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What is The Bund in Shanghai? (Facts & History)
The Bund (外滩) is a famous waterfront promenade located on the west bank of the Huangpu River in central Shanghai. It stretches about 1.5 kilometers, from Waibaidu Bridge in the north to Yan'an East Road in the south.
Rather than a typical tourist attraction, the Bund is often seen as the best viewing platform for Shanghai's skyline. No one leaves Shanghai without coming here. It's an essential stop for every visitor.
To truly feel its magic, you'll want to visit at least twice:
- By day: Enjoy the river breeze and admire the old architecture.
- By night: Watch the skyline light up in neon and reflections.
The Bund History
The Bund was once a quiet fishing port, until 1843, when Shanghai was forced to open for foreign trade.
Western powers rushed in to build banks, trade houses, and consulates, creating the row of diverse architectural styles you see today.
These buildings, many over 100 years old, now form a living museum of colonial history. Their facades still bearing marks of Shanghai's past.
The Bund Highlights: Gorgeous Architectures of the Past and Future
Standing on the Bund, you'll find yourself caught between two worlds:
#1. Behind you rise 27 grand historical buildings in European styles, known as the “Gallery of World Architecture.”
#2. Across the river stand Shanghai's futuristic skyscrapers, forming the city's iconic skyline.
This stunning contrast creates a powerful visual: a face-off between classical and modern, East and West, past and future.
The 27 Historic Buildings on the Bund
These include former banks, trading houses, and consulates from the UK, France, Russia, the US, Japan, and others. Notable highlights:
- 12 – HSBC Building (1923)
Houses a spectacular dome with 8-panel mosaic murals depicting global financial hubs.
Fun Fact: The building's bronze lions were hidden during WWII to avoid Japanese looters.
- 20 – Peace Hotel (1929)
Jazz Bar hosted celebrities like Charlie Chaplin.
The iconic green pyramidal roof dominates the Bund skyline.
- 2 – Shanghai Club / Waldorf Astoria (1910)
Home to the longest bar in Asia (34 meters) during the 1920s.
Exclusive members-only club for British elites.
- 13 – Customs House (1927)
Big Ben of the East: Houses a 4-faced clock with 100+ year-old machinery.
Clock chimes play "The East Is Red" at noon.
- 23 – Bank of China Building (1937)
Only Bund building designed by a Chinese architect (Lu Qianshou).
Blends Chinese pagoda elements with Art Deco.
The 4 Iconic Skyscrapers Opposite the Bund
Located in Lujiazui Financial District, these four towers define modern Shanghai. They're best viewed from the Bund at sunset or after dark when the skyline lights up in dazzling colors.
- Shanghai Tower – 632 meters
The tallest building in China and the second tallest in the world. Reach the top via one of the world's fastest elevators, traveling at 18 m/s, about 55 seconds to the 118th floor - observation deck at 546 meters.
- Shanghai World Financial Center – 492 meters
Known as the "bottle opener" for its distinctive design. The observation deck is on the 100th floor, featuring a glass floor skywalk at 474 meters.
- Jin Mao Tower – 420.5 meters
A mix of modern architecture and traditional Chinese pagoda style. The observation deck is on the 88th floor, at around 340 meters.
- Oriental Pearl Tower – 468 meters
The earliest icon of Pudong's skyline, completed in 1994. Famous for its pink twin spheres and space-age design.
Things to Do around The Bund - Walk, Cruise, Shopping, Dinning
1. City Walk the Bund Promenade
Free and scenic. Best value experience. Crowded at night, calmer by day.
Route Tip: Try the Bund City Walk (5km, ~4 hrs)
East Nanjing Rd Station → Peace Hotel → Waibaidu Bridge → North Bund (2 hrs if ending here) → Gongping Rd Ferry → Taigong Line Ferry → Taitong Pier → Oriental Pearl → Dongchang Rd Pier → Dongjin Line Ferry → Jinling East Rd Pier.
2. Take a Huangpu River Cruise
- Sightseeing Cruise (45 mins):
Best for first-timers. Day ¥120 / Night ¥150. Extra ¥100 for deck seating.
Route: Shiliupu Pier → Lujiazui skyline → Qinhuangdao Pier → Waibaidu Bridge → The Bund buildings → Return.
- Public Ferry (¥2, 5–15 mins):
Short, local, with nice views.
Dongjin Line (东金线 Most Recommended): Dongchang Rd Pier ↔ Jinling East Rd Pier
Dongfu Line (东复线 Good): Dongchang Rd Pier ↔ Fuxing East Rd Pier
Yangfu Line (杨复线 shortest in 5 min): Yangjia Pier ↔ Fuxing East Rd Pier
Taigong Line (泰公线 not bad): Taitong Pier ↔ Gongping Rd Pier
3. Brunch or Coffee with both Bund and Skyline View at North Bund
Head to North Bund for the best panoramic views of both the historic Bund and Pudong skyline. Fewer crowds, better angles.
Recommended Spots:
- The Bull & Claw – Western brunch, riverfront views.
- Seesaw Coffee (BFC) – Trendy spot with skyline backdrop.
- The Roof at Hyatt Centric – Great coffee, quiet vibe, full view.
Location: Around White Magnolia Plaza (白玉兰广场) and North Bund Riverside Park.
Perfect for a relaxing break with iconic views.
4. Visit Nearby Attractions
- East Nanjing Road (shopping & street life)
- Yu Garden (classical beauty, 20 min walk or 1 metro stop)
- The Bund Sightseeing Tunnel(fun for kids)
- Rockbund Art Museum (contemporary art)
Best Route to Explore The Bund & Surroundings with Map (1 day)
Route: Yu Garden → City God Temple → Yuyuan Bazaar → Nanjing Road → North Bund → Waibidu Bridge to Shiliupu Pier City Walk → Night River Cruise
- Morning – Old Shanghai Charm
Start your day in the heart of Old Shanghai. Explore the peaceful Yuyuan Garden, admire the ancient architecture of the City God Temple, and browse for souvenirs and snacks in the lively Yuyuan Bazaar. This area is full of traditional vibes and street food—perfect for a relaxed morning stroll.
- Late Morning – Window Shop Along Nanjing Road
From Yuyuan, walk or take one metro stop to East Nanjing Road. This is Shanghai's busiest shopping street. Even if you don't shop, it's fun to people-watch and take in the energy. Pop into a few stores or just enjoy the walk toward the Bund.
- Afternoon – Tea Time at North Bund
After exploring Nanjing Road, cross Waibaidu Bridge to reach the quieter and more open North Bund. This is the perfect spot for afternoon tea or coffee with unbeatable views of both the old Bund buildings and the Pudong skyline. Fewer crowds, more peaceful vibes.
- Late Afternoon & Evening – Bund Walk & River Cruise
As the sun begins to set, walk from Waibaidu Bridge to Shiliupu Pier along the Bund promenade. It's about 2 km and takes 30–40 minutes with photo stops. You'll pass all the iconic colonial buildings lit up beautifully at night. End your day with a Huangpu River Night Cruise from Shiliupu Pier—a magical way to see Shanghai glow.
How to Get to the Bund - Subway Choice
Getting to the Bund is easy thanks to its central location and good public transport.
Option 1: Metro (Best Choice)
Take Line 2 or Line 10 and get off at East Nanjing Road Station (南京东路站). From there, it's about a 10-minute walk to the Bund. This is the fastest and most convenient way.
Option 2: Taxi (Also Convenient)
Taxis are easy to find. Just tell the driver “The Bund” or show them “外滩” (Wai Tan in Chinese). It helps to use a navigation app or have the name written down.
Option 3: Bus (Not Recommended)
Some buses go near the Bund, like Bus 33, 37, 55, or 65. But routes can be confusing if you don't speak Chinese. It's better to take the metro or a taxi.
Best Time to Visit the Bund - At Night during Spring & Autumn
- Best Time of YearAp. to May & Sep. to Nov.
Spring brings blooming flowers and cherry blossoms. Autumn offers clear skies and cool, comfortable weather—perfect for walking and sightseeing.
Avoid visiting during public holidays and peak travel seasons. Weekdays are better if you want to skip the crowds.
- Best Time of DayAfter the sunset
As the sun sets, the skyline lights up. Historic buildings along the Bund and modern towers in Pudong glow with color, reflecting beautifully on the Huangpu River.
This night view is one of Shanghai's most famous sights. To catch it at its best, arrive before sunset. That way, you'll get a good spot and enjoy the full transition from day to night.
Expect more crowds during night!
Where to Stay at the Bund - 5 Accommodation Areas
- Option 1. The Bund Core Area (From Waibaidu Bridge in the North to Yan'an East Road in the South)
Direct views of the Huangpu River and Pudong's skyline
✅ Unparalleled river views, steps away from The Bund's promenade
❌ Expensive (river-view rooms can exceed ¥5,000/night during peak seasons)
- Option 2. Nanjing East Road/People's Square Area (10-15 min walk to The Bund)
Commercial hub, metro hub (Lines 1/2/8), offering better value for money.
✅ Excellent transportation (direct metro access to Pudong Airport/Disney)
❌ Only higher-floor rooms in some hotels offer river views
- Option 3. North Bund/Hongkou Area (Northern Extension of The Bund)
Emerging development zone, similar views to The Bund but with fewer tourists.
Advantages:
✅ Slightly cheaper than comparable hotels in The Bund's core area
❌ Further from metro stations (reliant on taxis/bike-sharing)
- Option4. South Bund/Yu Garden Area (Near Old Town)
Blend of tradition and modernity, ideal for cultural explorers.
✅ Close to Yu Garden and City God Temple for traditional Shanghai culture with Moderate pricing (¥800-1,500/night)
❌ Some hotels require detours for river views
- Option 5. Pudong/Lujiazui Area (Across the River)
Skyscraper district, ideal for business travelers and modern city lovers.
✅ Best nighttime views of The Bund (east-facing perspective)
❌ Lacks historical charm, more modernized
Tips for Visiting the Bund
- Visit during different times of the day to experience both the daytime charm and the dazzling nighttime lights.
- Dress appropriately, especially if you plan to visit upscale venues or restaurants in the area.
- Try local cuisine and street food to savor the flavors of Shanghai.
- Be cautious of potential scams and keep your belongings secure.
- Plan your visit during weekdays or non-peak hours to avoid large crowds.
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Useful Yangtze River Delta Travel Guide:
Hangzhou: West Lake, Things to Do in Hangzhou
Suzhou: Things to Do in Suzhou, Suzhou Gardens
Shanghai: The Bund, Yu Garden, Shanghai Itineraries, Things to Do in Shanghai,
Best Time to Visit Shanghai, How to Plan a Shanghai Tour
Yangtze Delta:
China Water Town, How to Plan a Shanghai Hangzhou Suzhou Tour
Tour Packeges:
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Shanghai Day Trips, Shanghai Layover Tours, Museum Tour, Biking Tour, Shanghai Private Tours,
Walking Tour, Disneyland Tour,China tour packages from Shanghai
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