7-Day Foodie Adventure in Shanghai, JiuZhaiGou, Changsha
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Saturday, December 16: Arrival in Shanghai
Morning: Start your foodie journey in Shanghai by sampling delicious street food at the vibrant Yu Garden. Indulge in the local delicacy of xiaolongbao, steamed dumplings filled with flavorful soup.
Afternoon: Discover the culinary treasures of Xintiandi, a trendy neighborhood with a great selection of international and local restaurants. Tantalize your taste buds with Shanghai-style braised pork and other classic dishes.
Evening: Take a stroll along the Bund and enjoy stunning views of Shanghai's iconic skyline while dining at a rooftop restaurant. Try authentic Shanghainese cuisine, such as sweet and sour spare ribs or crispy fried eel.
Yu Garden: Approx. cost: $5 USD, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Xintiandi: Cost varies depending on restaurant choice, Time spent: 3-4 hours
The Bund: Cost varies depending on restaurant choice, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Ling Long Ting, a local favorite known for its delicious dim sum and traditional Chinese congee. The average cost for a meal is about 50 yuan per person.
For lunch, head to Fu 1039, a charming restaurant tucked away in an old Shikumen house. Indulge in their famous braised pork belly and steamed buns while immersing yourself in the nostalgic ambiance. The average cost for a meal is about 100 yuan per person.
For dinner, experience the vibrant flavors of Yunnan cuisine at Lost Heaven. This restaurant offers a unique fusion of Chinese and Southeast Asian influences with dishes like spicy grilled fish and lemongrass chicken. The average cost for a meal is about 150 yuan per person.
Sunday, December 17: Exploring Shanghai
Morning: Start your day with a traditional Shanghai-style breakfast at a local eatery. Savor youtiao (Chinese fried dough sticks), soy milk, and delicious scallion pancakes.
Afternoon: Visit Tianzifang, a lively artsy district with narrow alleys filled with quaint cafes and unique food stalls. Taste some local snacks like stinky tofu or spicy lamb skewers.
Evening: Dive into Shanghai's vibrant street food scene at the famous Chenghuangmiao Night Market. Try a variety of local delicacies, such as fried crab shell or scallion oil noodles.
Local breakfast eatery: Approx. cost: $5-10 USD, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Tianzifang: Cost varies depending on snacks, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Chenghuangmiao Night Market: Approx. cost: $10-15 USD, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day at The Cottage Bakery, a cozy cafe known for its freshly baked pastries and hearty breakfast options. Enjoy a delicious omelette or a classic bacon and eggs breakfast. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head over to Yang's Dumpling Shop. Indulge in their signature pan-fried soup dumplings, filled with a flavorful broth and succulent meat. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, book a table at Lost Heaven. This elegant restaurant offers a fusion of Yunnan and Western cuisine, with dishes like spicy grilled fish and tender braised pork. Average cost for a meal is about $25 per person.
Monday, December 18: Travel to JiuZhaiGou
Morning: Catch a flight from Shanghai to Jiuzhaigou Huanglong Airport. Enjoy a light breakfast at the airport before departure.
Afternoon: Arrive in JiuZhaiGou and savor a late lunch at a local Tibetan-style restaurant. Try yak meat dishes, momos (Tibetan dumplings), and barley wine.
Evening: Relax and explore the beautiful Tibetan culture by attending a traditional dance and music performance while enjoying a flavorful Tibetan hot pot dinner.
Airfare cost varies, Time spent: 4-5 hours
Local Tibetan-style restaurant: Approx. cost: $15-20 USD, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Tibetan cultural performance: Approx. cost: $10-15 USD, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
A cozy local cafe that serves delicious pastries and freshly brewed coffee for breakfast. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
A small family-run restaurant offering a variety of local dishes for lunch. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
A trendy fusion restaurant known for its creative menu and vibrant atmosphere for dinner. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Tuesday, December 19: JiuZhaiGou Nature Exploration
Morning: Begin your day with a energizing breakfast at your hotel. Head to JiuZhaiGou Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning turquoise lakes and colorful waterfalls.
Afternoon: Enjoy a packed lunch amidst the picturesque scenery of JiuZhaiGou Valley. Try local specialties like yak meat noodles and butter tea.
Evening: Return to your hotel and relax while dining on traditional Sichuan cuisine, famous for its bold flavors and spicy dishes.
Packed lunch: Approx. cost: $10-15 USD, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Dinner at hotel: Approx. cost: $15-20 USD, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Eggs & Co., where you can enjoy fluffy omelettes, freshly baked pastries, and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
For a delicious and quick lunch, head over to La Petite Sandwicherie for their mouthwatering selection of gourmet sandwiches and salads. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner experience at Le Jules Verne, located on the Eiffel Tower, offering breathtaking views of the city paired with exquisite French cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about $150 per person.
Wednesday, December 20: Return to Shanghai
Morning: After breakfast at your hotel, visit the Tibetan-style ancient town of Songpan. Wander through its narrow streets and feast on Tibetan and Sichuan fusion cuisine for lunch.
Afternoon: Head to Jiuzhaigou Huanglong Airport for your return flight to Shanghai. Grab a quick snack at the airport before departure.
Evening: Arrive in Shanghai and relax at a local hot pot restaurant while enjoying a variety of fresh ingredients cooked at your table.
Breakfast at hotel: Included, Time spent: 1 hour
Songpan Ancient Town: Approx. cost: $10-15 USD, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Airfare cost varies, Time spent: 4-5 hours
Local hot pot restaurant: Approx. cost: $20-25 USD, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Shanghai is The Commune Social. They offer a variety of delicious breakfast options such as eggs benedict and avocado toast. The average cost for a meal here is about 100 RMB per person.
For lunch, you should try Jesse Restaurant. They serve authentic Shanghainese cuisine including dumplings and braised pork. The average cost for a meal here is about 70 RMB per person.
For dinner, head to Lost Heaven for a unique dining experience. This restaurant specializes in Yunnan cuisine and offers a diverse menu with dishes like spicy curry and grilled meats. The average cost for a meal here is about 150 RMB per person.
Thursday, December 21: Exploring Changsha
Morning: Start your day with a hearty Hunan-style breakfast at a local eatery. Enjoy spicy tofu, rice noodles, and mouth-watering pickled vegetables.
Afternoon: Visit Orange Island, an iconic park on the Xiang River. Grab a quick lunch from one of the food stalls, trying Hunan specialties like spicy cumin lamb skewers and crispy lotus root.
Evening: Sample the famous street food of Changsha at Huangxing Road. Indulge in stinky tofu, spicy crayfish, and rice noodle rolls.
Local breakfast eatery: Approx. cost: $5-10 USD, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Lunch at food stalls: Approx. cost: $10-15 USD, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Huangxing Road: Approx. cost: $10-15 USD, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day at Sunrise Pancake, a local favorite for breakfast. They offer a wide variety of traditional Chinese pancakes, with an average cost of around 15 RMB per person.
For lunch, head to Lao Shan Dong Noodle House, known for their delicious and authentic noodle dishes. The average cost for a meal here is about 30 RMB per person.
For dinner, don't miss out on the flavorful hotpot at Xiaolongkan Hot Pot. This popular spot offers a wide selection of fresh ingredients and the average cost for a meal is around 80 RMB per person.
Friday, December 22: Farewell to Changsha
Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel. Explore the fascinating Yuelu Mountain and visit the Yuelu Academy, one of the four great ancient academies in China.
Afternoon: Savor the rich flavors of Hunan cuisine with a farewell feast at a local restaurant. Try the famous spicy Mao's Braised Pork or the sour and spicy fish dish.
Evening: Depart from Changsha and mark the end of your foodie adventure, taking with you unforgettable culinary memories.
Breakfast at hotel: Included, Time spent: 1 hour
Yuelu Mountain and Yuelu Academy: Approx. cost: $10-15 USD, Time spent: 3-4 hours
Farewell feast at a local restaurant: Approx. cost: $15-20 USD, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
A cozy breakfast spot located near Changsha, serving freshly baked pastries and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 30 CNY per person.
A bustling local favorite for lunch, offering a variety of authentic Hunanese dishes bursting with flavors. Average cost for a meal is about 40 CNY per person.
A trendy dinner destination with a modern twist on traditional Changsha cuisine and a lively atmosphere. Average cost for a meal is about 80 CNY per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Shanghai, be sure to visit the hidden gem of Tianzi Fang. This artsy district is known for its charming lanes and hidden art studios, where you can find unique handmade crafts and trendy cafes offering mouthwatering dessert creations.
In JiuZhaiGou, venture off the beaten path and visit a local Tibetan family's home for an authentic home-cooked meal. Immerse yourself in the warmth of Tibetan hospitality while enjoying traditional dishes like yak butter tea, yak meat stew, and tsampa.
In Changsha, don't miss out on the local favorite snack of stinky tofu. It may have a strong aroma, but the crispy exterior and soft interior will win you over. Visit a local night market, such as Pozi Street, to experience the full range of Hunan street food delights.
Wherever you go, don't hesitate to ask locals for their favorite food spots and hidden gems. They often know the best-kept secrets and can guide you to unique culinary experiences you won't find in travel guides.