Allied Victory: The Doolittle Raid & The Battle of Shanghai in WWII China

Jewish history is not something that springs to mind when thinking of Shanghai, but this is a city that has seen Jewish migration from as far away as Baghdad and Bombay since the 19th century. Taking to the Jewish Quarter with a local historian on this four-hour tour, visit the city’s synagogue-turned-museum, learn how Shanghai became one of the few cities that granted unconditional refuge to those fleeing the Holocaust, and see what life was like for the Jewish community during the Japanese occupation during World War II.
In the afternoon, board a high-speed train to Linhai and prepare to delve deeper into the stories of courage and resilience that defined this chapter of World War II.

In the hidden embrace of Linhai County, Doolittle Raider crew 7 sought refuge after their B-25 crashed. Begin at the Linhai Enze Medical Bureau, a pioneering hospital founded in 1901 by British missionary Dr. Stanley Babington, and uncover its role in a dramatic wartime rescue: here, pilot Ted Lawson and his crew received lifesaving treatment in 1942, a tale immortalized in a book and a film titled “Thirty Seconds Over Tokyo.” Ascend Jinshan Hill to the Thousand Buddha Pagoda, a 1,200-year-old sanctuary that provided solace to those who sought it, now admired for its panoramic views. As twilight descends, stroll along the ancient Taizhou Great Wall, a steadfast sentinel of China’s coastal history, before exploring Linhai’s mysteries and flavors as night takes hold.

At dawn, get refreshed with taiji (taichi), then set off through landscapes laced with echoes of the past. Our path leads to Quzhou, but first, a pause in Yiwu—a vibrant marketplace said to be the world’s largest wholesale market. The area has a grim history. To punish Chinese people who aided the Raiders, Japan’s military retaliated against residents, killing up to 250,000. The terrible price they paid is documented in the Germ Warfare Museum, where the local story of survival and resistance is etched in memory. Arrive in Quzhou, where the ancient streets of Shuitingmen welcome us. As the day wanes, a quiet teahouse offers a reflection, its tranquil atmosphere mingling with tales of the Doolittle Raiders and the villagers who aided them.

Today’s tour is led by members of the Quzhou Doolittle Raid Historical Research Society. Begin at the Doolittle Raid Memorial Hall, the world’s largest freestanding museum dedicated to the Doolittle Raid and its legacy. From there, head to Yudong Village for a traditional Chinese lunch, surrounded by folk art and sculptures.
In the afternoon, visit “The Cave,” a former hidden stronghold of the Republic of China’s 13th Air Force, where Raiders found refuge during intense Japanese bombings—two even carved their names into the stone. As dusk falls, we gather for dinner to savor not only the fresh flavors of local cuisine but also stories of WWII cross-cultural solidarity.

Delve into the personal narrative behind the Doolittle Raid, highlighting the bond between the Ozuk and Liao families. In 1942, Doolittle Raider Charles Ozuk was sheltered by Liao Shiyuan, a courageous Chinese villager who risked everything to care for him. Our journey takes us to the remote farmhouse where Ozuk found refuge, with his traditional wooden canopy bed and chair still in place. Meet local historians and, possibly, Liao’s descendants to hear their firsthand accounts.
As your time in Zhejiang draws to a close, you can either depart for home or continue on to Beijing for an optional post-trip extension. Whatever your choice, your WildChina guide will escort you to the airport and see you off, ensuring a smooth and comfortable departure.

In the morning, set out for the Simatai section of the Great Wall, celebrated for its rugged beauty and well-preserved Ming-era watchtowers. Enjoy a peaceful walk along the ancient ramparts, taking in panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys—a powerful reminder of China’s enduring spirit.
Later, visit Jiaozhuanghu, a village with a remarkable wartime history. Discover how local residents risked everything to shelter Allied airmen during World War II, and listen to stories of bravery and compassion that resonate with the themes of your journey.

Your WildChina guide will escort you to the airport for your departure flight.