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Take a leisurely walk along the Bund to enjoy the historic architecture, visit the nearby Huangpu River for a scenic boat ride, and explore the surrounding areas for shopping and dining. A visit to the Shanghai Tower for a bird's-eye view is also highly recommended.
The Bund, located on the banks of the Huangpu River in Huangpu District in central Shanghai, is known as the Outer Huangpu Beach. In 1844 (the 24th year of the Daoguang reign of the Qing Dynasty), this area was designated as the British Concession, becoming a true reflection of Shanghai's "Ten Miles of Foreign Concession" and the starting point for the former Shanghai Concession and the entire modern city of Shanghai. It is a scenic spot in Shanghai and a must-see for tourists visiting the city. Also known as Zhongshan East Road, the Bund stretches approximately 1.5 kilometers. It borders the Huangpu River to the east and is flanked by 52 buildings in diverse styles, including Gothic, Romanesque, Baroque, and a blend of Chinese and Western styles, earning it the nickname "The Architectural Exposition of the World."
Lujiazui in Pudong, across the river from the Bund, is home to Shanghai's iconic buildings such as the Oriental Pearl Tower, Jinmao Tower, Shanghai Tower, and Shanghai World Financial Center. It has become a symbol of China's reform and opening up and a microcosm of Shanghai's modernization.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended play time: 1-3 hours
free
Bund Sightseeing Tunnel 50 yuan/person
All day
The Bund is one of Shanghai's most iconic landmarks, famous for its historical significance as a financial district. The area is lined with colonial-era buildings that showcase European architectural styles, representing Shanghai's role as an international port in the 19th and 20th centuries.
The Bund is located in central Shanghai, along the Huangpu River. It is easily accessible by metro (Line 2 to East Nanjing Road Station), bus, or taxi. It is also within walking distance from Nanjing Road, a popular shopping street.
The Bund is open 24 hours a day. The best times to visit are early morning or late evening, as these times offer fewer crowds and the chance to enjoy the view at sunrise or sunset.
There is no entrance fee for visiting the Bund itself, as it is an open public space. However, some nearby attractions, such as the observation decks of skyscrapers, may charge a fee.
No advance booking is required for visiting the Bund, but for popular nearby attractions like the Shanghai Tower, it’s recommended to book tickets online in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Exploring the Bund can take around 1-2 hours, depending on how much time you spend admiring the architecture and taking photos. A longer visit is recommended if you want to explore nearby attractions as well.
The must-see highlights of the Bund include the historic buildings like the Shanghai Customs House and the Bank of China Building, along with the panoramic views of the Huangpu River and the modern skyline of Pudong on the opposite side.
Guided tours are available, and audio guides are offered in multiple languages, including English and Chinese. These can be booked at various spots along the Bund or through online platforms.
The best viewpoints are from the promenade along the Bund itself, especially near the old British Consulate and in front of the HSBC Building. The panoramic view of the Pudong skyline from the Bund at night is also a popular photography spot.
Start from the southern end of the Bund at the Waitan area and walk north along the waterfront, admiring the architecture and stopping to take photos. From there, you can visit nearby attractions like the Oriental Pearl Tower or explore the surrounding streets for food and shopping.
Yes, night visits are particularly popular due to the spectacular night-time views of the illuminated skyline. Light shows such as the "Huangpu River Light Show" occur in the evenings and can be viewed from the Bund.
The Bund can be crowded, especially in the afternoon and on weekends. The least crowded times are early mornings and late evenings, particularly on weekdays.
There are public toilets along the Bund, as well as cafes, restaurants, and small shops selling souvenirs and snacks. Rest areas with benches are also available along the promenade.
The Bund is generally accessible for elderly visitors, children, and those with disabilities. The waterfront promenade is flat and easy to navigate, with ramps available for accessibility.
Both cash and mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely accepted in shops and restaurants around the Bund. Credit cards are also commonly accepted in most places.
Nearby restaurants include popular spots like The Bund 18, M on the Bund, and the much-loved Vue Restaurant. These offer both international and local cuisines with great views of the skyline.
Yes, vegetarian and vegan food options are available at various restaurants along the Bund. Halal options can also be found in some of the nearby eateries, especially in the Muslim quarter of Shanghai.
There are several luxury hotels near the Bund, including the Fairmont Peace Hotel, the Waldorf Astoria, and the Peninsula Shanghai. Budget options are also available nearby, with many hotels offering views of the Bund.
Nearby attractions include Nanjing Road (shopping), the Oriental Pearl Tower, the Shanghai Museum, and the Yu Garden. These can all be easily combined into a single day trip.
Yes, there are souvenir shops selling a variety of items such as Chinese silk, local tea, porcelain, and Shanghai-themed merchandise like keychains and postcards.
Public transportation options include metro (Line 2), taxis, and buses. For a more scenic experience, consider taking a ferry across the Huangpu River to visit the Pudong area.
