Bund International Architecture Exhibition

The feeling of old Shanghai's foreign charm washes over you. The Bund, stretching approximately 1.5 kilometers from Waibaidu Bridge in the north to Jinling East Road in the south, borders the Huangpu River to the east and is flanked by 52 buildings of diverse styles to the west. The essence of the Bund lies in this architectural ensemble, known as the "International Architecture Expo." The renowned Bank of China Building, Peace Hotel, Customs House, and HSBC Building recreate the grandeur of the former "Wall Street of the Far East." While these buildings were not designed by the same designer or constructed in the same period, their architectural palette remains largely consistent, with strikingly harmonious overall contours. Whether gazing out from afar or strolling through them, one senses a robust, majestic, graceful, and regal aura.

In the 20th century, thanks to advances in architectural technology and growing economic power, the Bund saw the emergence of multi-story and high-rise buildings in a wide variety of styles. These included the Asia Building (formerly the Shanghai Metallurgical Design Institute), the Shanghai Club (now the Dongfeng Hotel), the Shanghai Pudong Development Bank Building (formerly the HSBC Building), and the Qiahe Building (now the Foreign Trade Bureau Building). Other styles included French classical, French grand residences, Gothic, Baroque, modern Western, East Indian, eclectic, and a fusion of Chinese and Western styles, showcasing a coexistence of architecture from around the world. Consequently, this cluster of buildings, stretching from the Suzhou River's Waibaidu Bridge in the north to Jinling East Road on Zhongshan East 1st Road in the south, has been hailed as an "architectural exposition of the world." These buildings, a fusion of classicism and modernism, have become a symbol of Shanghai.

As the lights come on, the famous buildings along the Huangpu River, known as the "World Architecture Expo," dazzle in the illuminated lights, silently telling a story of a turbulent history. A visit to Shanghai is a delight to admire its diverse and dazzling architecture. The Bund, Shanghai's earliest concession, once served as the financial center of the Far East, known as the "Wall Street of the East." The Bund and Nanjing East Road formed the core of what was once known as the "Ten Miles of Foreign Concessions." Each of those imposing buildings facing the Huangpu River was once a bank or a foreign trading company! Shanghai's plan to develop four centers has a profound historical foundation; over a century ago, this area was already a center of finance, trade, and economics.

Each building has its own unique characteristics and each building has its own fascinating story

Asia Building, No. 1 The Bund (formerly McPenn Building)

Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund, No. 2 The Bund (formerly the Shanghai Club Building)

The Bund No. 3 (formerly the United Building)

The Bund No. 5 (formerly Nissin Building)

No. 6 The Bund (formerly the Bank of China Building)

Bangkok Bank Building, No. 7 The Bund (formerly the Telegraph Building)

The Bund, No. 9, China Merchants Steam Navigation Administration Building

Shanghai Pudong Development Bank Building, 12 The Bund (formerly the HSBC Building)

Shanghai Customs Building, 13 The Bund

Shanghai Federation of Trade Unions Building, No. 14 The Bund (formerly the Bank of Communications Building)

Bund Public Service Center, No. 15A, The Bund (built after the founding of the People's Republic of China)

China Foreign Exchange Trading Center, No. 15, The Bund (formerly Russo-Asiatic Bank Building)

China Merchants Bank Building, No. 16 The Bund (formerly the Bank of Taiwan Building)

AIA Building, No. 17 The Bund (formerly Lin Xihua News Agency Building)

No. 18 The Bund (formerly the Macquarie Bank Building)

Swatch Art Peace Hotel, The Bund 19 (formerly Huizhong Hotel)

Peace Hotel, No. 20 The Bund (formerly Sassoon Building)

Bank of China Building, No. 23 The Bund

ICBC Building, No. 24, The Bund (formerly the Yokohama Specie Bank Building)

Agricultural Bank of China Building, No. 26 The Bund (formerly Yangtze Building)

The House of Roosevelt, No. 27 The Bund (formerly the Jardine Matheson Building)

Shanghai Clearing House Building, 28 The Bund (formerly Yitai Building)

China Everbright Bank Building, No. 29 The Bund (formerly Credit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank Building)

The Peninsula Hotel, The Bund 32

No. 33 The Bund, Bund Source No. 1 (formerly the British Consulate)

The Exotic Building Clusters in the Bund of Shanghai, also known as the "Exotic Building Clusters in the Bund of Shanghai," are a reflection of the century-old Shanghai and a reflection of the capitalism of old Shanghai.

The Bund, located at the confluence of the Huangpu River and Suzhou Creek, faces Pudong's Lujiazui financial district across the river. It stretches approximately 1,800 meters from North Suzhou Road in the north to Jinling East Road in the south, forming a crescent-shaped landscape.

Don't miss the nighttime light show at the International Architecture Exhibition Complex. From afar, it resembles a shimmering work of art, inviting you to hold it in your hands and examine it closely. The diverse styles of international architecture form a harmonious, unified whole along the Huangpu River, a truly breathtaking sight. You won't find such a magnificent nighttime light show anywhere else except in Shanghai.

The Bund is home to 52 classical revival buildings of varying styles, known as the Bund International Architecture Exhibition. It is an important historical site and representative building in modern China and one of Shanghai's important landmarks. In November 1996, the State Council of the People's Republic of China listed it as the fourth batch of national key cultural relics protection units.

The Bund's architectural complex is truly a favorite tourist attraction. Commercial and financial institutions have established themselves here. Architects from all over the world have showcased their talents here, bringing together so many buildings from different periods, countries, and styles. The Bund truly lives up to its reputation as the "World Architecture Expo." Oh my goodness, I recognize this Chinese architectural style right away.

The Bund International Architecture Complex is a reflection of Shanghai's past, a reflection of the capitalist past of old Shanghai. Recording history through architectural form is quite impactful.

The 1.5-kilometer-long road is dotted with Gothic, Romanesque, Renaissance, Baroque and other architectural styles, a blend of Chinese and Western styles, which fully demonstrate the architectural art. Therefore, it is called the World Architecture Expo. Under the bright lights, the various classical buildings are like wearing colorful clothes, prosperous and dazzling. Lujiazui across the river is even more magnificent.

The Bund International Architecture Complex, built during the British and French Allied Forces' stay in Shanghai, features buildings in French, British, and Portuguese styles. It's a perfect spot for street photography, creating a truly international experience. Stretching for several kilometers, it's the largest European-style architectural complex in China.

Although I had seen the video and photos countless times before, I was still shocked by the night view of the international buildings on site. The lights of the Bund International Buildings built by Shanghai and the lights of modern buildings such as the Oriental Pearl TV Tower in Pudong across the Huangpu River are integrated into one, dazzling and shining, reflecting the historical integration and development of the Oriental Night Paris in the 1930s and 1940s and the modern Oriental Pearl.

The coast is lined with businesses and companies built by various countries at different times. The effect is better if you look from the other side.

The night view is so beautiful, you must go to the Bund at night, but the downside is that there are too many people.

On the side of Zhongshan East Road in Shanghai, there is a row of 52 classical European-style buildings, each with its own unique characteristics, full of the romantic atmosphere of that era.

I think for those who work hard in Shanghai, being able to see the gorgeous Bund every day is a comfort!

Old buildings stand side by side, the lights come on, and a sense of history is overwhelming.

There are 52 classical revival buildings of different styles standing here, also known as the Bund International Architecture Expo Group

The transportation is not convenient, but it is worth going.

The Bund in Shanghai offers three distinct attractions. First, the ancient buildings adorning the Bund are imbued with a European charm, creating a truly romantic and captivating atmosphere. Second, the surging river flowing past the Bund, flowing west and east, always evokes an indescribable feeling. Third, Pudong, across the river, is rapidly developing, with its numerous new buildings, forming a stark contrast to the Bund's older district, offering a glimpse into Shanghai's vibrant side.

One of the main components of the Bund, the international buildings of various countries echo the Lujiazui Financial Center opposite.

This should be the famous "International Architecture" group. Various buildings with different styles are gathered together but inexplicably harmonious. Well, it is magical and special. I don’t know much about architecture, but I think it is very eye-catching. A casual shot is the unique prosperity of a big city.

The International Building Complex is especially popular with those who like to take photos of buildings. Western buildings feel the same as those in foreign countries.

There are 52 buildings of various styles, including Shanghai's landmark Customs Building, the South and North Buildings of the Peace Hotel, and the former HSBC Building.

Really valuable, well preserved.

There are many foreign buildings on the Bund Street, because this was once a foreign concession. However, the appearance of these foreign buildings is indeed exquisite. You can walk along the street and take a look.

It is more beautiful to go there at night, with bright lights on both sides.

It is very similar to the concession area in Hankou, also on the west bank of the river, with many western-style buildings from the last century. The Forgiveness Building with a green roof is the roof of the Peace Hotel, and walking there is the entrance to Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street.

Although the crowds made it impossible to focus or compose the picture, I still felt the charm of the "Wall Street of the East".

There are not as many buildings as I imagined. Maybe everyone will have this feeling for the first time. It is still quite far from the Chinese character "万". But it is really spectacular, especially when you look at it up close, the momentum comes out immediately.

The golden buildings are of different heights.

When you go to Shanghai, you must see the Bund, and when you go to the Bund, you must see the Bund’s international architectural complex.

It's a free attraction with amazing views! In December, the north was already devoid of greenery, but the leaves on the Bund were just beginning to turn yellow, giving it the feel of a European town.

"Orchid-colored candles, orchid-colored stirrups staggered." Shanghai's lights shimmered brightly at night. At that moment, she resembled an avant-garde fashionista. Strolling along the Bund, a row of ancient Roman and Greek buildings, illuminated by the same pale yellow lights, appeared majestic yet refined.

The golden exterior is slightly sad, and the history of humiliation is permanently marked here, while the nostalgic Shanghai style will always remain. Gold is also a symbol of wealth, and the golden exterior highlights the reputation of this place as the "Wall Street of the East". Countless international transactions have been completed to the ticking of the clock.

The Bund's distinctive architectural complex still contains 23 houses. From the opening of Shanghai as a port to its current form, it underwent three major architectural changes.

The first phase lasted from the mid-to-late 19th century (1843-1895). In 1843, the British firm Jardine Matheson & Co. was the first to lease land at the intersection of Beijing Road on the Bund. Two years later, they built a two-story building combining residence and office space. By 1845, 11 foreign firms had constructed similar structures along the Bund, stretching from Yangjingbang to Beijing Road. These brick-and-wood structures were mostly in the English country style or East India-style (arcade-style) with spacious inner galleries and balconies. From the 1860s to the 1880s, a series of redevelopment efforts followed, resulting in the emergence of a series of imitation Renaissance-style buildings. By the end of the 19th century, the Bund was densely populated. The only remaining building from this period is the former British Consulate at No. 33.

The second phase, from the late 19th century to the early 20th century (1895-1919), saw rising land prices and the introduction of new materials like cement. Nearly half of the buildings along the Bund were rebuilt using reinforced concrete, ranging from three to six stories. Architectural styles emerged as an eclectic transition toward modern architecture. Interior and exterior decoration became more sophisticated, and amenities expanded. The Huizhong Hotel even installed Shanghai's first elevator. Ten buildings from this phase remain today.

The third phase, from 1920 to 1937, saw the renovation of 11 buildings, including the Chahe Building, the HSBC Building, the Jianghai Customs House, and the Sassoon Building, into high-rise buildings. These new buildings were characterized by their large scale, with nearly half being eight stories or higher. Early modernist architecture emerged, with simple facades. Many buildings were luxurious and ornately decorated, and facilities became increasingly sophisticated. The first building in Shanghai to utilize air conditioning and heating systems (the HSBC Building) appeared. During this period, with the exception of the Bank of Communications Building, built in 1948, the present-day Bund architectural complex had essentially taken shape.

The buildings, mostly in the eclectic and Baroque styles of the early 20th century, feature Ionic columns, adding a touch of solemnity. The delicate carvings, especially on the windows, are truly classic, blending strength and softness.

The International Buildings can be said to be Shanghai's iconic buildings. They witnessed the years when Shanghai fell into the hands of foreigners and the shameful era of "No Chinese and no dogs allowed". However, after a century of vicissitudes, they still stand on the banks of the Huangpu River, but have been given different meanings. They have become the glory of Shanghai.

The Bund International Architecture Complex, located on the west bank of the Huangpu River, boasts 52 historical buildings with distinct styles and rich international influences, forming one of the Bund's most striking attractions. This approximately 1,800-meter-long street offers a glimpse into Shanghai's century-long history. A stroll along Zhongshan East Road reveals a diverse array of historical buildings, including the Customs House, the North and South Buildings of the Peace Hotel, the former HSBC Building, the Asia Building, the Waldorf Astoria Hotel, and the Yalu Building. These buildings, adorned with Gothic spires, Baroque columns, Spanish balconies, and ancient Greek domes, create a sense of transport back to the exotic streets of the last century. The vibrant illuminations at night create a truly breathtaking spectacle. However, most of these buildings have been converted into commercial offices, including those for the China Pacific Insurance Company headquarters, the Consulate General of Thailand in Shanghai, the China Merchants Group Shanghai headquarters, the Pudong Development Bank headquarters, the Shanghai Customs, the Shanghai Federation of Trade Unions, and the Shanghai Foreign Exchange Trading Center, and are therefore closed to the public. However, some buildings have become high-end consumer hubs, such as the renowned Bund 18, the former headquarters of Standard Chartered Bank in China.

It is a must-see every time you come here. It is exquisite, luxurious and elegant, representing the collision and combination of Western culture and Chinese culture.

There are so many financial institutions, it’s dizzying, it’s really shocking.

This is a modern architectural complex. If you haven't been there, you can come and have a look.

The building is out of control. The scenery is even more beautiful at night.

The Bund in Shanghai stretches from Waibaidu Bridge in the north to Jinling East Road in the south. This section is the essence of the Bund's architectural complex.

On the west side of the approximately 1.5-kilometer-long Bund, there are 52 buildings of various styles, including the Customs House, the South and North Buildings of the Peace Hotel, and the former HSBC Building.

Although these buildings were designed by different architects and have different styles, their architectural styles are unified and their outlines are coordinated.

The World Expo complex marks a beautiful skyline on the west bank of the Huangpu River and enjoys the reputation of “World Architecture Expo”.

I've been to this area many times and I quite like it. It has a historical heritage but also has the current fashion. It looks even better under the lights.

The Bund's international buildings, the scenery during the day and at night is not to be missed. Starting around 4 p.m., more and more people will come.

Shanghai at night is completely different from that during the day. Only at night can Shanghai be considered the real Shanghai. It is very beautiful.

An embodiment of Shanghai’s characteristics and an unavoidable history.

Each building is unique, and any one of them boasts a century of history, maintaining its original appearance despite the passage of time. Bund 18, originally built in 1923, was once the Asian headquarters of Standard Chartered Bank. With its ancient Greek marble columns and elegant lobby, it stands out among the diverse international architecture on the Bund.

This is an area of housing from the concession era, mostly in the eclectic and Baroque styles of the early 20th century. These buildings constitute the famous "International Architecture Exhibition." They bear witness to the years when Shanghai fell to foreign invaders and the shameful era of "No Chinese or dogs allowed." Yet, a century later, they still stand, imbued with a different meaning, becoming the glory of Shanghai. The streets between the buildings bear witness to the transition between old and new, history and modernity, creating a unique atmosphere.

The buildings of various countries are so beautiful! It is suitable for viewing at night. The Bund is right next to it, so you don’t need to take a cruise. Just walk on the Bund and look at the buildings. It’s satisfying.

It's a witness to history, but I don't like the service staff at the tourist center. They are stingy and look at people like country people.

From the Bund platform, you can enjoy the view of Lujiazui across the street. Behind it is a complex of buildings with different architectural styles. It is recommended for those who like history and architecture.

Located on the Bund, the street is mostly over 70 years old. The architectural styles range from classical Western to Gothic, creating a truly impressive atmosphere. I find the street names most interesting, as they are inspired by places across China, such as Jiangxi Road, Fuzhou Road, and Sichuan Road.

Shanghai, an international financial center at your doorstep, is a highly recommended tourist city.

Walking along the Bund, you'll see the Wanguo Buildings, all of which feature European-style retro architecture. Rich in history and iconic, it's highly recommended to visit at night for its beautiful lighting. Across the river, you'll find the bustling Lujiazui district, creating a striking contrast. It's well worth taking photos.

The Wanguo Building Complex and Lujiazui form a sharp contrast, making people feel like they are in a scene of money and prosperity.

The Bund is mostly lined with major banks, and the scenery during the day and at night is completely different, each with its own charm.

This is a place that was once occupied and conquered. Every time I see it, I feel that we should not forget the national humiliation.

After dinner, I went to the Bund, which is not far from the City God Temple. Every time I come to the Bund, the feeling is different. I come with different people, at different times, in different moods, and the feelings are all different.

It mainly refers to the section of Shanghai Bund starting from Waibaidu Bridge in the north and ending at Jinling East Road in the south. This section is the essence of the Bund architectural complex.

This arc, just three miles long, is lined with buildings of various styles, including Gothic, Romanesque, Baroque, Greek, and a blend of Chinese and Western styles. It is known as the "International Architecture Expo." It is a true reflection of Shanghai's foreign concessions, a landmark building, and a symbol of Shanghai's history.

Looking at these buildings from a distance, although they were not designed by the same designer and were not built in the same period, their architectural tones are basically unified and the overall outlines are surprisingly coordinated.

There are many buildings from the Republic of China period, standing side by side.

The "Shiliyangchang" (Ten Miles of Foreign Lands) is Shanghai's most iconic architectural complex. It's especially beautiful at night, illuminated by the lights. It's well worth a visit.

The Bund is the most famous place in Shanghai. Don't try the cross-river tunnel. It's expensive and not good.

After watching the night view of the Bund, you can see it along the way along the observation deck. The lighting landscape is particularly beautiful and worth a visit.

The night view is very beautiful, you can enjoy it directly when you visit the Bund~

The night view is very beautiful. Walking along the Huangpu River, you can really feel the style of old Shanghai.

It looks beautiful when the lights are on at night, it is a European-style building.

Here, no matter whether it is day or night, the photos taken are like being in a foreign country. Taking a walk with friends at night is really the most comfortable thing.

Shiliyangchang. A place where people come again and again and are reluctant to leave.

The Bund in Shanghai starts from Waibaidu Bridge in the north and ends at Jinling East Road in the south. This section is the essence of the Bund architectural complex.

In its early days, the Bund was a hub for foreign trade, home to numerous foreign and Chinese banks. Beginning in the late 19th century, numerous foreign and Chinese banks established themselves there, transforming the area into Shanghai's "Financial Street," also known as the "Wall Street of the East." Consequently, the Bund became a prime location for feng shui. Owning a plot of land on the Bund symbolized not only wealth but also prestige. Once commercial and financial firms secured a foothold on the Bund, they embarked on a massive construction spree, erecting company buildings. Many of the Bund's buildings have undergone three or more reconstructions, highlighting the work of international architects.

While the architectural splendor and diverse styles are captivating, looking at everything before me and thinking of its former name, "Concession," brings a profound sense of poignancy. In modern society, people rent cars, houses, and even people, but renting large tracts of land is unheard of. Yet, this happened on the Bund in modern times. Foreign powers unscrupulously constructed distinctive structures on the rented land, using genuine materials and meticulous design, all right on the waterfront! In that era of advanced water transportation, opening a nation's doors through water was their specialty. The shore had no strategic buffer, and the audacity to build such high-standard buildings in this location must have been a testament to their immense self-confidence and arrogance. History certainly left them here, not just for the view. We should strive to be ourselves, learning from history!

Various banks are gathered together here. It has the shadow of a century-old Shanghai and a faint nostalgic atmosphere. It feels great to ride a bicycle between the old buildings.

Location: Located on the west bank of the Huangpu River, the Bund, a 4-kilometer-long structure, is a key symbol of Shanghai. The Bund stretches from Waibaidu Bridge in the north to Jinling East Road in the south, and this section is the heart of the Bund complex.

Transportation: While there's no subway system directly connected to the Bund, take Line 2 to Nanjing East Road Station and walk 10 minutes to the Bund. Numerous buses are also available, including buses 22, 33, 55, 123, 934, 145, 37, 20, 868, 135, 926, 26, and 71. If possible, cycling is a great option.

Opening hours: All day

Ticket price: Free

Each building has its own history. You can visit it during the day and at night. The style will definitely be different. It’s a pity that I didn’t have enough time to visit it at night.

The night view is beautiful with lights, and you can learn about history and broaden your horizons during the day.