Select your travel dates to find the best prices and availability
Step into Zhenru Ancient Town and time-travel to Old Shanghai! Cobblestone paths wind through well-preserved Ming-Qing architecture, with Zhenru Temple's golden roof glinting in sunlight. Don't miss sticky rice shumai and fried dough pockets at family-run stalls. By dusk, sip Longjing tea at canal-side teahouses as Pingtan opera melodies float through the air - the perfect 'slow living' escape.
This hotel is a gamer's paradise! Located near Shanghai Global Port, just a 5-minute walk to Jinshajiang Road Metro Station, making it easy to reach landmarks like Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street. Equipped with Thunderobot professional gaming gear and smart room controls, it offers the perfect blend of gaming and comfort. With 24-hour free laundry, a fitness center, and multilingual services, all your needs are covered. Whether for a romantic getaway or a friends' trip, this is the ultimate choice!
Everything you need to know about Zhenru Ancient Town
Recommended is Shangri-La Shanghai Zhenru – located just a 5-minute walk from the ancient town’s main streets. The hotel blends modern comfort with traditional Jiangnan garden aesthetics, featuring spacious rooms with soundproof windows and premium bedding. Its on-site restaurant serves authentic Shanghainese cuisine, allowing guests to savor local flavors after exploring historic sites. Additional perks include free parking, electric scooter rentals, and easy access to public transit, making it ideal for both leisure and business travelers seeking convenience and authenticity.
The easiest option is taking Metro Line 11 to Zhenru Station, then walking about 800 meters through scenic avenues to enter the ancient town. For drivers, follow the outer ring expressway to Zhenru South Road – clear signage guides you, and multiple parking lots, including underground garages, are available. Local bike-sharing and e-scooter services also provide eco-friendly short trips. To avoid congestion, plan visits during weekdays or early mornings, especially during peak seasons like Spring Festival or National Day.
Don’t miss the traditional paper-cutting workshop led by a master of intangible heritage, where you’ll create intricate Jiangnan-style window decorations. Every Saturday evening features the Lantern Procession at Night, combining illuminated architecture, ambient music, and storytelling. Early morning visitors can join the Temple Bell Ritual at Zhenru Temple, offering a serene spiritual experience. Sample local delicacies like osmanthus glutinous rice balls and red bean soup dumplings at street stalls, and enjoy fresh-made treats paired with jasmine tea for an authentic taste of old Shanghai.
Absolutely! The town offers wide, tree-shaded stone pathways and shaded rest areas perfect for families with children or elderly members. Interactive activities like the Kids’ Heritage Trail Map Game turn exploration into a fun challenge, encouraging discovery through hidden architectural symbols. Many cafes and shops feature barrier-free access and stroller parking. Some venues even host seasonal parent-child art workshops and mini exhibitions, creating enriching moments for all ages – making it a top-rated destination for family getaways.
Must-try dishes include Zhenru Soup Dumplings – thin-skinned, juicy, and bursting with savory broth, made at the century-old Lao Zhenru Snack House. Another highlight is Soy-braised Yellow Croaker, marinated using a secret recipe that balances sweet and salty notes. Street vendors offer freshly prepared crab meat spring rolls and oil-fried dough sticks (youdouzi). Don’t miss the riverside food market, where you can enjoy plum cake and jasmine tea while relaxing along the canal – a true taste of authentic Shanghai culture.
The ancient town is free to enter and open daily from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM, extended to 10:00 PM during special night events. Key attractions like Zhenru Temple and the Intangible Cultural Heritage Pavilion charge a nominal fee (30 RMB per adult). Arrive before 9:00 AM to avoid crowds and enjoy morning rituals or guided tours. Free smart audio guides are available via QR code, providing detailed narration without extra cost – ideal for self-guided exploration and deep cultural immersion.
See what other travelers say about Zhenru Ancient Town
I'm back again — this is my second stay at VX Hotel (Shanghai Railway Station Store), and I’m happy to say the experience was just as good as before. Shanghai hotels tend to be on the pricier side compared to other cities, but this one stands out for its great location near the train station — it’s only a few minutes by metro, making travel super convenient. The best part? Every room has a window, so there’s no stuffy feeling at all. Fresh air and natural light make a huge difference in comfort. Even though it’s not right in the heart of downtown, the value for money is excellent. If you’re visiting Shanghai and want a clean, comfortable, and practical stay without overspending, this hotel is definitely worth considering. I’ll be coming back again!
We were on a business trip near the end of the year and I decided to recommend The Longemont Shanghai—a hotel I’ve always had a soft spot for. My colleagues loved it right away, especially how well it balanced quality and value. As a five-star property, the rooms are all on higher floors, offering quiet, spacious accommodations with great views. The location is super convenient—just a short subway ride from everything we needed. It easily met our company’s lodging standards while still feeling luxurious. One colleague even said they’d be booking here again on future trips. Definitely a top pick for both comfort and practicality.
I booked this hotel mainly because it's close to Fēi Shēng Livehouse, and I'm so glad I did! The entire experience exceeded my expectations. From the moment I arrived, the staff were incredibly attentive and genuinely helpful—always with a smile and ready to assist. The room was immaculately clean and well-maintained, down to the smallest detail. Everything felt fresh and hygienic, which made me feel completely at ease. Plus, the location is perfect—just a short walk from the livehouse and super convenient for getting around Shanghai via metro. It’s not just about proximity; the value for money is outstanding, and the overall vibe is welcoming and modern. If you're visiting Shanghai for gigs or just want a comfortable, clean, and well-located stay, this is definitely a top choice. I’ll be back!
Staying at Shanghai Miller Villa Hotel felt like stepping into a fairy tale—rich in history and charm from the moment you walk in. The exterior might not scream 'new and flashy,' but inside, everything has that timeless elegance of old-money quality—the bedding was incredibly comfortable, making for a restful night's sleep. Even small details like the hairdryer, flooring, and seating had a refined, classic touch. Breakfast was simple but satisfying, and the short castle tour offered surprising insights and fun facts. I did have a slight disappointment with the terrace, but the front desk made up for it by giving me a little magnet as a thoughtful gift. Honestly, I couldn’t ask for more—this place strikes the perfect balance between heritage, comfort, and genuine hospitality. Would absolutely return.
The location is super easy to find—just a short walk from Xincun Road Metro Station, and there’s plenty of parking nearby, which is perfect if you're driving. The room has excellent soundproofing, so I could play games loudly without disturbing anyone else—no noise leakage at all. My gaming experience was flawless: top-tier PC specs handled AAA titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and Genshin Impact with zero lag or frame drops. The keyboard and mouse felt responsive and high-quality, adding to the immersive vibe. The space itself is clean, modern, and well-maintained, with a great atmosphere for gamers. Staff were friendly and helpful, making the whole stay feel seamless. Honestly, this place exceeded my expectations. I’d definitely book here again on any future trip to Shanghai—without hesitation.
Staying at Park Inn by Radisson Shanghai Downtown was a pleasant experience overall. The location is excellent—right in the heart of the city, with easy access to public transportation and plenty of dining options nearby. The room was spacious and comfortable, featuring a bathtub, which made for a relaxing soak after a long day. While the furniture looked a bit dated, cleanliness was spotless and everything functioned well. Breakfast was a highlight—great variety with both Western and Chinese options available, and portions were generous. The only minor downside was not receiving any complimentary drinks or fruits upon check-in, but that didn’t take away from the overall satisfaction. For the price, this hotel offers solid value and convenience, and I’d definitely consider it again on future trips to Shanghai.
Staying at this former guesthouse—once a historic venue where U.S.-China relations were normalized—felt like stepping into living history. Nestled between Jing'an Temple and the upscale Jufu Road, it’s perfectly positioned: minutes from bustling city life yet remarkably peaceful. The apartment has been freshly renovated with warm, homely touches that make you feel instantly at home. Everything was spotless—clean floors, crisp linens, and attention to detail in every corner. Staff were genuinely friendly and helpful, going out of their way to ensure a comfortable stay without being intrusive. It’s not just a hotel; it’s an experience. If you’re looking for authenticity, charm, and a quiet retreat in central Shanghai, this is absolutely worth it.
Staying at City Hotel in Shanghai felt like coming home. This is a well-established brand with genuine charm, and the front desk staff speaking fluent Shanghai dialect instantly made me feel welcome—such a warm, personal touch. I was on the 11th floor, and the housekeeping staff were incredibly friendly and attentive. Every day they’d greet us with a smile, check if we needed anything, and always left the room spotless. The attention to detail—from freshly made beds to sparkling surfaces—showed real care. It’s rare to find such thoughtful hospitality in a city hotel. I truly felt looked after, not just served. If you’re looking for comfort, cleanliness, and that special human connection, this place delivers. A top choice for both business and leisure travelers.
We stayed at this hotel with our daughter for four nights, and the entire experience was absolutely delightful. The front desk staff, Judy, was incredibly warm and thoughtful—she even invited us to connect via the hotel’s WeChat account, which made it super easy to reach out with any questions. Responses were prompt and helpful, giving us peace of mind throughout our stay. The housekeeping team truly stood out—they kept the room immaculate every day, and even noticed when a pack of makeup pads was missing, promptly restocking it without being asked. It’s impressive how attentive they are, especially since we barely used any of the complimentary amenities. Location-wise, the hotel is perfectly situated across from Zhongshan Park, a spacious and beautiful green space ideal for walking with kids. We took full advantage of the nearby trails and enjoyed some relaxing strolls in nature. We booked through a platform, and the deal was outstanding—great value for money. Overall, this was one of our most enjoyable stays, and we’ll definitely be back if we ever return to Shanghai.
Staying at Hyatt Centric Zhongshan Park Shanghai was an absolutely delightful experience. The staff member Lilian went above and beyond by upgrading me to a scenic view room at no extra cost—such a wonderful surprise! The room itself was spotless, with beautiful wooden flooring that added warmth and charm to the space. But what truly stood out was the breakfast spread: generous, diverse, and incredibly delicious. From hot dishes to cold appetizers, everything was fresh and well-prepared. I especially loved the smoked tofu with grilled fish—it tasted like something you’d find in a high-end restaurant, and all for just $17 per person. It’s hard to beat that kind of quality at this price. I also want to give a shoutout to a female server with glasses and short hair—her friendly demeanor and genuine smile made the morning even more enjoyable. Even though I didn’t catch her name, she left a lasting impression. This hotel delivers on every level: comfort, service, and value. I’ll definitely be back.
Staying at Hope Hotel in Shanghai was a fantastic experience from start to finish. The hotel is perfectly located just steps away from the metro station, making it super convenient to explore the city, whether you're heading to shopping districts or nearby supermarkets. The room was spotlessly clean, well-maintained, and offered a peaceful retreat after a long day of sightseeing. The staff went above and beyond—always friendly, prompt, and genuinely helpful whenever we needed anything. Their warm hospitality made our stay feel personal and welcoming. We’re already planning our next family trip to Shanghai and will definitely consider booking here again. Highly recommend this hidden gem for travelers seeking comfort, convenience, and excellent service.
Staying at Hotel Indigo Shanghai Jing'an was an absolute delight from start to finish. The room was spacious and well-designed, with just the right pillow height that made falling asleep effortless—woke up feeling completely refreshed. What stood out even more was the complimentary minibar stocked with healthy drinks instead of sugary sodas—such a thoughtful touch! Dinner at 500 Restaurant was unforgettable: the sirloin steak was generously portioned and cooked to perfection, tender and full of flavor. And the tiramisu? Absolutely stellar—each bite had distinct layers of texture and taste, reminding me of the ones I had in Paris. It’s rare to find such a high-quality experience in a city as busy as Shanghai. This stay exceeded all expectations—10/10, and I’d definitely come back without hesitation.
Explore more amazing destinations