With the Shanghai World Expo fast approaching, tour agencies in Beijing are seizing the opportunity to sell tour packages to China's financial hub.

In recent weeks, residents of the nation's capital have shown increasing interest in the event, with some already booking tours for fear they may not make plans in time.

Agencies have introduced special itineraries that include places of interest close to Shanghai.

Some packages are geared toward couples, while others are tailored to families. Prices for Expo tours range from 1,000 to 4,000 yuan.