The Bund

The Bund is a famous waterfront area located in the center of Shanghai, stretching along the Huangpu River.

This area is renowned for its historic buildings, many of which were constructed in the early 20th century by various countries, displaying a mix of architectural styles including Gothic, Baroque, Romanesque, and Neoclassicism.

From the mid-19th century to the early 20th century, with Shanghai's emergence as a major port, the Bund evolved into an international financial and commercial center. Many foreign banks, chambers of commerce, and companies established their offices here, constructing grand buildings that showcased their respective national architectural styles.

Across the river lies the Lujiazui financial and trade zone, where modern skyscrapers create a striking contrast with the historic buildings of the Bund, perfectly embodying Shanghai's blend of history and modernization.

Don't miss

• The spectacular night view with lights reflecting off the Huangpu River
• 52 historical buildings along the river, including:
  • The Fairmont Peace Hotel (和平饭店) - Known as the "No. 1 Building in the Far East"
  • The Customs House (海关大楼) - Famous for its clock tower
  • The former HSBC Building (汇丰银行大楼) - Now housing the Shanghai Pudong Development Bank
  • The Asia Building (亚细亚大楼) - Currently home to China Pacific Insurance Company
• The iconic Oriental Pearl TV Tower across the river
• Huangpu River cruise options for different perspectives of the cityscape

How to get there

• Subway:
  • Line 2 or Line 10 to Nanjing East Road Station (10-minute walk)
  • Line 12 to Tiantong Road Station (15-minute walk)
• Bus: Multiple routes available (20/37/42/55 and more)
• Taxi/DiDi: Direct access to the Bund

Best Time

The Bund offers distinct experiences throughout the day:

• Dawn: Perfect for photographers and early risers seeking tranquility
• Daytime: Ideal for appreciating architectural details
• Sunset: Golden hour provides stunning photo opportunities
• Night: Best for viewing the illuminated skyline and light shows

Opening Hours & Ticket Price

• Opening Hours: 24/7
• Ticket Price: Free
• River Cruise Prices: Vary by cruise type and duration

Detailed Walking Routes

Recommended 5km Walking Route

Follow this carefully curated route to experience the best of The Bund and its surroundings:

1. Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street → Shanghai Postal Museum → Zhapu Road Bridge → Somekh Building → Bund Origin → The Bund Buildings → Jinling East Road Ferry → Dongchang Road Ferry → Lujiazui Towers → Oriental Pearl Tower → Pudong Museum of Art

Route Highlights:

• Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street: A 1.2km commercial street featuring international brands and traditional Shanghai shops

• Shanghai Postal Museum: Offers perfect photo opportunities framing the Oriental Pearl Tower

• Zhapu Road Bridge: Known as the "Photographer's Bridge" for its unique vantage point of the Lujiazui skyline

• Somekh Building: Best visited during sunset for golden hour photography

• Bund Origin: Features the iconic plane tree framing spot near the Peninsula Hotel

• The Bund Buildings: Historic colonial-era architecture showcasing Shanghai's heritage

• Lujiazui Triple Towers: Modern Shanghai's symbols including Jin Mao Tower, Shanghai World Financial Center, and Shanghai Tower

• Pudong Museum of Art: Features a sunset corridor with spectacular river views

Local Cuisine

Traditional Shanghai Restaurants

• Ji Chang Xing (寄畅興): Famous for crab roe noodles and crab meat tofu
• Lu Ya Restaurant (绿雅酒家): Known for braised pork and river shrimp dishes

Street Food Highlights

• Yang's Dumplings (小杨生煎): Famous for pan-fried pork buns
• Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant (南翔馒头店): Renowned for xiaolongbao
• Da Hu Chun (大壶春): Historic establishment serving traditional shengjianbao

Fine Dining with a View

• VUE Restaurant at Hyatt on the Bund: Contemporary dining with panoramic views
• 18 by Frédéric Anton: High-end French cuisine in historic settings

Photography Tips

Best Photo Spots

1. The Bund Viewing Platform: Classic cityscape shots
2. Lujiazui Waterfront: Reverse view of the Bund
3. Waibaidu Bridge: Perfect for sunrise shots
4. Zhapu Road Bridge: Ideal for night photography

Timing for Photos

• Golden Hour (sunrise/sunset): Best for architectural details
• Blue Hour: Ideal for city lights and reflections
• Night: Captures the illuminated skyline

Tips

• Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds
• Use public transportation during peak hours
• Book restaurants in advance, especially for window seats
• Bring appropriate camera gear for night photography
• Check weather forecasts for clear skyline views
• Consider joining a guided walking tour for historical insights