Our Story
Our Inspiration
Like many free tour companies around the world, Free Tours China began with one passionate traveler, one “on-the-road” business idea, and one simple mission: to show the world the best of their home city.
In 2017, after four months of backpacking across South America, Dinna — the pioneer of the free walking tour concept in mainland China — opened the first Free Tours China yellow umbrella in Shanghai. Day by day, tour by tour, and mouth by mouth, word spread. Since then, we’ve welcomed over 40,000 travelers from around the world who share our passion for new experiences, travel, and China.
On every tour, we always ask our guests one question: “What’s your first impression of Shanghai?” We hear answers like “clean,” “safe,” “green,” “fantastic metro system,” “amazing food,” and “friendly locals who speak almost no English.”
Beyond the above, guess what the most common answer is?
“The China, we see, is so different from what we expected!”
Our Mission
We understand every traveler’s desire to experience an authentic China. While China is deeply connected to the world commercially, it often remains mysterious, misunderstood, and culturally complex for many visitors. Things we Chinese locals take for granted may surprise you, offer a fresh perspective, or even give you an “OMG” moment.
That’s why we’re here — proudly, passionately, and ready.
We are your city guide, your translator, your source of travel tips — and most importantly, your cultural ambassador showing you the REAL China. We take you beyond the usual sightseeing tours and Wikipedia-style suggestions. We immerse you in the way we live, the rapid changes we witness every day, and the everyday moments that truly make China, well… CHINA.
Are you ready? We are set and well prepared. Welcome aboard!
