rituals, mindful moments, and genuine cultural encounters.

Every activity has been carefully selected to create lasting memories—not simply photographs.

What's included

  • Private transportation
  • Bottled water
  • Entrance fee
  • Lunch
  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Fuel surcharge
  • Parking Fees
  • Gratuities

What to expect

  1. Shanghai Temple Of the Town God (Chenghung Miao)
    1h 15m · Admission ticket included
    Begin your journey at Shanghai's historic Taoist temple, where local traditions have been practiced for centuries.

    Learn about Taoist philosophy, incense rituals, the City God's role in Chinese folk beliefs, and the symbolism behind traditional worship.

    Participate in an authentic fortune-stick divination ceremony, followed by a personalized English interpretation covering themes such as career, relationships, health, and personal growth.

    Enjoy time to wander the peaceful courtyards and observe local worshippers before continuing your journey.
  2. Longhua Temple
    2h · Admission ticket included
    Continue to Shanghai's oldest Buddhist monastery, home to more than 1,700 years of history.

    Explore its magnificent pagoda, traditional temple halls, ancient gardens, and peaceful meditation courtyards while learning about the foundations of Chinese Zen Buddhism.

    Following lunch, take part in one of the day's most meaningful experiences: copying passages from the Heart Sutra using traditional Chinese brush, ink, and rice paper. More than an art form, this meditative practice has been cherished for centuries as a way to cultivate focus and inner calm.

    You'll take your completed calligraphy home as a personal keepsake.

    Enjoy some free time to sit quietly, stroll beneath the ancient trees, or simply appreciate the tranquil atmosphere before departing.
  3. Longhua Temple
    45m · Admission ticket included
    Enjoy an authentic vegetarian temple lunch inspired by Buddhist culinary traditions. Your guide will introduce the "Five Contemplations"—a centuries-old mindfulness practice observed before every meal.
  4. Jade Buddha Temple
    1h 10m · Admission ticket included
    Conclude your experience at one of Shanghai's most celebrated Buddhist temples.

    Admire the exquisite Burmese white jade Buddha statues and learn how Buddhism spread across Asia through centuries of cultural exchange.

    Visit the temple's beloved rescued cats, cared for by the resident monks and temple community, and discover the Buddhist value of compassion toward all living beings.

    Complete your final cultural activity by creating your own traditional Chinese stone-rubbing artwork featuring classic Buddhist or lotus motifs—a unique handmade souvenir to remember your day.

    Afterwards, relax during your private transfer back to your hotel.

Meeting and pickup

Pickup details

lobby

Additional information

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
From
$200.00 per person
Check availability & book
  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
  • Instant confirmation
  • You'll choose your date and travelers and pay on viator.com. Prices vary by date, group size and option.
More activities in Shanghai
From
$200.00 per person
Check availability