Meet your A&K guide in the morning. You may want to skip breakfast on this occasion. Visit one of Shanghai’s wet markets, the city’s local alternative to the Western-style supermarket. They’re aptly named due to their vendors throwing water over the ground to keep the venue clean and also because of the sheer amount of live fish jumping in open tanks. And it’s not just seafood on offer. Wet markets overflow with fresh organic vegetables, huge tubs of eggs, slabs of tofu and fragrant bouquets.
They’re loud, chaotic and you’ll need to bargain, but your guide will help you haggle among the jostling stallholders. The mornings are the busiest time when you will see a kaleidoscope of fresh produce and you can experience the market in full swing.
Afterwards, pull up a street pew next to the locals and refuel on the city’s breakfast of champions. Watch noodles freshly pulled and dumplings sizzling in the wok. You’ll also feast on juicy xiaolongbao and fluffy savoury pancakes.
Additional notes about the tour
To get the most out of the lively morning atmosphere, this experience includes a pick up from your hotel at 09.00 and drop off at 13.00.