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Shanghai: A city of dazzling contrasts, where futuristic skylines embrace timeless traditions and hidden histories.

Two Ways to Rediscover Shanghai

A first taste of the best stories the city has to offer. Many more tours are waiting for you.

Shadows and Streamlines: The Deco Heart of Shanghai – Shanghai Audio-Tour
Tour 01
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Shadows and Streamlines: The Deco Heart of Shanghai

Step into the intoxicating glamour and hidden tensions of 1930s Shanghai. On this immersive journey, you will uncover the world's best-kept architectural secret: a sprawling, pastel-hued Art Deco metropolis built on speculative wealth, colonial ambition, and boundless optimism. From sprung-wood dance floors that once hosted expatriate elites to the aerodynamic curves of Streamline Moderne apartments, we will decode the visual language of a vanished golden age. But look closer—beneath the geometric ironwork and terrazzo floors lies a complex story of social hierarchy, hidden labor, and a city racing toward an uncertain future.

7 Stops
115 Min
Shadows of the Shikumen: Whispers of a Vanishing Shanghai – Shanghai Audio-Tour
Tour 02
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Image by Antigng on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Shadows of the Shikumen: Whispers of a Vanishing Shanghai

Step off the gleaming, hyper-modern thoroughfares of Shanghai and plunge into the labyrinthine heart of its vanishing past. This immersive walking tour takes you deep into the 'longtangs'—the narrow, pulsing alleyways framed by iconic Shikumen stone gates. You will uncover the dramatic 19th-century origins of these unique East-meets-West dwellings, trace the footsteps of bohemian poets in cramped pavilion rooms, and witness the resilient, everyday theater of local life that defies the city's relentless gentrification. Join us to experience the sensory richness of a communal lifestyle that is rapidly fading into history.

5 Stops
108 Min

Discover Shanghai – Stories Worth Hearing

Red Thread is an iOS and Android app with over 1,500 guided audio tours through cities worldwide - including in Shanghai.

Shanghai is a symphony of sensory delights, a dynamic metropolis where the future is built upon layers of intricate history. Its relentless energy draws you in, inviting you to peel back the layers of its fascinating story.

From the iconic Art Deco splendors of the former French Concession to the labyrinthine Shikumen alleyways that once housed generations, Shanghai's architectural heritage tells a captivating tale. Our audio tours guide you through these living museums, revealing the soul of the city one whisper at a time.

Shanghai Highlights
  • Uncover Shanghai's stunning Art Deco masterpieces.
  • Wander through atmospheric Shikumen lanes.
  • Experience the city's unique blend of old and new.
  • Explore hidden gems beyond the tourist trails.

Start for free – Premium from €12.99/month. Compare all plans →

Learn more about Red Thread

Frequently Asked Questions about Shanghai

General questions about the app, pricing and features are answered in our full FAQ on the main page.

Where can I best experience Shanghai's famous Art Deco architecture?
The former French Concession, particularly areas around the Bund and Fuxing Road, is a treasure trove. Our 'Shadows and Streamlines: The Art Deco Heart of Shanghai' tour guides you through 7 magnificent stops over 115 minutes.
What are Shikumen houses, and where can I find them in Shanghai?
Shikumen are traditional Shanghainese terraced houses, unique architectural hybrids. While many are vanishing, our 'Shadows of Shikumen: The Whisper of a Vanishing Shanghai' tour explores 5 key locations in historic neighborhoods, taking about 108 minutes.
Can I create my own tours in Shanghai?
Yes, with the XL or Unlimited subscription you can use our AI-powered tour creator to build your own personalized tour in Shanghai on a topic of your choice.
Can I use the Shanghai tours offline?
Yes, with an XL or Unlimited subscription you can download tours for offline use.
Can I do Shanghai tours together with friends?
Yes – with Together Mode (from XL plan) the whole group listens in sync on their own devices. Up to 4 people on XL, up to 10 on Unlimited.
In which other cities does Red Thread offer tours?
Further tours are available in 100s more cities like Barcelona, Boston, Kyoto. All cities can be found here.
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