Unique Cultural Tour of Taoist Architecture with Local Food

The largest Taoist building in Shanghai, without commercialization, you could see the most authentic look of Taoism in modern city. On this visit, you will get to know another important cornerstone that, along with Confucianism, has shaped Chinese people’s national character for thousands of years: Taoist philosophy. Taoism is a religion that created and developed on the basis of Taoist philosophy. It is the only religion born and rised completely independently in China. Taoism is a very unique polytheistic religion in the world. It believes that human can become an immortal, jump out of the limit of time and space. In fact, many Taoist gods come from real people. The building itself has both historical and aesthetic significance. It was built a thousand years ago, went through seven dynasties, was rebuilt by various emperors, and is now a Protected Historic Site. If it coincides with a Taoist festival, you will also have the opportunity to see unique religious rites - all for free!

1 Hours • Admission Ticket Included

Outside the Gate of Mountain(front gate), we'll already start our architectural and cultural exploration journey. We will learn about the basic pattern and architectural style of Taoist architecture, what do they represent. To see what are the connections and differences between the Taoist architecture in front of us and the Taoist architecture on the mountain. We'll enter and visit the main halls and several other halls, get to know which god is inside, what their stories are, and understand what their duties are. We will see the highest ranking gods in Taoism, the god of the mountain which has the most important symbolism in China, the gods of the Chinese underworld government, the popular utilitarian gods (god of wealth, god of marriage, god of study, etc.) We will also understand people's attitudes towards Taoist gods, and how is that different from believers of other religions.

1 Hours • Admission Ticket Included

We will have a meal that is loved by locals: Shanghai style shepherd's purse wonton, as well as two or three other local snacks and a very Chinese drink: "Suanmei tang". There is another optional offer: change meal(wonton) to hotpot. You can make the choice during the tour.

1 Hours • Admission Ticket Free