May 2, 2026

Asia Deep Dive: China History 101 Product Description (Shanghai)

Meet the founder

Eddie

Co-Founder, Deep Dive China

I grew up in the karst mountains of Guilin—China’s version of Yosemite and Innsbruck—but my journey took me through Cornell in the U.S., Europe, and Singapore. Living abroad taught me that the world sees our skyscrapers, but rarely our souls.

After years of living across the globe, I’m back home on a mission: to pull back the curtain on the real China through street-level conversations and deep cultural dives. I founded Deep Dive China to be the bridge I wish I had when I was traveling—showing you the hidden corners and authentic dialogue that guidebooks miss.

Whether you’re planning a journey to the East or you’re simply curious about China’s history and how the country is changing today, I’m here to help you make sense of it.

Overview

Shanghai, a city born from the confluence of East and West, stands as a testament to China's dramatic modern transformation. This program delves into Shanghai's pivotal role in shaping modern China, from its colonial past and vibrant international settlements to its emergence as a global financial hub. Following our Weekly Rhythm, this 5-day program transforms historical sites into immersive classrooms, offering a unique perspective on the city's profound impact on Chinese history.

1. Shanghai: The Pearl of the Orient & Crucible of Modern China

Course Code: CH101-SH Duration: 5 Days (Monday – Friday)

The Gateway to Modernity

Shanghai is a city where every street corner whispers tales of a bygone era, yet pulses with the energy of the future. This course takes you from the elegant boulevards of the Former French Concession, where revolutionary ideas simmered, to the iconic Bund, a living museum of colonial architecture and international trade. We will explore the city's unique blend of Eastern traditions and Western influences, understanding its critical role in China's journey towards modernization and its enduring spirit of innovation.

Course Highlights

Colonial Legacies & International Settlements: A walking tour of the Bund and the Former French Concession, exploring the architectural grandeur and understanding the socio-political landscape of Shanghai's treaty port era.
Birthplace of Revolution: An in-depth exploration of the Site of the First National Congress of the Communist Party of China, delving into the origins of modern Chinese political thought.
Urban Transformation & Economic Powerhouse: A visit to the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center and a panoramic view from the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, showcasing Shanghai's rapid development and its status as a global financial center.
Cultural Crossroads: A workshop on Shikumen architecture and local Shanghainese culture in Tianzifang or Xintiandi, experiencing the unique blend of traditional and contemporary urban life.

Weekly Itinerary

Day	Focus	Experience
Mon	Orientation	Arrival in Shanghai; Evening stroll along the Bund; Introduction to Shanghai's role as a treaty port and international metropolis.
Tue	Colonial Echoes	Expert-led tour of the Former French Concession; Discussion on Western influence and its impact on Chinese society.
Wed	Revolutionary Roots	Visit to the Site of the First National Congress of the Communist Party of China; Lecture on the May Fourth Movement and the birth of modern Chinese political parties.
Thu	Modern Marvels	Exploration of Pudong's skyline and the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center; Understanding Shanghai's economic rise and future vision.
Fri	Cultural Synthesis	Immersion in Shikumen culture in Xintiandi; Reflection on Shanghai's unique identity as a blend of East and West; Week closing ceremony.